By Damian Scandiffio 

As we look ahead to 2025, the advanced manufacturing industry in the United States and Canada is poised for significant transformation. Recent surveys and industry reports highlight key trends that will shape the workforce in this sector. 

Investment in Industry 4.0 Technologies 

Despite economic challenges, manufacturers are continuing to invest in advanced technologies. The 2025 Advanced Manufacturing Outlook survey found that 89% of respondents reported benefits from technological upgrades. Investments in automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) are on the rise, with 18% of manufacturers planning to invest in IIoT technologies over the next year. 

Workforce Implications 

These technological advancements will have profound impacts on the manufacturing workforce: 

1. Skill Gap: As advanced technologies become more prevalent, there will be an increased demand for workers with specialized skills in areas like AI, robotics, and data analytics.
2. Reskilling and Upskilling: Existing workers will need to adapt to new technologies, requiring significant investment in training and development.
3. Changing Job Roles: Some traditional manufacturing roles may become obsolete, while new positions focused on managing and maintaining advanced systems will emerge.
4. Labor Shortages: The industry is already facing difficulties in filling skilled trades positions, a challenge that may intensify as technology requirements evolve.

How Broadleaf Results Can Help 

In this rapidly changing landscape, Broadleaf Results offers crucial support through its Managed Service Programs (MSPs) and Employer of Record/Payrolling services: 

1. Talent Acquisition: Broadleaf’s MSP supports manufacturers’ talent acquisition through management of their active supplier base, addition of known specialized suppliers, and the introduction of a streamlining technology that supports identification and management of manufacturing talent.
2. Workforce Flexibility: Through Employer of Record services, companies can quickly scale their workforce up or down to meet changing technological and production needs. 
3. Compliance Management: As workforce regulations evolve alongside technology, Broadleaf ensures compliance across all employment arrangements. 
4. Cost Optimization: By leveraging Broadleaf’s services, manufacturers can manage labor costs more effectively while investing in new technologies. 

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) play a crucial role in helping manufacturers effectively manage their contingent workforce 

By leveraging MSPs, manufacturers can streamline their contingent labor processes, from sourcing and onboarding to performance management and offboarding. MSPs offer comprehensive solutions that include talent acquisition, compliance management, and cost optimization. They can implement vendor management systems (VMS) to enhance visibility and control over the contingent workforce, mitigating risks associated with non-compliance and unauthorized spending. Additionally, MSPs can provide valuable insights into workforce trends and analytics, enabling manufacturers to make data-driven decisions about their contingent labor needs. This strategic approach allows manufacturers to maintain flexibility in their workforce while focusing on their core competencies and production goals. 

Related E-Book: Evaluating and Implementing a Second-Generation MSP 

As the manufacturing industry continues its journey towards smart factories and Industry 4.0, partnering with a workforce solutions provider like Broadleaf Results can help companies navigate the complex talent landscape of 2025 and beyond.