A recent survey of “right fit” 16-24-year-olds found a 6.7% increase in their awareness of industrial distribution as a career field, compared to a similar survey commissioned three years ago by Industrial Careers Pathway (ICP). The November 2016 survey targeted young people who are not planning on attending a four-year college and self-identified as having a “technical aptitude,” like “working with people” and consider themselves a “problem-solver.”
After reading a short description of industrial distribution, the percentage of respondents rating the field either “very” or “somewhat” appealing rose to 69% from 61%. When asked why the field was appealing, responses ranged from “important work” to “wide range of opportunities” and “good pay.”
The survey was able to determine the majority of older respondents (19-24-year-olds) in this cohort preferred traditional/consistent work hours and hourly compensation. That’s good news for industrial distribution employers who offer these types of entry-level jobs.
The survey also confirmed the top three preferences to describe job satisfaction from this group as “makes me feel valued,” “opportunity for advancement” and “stable company.” Many companies in the field offer this type of work environment and might want to make sure potential job candidates are aware of these factors if they choose to work in industrial distribution.
Industrial Careers Pathway (ICP) is a multifaceted North American workforce initiative supported by an alliance of industry associations including American Supply Association, Heating Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International, Industrial Supply Association, National Association of Chemical Distributors, NAHAD—The Association for Hose & Accessories Distribution, NIBA—The Belting Association, North American Building Material Distribution Association (NBMDA) and PTDA Foundation.
ICP links students and job seekers to career paths in industrial distribution and manufacturing through partnerships with local educators and employers.
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