Doing the Dirty Work: How to Find Qualified, Consistent Labor w/ Gary Konarska
Gary Konarska, Executive Director & CEO of the American Welding Society (AWS), discusses the critical shortage of skilled labor in manufacturing, driven by Baby Boomer retirements and a historical stigma against vocational trades. He explains how AWS addresses this through initiatives like the Careers in Welding website, scholarships, and mobile VR welding simulators to attract new talent. Konarska advises manufacturers to engage with local vocational programs, offer apprenticeships, and invest in upskilling existing employees on automation and robotics to remain competitive.