Feeding the Need for Talent in Aerospace and Defense

The aerospace and defense industry is charging full-speed ahead, generating over $955 billion in sales in the U.S. But sustaining this momentum will require overcoming two major hurdles: the rapid evolution of technology and persistent disruptions in the global supply chain.

What emerging technologies are reshaping the industry? What will aerospace and defense look like next year—and the year after?

And just as critically, how can we build a more resilient, future-ready global supply chain?

This blog will help shed light on these issues and their potential solutions. 

AI Today in Aerospace and Defense

AI-driven defense systems and simulations are transforming how militaries plan, train, and operate. Here are just a few examples of how AI has impacted aerospace and defense:

1. Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Systems. Drones such as Boeing’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat and underwater naval vessels such as the Sea Hunter operate autonomously in the sky and sea.
2. AI in Command and Control (C2). Applications include AI analysis of drone footage and vast datasets to pull information in a fraction of the time it would take for human analysts.
3. AI-Enhanced Simulations and Wargaming. Aids in training and logistics planning.
4. Cyber Defense and Threat Detection. Machine learning can detect and respond to cyber threats in real time, often before human analysts can react.
5. Supply Chain Optimization. AI helps forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimize logistics routes; and identifies vulnerabilities.

In the manufacturing realm, AI is enhancing efficiency, precision, and adaptability. Here are the key areas of impact:

• AI-powered robotics are widely used for precision tasks like drilling, welding, and assembling components—and collaborative robots known as cobots can be trained to work alongside humans. For more about incorporating robots on the factory floor, read our blog, Putting Industrial Robots on the Payroll. 
• Machine learning algorithms analyze sensor data from equipment to predict failures before they occur, and computer vision systems inspect parts for defects in real time, improving quality assurance and reducing waste.
• Digital twins of aircraft or manufacturing systems simulate real-world performance, enabling virtual testing and optimization.
• Generative design uses AI to create optimized component designs based on performance requirements and constraints.

Supply Chain Concerns

While most industries have had global supply chain challenges over the last few years, no other industry is as sensitive to changes in the global geopolitical landscape as Aerospace and Defense (A&D). Here are some specific challenges the industry has been experiencing.

1. Production Delays and Cost Overruns
• Aircraft and weapons systems have experienced significant delays and cost overruns due to shortages of critical components like semiconductors, titanium, and composite materials. 

2. Supplier Fragility and Dependency
• Because many A&D firms rely on single-source or geographically concentrated suppliers, disruptions in Ukraine and China have exposed vulnerabilities.
• Concern about overreliance on foreign suppliers for defense-critical technologies is spurring increased investment in domestic manufacturing and reshoring. A survey by Bain & Company found that 81% of CEOs polled say they plan to relocate global supply chains closer to home or their main markets.

3. Impact on Innovation and R&D
• Delays in component availability have slowed prototyping and testing of next-generation systems, and companies have had to reallocate resources from innovation to supply chain stabilization.

For more on the challenges facing the supply chain, read Top 6 Challenges Facing the U.S. Logistics Industry.

What's Being Done?

Companies are shifting toward diversifying suppliers and building regional supply hubs or onshoring operations in their home country, but this is a slow process and will always be a partial solution.

Supply chain visibility tools powered by AI and blockchain can provide assistance, but automation alone cannot overcome increasingly complex global procurement challenges. It will require highly skilled and creative supply chain management professionals.

The Talent Shortage

For several years running, there has been an overall talent shortage across the country. According to our research, 74% of Logistics employers report trouble finding the skilled talent they need, as do 72% of employers in the Industrials & Materials sector. 

The reasons are multiple: a growing skills gap, an aging workforce, and increased competition from the tech sector for workers. While you can’t do much about the aging workforce, it’s possible—in fact, imperative—to address the skills gap and to come up with some strategies for attracting talent from other sectors.

Upskilling and Reskilling the Existing Workforce

• Launch internal training programs and certifications in AI, machine learning, and secure systems design.
• Partner with platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udacity to offer flexible learning paths for current employees.
• Encourage cross-disciplinary learning to help traditional A&D engineers gain digital skills.

Upskill with Manpower

Active Manpower associates have access to a wide range of upskilling opportunities in high-demand tech fields that drive AI innovation. Through our online MyPath program—available at no cost—associates can prepare for industry-recognized certifications and even earn college credit. We also have condensed training programs that prepare associates for next-level jobs, maintaining their value while meeting clients’ talent needs.

Attracting Talent to Aerospace and Defense

Employer Branding

• Highlight the mission-driven nature of aerospace work—national security, space exploration, and cutting-edge tech. 
• Showcase AI and cybersecurity projects in recruitment campaigns to appeal to tech-savvy talent.
• Use social media, hackathons, and tech conferences to engage with younger, digital-native audiences.

Rethink the Work Environment

• Provide remote or hybrid work options for roles that don’t require onsite presence.
• Offer clear career paths, mentorship, and opportunities for innovation.
• Ensure competitive compensation and benefits that rival those in big tech.

The Employer Value Proposition

By combining these strategies—mission-driven branding and flexible work environments—you can shape a compelling Employer Value Proposition. Your EVP should clearly communicate what sets your organization apart and why top talent from fields like IT, AI, and cybersecurity should choose aerospace and defense.

Manpower has deep expertise in helping organizations define and promote their EVP. For more insights, explore our blog, The Employer Value Proposition: What It Can Do for You.

Thinking Ahead

In order to fuel the increasing demand for specialized talent in Aerospace and Defense, a dual focus on training and talent attraction will be needed. Despite the initial outlay for an upskilling program, renewed focus on training and career path development is an investment that will provide returns down the road. Gartner estimates the average cost of turnover per employee is $18,591. And this cost will only multiply the longer the search for expertise goes on. 

Whether you're seeking engineers, technical specialists, or professionals with cutting-edge digital skills, our recruiters are ready to connect you with the right talent. And if you're looking to refine your employer value proposition, we offer the expertise and tailored services to help you stand out in a competitive market. Find out more about what we can do for you.