Economic commentators often look at consumer spending as a barometer for confidence and outlook - how good or bad financially do individuals and families think the broader economy is, and how profitable it will be for them?

The same can perhaps be said for companies and hiring managers. How confident are they that they will be able to keep people employed in uncertain times, and what skills are they most eager to invest their scarce dollars in?

In this week’s Art of Supply interview, Kelly Barner speaks with Christine Corson, Managing Director of Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Engineering Recruitment at DSJ Global. She is focused on manufacturing labor at the management level in a way that allows her to form her own opinion of industry outlook, confidence, and planning horizon.

In this episode of the Art of Supply podcast, Kelly and Christine discuss:

• The current supply of - and demand for - manufacturing labor
• Whether hiring is being impacted by the uncertainty around tariffs
• Her advice for the candidates hoping to secure mid- to high-level positions in manufacturing companies

Links:

• Christine Corson on LinkedIn
• USA Supply Chain Talent Report 2025: Hiring, Careers & Compensation
• Kelly Barner on LinkedIn
• Art of Supply LinkedIn newsletter 
• Art of Supply on AOP
• Subscribe to This Week in Procurement