The live CBJ Manufacturing Conference podcast brought together three leaders—Dawn Ealy, Steve Coleman, and Wendy Mihm-Herold—to map out strategies for addressing Iowa's looming workforce crisis. With 240,000 Baby Boomers set to retire by 2030, the conversation underscored the need for employers to proactively leverage automation, retain senior workers through flexible arrangements, and intentionally engage the next generation of Gen Z talent through workplace learning initiatives.

This episode made clear that manufacturers cannot afford to choose one approach over another. Automation alone will not close the gap, nor will simply retaining retirees or hiring more Gen Z. Instead, success depends on a comprehensive, three-pronged strategy. The panel's message was unequivocal: all manufacturers must act now to invest in technology, people, and partnerships—or risk being left behind as the talent pipeline shrinks and demand continues to grow.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/CBJ-manufacturing-conference