Why Prioritizing Blue-Collar Training Programs Works In Your Favour

Blue-collar workers popularly refer to those who engage in hard physical labor, using their hands to perform their duties. They are usually employed in the construction, manufacturing, or agriculture industries. Although there are no specific qualifications for blue-collar workers, they are classified as either skilled or unskilled, with the former referring to those who have obtained a degree, certification, or license to work in a specific field.

The term “blue-collar worker” was coined in the early twentieth century, alongside the term “white-collar worker.” They were so named because they had to wear darker clothes to avoid getting dirty from the increased wear and tear of manual labor.

Regardless of how many years have passed since the two classifications were created, there has always been a clear distinction between them. Nonetheless, blue-collar workers have been regarded as the backbone of any company, working on the ground and ensuring everything is done efficiently behind the scenes.

In order to reinforce their skills and enable them to continue working effectively, HR managers should constantly provide training programs for blue-collar workers.

Why Prioritize Blue-Collar Training Programs?

• Technological advancements

Machines are becoming smarter by the day, thanks to advances in technology and artificial intelligence. Despite the benefits of technology, there will always be gaps where human intelligence is required. In order to utilize both artificial and human intelligence for maximum productivity, blue-collar workers must constantly be trained.

• Creating valuable employees

According to studies, 70% of employees do not believe they have the mastery required for their jobs. This is especially true for workers of younger generations who have less experience in the careers they are currently pursuing. Workers in blue-collar jobs, in particular, must be knowledgeable about the work they do because, as previously stated, they are the backbone of every company. To increase productivity, they must adapt to and be aware of industry changes and trends through continuous training.

• Retention of employees

When jobs become too difficult to perform due to changes in trends and technological advancements, it is necessary to train workers in order for them to have an updated stance, upgraded skills, and a renewed vigor in performing their jobs.

Advantages of Training Blue-Collar Workers

Prioritizing the training of blue-collar workers would benefit businesses in the long run — far longer than they can imagine. Here are the reasons as to why prioritizing trainings for blue-collar workers will work in an employer’s favor:

• Reliable manpower supply

Constantly training blue-collar workers ensures that companies have a constant and reliable manpower supply capable of doing the job correctly.

• Profitability

Being the backbone of every company, these workers have always been committed to doing their jobs right which results in a positive overall company performance and profitability. 

• Succession

Blue-collar workers on the ground tend to share relevant skills with one another. When they are constantly trained and have their skills enhanced in accordance with new industrial trends, they tend to pass on their knowledge of the work to new generations of blue-collar workers in the company, who will then take their place.