Workforce Development: Bridge to Talent

Written by Joe McMurry, Senior Advisor Workforce Partnerships

Workforce development means many things. In manufacturing, we often think of shop floor associates, but a manufacturer’s workforce includes all of the functional areas, such as engineering, accounting/finance, sales and marketing, customer service, human resources, and the like. 

My role within Purdue MEP is to help build talent pipelines for manufacturers in our state. One way we do this is through our Manufacturing Skills for Success and Quality Technician Skills for Success programs. As the names imply, these are focused on entry-level manufacturing and quality skills. These programs target individuals new to the manufacturing workforce pipeline.

However, they do not address the other functional areas of the organization. In order to address that situation, Purdue MEP is developing a “bridge to talent” by assisting small and mid-sized manufacturers gain access to Purdue University students, in particular the Daniels School of Business.

While in its early stages, we are currently seeking clients who are interested in this program. Please reach out to Joe McMurry, Senior Advisor for Workforce Partnerships, at jmcmurry@purdue.edu to find out more information and requirements for participation.

Writer: Joseph McMurry, 317-275-6810, jmcmurry@purdue.edu