Kennametal CEO: Debunking Manufacturing Myths

May 7, 2014

Kennametal's Carlos Cardoso says manufacturing has a bad reputation among prospective workers.

Kennametal CEO Carlos Cardoso believes the future of manufacturing is foundational to the health of the U.S. middle class. He says the future is facing uncertainty, as few younger workers aspire to a career in the field.

Cardoso tells IW's Pete Fehrenbach that industry needs to work together to dubunk the "myth of the 4 D's - the work being Dark, Dirty, Dangerous and Dull."

He suggests manufacturers work closer with communities and schools, holding open houses and supporting training programs.

Check out IW's complete "Take 5" series, a regular section featuring interviews with top executives.

About the Author

Pete Fehrenbach | Pete Fehrenbach, Associate Editor

Focus: Workforce | Chemical & Energy Industries | IW Manufacturing Hall of Fame

Follow Pete on Twitter: @PFehrenbachIW

Associate editor Pete Fehrenbach covers strategies and best practices in manufacturing workforce, delivering information about compensation strategies, education and training, employee engagement and retention, and teamwork. He writes a blog about workforce issue called Team Play.

Pete also provides news and analysis about successful companies in the chemical and energy industries, including oil and gas, renewable and alternative.

In addition, Pete coordinates the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.