The Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA) and Harbour Results Inc. (HRI) have completed the fourth Automotive Tooling Barometer (The Barometer), sponsored by Die Cad Group and Expert Tech. The Barometer, which focused on the impending talent gap within the industry, indicated that the mean age across all tool shops polled is 43, and shops are looking to apprentices to assist in replacing the workforce. According to the report, 63 percent of tool shops planning to hire apprentices in the next 12 months.

“Although one of the easiest positions to fill, retaining an apprentice is a challenge facing the tool and die industry,” said Todd Finley, president of Expert Tech. “Implementing robust employee development and training programs is key to successfully building an engaged workforce.”

Another strategy shops are using to offset the talent gap and address capacity constraints is outsourcing. Nearly 40 percent of shops say they are likely to outsource simulation, design, and finish or rough machining in the next 12 months.

The report also showed a collective Tooling Sentiment Index (TSI) at an all-time high of 73, indicating a positive outlook for the automotive tooling supplier industry. This is an increase of 35 percent since the May Barometer. Optimism is likely based on the increase in progressive payment terms and the 5 percent increase in capacity utilization across the tool and die industry.

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