Original source: Teknovation
Participants explored the skills needed to pursue careers in metalwork that support the U.S. manufacturing of critical materials.
Experts in casting and forging are necessary for the well-being, efficiency, and reliability of the United States Defense. While it may not be the industry most people immediately think of, these workers are the ones behind 92 percent of specialized end items used in defense platforms—including ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground combat vehicles. As an example, The U.S. Navy has already documented challenges in its casting and forging capacity, which have impacted shipbuilding.
Furthermore, our country is projected to face a shortfall of 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, with a deficit of 383,000 skilled workers needed to support industries like casting and forging.
Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships and Learning (METAL) is tackling the problem locally through a boot camp at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). METAL is led by IACMI – the Composites Institute, which is headquartered in Knoxville.