| | AUGUST 20199CIOReviewjobs increased by 13,000 in January 2018, hitting an 11-year high of 12.8 million. However, just because there are more jobs doesn't mean companies currently can fill these jobs. Last year, Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute reported results from their fourth skills gap study. The study revealed that the skills gap may leave an estimated 2.4 million positions unfilled between 2018 and 2028, with a potential economic impact of $2.5 trillion. At PPG, it's clear that we must act now to ensure we have the available talent to meet our current needs and that there is a robust, diverse pipeline of talent for years to come. A major factor in the skills gap is the outdated perception that manufacturing's best days are behind us. Manufacturing is a growing sector that offers attractive, skilled opportunities in high-tech environments. To address the skills gap, we need to continue to empower young people, especially women and minorities, to explore careers in manufacturing. From the plant floor to the boardroom, from engineering and R&D to the trades, there are countless opportunities to have a successful career in manufacturing. While women and minorities traditionally have been underrepresented, they are an untapped source of talent, innovation and perspective for manufacturers across the U.S.Why is the next generation of workers so important to manufacturers like PPG, who has more than 47,000 employees across 70 countries? A diverse, energetic and innovative workforce can have a positive impact on a company's health and culture. According to a study conducted by Deloitte, when employees believe their organization is committed to inclusion, companies report better business performance in terms of innovation. Organizations can also unleash the full potential of their workforce by creating a culture where unique strengths and the differences of others thrive together.Finally, one of the best ways to increase interest in manufacturing is to educate young people on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) opportunities early on in their development. Manufacturers across the country are encouraged to support STEM education opportunities that will help develop the next generation. When companies like PPG open their doors to the public or participate in educational programs, we also open the minds of students, parents, and teachers to the world of modern manufacturing. Organizations can also unleash the full potential of their workforce by creating a culture where unique strengths and the differences of others thrive together
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