Future visions
“For years, we’ve been watching the demographics go against us when it comes to our workforce,” says Andy Drennan, senior vice president, Food Processing Suppliers Association (FPSA), McLean, VA. “Our older workers were retiring while we failed to replace them with the next generation of workers. And then COVID hit.”
For some, these factors have prompted equipment investments. “Many processors are forced to automate their production lines to make up for this reduced workforce, just to get product out the door,” says Drennan. “This new equipment requires more training to help workers make the most of this technology. Luckily, recent studies show that workers, especially our younger workforce, want more training. They see it as an investment in them and a way to build their career.”
Given the fast pace of change in the food industry, professional development is critical to keeping up with—or exceeding—the competition, says Drennan. “Set your baseline,” he advises. “What is your workforce currently good at? What is it not? What are the skills your company needs in its workforce for the next five years? Which of these skills can be hired, and which do you need to develop with your existing staff? These questions must all be answered to identify next steps.” He notes an abundance of resources available for development, including at local universities, community colleges, relevant trade associations, and trade schools.
“The future of the wholesale baking industry is dependent upon attracting, training, and retaining talent at all levels of the workforce,” says Robb MacKie, president and CEO, American Bakers Association (ABA), Washington, D.C.
Workforce development is such a pressing topic right now because of the unprecedented disruption we’ve seen across the industry the past few years, says Judi Lazaro, senior category director, food safety, AIB International, Manhattan, KS. “Many operations have been working at maximum capacity just to meet demand, but have neglected the development of their teams. For many, that has left a massive skills gap among their workforce, which they’re now trying to address.”