As manufacturers navigate a rapidly changing workforce landscape, many are feeling the impact of an aging workforce, evolving skill requirements, and a once-in-a-generation dynamic with five generations now working side by side on the production floor. These shifts present both challenges and opportunities for companies working to strengthen talent pipelines and safeguard critical knowledge.
This webinar explores practical ways manufacturers can address workforce gaps through structured training pathways, including internships and apprenticeships. Participants will learn how to engage emerging talent, transfer institutional knowledge, and build a standardized training approach that supports long-term workforce sustainability.
In this session, participants will learn how to:
Assess workforce gaps and identify roles where skill loss poses the greatest risk
Build structured training pathways such as internships, pre-apprenticeships, and apprenticeships
Engage younger workers through clear upskilling and career-development opportunities
Capture and transfer institutional knowledge across multiple generations
Standardize training processes to create consistency, reduce onboarding time, and increase retention
Strengthen long-term workforce planning with scalable, repeatable development strategies
*Event details are subject to change.
*Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive it, please check your spam or junk folder*
Presenter
Amy Murphy
Technical Specialist
At IMEC, my focus revolves around cultivating workforce development and driving employee engagement/retention. I specialize in coaching and nurturing leaders, with a particular emphasis on providing leadership development training for new and emerging leaders. Additionally, I work closely with sales teams, orchestrating initiatives that enhance employee engagement and retention.
Incorporating over 30 years of experience in higher education overseeing workforce development including customized contract training, professional development workshops, and continuing education for individuals looking to upskill, retain, and/or just being a lifelong learner will be instrumental in my role at IMEC. In addition, I have extensive experience in writing and administering grants on the federal, state, and local levels. I have developed strategic employer partnerships that has resulted in the development of career training programs to provide a highly skilled workforce.
Together, I want to encompass a multifaceted approach to workforce development and organizational transformation. Through coaching and development initiatives, I have guided leaders and sales teams toward success while fostering a culture of engagement. Drawing from my extensive experience and commitment to driving results, I am dedicated to empowering organizations to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Expertise Certified Training Within Industry (TWI) Job Relations (JR) Trainer Certified DDI Facilitator Certification Process Trainer Certified Program Planner from Learning Resource Network (LERN) Certified eMarketing Professional from Learning Resource Network (LERN) Certified Defensive Driving Instructor through the National Safety Council Bachelors of Science in Management – focus on Human Resources from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston Masters of Science in Education – focus on Workforce Education from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale
Specialized Skills Workforce Development Leadership Coaching and Development Grant Writing Interviewing Skills Computer Software Training / Microsoft Apprenticeships Team Building Customer Service Career Preparation / Development Workshops Employee Engagement / Retention
Results Created and designed a MFG Day initiative in 2022 at Western Wyoming Community College. Over 800 high school students attended the event annually with approximately 25 manufacturers in attendance. In addition, the event provided opportunities for students to apply and receive scholarships to enter a career in manufacturing. Oversight and accountability for a cost-recovery operation, and for the last ten years as the leader of the team, generated over $3.1 million in profits. Responsible for the design and development of the apprenticeship program at Joliet Junior College. Within the first year, submitted 21 occupations and received approval from DOL for apprenticeships, and in addition, partnered with 18 employers through DOL agreements. Developed a variety of training programs in partnership with industry. Example of programs consist of Substation Technology, Powerline Technician, and Operations Engineering and Technician certificate and degree programs.
Angelika Stratulat
Project Manager
As an immigrant child raised by parents working in manufacturing, I have a deep appreciation for the blue-collar employee experience. I have coupled my continued education in Industrial and Organizational psychology with my Human Resources experience in distribution and manufacturing, to provide workforce support
I am experienced in benefits management, problem solving, change management initiatives, associate relations, the onboarding experience, and employee feedback and engagement tools.
Based in Chicago, IMEC allows me the opportunity to assist manufacturers in their onboarding procedures, employee journey mapping consultation, formal and informal employee feedback and engagement tools, and employee training. Partnered, we will bring your workforce to the next level.
Expertise Elmhurst University Master of Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Specialized Skills Bilingual- English and Polish SPSS Qualtrics JotForms
Results I worked to implement an internal benefits administration system at a company with 4000 employees. This included deciding on the system package, reviewing employee criteria, testing the system, training the trainer, employee communication and training, and troubleshooting. The implementation of the new internal benefits system allowed the company to save an initial $1.5 million on third party benefit outsourcing and continues to provide savings.
