On March 12, 2025, I had the privilege of representing the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) at the first Skilled Trades Coalition Hill Day on Capitol Hill. As Workforce Development Director, I joined advocates from across the nation to spotlight a critical issue: the urgent need to support skilled trades, address the skilled worker shortage and secure ongoing funding for talent development. This wasn’t just a policy discussion—it was a chance to champion the future of metalforming and the members I serve every day.
The Skilled Trades Coalition brought us together to meet with eight different staff members from the U.S. House and Senate to make our case. I spoke about how skilled trades—like the toolmakers, machinists and press operators our industry relies on—are vital to America’s manufacturing backbone. Yet, we’re facing a crisis: too few workers to replace retirees, and not enough young people entering the field. I urged those I spoke with to keep investing in workforce development—apprenticeships, training programs and career awareness initiatives—because these are the lifelines that can rebuild our talent pipeline.
For PMA’s metalforming members, this advocacy is a game-changer. By elevating the profile of skilled trades on Capitol Hill, we’re boosting industry awareness and showing the next generation that metalforming offers rewarding, high-tech careers—not just jobs, but legacies. Our members need skilled workers to keep production lines humming, innovate with advanced technologies and stay competitive. Funding talent development isn’t just a policy win; it’s a practical solution to attract new talent to our shops and showcase the value of what we do.
Trekking over miles from one side of the Hill to the other, and through the historic building corridors, I felt the weight of our mission. This day was about more than numbers—it was about ensuring our industry thrives for decades to come. I left Capitol Hill inspired, knowing that our collective voice could spark real change for metalforming and beyond.
Connie King is PMA’s workforce development manager. She has been with PMA since 2022. You can contact Connie at [email protected] and can learn more about PMA’s advocacy efforts and its workforce development programs and resources.