Manufacturers Invest Heavily in Workforce Development

Caterpillar and Fanuc are among companies investing in workforce development programs to strengthen the talent pipeline for advanced manufacturing careers. Temple University's College of Engineering, with Demco Automation, received a grant to explore the role of artificial intelligence in custom automation applications.

Caterpillar will invest up to $10 million over five years as part of its Building the Future Workforce Initiative, focusing on Illinois. The company aims to ensure people have a clear path to manufacturing careers and equip the next generation with necessary skills.

Fanuc America expanded its workforce development efforts at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference through robotics competitions and educational programs. The company donated a robot and provided access to its Certified Education Training program, including curriculum and simulation software.