The recent shift in presidential tariffs policy is expected to stimulate growth in U.S. manufacturing. While this anticipated surge is welcome news for the sector, it also exposes a critical weakness: a growing talent gap and an urgent need for workforce enablement.
As production ramps up, manufacturers face increasing difficulty hiring, training, and retaining the skilled professionals necessary to meet demand. In response, many are investing in workforce enablement technologies that not only help bridge this labor gap but also boost efficiency, productivity, and long-term resilience.
A recent Workforce Enablement Survey found that 70.9% of manufacturing executives are concerned about workforce limitations in light of rising domestic demand. When asked to pinpoint their greatest talent challenges, respondents cited:
Skill gaps (30.1%)
Training and development (23.3%)
Employee engagement (24.3%)
Retention (20.4%)
These figures reflect a sector under strain. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Smart Manufacturing and Operations Survey, nearly half of manufacturers face moderate to significant difficulty filling production and operations management roles. Even more pressing: 35% are focused on reskilling workers to adapt to the “Factory of the Future.”
Rather than wait for traditional training pipelines to catch up, manufacturers are embracing technology as a strategic tool for workforce enablement. Among respondents:
32% are using Learning Management Systems (LMS)
29% are using performance management software
32% are already using AR/VR and automation, with another 40.8% planning to do so soon
Here’s how these technologies are transforming workforce development:
Immersive Training Simulations (AR/VR): By simulating real-world scenarios, AR/VR accelerates hands-on learning and reduces mistakes. Early adopters report training new workers 30–40% faster and cutting assembly times in half.
Remote Assistance & Virtual Collaboration: AR-enabled platforms connect frontline staff to remote experts in real time. One global manufacturer saw a 67% increase in first-time fix rates and a 20% boost in engineer efficiency through virtual troubleshooting.
Automation & AI-Powered Analytics: Robotics, RPA, and AI tools are automating repetitive tasks, improving quality control, and generating real-time insights. This enables leaner teams to maintain high productivity—even in labor-constrained environments.
Technology investments are only as good as the outcomes they drive. Manufacturers are increasingly evaluating their workforce enablement efforts with key performance indicators such as:
Productivity (39.8%)
Employee performance (20.4%)
Retention (20.4%)
Satisfaction (9.7%)
Encouragingly, 61.8% of executives find these technologies effective in solving workforce issues, with nearly 30% labeling them “very effective.” These metrics help ensure that enablement tools are delivering ROI—not just hype.
Despite the momentum, barriers remain. Manufacturers cite the following top challenges when adopting new workforce technologies:
Complexity (39.8%)
Integration with existing systems (21.4%)
Cost (19.4%)
Employee resistance (9.7%)
These hurdles reinforce the need for thoughtful change management, robust onboarding processes, and a commitment to fostering innovation at every level.
Workforce enablement is more than a buzzword—it’s happening on factory floors today. Companies are using AR-guided work instructions to train new employees quickly and reduce errors. LMS platforms allow for tailored skill development, helping to identify future leaders and monitor progress over time.
Other firms are embracing virtual collaboration and remote support, which gives them access to top-tier expertise—even if those experts aren’t physically onsite. In a market where talent is scarce and demand is rising, this kind of flexibility is invaluable.
As manufacturers prepare for increased demand, investing in workforce enablement technologies is no longer optional—it’s essential. AR/VR, automation, AI, and modern training platforms are helping companies close skill gaps, retain key employees, and boost productivity. But tools alone aren’t enough.
True success requires a holistic strategy—one that combines the right digital infrastructure with strong training, clear communication, and a culture open to change.
At Nathan Wechsler, we work with manufacturers who are navigating complex operational and workforce transitions. Whether you’re looking to improve efficiency, evaluate technology investments, or grow your team, our advisors are here to help you build a stronger, future-ready business.
This blog was inspired by insights from Dijam Panigrahi, Co-founder and COO of GridRaster Inc. To read the original article, visit Manufacturing Tomorrow.