Ministry of Economy: shortage of some 11,000 skilled workers in the industry

Ministry of Economy data shows that there is a shortage of some 11,000 skilled workers in the industry. In 2020, about 32,000 workers are expected to retire, and by 2026 the industry will face a real crisis with the retirement of about 42,000 more workers and low labor productivity. In the north, the problem is felt more than in any other district, and industrialists in the region mark the shortage of skilled labor as a key barrier to their growth. The shortage is due, among other things, to a minority of schools for technical training and high turnover.
Recently, the first cycle of a unique program that leads to Tnuva for the training of dedicated machine engineers has been opened.
The program was developed in cooperation with Ort Braude College in Carmiel, with financial support from the Government Institute for Technological Training and the Mediation of Maoz Leadership Program. Employees will receive full funding for the studies, as well as full pay for the school days. Upon completion of the studies, which will last two years, they will return to new positions in the companies they left. In Tnuva, for example, these are production workers who will be converted to mechanical engineering positions.
According to Eyal Melis, CEO of the Tnuva Group: “Like the entire industry, Tnuva suffers from a shortage of technical workers. With the advent of innovative technologies into production systems, maintenance workers are required for more complex knowledge and capabilities. Tnuva has decided to break the vicious circle and train her own employees, providing them with formal education and tools for further professional and economic development. We do this, looking at the employee and the possibility of creating social mobility for him, and in the long run to strengthen industry and the northern economy in general. "
Melis adds, "Only collaboration between the business sector, government ministries, public service and philanthropic bodies can bring about a fundamental solution of social problems at the national level. Industry productivity, reducing turnover rates, reducing training times as well as ensuring higher than average wages in the peripheral areas.