On September 24, 2024, Valley Vision, in partnership with the Greater Sacramento Economic Council (GSEC) and the Sacramento Valley Manufacturers Association (SVMA), hosted an advanced manufacturing industry advisory event. Representing the Greater Sacramento Region (also referred to as the North Region), Director Ebony Joy Benzing shared labor market data and related COE resources with local employers and economic development organizations.

The event included a panel discussion focused on the workforce needs of manufacturing employers, the skills required for job access, and opportunities for collaboration with community colleges. Additionally, GSEC facilitated a precision manufacturing roundtable to explore the economic development needs of local businesses. Participants included employers and industry partners from sectors such as millwork, custom auto parts manufacturing, machine tool manufacturing, machine shops, and printing and related support services.

Key takeaways for educators included:

• Employers stated a need for a curriculum that focuses on foundational technical skills, including measurement, blueprint reading, hydraulics, electrical systems, maintenance and repair, as well as problem-solving and trouble-shooting abilities.
• Employers expressed a growing demand for technicians skilled in electro-mechanical systems and industrial automation. They also emphasized a shortage of qualified CNC machinists and indicated a need for workers with expertise beyond welding.
• When asked about the impact of artificial intelligence on their work, employers indicated that it would likely enhance workers’ skills, particularly in diagnostics and programming.

For more information on the event and related sector engagement, visit Valley Vision’s website.