Article6 min read Feb 10, 2026Right-Sizing Your Maintenance OrganizationMaintenance professionals struggling with workforce optimization can achieve right-sizing through data-driven analysis rather than arbitrary headcount cuts. IDCON's proven methodology examines total maintenance hours, including overtime and contractor costs, to determine optimal staffing levels while implementing process improvements. The approach includes managing small maintenance jobs under two hours and $200 through streamlined supervision rather than formal planning processes. This strategic framework helps operations managers demonstrate ROI to leadership by reducing reactive maintenance cycles, improving equipment reliability, and optimizing resource allocation across maintenance teams for sustainable long-term performance.
Article5 min read Sep 15, 2025Continuous Training is the Key to Closing the Skills Gap in ManufacturingManufacturing and operations leaders facing critical skills gaps can transform workforce resilience through continuous, personalized training programs. With 85% of packaging companies struggling to find skilled workers and trade roles 11% below 2007 levels, strategic learning and development initiatives offer competitive advantages including faster technology adoption, improved safety compliance, and enhanced productivity. SouthernCarlson's digital training success, delivering 34,000+ courses across 1,500 deskless employees in the first year, demonstrates how mobile-based, role-specific learning modules can reduce turnover while building high-performing teams ready for industry evolution.
Article1 min read May 2, 2024Forest and Wood Products Workforce Study – Get InvolvedRetain a vibrant workforce
