Manufacturing: An Exciting Career Path for 2017!

Think about your daily routine. It might include stopping at a Dunkin Donuts to get a cup of coffee, filling up at a BP convenience store, or shopping at a Target supercenter. These brands are so ingrained into our consciousness that it’s easy to forget that without their distinctive signs, we would not be able to locate our favorite businesses. Many people have experienced the relief of seeing the yellow Shell sign on the horizon when their fuel gauge read empty, or the familiar Hyatt sign after a long day of driving. Whether it’s wayfinding and directionals, pylon signs on the highways or smaller monument signs in front of stores, all of these signs are made possible by manufacturing: specifically, the visual communications industry.

Manufacturing: essential and vibrant in 2017

Manufacturing remains an essential and vibrant part of the United States economy. The most recent data is surprising; in 2015, manufacturers contributed $2.17 trillion to the U.S. GDP. This is up from 2.1 trillion in 2013. There are currently 12.3 million manufacturing workers in the U.S., accounting for 9% of the total workforce. Over the next decade, nearly 3.5 million manufacturing jobs will be needed. Of these, 2 million are expected to go unfulfilled due to a skills gap. In September 2016 alone, there were 334,000 job openings, but only 277,000 hires. Recent data continues to show positive signs. October 2016 found U.S. manufacturing output increasing for the second straight month. Far from becoming obsolete or extinct, this will be a dynamic sector of the economy well into the coming decades.

The Future Is Bright for Visual Communications

As long as there are businesses marketing their brands to consumers, visual communications will stay relevant and in-demand. The signs.org 2016 Pulse report shows significant optimism within the industry. Over 60% of companies say they feel positive about the industry’s future prospects, compared to only 48% in 2014. In terms of growth, 54% of US companies reported growth of 10% or higher in the past 6 months, compared to 40% in 2014. And most importantly, 66% of companies predict double-digit growth in 2017. Similar to the overall manufacturing sector, 54% of signage companies report that their biggest workforce issue continues to be finding, training, and retaining qualified workers. There is an extensive range of employment opportunity within the industry. The top areas of hiring projected for 2016 included: production/installation, sales, operations/management, graphic design/creative, administrative, and more.

Make an Impact at Federal Heath

For those seeking a career in visual communications who want to be on the cutting-edge of thought leadership and innovation, consider working for Federal Heath. Being a part of the premier signage solution provider is an opportunity to touch the most exciting and dynamic industries in the U.S. today:

  • Petroleum
  • Retail
  • Automotive
  • Restaurants
  • Gaming
  • Grocery
  • Healthcare
  • Hospitality
  • Financial

Working for Federal Heath means being a part of a thriving industry, and at the same time making a contribution that benefits both the economy and individuals. Contact us here to learn more about beginning a career with Federal Heath.