Commentary: Supply chain, labor shortage pose big challenges for washington manufacturers | The Reflector
The aim of the tour was to highlight the importance of Washington’s manufacturing sector, which currently employs 305,000 women and men in good paying careers, and to call attention to the state’s goal of doubling the size of the sector in 10 years.
We don’t expect either of these issues to be solved quickly, but like with most challenges, they also bring opportunities. In some cases, the manufacturers we visited last month said they are responding to supply chain issues by looking for suppliers who are closer to home to provide the materials they need. This is one way the manufacturing sector can grow and help Washington achieve the goal of doubling the number of manufacturing firms in 10 years.
And for the young people we encountered at places like West Sound Technical Skills Center in Bremerton, Raisbeck Aviation High School in Tukwila, Wenatchee Valley College, Spokane Community College and WSU Tri-Cities, the current workforce shortage represents an unprecedented opportunity to launch into lifelong careers.