Upskilling and Reskilling Supply Chain Talent for an Evolving Industry

As supply chains evolve, they move from a purely functional system to a global, interconnected network of assets, data, and processes.

For example, the addition of omnichannel distribution and additive manufacturing processes means that workers need to alter and adapt the supply and demand model to increase resiliency.

When industries evolve and change, the skills and requirements of the workforce also need to change to remain aligned with industry and customer needs. That’s where a skills gap is created.

The manufacturing industry has already invested resources and money into upskilling and reskilling their workers.

Workers are being trained on the benefits of Industry 4.0 technologies and smart factories to be prepared to handle streamlined and improved manufacturing processes.

Challenges of Upskilling and Reskilling Supply Chain Talent

One of the biggest challenges for upskilling and reskilling supply chain talent is to prepare the current and emerging workforce for new technologies and breaking the mold of hard, physical labour.

Although supply chains still require manpower and human precision, technology will start to play a greater role.

The second challenge is reskilling the supply chain workforce.

Aligning workers with the collaboration needed between technological processes and physical labour is required to close the skills gap.

In addition, workers need to know how to incorporate technology into their operations, use the technology daily, and make supply chain improvements based on the information and data provided.

How Can Supply Chains Prepare for Upskilling and Reskilling?

By anticipating change and having patience.

Upskilling and reskilling don’t happen overnight. It takes time to develop a training and education strategy that supports the learning process and motivates workers to tackle change.

At SHEA Global, we want to help businesses in the supply chain industry close the skills gap and develop a strategy that optimally leverages technology to streamline operations.

Want to learn more about how we can help you? Contact us today!