Medina County employers discuss workforce challenges, skilled trades recruitment

MEDINA — Medina County manufacturers and construction employers are looking for ways to attract the next generation of workers, saying changing perceptions about skilled trades and better communicating career opportunities will be important to strengthening the local workforce. The issue was a central topic on Thursday during the Medina County Manufacturing and Construction Convening at RPM International Inc. in Medina. The event brought together local employers, workforce leaders and educators to discuss hiring challenges, training opportunities and ways to strengthen the county's talent pipeline. In 2024, the county averaged 9,222 manufacturing jobs and 4,608 construction jobs, according to Ohio county employment data. Together, the industries accounted for nearly 13,830 jobs across 907 establishments. Despite those opportunities, participants said attracting workers remains a challenge, particularly as employers compete with other industries and try to overcome longstanding perceptions about factory and trade work. One participant described the perception of manufacturing among younger generations, saying, "It's long hours, it's hot, it's brutal, it's dirty." The discussion also highlighted differences between manufacturing and construction. One construction industry participant argued that skilled trades can offer substantial earning potential without requiring a four-year college degree, citing examples of employees earning six-figure incomes. A manufacturing representative cautioned that the industries face different financial realities, noting that manufacturers may not be able to offer the same starting wages as some construction businesses. Participants also discussed the influence parents have on students' career decisions, with some saying families continue to view a four-year college degree as the preferred path to a successful career. Several attendees said introducing students to manufacturing and skilled trades earlier in their education could help change those perceptions. They also discussed the potential role of social media in showing younger generations what modern manufacturing and construction careers actually involve. Artificial intelligence was another topic, with participants suggesting some students are concerned about pursuing careers that could be affected by automation and are considering alternative paths. Organizers said they plan to analyze feedback collected during the session and distribute a summary to participants. They intend to bring employers and workforce representatives together again to examine potential training programs, identify obstacles and develop action plans with timelines and measurable outcomes. The goal is to turn employers' concerns into practical steps to address workforce needs and strengthen Medina County's talent pipeline. Contact Brooke Adams at 440-822-8373 or badams@medina-gazette.com.