In today’s manufacturing workplaces, it’s common to see four or even five generations working together — from seasoned Baby Boomers to fresh Gen Z employees. Each generation brings unique experiences, work styles, and values to the table, but these differences can also create misunderstandings or friction.
This interactive webinar will explore practical strategies for building stronger connections across generations to boost communication, teamwork, and productivity on the shop floor. Participants will learn how to recognize generational strengths, overcome stereotypes, and create a culture where everyone — regardless of age — feels valued and engaged.
Key takeaways:
Understand the characteristics and motivations of different generations in today’s workforce.
Identify common challenges and opportunities when multiple generations work together in manufacturing.
Learn practical strategies to improve communication, collaboration, and knowledge transfer across age groups.
Explore leadership techniques that foster respect, inclusivity, and productivity in multi-generational teams.
This session is designed for supervisors, HR leaders, managers, and team leads in manufacturing who want to unlock the full potential of a diverse, multi-generational workforce.
Presenter
Amy Murphy
Technical Specialist
Amy Murphy is a workforce development and human capital strategy leader at IMEC with more than 30 years of experience in workforce development, human resources, higher education, and organizational training. She partners with Illinois manufacturers to strengthen talent pipelines, implement apprenticeship programs, and build leadership and workforce systems that support long-term growth.
Amy specializes in aligning workforce strategy with business objectives, helping organizations improve talent acquisition, onboarding, career pathways, employee engagement, and retention. At IMEC, she leads comprehensive workforce initiatives including leadership coaching, grant-funded training programs, and customized workforce solutions that help manufacturers develop high-performing teams and sustainable talent systems.
Prior to joining IMEC, Amy held senior leadership roles in higher education, where she directed contract training and workforce programs and built strategic partnerships with employers. She designed and launched apprenticeship programs, secured federal and state grant funding, and helped organizations create scalable workforce development solutions.
Expertise Workforce Development & Apprenticeship Programs Talent Strategy & Career Pathway Development Leadership Coaching & Team Development Employee Engagement & Retention Strategies HR Systems, Onboarding & Performance Management
Organizational Impact Designed and implemented apprenticeship programs across 21 occupations Built employer partnerships supporting scalable workforce training initiatives Generated $3.1M+ through workforce and training program leadership Connected 800+ students to manufacturing career pathways through workforce initiatives
