From Stories to Systems: Scaling Success in Workforce Development with America Works’ Matt Fieldman

Episode Overview:

In this insightful episode, Matt Fieldman shares the success and strategies behind the America Works program, focusing on strengthening the manufacturing workforce across the United States. Through collaboration with the Manufacturing Extension Partnership system, community colleges, and other stakeholders, America Works addresses critical workforce challenges by improving recruitment, upskilling current employees, and implementing company-focused strategies. Fieldman discusses specific examples of innovative partnerships, like those with Lincoln Electric and the Uniquely Abled Project, that demonstrate the program’s commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for diverse and often underestimated populations. These initiatives not only fill immediate labor shortages but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the manufacturing sector. 

The conversation highlights the program’s broad reach, from inner-city youth apprenticeships to supporting workers with special needs, illustrating a comprehensive approach to workforce development that leverages the strengths of local communities and industries. It takes a (manufacturing) village!

Tune in, subscribe, and contribute as we continue to delve into the stories shaping American manufacturing today! New episodes are released every two weeks!

AMCC’s podcast is made possible in part by the pro bono expertise of Mike McAllen, founder of Podcasting4Associations. Are you part of an association also looking to produce a podcast? Let us get you in touch with Mike.

Thank you to the Economic Development Administration for their partnership in producing this podcast. This podcast was prepared in part using Federal funds under award 3070145 from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Big Concept:

How does the nation create a robust, regional talent pipeline accessible to all Americans? Matt and Matt address workforce challenges in manufacturing through innovative partnerships, training programs, and strategies aimed at diverse and underrepresented populations, including youth, formerly incarcerated individuals, and people with special needs.

Participants:

• Matthew Fieldman: Executive Director, America Works
• Matt Bogoshian: Executive Director, American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative and host of the podcast.

💡 Key Ideas:

• Recruitment Strategies: America Works focuses on innovative recruitment methods to attract diverse populations to manufacturing jobs, highlighting the industry’s potential for better career paths and job security compared to other sectors.
• Upskilling Current Workers: Emphasizing the need for continuous learning, particularly in emerging technologies like robotics and cybersecurity, to ensure the current workforce remains competitive and capable.
• Company-Focused Strategies: The program supports manufacturers in becoming employers of choice through assessments, leadership development, and creating supportive work environments that encourage retention and attract new talent.
• Partnerships and Collaboration: Success stories, such as the partnership with Lincoln Electric and the Uniquely Abled Project, underscore the importance of collaborative efforts between manufacturers, educational institutions, and community organizations in developing effective workforce solutions.

🔗Links:

• Connect with Matthew Fieldman on Linkedin.
• Follow AMCC
• Find Matt on Linkedin
• Visit our website