Once a vibrant part of American communities, the shipbuilding industry is now facing significant challenges holding it back. These challenges, particularly in workforce talent, are critical to address if the industry is to remain competitive on a global scale. As McKinsey notes, “Shipyards, once the backbone of flourishing communities, now face myriad challenges—from talent gaps to outdated operating models—that threaten their ability to grow and thrive. The US has gone from building 5.0 percent of the world’s ocean-going commercial ships in the 1970s to about 0.2 percent today.” Meanwhile, countries like China, Japan, and South Korea dominate the industry, making up over 90 percent of global shipbuilding.

Key Workforce Challenges

  1. Aging Workforce: Many skilled workers are nearing retirement, creating a gap as there aren’t enough younger workers stepping in to fill these roles. This demographic shift poses a risk to maintaining a skilled labor force.
  2. Skill Gaps: With advancements in shipbuilding technology, there is a growing need for workers skilled in digital tools and automation. However, many shipyards struggle to find employees with these modern skills.
  3. Attraction and Retention: Shipbuilding jobs can be physically demanding and may seem less attractive than other industries offering similar pay for less strenuous work. This makes it challenging to attract and retain new talent.
  4. Training and Upskilling: Continuous training is essential to address skill gaps and adapt to technological changes. However, the cost and logistical challenges of implementing large-scale training initiatives can be prohibitive for many companies.

Strategies for Overcoming Workforce Challenges

  1. Invest in Apprenticeship Programs: Developing strong apprenticeship programs can help train new workers and bridge the skills gap. Collaborations with educational institutions can provide hands-on training that aligns with industry needs.
  2. Enhance Workforce Development Initiatives: Programs like Bollinger Shipyards’ Shipfitter Bootcamp show how targeted workforce development can equip employees with essential skills while boosting retention through career advancement opportunities.
  3. Improve Working Conditions and Compensation: To make shipbuilding more attractive, companies should enhance working conditions and offer competitive wages. Addressing the wage gap between shipbuilding and other industries can help retain skilled workers.
  4. Leverage Technology in Training: Digital tools and simulations can better prepare workers for modern shipbuilding tasks. This approach enhances skill acquisition and aligns training with real-world applications.
  5. Engage Younger Generations Early: Educational outreach can introduce school-age children to shipbuilding careers and spark interest in the industry early on, helping build a future talent pipeline.

By focusing on these strategies, U.S. shipbuilders can effectively tackle workforce talent issues, ensuring a steady supply of skilled labor to meet future demands and re-establishing their place as a vital part of American manufacturing.

Partner with Gillmann Services

To successfully navigate these workforce challenges, consider partnering with Gillmann Services. We specialize in providing skilled labor solutions tailored to meet your specific needs in the shipbuilding industry. Our expertise in workforce management can help you attract, train, and retain the talent necessary to keep your operations running smoothly and efficiently. Let us help you build a stronger future for your shipyard operations!