The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), in collaboration with PWC, released a new study that reveals the latest workforce trends and offers strategies for businesses as they seek to recruit and retain top industry talent amid unprecedented demand. The study was drawn from conversations with AIA’s members, other aerospace and defense (A&D) leaders, and in-depth research.

Key highlights from the report reveal:

• A&D companies are facing unprecedented demand for talent with critical or niche skillsets, but the industry isn’t always viewed as a “destination of choice”;

   

• the demand for cleared roles in the defense sector far exceeds the talent available to fill these roles. With over 70,000 unfilled cleared roles in the U.S., these gaps translate to significant unrealized revenue for A&D companies;

   

• an aging workforce means more retirements will happen and leave a projected multi-million worker gap in the coming years; and

   

• leadership experience, particularly people management and “in-person collaboration,” are lacking post-pandemic.

“The aerospace and defense workforce is the cornerstone of our industry’s success, but AIA’s latest study with PwC shows that our companies continue to face broad challenges attracting and retaining the talent they need,” said Eric Fanning, AIA president and CEO. “This is creating significant headwinds for an industry that’s filled with exciting opportunities. By responding with the creative solutions for which our industry is renown, we can continue to fuel the growth and innovation that will propel us toward the future.”

Access the report: “On the radar: Evolving workforce and aerospace and defense firm needs.”