Hello, I’d like to share a few ideas on supporting blue-collar workers. This is something I’ve felt strongly about and something we strive to do at ICC International. I’m specifically talking about blue-collar manufacturing but it can apply to other industries as well.
I began my manufacturing/engineering career almost forty years ago in the automotive industry before joining ICC in 1998. During this time our country has lost a significant number of manufacturing jobs (and knowledge). Issues such as operations being sent overseas, apprenticeship programs being discontinued, and senior employees retiring have all contributed to the problem.
In addition, our society has fostered the perception that everyone should earn a four-year degree. White-collar jobs have been viewed as a sign of success while blue-collar jobs have been regarded as somewhat second class. This mentality has placed more value on perceived social status than on someone’s natural talents and interests. All of this has resulted in decades where the number of skilled, blue-collar workers leaving the workforce has outweighed the number entering it.
OK, enough of the bad stuff. Today is much brighter for those desiring a career in manufacturing. As described above, there is a shortage of skilled, blue-collar workers. Our electric motor repair industry, for example, has a high demand for machinists, mechanics, electricians, assemblers, operators, etc. Higher demand creates higher wages. Blue-collar workers can build a career with very attractive wages and little (or no) student debt. In our state, the Tennessee Promise program provides free tuition for two-year trade schools and community colleges.
The future of manufacturing depends on having a continuing supply of high-quality, blue-collar workers. By promoting these careers at high schools, job fairs, chambers of commerce, etc., manufacturers can help change the past perception of blue-collar while also contributing to their own future success. People should hear that blue-collar jobs are a respectable and essential part of our economy.
We also need to support our existing blue-collar employees. One way is letting them know (with words AND actions) why they are important. In manufacturing, they are the ones who actually make the product and create wealth. Everyone else, although essential, is basically the support staff. We tell our shop employees they literally help keep the world running.
Another way is by instilling pride. Doing your job well is something to be proud of. Being part of a team that produces a great product is something to be proud of. Being a craftsman is something to be proud of. There are many reasons for blue-collar workers to be proud of what they do. Again, let them know this with words and actions.
Last year I saw a “Support Blue Collar” t-shirt and felt that it captured my long-held views. As I wore it to work our employees would ask about it and I would express my opinion about some of the things I’ve mentioned here. We then had our own Support Blue Collar shirts printed and gave them to all our employees. Now they are regularly worn by ICC staff regardless of their role. This is just one example of something simple that can have a positive effect.
I encourage everyone in manufacturing to show your support for blue-collar. Thanks for reading.
Shawn Lyke
ICC International President and CEO