In episode 140, Coffey talks with Marci Sogan about the state of skilled trades and manufacturing workforce. They discuss how modern manufacturing jobs are different from those in years past; challenges in the labor market; the impact of remote work and flexibility on talent acquisition within the manufacturing workforce; education, certifications, and career paths; and (admin/clerical) support roles in manufacturing. Good Morning, HR is brought to you by Imperative—premium background checks with fast and friendly service. For more information about our commitment to quality and excellent customer service, visit us at https://imperativeinfo.com. If you are an HRCI or SHRM-certified professional, this episode of Good Morning, HR has been pre-approved for half a recertification credit. To obtain the recertification information for this episode, visit https://goodmorninghr.com. About our Guest: Marci will develop and execute HR strategies that strengthen organizational effectiveness, align with business objectives, and enhance employee performance and engagement. Marci has extensive expertise across multiple HR disciplines, including succession planning, talent management and engagement, employee benefits, employee relations, and HR program management.   She can be your secret weapon as a strategic thinker, team-player, and problem-solver, with sound judgment and strong communication skills.  Marci is passionate about building strong partnerships and initiatives that add value to an organization. Her mission is to create a positive and productive work environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth. 20+ years’ experience across a variety of industries, including Oil& Gas, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Production and Skilled Trades. Marci Sogan can be reached at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcisogan https://www.anchorfabrication.com  https://anchorpartners.com About Mike Coffey: Mike Coffey is an entrepreneur, human resources professional, licensed private investigator, and HR consultant. In 1999, he founded Imperative, a background investigations firm helping risk-averse companies make well-informed decisions about the people they involve in their business. Today, Imperative serves hundreds of businesses across the US and, through its PFC Caregiver & Household Screening brand, many more private estates, family offices, and personal service agencies. Mike has been recognized as an Entrepreneur of Excellence and has twice been named HR Professional of the Year. Additionally, Imperative has been named the Texas Association of Business’ small business of the year and is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association. Mike is a member of the Fort Worth chapter of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization and volunteers with the SHRM Texas State Council. Mike maintains his certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) through the HR Certification Institute. He is also a SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). Mike lives in Fort Worth with his very patient wife. He practices yoga and maintains a keto diet, about both of which he will gladly tell you way more than you want to know. Learning Objectives: 1. Assess modern manufacturing labor market challenges. 2. Evaluate the impact of remote work and flexibility benefits on skilled trades talent acquisition. 3. Explore education, certifications, and career path alternatives in the manufacturing sector.