If there's one concern we hear about often, it is the skills shortage in materials handling. Manufacturers in many countries complain about the difficulty in attracting and retaining talent.
So it's refreshing to read this week's announcements from STILL in Germany and KION in North America.
STILL recently welcomed more than 50 new trainees as part of its in-house training program which will lead to qualifications this year for 205 trainees in a variety of skilled technical and commercial professions.
Meanwhile, KION participated in a regional apprenticeship drive and shared the achievements of three recent school-leavers who have completed their first month as apprentices at its Summerville plant.
These companies are not waiting for skills to fall into their laps - they are actively recruiting and training, and ensuring their own futures.