Our manufacturing and skilled trade team members are at the heart of everything we do. For years, we’ve believed focusing on and developing this talent directly impacts our ability to deliver the products that build a better, more sustainable world.
It’s tempting to think of engineers as the sole architects of innovation, but the reality is far more collaborative. It’s also the individuals piecing together the machinery, the unsung heroes of our industry, who transform abstract concepts into tangible products.
Roshny Archer, Vice President of Global Talent Management at Caterpillar sees the need for skilled tradespeople growing year after year, driven by technological advancements, demographic shifts in the workplace, and ever-evolving market demands.
“I believe the role of skilled trades has never been more vital. In 2024 alone, we filled more than 10,000 skilled trades roles within our facilities around the world,” said Roshny. “With significant labor shortages, particularly for specialized skills, there is an unprecedented opportunity for those considering a career in the trades or looking to switch careers.”
Without our welders, machinists and other production employees, our digital dreams would remain just that – dreams.
“Take, for instance, our Cat® R2900 XE, our first diesel-electric underground loader. This machine is a testament to the power of teamwork. Engineers designed it to be cleaner, faster, and more powerful, but it was the skilled tradespeople who brought it to life,” said Roshny.
While software, autonomy, and electrification engineers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, our production workers and mechanical engineers ensure that these advancements are made a reality.
“It is essential to remember that our digital systems and advancements are only as good as the people who maintain and operate them,” said Roshny. “They are valuable tools, but it’s the skilled tradespeople who bring these tools to life, ensuring our machines are meeting the demands of tomorrow.”
We believe in a culture that thrives on collaboration, where the perspectives of every team member come together to build something greater than the sum of its parts. As the demand for highly skilled workers continues, we are committed to investing in and supporting this workforce by partnering with educational institutions, vocational training programs and apprenticeships initiatives to attract the next generation of world builders.
Let’s continue to celebrate and support the incredible work of our skilled tradespeople. Together, we are building a better, more sustainable world.
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