The Printing & Packaging Industry Needs to Start Thinking Earlier About Talent

One thing I’ve been thinking about a lot lately as a recruiter in the printing and packaging industry is how much pressure companies are under trying to find experienced talent right now.

Almost every week, we speak with manufacturers looking for:

• press operators

• maintenance technicians

• production supervisors

• converting specialists

• skilled manufacturing employees

• 
  

And the reality is, the talent pool keeps getting tighter.

A lot of experienced operators are staying where they are. Others are getting closer to retirement. At the same time, fewer younger workers seem to be entering the industry in the first place.

I don’t think there’s one simple solution to this problem, but I do think one area the industry could invest more time into is outreach to high school students and younger generations.

The truth is, many students simply don’t know these careers exist.

When most people hear “printing,” they often picture newspapers or outdated equipment. But anyone actually working in modern printing and packaging knows how advanced these environments really are today.

Modern facilities involve:

• automation

• robotics

• digital technology

• high-end flexographic presses

• color management systems

• troubleshooting

• engineering

• process improvement

• advanced manufacturing

  
  

There are people building successful long-term careers in this industry without taking a traditional four-year college path, and many of these positions offer strong pay, stability, benefits, and advancement opportunities.

But if younger generations are never exposed to the industry, they’re never going to consider it.

I think more companies should consider:

• plant tours for local schools

• internships

• apprenticeships

• partnerships with trade programs

• job shadowing opportunities

• speaking at career days

  
  

Even small efforts can make a difference.

A lot of younger people would probably be surprised by the technology, equipment, and career opportunities inside modern printing and packaging operations.

The companies that start building those relationships now are likely going to put themselves in a much stronger position over the next 5–10 years.

At Flexo Finders, we see these hiring challenges every day while working with printing and packaging manufacturers across the U.S. and Canada. Companies are competing for a smaller pool of experienced talent, especially in areas like flexo printing, converting, maintenance, and production leadership.

Recruiting can help companies solve immediate hiring needs, but long term, the industry also needs to focus on developing the next generation of talent.

The manufacturers that invest in outreach, training, and building awareness with younger generations today are likely going to be in a much stronger position in the years ahead.

The printing and packaging industry still offers incredible long-term career opportunities...we just need to do a better job making sure people know they exist.