Manufacturing Outlook for 2021

Recently Deloitte came out with a manufacturing outlook, and we wanted to touch upon the topic here as FootBridge continuously hires for numerous roles in this industry.  In 2020 businesses learned a lot about surviving a pandemic, and according to Deloitte, these four key trends will ultimately play a significant role in recovery:

• Visibility
• Technology 
• Supply chain improvements
• New workplace adaptations

Furthermore, in a Forbes article and a survey of manufacturing leaders, many still reported growth despite the pandemic.  Like the Deloitte report, Forbes agrees that we will likely see a shift toward localizing production lines. Not just because of the pandemic but also due to trade wars and tariffs. Localizing, however, can reduce kinks in supply chains and increase time to market. As will improving the visibility or coming up with better solutions should we ever face a pandemic-like disruption ever again. Making this shift will take time, but it will be interesting to see where manufacturers go with the idea.

As for technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) will also play a significant factor in returning manufacturing to pre-pandemic economic levels.  Perhaps you’ve heard about Industry 4.0? Well, make way for Industry 5.0 – otherwise known as the fifth industrial revolution where robots and humans may work side by side.   

According to Forbes, advanced technology can include sensors, machine learning, computer vision, robotics, cloud computing, edge computing, and 5G network infrastructure. These technologies can also increase supply chain resiliency. And while we’re hearing a lot about technology and digital twins, this type of expertise is also creating higher-paying manufacturing jobs. Get ready to hear more about sustainability on the manufacturing floor as well. Less waste and greener manufacturing practices will be the name of the game. 

Manufacturers are Moving Forward

As a staffing firm, know that we’re seeing manufacturers push forward with growth plans that may have been on hold throughout 2020. Employee safety, which has always been a high priority, has taken on new meaning considering the pandemic. From handwashing, mask-wearing, and social distancing, many manufacturing floors are screening everyone who enters and exits their buildings, emphasizing COVID-19 tracking.  In addition to the IoT and AI, we’re hearing many companies are looking at even more preventative maintenance measures than usual to keep equipment running in top form as well. 

Regardless of where the economy is at, the manufacturing job market remains in flux. No one can say for sure what the future may bring, and for that reason working with a staffing firm is an ideal solution. Rather than hire a permanent employee for a project that may or may not last for its duration, a contractor allows you to pull back on your staffing as needed without assuming layoffs. Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA) projects growth in temporary staffing for 2021.  Our team will find it interesting to see how the COVID vaccine evolves from knowing more about when our recruiters can return to the office, even though they are diligently working from home. For now, plan on a continuation of remote interviews as we are all adapting to our new, albeit hopefully, temporary normal.   

As always, FootBridge continues to hire for manufacturing positions, especially right here in Massachusetts. To view a list of available manufacturing jobs, visit our job search page. From assembly technicians to customer service agents and more, we have plenty of opportunities for the right candidate.