In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk speaks with Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), about the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s manufacturing workforce.
Jason shares how IALR brings industry, education, and government together to develop skilled talent and help manufacturers adopt new technologies.
The conversation explores common workforce gaps—from technical skills to communication and teamwork—the growing role of AI, and IALR’s hands-on training programs, including its accelerated 16-week defense manufacturing program.
Jason also explains how employers can partner with training providers, connect with trainees, and take an active role in building and retaining the skilled workforce they need.
Resources
Jason Wells
Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
