Reimagining Workforce Development in Manufacturing: Lessons from the MEP Network
The U.S. Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a national network dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMEs). Amid workforce shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the MEP has emerged as a promising institutional solution for enhancing workforce and workplace practices. Researchers Nichola Lowe, Greg Schrock, Matthew D. Wilson, Rumana Rabbani, and Allison Forbes examine the evolution and impact of the MEP’s workforce strategies, emphasizing their potential to transform manufacturing jobs.
Key Insights:
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Integrated Workforce Solutions: MEP centers combine workforce development with high-demand business services such as lean manufacturing and technology upgrades, helping firms improve both operations and job quality.
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From Workforce to Workplace: The MEP has shifted focus from solely preparing workers for jobs to equipping workplaces to attract, retain, and support employees through better wages, benefits, and career pathways.
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COVID-19 as a Catalyst: The pandemic intensified preexisting workforce challenges, spurring MEP centers to adopt innovative solutions, such as virtual training platforms and statewide talent exchanges to connect furloughed workers with new opportunities.
Since 2011, workforce projects in the MEP network have increased sevenfold, representing 12% of all MEP projects by 2019. While these efforts are unevenly distributed across the network, leading centers demonstrate how aligning workforce strategies with business needs can promote equitable job growth and strengthen local economies.
The article and brief call for expanded federal support and greater collaboration across the MEP network to address challenges like racial inequities and to scale impactful workforce programs nationwide. By centering workforce development, the MEP can play a transformative role in revitalizing U.S. manufacturing and creating high-quality jobs.
Publication
People
Associate Director of Economic & Workforce Development, UIC Great Cities Institute