D.B.A.  Baker College (Michigan), 2023.
Specialization:  Business administration

Talent shortage with tool and die makers in manufacturing
133 pages. UMI #: 30529619
Citation, Abstract & Full text in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database

There is a problem within manufacturing across the United States. That problem is a shortage of tool and die employees, which causes productivity, product quality, and customer satisfaction issues. This problem affects the automotive company in Michigan because employees leave and retire, and the company does not have new talent to replace them. The researcher chose two theories for the theoretical framework supporting the problem: Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and Herzberg’s two-factor theory. The following research questions guided this study: Why do people choose the tool and die maker profession? Why do tool and die workers stay in the profession? Why are tool and die makers leaving the profession? This study used a qualitative phenomenology research design to evaluate and understand data on the tool and die maker shortage at manufacturing in Michigan. The target population was 200 tool and die makers. The research population was a subset of 200 and consisted of 60. Random sampling was used for this study, consisting of 10 tool and die makers chosen from the research population. The instrument for the study was a set of interview questions developed by the researcher, and it will provide data for each specific research question. The researcher used the literature review, archival records, computer files, and documents to formulate the interview questions. Data collection was collected after Baker IRB approval was granted for this research. The researcher gathered information and data through interviews, approximately an hour in length. Participants’ names were drawn from the research population using the simple random sampling calculator. Finally, the researcher used the triangulation strategy to compare the results of multiple data sources to see if there was agreement. Key study results highlighted the importance of training and apprenticeship programs for retaining skilled trade employees.

• Peggy Houghton, Ph.D., Chair
• Na Li, Ph.D.
• Jacqueline Wisler, Ph.D.