A Workforce Development Strategy for Maine’s Advanced Manufacturing Industry
The Maine Technology Institute (MTI), the Maine Department of Labor (DOL), and the Manufacturers Association of Maine conducted a comprehensive workforce and industry study to support the growth and resilience of Maine’s Advanced Manufacturing sector. With the support of Camoin Associates, a multi-disciplinary team translated workforce analytics and survey results from Maine businesses into a strategic roadmap that will guide future efforts to strengthen Maine’s manufacturing sector and keep it competitive.
Funding for this process was facilitated through Maine’s Forest Bioproducts Advanced Manufacturing Tech Hub. Maine’s Forest Bioproducts Advanced Manufacturing Tech Hub is an industry partnership home to researchers, workers, firms, government agencies, and other partners working towards innovative solutions to displace plastics, sequester carbon in buildings, and use forest products to manufacture sustainable products.
Workforce Gap Analysis
The following report includes an overview of the existing labor supply in Maine’s Manufacturing Sector and quantifies gaps between labor market demand and workforce supply over the next five years (2023-2028). The results reflect labor needs based on four development scenarios.
Survey Analysis
Camoin Associates conducted four surveys to inform a workforce development strategy and better understand perceptions of Maine’s Advanced Manufacturing Sector. The four target populations were:
- Current Workers
- Potential Workers
- Company Leadership
- Career Advisors
Workforce Development Strategy
Advanced Manufacturing in Maine plays an important role in the state’s economy, supporting innovation, exports, and high-quality jobs across rural and urban communities. Yet employers, particularly small and micro-manufacturers, continue to face persistent challenges in recruiting, training, and retaining skilled workers.
Career Pathways
Production Managers
These workers oversee production and operations workers throughout the manufacturing process. Production Managers directly supervise machine operators, plan and coordinate work activities, and direct resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
Electrical Engineers
These workers research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems. They may also oversee production efforts to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Their expertise enhances productivity, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Technologists and Technicians
These workers perform technical work that supports engineering and scientific operations by operating, installing, testing, maintaining, and calibrating electrical, mechanical, and computer-based systems. This work often requires the application of electrical and engineering theory under the supervision of engineering staff.
Welders
These workers use hand-welding, flame-cutting, hand-soldering, or brazing equipment to weld or join metal components. Welders play a crucial role in Manufacturing, as their skills are essential for creating, repairing, and maintaining metal structures or components.
Machinists
These workers operate and set up various machine tools to manufacture high-precision components and instruments from metal. Responsibilities include fabricating, maintaining, modifying, and repairing mechanical instruments and parts. This role requires a strong understanding of mechanical systems, mathematics, material properties, technical layouts, and machining techniques.
Machine Operators
These workers maintain and monitor machinery to ensure efficient production. Tasks include setting up, operating, or tending to various machines, tools, or computer-controlled equipment used to cut, form, process, or package materials and products across different industries.
Training Inventory
Maine’s education and training providers offer a variety of training opportunities to build Maine’s manufacturing workforce. Use the tool below to search for an illustrative list of short-, medium- and longer-term training available through the Maine Apprenticeship Program, Career and Technical Education, Adult Education, Maine Community College System, University of Maine System, Maine Maritime Academy, and the Roux Institute. Follow the links to each provider to see their most up-to-date training offerings.