04.29.25
The Front-Line Dilemma: Why Advanced Manufacturing Roles Are So Hard to Fill
By Heidi Schultz, Career Navigator, FMWF Chamber
Advanced manufacturing industry leaders tackle challenges through discussion at an Industry Sector Partnership Meeting on April 25, 2025, held at Cardinal IG.
Insight from industry leaders on the toughest-to-fill roles—and the skills gap that’s holding them back.
It’s a familiar story in today’s advanced manufacturing world: entry-level positions are open, but the right candidates are hard to find —and retain. In fact, many companies across the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo region are struggling to fill critical roles like Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operators, welders and material handlers.
So, what’s behind this ongoing challenge? According to industry leaders who gathered at a recent Advanced Manufacturing Industry Sector Partnership (ISP) meeting hosted by The Chamber, the issue isn’t just about numbers—it’s about skills.
Let’s explore the gaps and the real hurdles employers are facing when it comes to hiring and retaining talent in entry-level roles.
Why Are These Roles So Hard to Fill?
The need for skilled labor is skyrocketing—and these positions aren’t filling quickly enough. Employers are struggling to find candidates with the necessary training or experience to keep operations running smoothly.
Here’s what local industry leaders told us at the Advanced Manufacturing ISP Meeting at Cardinal IG in Fargo, N.D., on April 25.
The Soft Skills Gap: Time management, teamwork, communication and problem-solving are often underdeveloped, creating a disconnect between what employers need and what applicants bring to the table.
Unclear Pathways: Entry-level positions often don’t clearly show how employees can grow, making them less attractive—especially to younger generations seeking career advancement.
Training Is Key: Roles like welding and CNC require specialized training, and while some employers offer on-the-job training, the skills gap can get a little too wide to overcome without additional support or funding.
Tech-Savvy But Not Manufacturing-Savvy: Many new hires are comfortable navigating personal technology (e.g., smartphones and social media), but they often lack the technical proficiency required for workplace-specific software, tools and digital systems.
How Can You Adapt to These Challenges?
While the challenge is significant, some employers are getting creative in how they approach recruitment and training. Here’s what they are doing:
- Hiring for Attitude: Instead of focusing exclusively on technical skills, hire candidates who demonstrate a drive to learn and grow, then train these employees on technical skills.
- Offering On-the-Job Training: Invest in on-the-job training programs, which allows new hires to learn the trade in a real-world setting. This hands-on approach helps build confidence and competence in a shorter amount of time.
- Creating Clear Career Pathways: Empower employees by clearly outlining the skills and experiences needed to advance into leadership and specialized roles.
What is the Path Forward?
Training and Education: Local education partners like North Dakota State College of Science, Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Dale Carnegie and Lynnes Welding Training Center offer specialized programs that focus on both technical and soft skills.
Have you heard of the Good Jobs Challenge? These organizations have partnered up with us to provide individuals with opportunities to upskill and grow in their careers – at little to no cost. Become a partner or engage your employees to be part of the solution.
Partnerships and Innovation: Collaborate with local organizations to create clear career entry points such as internships or apprenticeships that young people see a path forward and provide hands-on experience that leads to employment.
By addressing the skills gap through training, partnerships and a focus on potential, we can overcome the challenges of filling these critical roles.
Get Involved
Want to help solve the skills gap and build the advanced manufacturing workforce of the future? Contact The Chamber’s Career Navigator, Heidi Schultz, to learn about upcoming ISP meetings and collaboration opportunities.
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