The Georgia Association of Manufacturers (GAM) has launched Manufacturing Georgia, a digital marketplace designed to address Georgia’s manufacturing labor crisis, redefine the industry’s public perception, and build a stronger talent pipeline across the state.
The launch comes in response to staggering industry data:
- 56% turnover rate in 2023
- Nearly 238,000 jobs are unfilled
- A quarter of Georgia’s 424,000 manufacturing workers are eligible to retire
“For too long, Georgia manufacturers have been forced to rob Peter to pay Paul – hiring away from their peers just to fill immediate roles. It’s unsustainable” said Stephanie Scearce, Vice President of Workforce Innovation at GAM. “Manufacturing Georgia breaks that no-win cycle. It’s a dynamic, two-way marketplace where companies not only connect with talent in real time but also define the skills they need—so new talent and current employees can upskill directly to job requirements. It’s powered by social engagement, real relationships, and transparent skill paths. The result? A stronger labor pool and a modern image of manufacturing that works for everyone. Everyone wins.”
Developed by GAM alongside manufacturers, Manufacturing Georgia is an inclusive, statewide solution to the manufacturing workforce crisis. Open to all Georgia-based manufacturers, the platform lets users explore local jobs, message employers directly, and discover real career benefits—like tuition assistance, childcare, and second-chance hiring. Employers must manufacture in Georgia; job seekers can come from anywhere. So far, over 1,400 users have joined, with strong interest from prospective employees in neighboring states. Early participating manufacturers include Toyo Tires, Engineered Floors, Kia Georgia, Shaw Industries, and Grenzebach.
“We are committed to this project because it’s a unique and timely way to engage the younger generation and their parents,” said Patrick Lenz, President and COO of Toyo Tires NA Manufacturing. “We must think outside the box to engage local high schools and grow and sustain our future workforce. This is an opportunity to do just that.”
Manufacturing Georgia helps companies hire for today, but it’s really about building for the future—bringing in new talent and helping current workers grow through upskilling and reskilling. The tagline, “Make Your Way,” says it all: there’s a place in manufacturing for everyone, not just those on the shop floor. From robotics to software, these are modern, high-tech careers. The platform is here to break old stereotypes and connect people to real family sustaining opportunities in one of Georgia’s most important industries.
The Manufacturing Georgia Marketplace was built in partnership with Unmudl Skills-to-Jobs® Marketplace, whose marketplace technology and Skills-to-Jobs® expertise helped bring the vision to life.
For more information about Manufacturing Georgia, visit ManufacturingGeorgia.org.