Expanding Minnesota’s
Talent Pipeline

What We Found

M-SPIRE's research suggests that meeting Minnesota's future manufacturing workforce needs will require more than producing additional graduates. It will also require expanding the number of people who see themselves pursuing careers in advanced manufacturing.

The research identified opportunities to strengthen participation across several demographic groups while increasing awareness of the wide variety of careers available within Medical Technology, Semiconductor & Microelectronics Manufacturing, Sustainable Plastics Manufacturing, and Clean Technology. At the same time, previous insights highlighted that many of these careers are accessible through multiple educational pathways—not just four-year engineering degrees.

Together, these findings point to an opportunity to broaden the industry's future workforce by reaching people who may not traditionally consider advanced manufacturing careers.

Why It Matters

Minnesota's workforce challenges cannot be solved simply by competing for the same limited pool of workers. Long-term success will depend on expanding the pipeline itself.

That means helping students, parents, educators, career counselors, veterans, career changers, and underrepresented populations better understand the breadth of opportunities available across advanced manufacturing. It also means ensuring those opportunities are accessible through a variety of educational and career pathways.

By broadening participation, Minnesota can strengthen both its workforce and its long-term economic competitiveness.

Questions Leaders Should Consider

  • Which populations remain underrepresented in Minnesota's advanced manufacturing workforce?

  • Are students and career seekers aware of the wide range of manufacturing careers available beyond traditional perceptions of the industry?

  • How can employers, educators, and workforce organizations work together to broaden awareness and access?

  • What partnerships could help connect more Minnesotans with rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing?