Skilled labor, machinists, welders: an endangered species?

Is manufacturing in trouble? All signs say so, and here's a good take from San Antonio on it...

Manufacturers are worried.

The skilled laborers that were the backbone of American manufacturing are retiring, and there is no one there to take their place. The tool and die makers, lathe operators, metal fabricators are becoming endangered species — and replacing them could cost the manufacturing industry millions.

"We don't have a problem attracting the entry-level worker bees, the $10-an-hour-type guys," said George Schroeder, co-founder of beverage dispenser maker Lancer Corp. "But if you're spending $200,000 on a machine that machines parts, you've got to be a computer whiz to run it. They're hard to find and they come with a helluva price. You can't touch them for less than $40,000 a year."

A recent survey by Peoria Ill.-based Advanced Technology Services found that the lack of skilled labor would cost manufacturers an average of $50 million from their bottom lines. Forecasters also predict that 40 percent of the skilled manufacturing labor force will retire in the next five years.

What about for welders?

Schroeder admitted recruiting skilled labor from other companies to fill open positions. "Welders are not bad," he said. "It's pretty good for welders. Tool and die makers? Forget it. You can't find one in San Antonio. Mold makers? They're rare."