Headlines warn of layoffs and burnout, but Ford CEO Jim Farley highlights a different crisis: a shortage of skilled labor in essential sectors. Over 1 million jobs in emergency services, trucking, plumbing, and trades remain unfilled. Farley emphasizes the need for public-private cooperation, education reform, and respect for manual work to address this national security risk.

Farley stresses the importance of rebuilding the pipeline for blue-collar workers and eliminating barriers to skilled trades. Ford’s union agreements reflect this commitment to providing equal opportunities for workers. The urgency to address this issue is personal for Farley, who sees it as vital to Ford’s legacy and America’s future functioning.

Gen Z shows interest in skilled trades, but barriers like training costs and limited pathways hinder their entry. The problem lies in access, not interest. Farley’s warning about high-paying roles going unfilled isn’t just a corporate concern—it’s a national one. Clearing the runway for young people to pursue trade careers is crucial for bridging this gap and securing America’s workforce.

Read more at Yahoo Finance.: Ford CEO Says The U.S. Is ‘In Trouble’ With Over 1 Million Critical Jobs Empty & Even $120K Tech Roles Sitting Vacant. ‘God Forbid We Get In A War’