The New England Council released a report on Wednesday that urged for increased training for advanced manufacturing workers throughout New England. At the same time, they recommended changing the public’s view of these industries by focusing on its safety.
The report, titled “Advanced to Advantageous,” identifies influential industries in New England that are setting the pace in advanced manufacturing. These industries include aerospace, defense, medical devices, software and biotechnology. The report praised certain programs as being progressive “islands of excellence” that combine existing advantages while encouraging other industries to adopt them. The report provides recommendations to increase growth and improve global competitiveness.
Below are highlights of the recommendations:
- Improve partnerships between government, educators, and industry.
- Create a federally funded manufacturing center in New England.
- Transition the public’s perception of manufacturing from dangerous to safe.
- Increase industry partnership and apprenticeship opportunities for students.
James T. Brett, president and CEO of The New England Council, commented that “manufacturing and higher education organizations across New England have told me how invaluable our report has been to them.” Brett hopes that the report will encourage broader discussion among the public and private sectors, improving collaboration between the two. Brett added that this was necessary in order to “support advanced manufacturing to promote sustained economic growth in every corner of New England and strengthen our regional competitive advantage.”
Manufacturing and education sectors will mutually benefit from increased training, apprenticeship opportunities, and partnership ties. The public also needs to understand that manufacturing is a safe career choice. If this can be accomplished, advanced manufacturers in New England will be stronger and more competitive.
