Our roots in this industry date back to 1923, when our forefathers launched a metalworking company that did things a little differently, sparking a tradition in product and service excellence that continues to this day.
Embracing technology, serving our communities, and other progressive business principles have enabled our company to prosper over the last 103 years. However, one principle has given us the foundation for continued organic growth: hiring people today who will become industry leaders tomorrow. The result is not only a workforce invested in the future but also better-quality products for our customers right now.
Understanding What Younger Workers Expect In The Workplace
Even with the advent of robotics and automated machining systems, the sustainability of our industry depends on attracting young workers into metalworking careers. This is especially critical as many Baby Boomers and Generation X’ers are on the cusp of retirement.
Replacing retiring workers with younger engineers requires a clear understanding of what they value, which can differ significantly from the expectations of previous generations. For example, Millennials and Gen Z are more interested in being part of decision-making than in being background players, regardless of their position.
Although they’re willing to work in teams, younger team members can also thrive while working independently. Also, as they’ve grown in a society focused on workplace diversity and gender equity, they will expect their employees to demonstrate those same values.
At Arrow Off-Road, we ensure we fully understand and deliver on the needs of today’s young workers so they can be trained and mentored to take our industry further into the 21st century.
Promoting The Use Of Technology For Everyday Tasks
Many of you reading this can remember a time before the internet existed. Most young people today grew up with digital technology and know no time when information wasn’t readily available on demand. The result is that many young workers are far more likely to look online for information rather than approach a manager or an older worker.
They’re also familiar with innovations such as VR/AR (virtual/augmented reality), artificial intelligence (AI), and digital design software, and can easily adapt to technological changes. In other words, today’s young workplace is very comfortable with various technologies and expects to utilize them throughout their career.
We carry on a longstanding legacy of embracing technology to better serve our customers, including CAD software, CNC machining, robotics, AI, and other metalworking advancements. As technology evolves, our workforce will be well-positioned to stay dynamic and up to date, so our teams will not only be able to transition but also lead the way in adoption and integration.
Encouraging Collaboration In An Inclusive Workplace
Many younger workers appreciate having a voice in how to approach a customer project instead of just “taking orders”. We believe that giving everyone a stake in our operations increases the investment our team members take in our products, ensuring our customers get the highest-quality products that meet every requirement.
Interestingly, we’re also finding that collaboration can be cross-generational. For example, Millennials can help Gen X’ers understand how to use new technology to be more efficient and productive. At the same time, older team members help their younger protégés hone critical soft skills that will help them become better leaders.
This collaborative approach also helps build trust between generations, creating a more cohesive workplace that benefits our customers.
Read More: Why OEMs Are Consolidating Fabrication Suppliers, And How Arrow Off-Road Fits In
Making Our Team Members Part Of The Future In Metalworking
Previous generations typically saw workers stay with the same company for their entire careers, often in the same position. Customers would buy products made by metalworkers with 40 years of manufacturing experience of that same product, resulting in exceptional quality.
We understand that workers today need more substantial incentives to stay with one company over the long term. That’s why we make it clear to our team members that our continuing education and skills development programs will not only help them learn new metalworking disciplines but also prepare them for future leadership roles.
Why do we do all this for younger workers? Our leadership firmly believes that investing in our teams now is investing in the ongoing success of our company, industry, and customers, which benefits everyone, including consumers.
Read More: Our Careers
Forward-Thinking Strategies That Deliver High-Quality Products
At Arrow Off-Road, we’re firmly rooted in the needs of our industry today while actively shaping its future. The best way to accomplish this is to develop tomorrow’s metalworking leaders through strategies that ensure they have long, successful careers on the production floor and in leadership roles.
Investing in our people’s future is one of the many reasons world-class OEMs continue to partner with our teams to deliver high-quality parts, components, and assemblies.
When you’re ready to enjoy the cost-effective benefits of partnering with Arrow Off-Road, give us a call today. We think you’ll like what we have to offer.
Arrow Off-Road: CNC Manufacturers In Canada Delivering Quality To Global OEMs
Partner with Arrow Off-Road for precise machining, welding, and fabrication solutions customized to your requirements and application. Request a quote for your next project to experience the Arrow difference in quality, precision, and service. Get in touch with us today!