The Power of Community in Manufacturing

Manufacturing is often called the backbone of our economy but even the strongest backbone needs support. On Manufacturing Day, we celebrate the companies, people, and innovations that keep this industry moving forward. It’s also a reminder that manufacturing is not a solo journey.

The challenges facing manufacturers today are more complex and interconnected than ever before. According to the 2024 Kansas Manufacturing Solutions State of Kansas Manufacturers Survey, companies are contending with significant hurdles like inflationary pressures, rising material costs, growing employee salaries and healthcare expenses. These pressures are squeezing profit margins and making long-term planning more difficult.

Yet even in the face of these challenges, optimism runs deep.

• 90% of Kansas manufacturers feel confident about the future of their companies
• 76% expect revenue growth in 2024
• 63% anticipate increased profitability

Much of this confidence comes from one critical factor: collaboration.

The Value of Connection

One of the biggest hurdles manufacturers face today is the workforce and no single company can solve it alone. In the survey, 42% of manufacturers said they are worried about the ongoing worker shortage, and 43% are closely monitoring it. Only 15% felt confident it wouldn’t affect their business in 2025.

The depth of the challenge becomes clearer when looking at hiring data:

• 76% of manufacturers find it difficult to attract qualified candidates.

Top barriers to hiring include:

• Lack of work ethic, commitment, or interest.
• Lack of necessary skills or education.
• Not enough applicants.
• Lack of soft skills or professionalism.

Despite these challenges, manufacturers are taking action.

• 57% plan to hire new full-time employees.
• 24% are focused on training their current workforce.
• Nearly 9% are exploring automation to fill roles left open by turnover.

These numbers show that the workforce challenge is not just widespread, it’s layered. That’s where community comes in. Being part of a network gives manufacturers access to a broader set of ideas, strategies, and solutions.

Organizations like the Kansas City Manufacturing Network (KCMN) and the Central Kansas Manufacturing Network (CKMN) offer peer-to-peer connections and shared learning opportunities. Members can learn what has worked for other companies, whether that’s recruiting approaches, retention strategies, or upskilling programs.

Turning Ideas into Action

Manufacturers are increasingly turning to outside organizations for help navigating workforce, technology, and compliance challenges. Some seek insights and best practices from peer networks, while others partner with Kansas Manufacturing Solutions (KMS) for hands-on guidance, specialized programs, and resources designed to boost competitiveness.

Partnerships also extend to local community colleges and technical schools, which provide customized training and credentialing programs. Chambers of Commerce play a role, too, offering advocacy, business resources, and community connections that keep manufacturers plugged into their regional economies.

By leveraging this mix of partnerships: peer networks, industry experts, educational institutions, and business advocates, manufacturers gain the perspective and support they need to stay ahead of change.

Stronger Together

Manufacturing Day is about celebrating resilience, innovation, and progress. But it’s also about recognizing that success doesn’t happen in isolation. Whether it’s solving workforce challenges, adapting to economic pressures, or preparing for the next wave of technology, the companies that thrive are those that collaborate.

Networks like KCMN and CKMN, paired with strategic partners like KMS, show that manufacturers don’t just grow by working harder — they grow by working together.

So as you celebrate Manufacturing Day, ask yourself: Who’s in your corner? In manufacturing, the strongest companies are those backed by a strong community.