Metro Business asked Brett Vassey, president and chief executive officer of the Virginia Manufacturers Association, how job seekers in Virginia can prepare for jobs in advanced manufacturing:
"Advanced technology industries such as manufacturing are essential to the United States and Virginia economies.
"The U.S. is still the world's largest manufacturing economy. Manufacturing is rapidly transforming from a labor-intensive to a technology-intensive industry sector.
"To reap the economic rewards, we must adapt.
"Virginia has an estimated annual shortage of about 11,000 skilled workers for advanced manufacturing.
"So, one of our industry's top priorities is to empower Virginians to acquire those skills through career and technical education, and science, technology, engineering and math proficiency.
"If you are interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing, we recommend that you obtain a Virginia Career Readiness Certificate at a community college or one-stop center.
"Whether you want to become a manufacturing technician, laboratory technician, or a welder, you will also need to obtain industry-certified credentials to be successful.
"Virginia has robust public and private sector educational institutions to help people obtain those certifications."
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement