Real-world solutions for manufacturers navigating talent shortages and training barriers
Ask any manufacturer in Southwest Ohio about their biggest challenge today and you'll likely get the same answer: people.
The skilled labor shortage is no longer a looming threat, it's a daily reality. And while many businesses are scrambling to plug holes with short-term fixes, the truth is that sustainable workforce development requires a long-term, strategic approach rooted in real-world solutions.
At TechSolve, we work with hundreds of manufacturers each year, ranging from small shops to global suppliers and one thing is clear: The companies seeing real results are those investing in talent development as part of their core growth strategy.
Why short-term fixes fall short
Temporary staffing, sign-on bonuses and crash-course training might fill gaps in the short term, but they rarely build a workforce that's ready for the future. Technology is advancing, supply chains are tightening and customer expectations are rising. Manufacturers need employees who are not just present, but prepared and engaged.
To close the skills gap, companies must commit to continuous training and development, upskilling existing employees and building stronger connections with local talent pipelines. A continuous learning culture isn't a quick fix, it's a mindset shift.
Local resources are available
Southwest Ohio is home to some of the most impactful workforce resources in the country. Yet many manufacturers aren't taking full advantage. Here are three tools we consistently recommend:
Ohio TechCred
This statewide program reimburses businesses for training employees in tech-focused skills, from CNC programming to cybersecurity and far beyond. Employers choose the credential and training provider, submit a simple online application and get reimbursed once the training is complete. TechCred reduces the financial barrier to upskilling and makes continuous learning more accessible.
Career-technical education (CTE) partners
When manufacturers and educators collaborate, great things happen. Butler Tech, among others in our region, are leading the way in aligning training with real industry needs, offering programs that prepare students for in-demand careers in manufacturing and logistics.
These programs are more than talent pipelines — they're long-term partnerships.
TechSolve's workforce services
As a designated Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, TechSolve helps companies connect the dots between workforce needs and solutions. We work with manufacturers to map out training plans, identify available funding and navigate the often-complex landscape of workforce programs. Whether you're applying for TechCred, partnering with a school or building an internal training model, we're here to guide the process. TechSolve offers in-person and online training programs.
Collaboration is the competitive edge
Solving the workforce equation isn't just about internal changes, it's about building bridges. Manufacturers who partner with educators, government programs and workforce organizations are creating stronger, more sustainable pipelines. And they're seeing the results in productivity, retention and competitiveness.
At TechSolve, we're committed to helping manufacturers build and retain the talent they need to thrive, not just today, but five and 10 years from now. That means sharing best practices, making the most of public resources and helping leadership teams integrate workforce strategy into their overall business plan.
The workforce challenge isn't going away, but it can be solved. With the right resources, partnerships, and commitment to long-term success, manufacturers can turn workforce development from a roadblock into a growth driver.
We understand the frustration of dealing with skills gaps and turnover – it's costly and disruptive. With the right training and leadership development, your culture can become a driver of growth. To learn how TechSolve can support your workforce strategy, visit our website.
Dan Catalano is the president and CEO of TechSolve, a Cincinnati-based organization dedicated to helping manufacturers solve operational challenges through continuous improvement, advanced technology adoption, and workforce development.
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