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BOWLING GREEN, KY. March 19, 2024 – The South-Central Kentucky Regional Development Authority (SCKRDA) released a survey today designed to assess the workforce needs of regional manufacturers across the 10 counties that comprise South Central Kentucky (SCK). Our region recognizes manufacturing as a critical business sector in our area, with a diversified base of manufacturers that employ more than 26,000 workers with a myriad of attractive career paths. And the sector is growing every year.
Given the demographic challenges in the US, many companies in the manufacturing sector struggle to find the skilled workers they need to operate and grow. This survey is designed to identify the major challenges for manufacturers in hiring and retaining a skilled workforce, as a beginning point for a comprehensive, action-oriented plan.
According to Ron Bunch, President and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, “This survey is designed to aggregate the voice of manufacturers to help shape the education and training, workforce development, and talent sourcing needed to meet the growing needs of our regional manufacturers and position South Central Kentucky as the region of choice for the sector going forward. This survey is critical. We urge all regional manufacturers to respond when they receive our email. We are aiming for 100% response to ensure we accurately address the needs of each manufacturer!”
The survey and the data that emanates from it will serve as the foundation for a comprehensive manufacturing workforce study. SCKRDA is collaborating with Dr. Audrey Theis, a nationally recognized expert in workforce development, to undertake a multi-phase manufacturing workforce study. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the current and future needs of our region's manufacturing sector.
Following the release of Dr. Theis’ earlier study, titled "An Urgent Call to Action," completed and released in June 2013, there has been a notable opportunity for further action in addressing the identified workforce challenges. This emphasizes the importance of reassessing and reinvigorating our efforts to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the manufacturing workforce in South Central Kentucky.
"We are deeply committed to leveraging the insights from this study to drive meaningful collaboration within our community," said Warren County Judge-Executive Doug Gorman, Chairman of the SCKRDA. "It is essential that we address the challenges highlighted in the previous report and work collectively to develop innovative solutions that will strengthen our manufacturing workforce."
The multi-phase study will encompass a thorough examination of current workforce trends, labor market dynamics, skills gaps, and projections for future workforce needs in the manufacturing sector. The findings will inform and drive targeted strategies and initiatives aimed at addressing identified challenges and maximizing opportunities for workforce development and manufacturing sector growth.
"We are at a pivotal moment in strengthening our local economy and ensuring the future success of our manufacturing sector,” said Bowling Green Mayor, Todd Alcott. “Bowling Green is proud to support this initiative, which not only aims to meet the immediate needs of our manufacturers but also secures a prosperous future for our community. Together, we are strengthening the foundations and talent supply chain for sustained economic growth and competitiveness in the global marketplace."
For inquiries about the study, please contact Ron Bunch, President and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.
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About South Central Kentucky Regional Development Authority (SCKRDA):
The South-Central Kentucky Regional Development Authority (SCKRDA) is committed to fostering economic growth and prosperity in the 10 county South Central Kentucky region. By collaborating with stakeholders and implementing strategic initiatives, SCKRDA aims to enhance the region's competitiveness, attract investment, and create sustainable opportunities for businesses and residents.
About South Central Kentucky Economic Development:
South Central Kentucky Economic Development is an entity of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, a nationally ranked 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Located at the center of a 34-state distribution area in the eastern United States, South Central Kentucky is a prime location for manufacturing and distribution facilities. South Central Kentucky is within a day’s drive of 60% of the nation's population, personal income, and manufacturing business establishments. Bowling Green ranks second in the United States for best manufacturing city. The region has captured over four billion in capital investment in the past decade, creating thousands of jobs. To learn more, please visit https://www.southcentralky.com