Older generation’s skills ‘going unused’ in manufacturing, MTC research finds

Expertise honed over many decades is at risk of being lost from manufacturing, new research has found, with more than two in five (41%) workers aged 60 to 66 saying their skills are going unused.

That huge source of knowledge is going untapped despite massive demand for skilled employees, said an announcement from the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, which released the research yesterday (11 August).

More than nine in 10 (91%) of 18 to 27-year-olds said they were willing to learn from older colleagues however, which the MTC said suggested that employers are missing an opportunity for growth.

“These findings point to a clear opportunity for industry to embrace cross-generational learning and unlock the knowledge already within the workforce, before decades of experience retire. Doing so can accelerate the adoption of technology to improve resilience and boost productivity, both of which are vital to supporting the ambitions of the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy,” the announcement said.

Roughly 60% of both younger and older workers are not collaborating in cross-generational skills sharing such as peer-to-peer mentoring, the research found.

David Grailey, managing director of MTC Training, said: “We all know there is a wealth of knowledge already embedded in the UK’s manufacturing workforce, but too often it goes untapped. At a time when the sector is facing a significant skills gap, we need to realise the benefits of many different ways of skilling, upskilling and reskilling workers, not just bringing in new talent. Creating the conditions for employees of all ages to share knowledge on how to make the most of technological developments, and communicating the benefits, is crucial.”

He added: “Generational diversity is a significant strength for every manufacturer. When manufacturers invest in training that connects people – blending technical and soft skills and encouraging collaboration between age groups – they unlock greater productivity, resilience and long-term competitiveness.”

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