Challenge 4:Assuring a pipeline of specialty-skilled workers: Apprenticeship programs that prepare specialty-skilled workers in manufacturing have decreased dramatically in number and size during the past 20 years. Employers have been reluctant to invest in training workers whom they might not need in the future. This development has reduced the number of qualified workers able to replace the soon-to-be retiring skilled trades employees in manufacturing. The sector urgently needs specialty occupation training programs, including revitalized and updated apprenticeship programs, that provide industry-recognized, portable specialty skill credentials.
