Re-imagining the Industrial Workforce with MyWorkChoice President Todd Warner

Revolutionizing Manufacturing: How Flexibility is Reshaping the Workforce

Are you struggling to attract and retain talent in manufacturing? You're not alone. The industry is facing a seismic shift, and those who adapt will thrive. In this eye-opening episode of The Labour Pool, I sat down with Todd Warner, President of MyWorkChoice, to explore how flexibility is transforming the manufacturing workforce.

The Flexibility Revolution: More Than Just a Trend

When Todd Warner started noticing changes in the workforce eight years ago, he knew something big was coming. But even he couldn't have predicted the massive shift we're seeing today.

-> "We were starting to see the under $20 an hour workforce really not treating these jobs well. More like disposable," Todd explained.

This wasn't just about millennials or Gen Z – it was the beginning of a fundamental change in how people view work. The pandemic only accelerated what was already in motion.

Rethinking the 40-Hour Work Week

Here's a shocking statistic: Todd's company found that some manufacturing sites had 31% daily absenteeism. That's 900 out of 3,200 workers not showing up on any given day. The traditional model clearly isn't working anymore.

So, what's the solution? It's time to throw out the old playbook:

- Forget the rigid 40-hour work week

- Ditch the punitive point systems

- Embrace flexibility like never before

The Secret Sauce: Treating Manufacturing Jobs Like Gig Work

Todd's approach is revolutionary: treat manufacturing jobs more like gig work. Here's how it works:

1. Workers apply through an app (yes, from their couch)

2. They choose their own schedules

3. They can work anywhere from 4 to 40 hours a week

4. Same-day pay is available

The result? My Work Choice has double the industry standard of female workers in manufacturing. That's 57% compared to the typical 28-35%.

Challenges and Practical Advice

Overcoming Leadership Resistance

Many manufacturing leaders are stuck in the past, clinging to outdated models. Here's how to shift their perspective:

- Show them the data on turnover and absenteeism

- Highlight the cost of constantly hiring and training new workers

- Demonstrate how flexibility can actually improve productivity

Rethinking Recruitment

Forget the old "post and pray" method. To attract today's workforce:

- Showcase the technology and innovation in modern manufacturing

- Emphasize flexibility and work-life balance

- Use social media (yes, even TikTok) to reach potential employees

Creating a Pipeline of Workers

Instead of hiring 100 full-time employees, consider hiring 125 flexible workers. This allows you to:

- Cover absences without stress

- Reduce turnover

- Create a pool of potential long-term employees

What We Learned About the Future of Manufacturing

The next 18-24 months will be critical for the manufacturing industry. With more businesses reshoring, the demand for workers will skyrocket. Those who embrace flexibility will have a massive advantage.

-> "I think we're going to see a leverage on the employee side like we've never seen in the history of work," Todd predicted.

It's time to stop fighting the tide and start riding the wave. Flexibility isn't just a perk – it's the future of manufacturing.

Are you ready to revolutionize your workforce? Listen to the full episode for more insights and actionable strategies. And remember, the future belongs to those who adapt.

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