Funded by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), Workcred conducted a research study in 2018 to examine how credentials are currently used by U.S. manufacturers in their hiring and retention practices, and how credentialing can be improved to advance the manufacturing industry.
Workcred developed this report to help U.S. manufacturing keep pace with changing skill needs. The report reveals key findings and details recommendations for manufacturers, credentialing organizations, educators, accreditors, and policymakers.
Thanks to another grant from NIST MEP, Workcred is conducting a follow-up research project focusing on the return on investment of manufacturing credentials. Expected to be published in 2022, this study will give manufacturers a better understanding of how credentials can serve as an important resource in identifying skilled workers and has the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of hiring in the manufacturing sector. In addition, Workcred is looking at the need for new credentials to keep pace with changing skills needs in U.S. manufacturing.
