Ford and GM Invest in Training Programs as Manufacturers Report Worker Recruitment Challenges

" The comments came in a new episode of his podcast "Drive" scheduled for release on Friday. Ford shared a transcript of the episode ahead of its release with Business Insider. Farley has publicly raised concerns about a shortage of skilled workers for the past year.

Nearly half of US manufacturers say attracting and retaining workers is a top challenge, according to the National Association of Manufacturers' latest quarterly survey. 1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030. " Ford told Business Insider in January about plans to attract new workers including offering incentives like free Carhartt gear and to invest in a Detroit-based ToolBank USA location.

In September, the company organized a workforce development summit that convened industry leaders and policymakers. " The Detroit automaker is not alone in trying to close the gap. General Motors has invested nearly $200 million over the past year to expand training programs and apprenticeships.

Jim Farley is the CEO of Ford. The automaker's actions over the past year reflect a sustained push to rebuild what Farley calls the essential economy. Industry surveys and long-term projections indicate the shortages extend well beyond any single company.