Which industries will hire the most manufacturing employees in 2025?

Whether you’re looking for a new job in healthcare, accounting, retail, or manufacturing, it helps a LOT to know which industries are poised to hire the most people as the organizations that operate in those industries are the most likely to be the most motivated to hire people like you. The more motivated they are, the easier it should be for you to get hired and be well treated and compensated. But that begs the question: which industries are expected to hire the most people for manufacturing roles?

We recently reached out to 14 hiring experts, including a Plant Ambassador and CEO, to better understand which industries will likely hire the most manufacturing workers. One expert predicted the nutraceutical sector will lead in the hiring of health-conscious manufacturing employees, another the pharmaceutical industry for production hiring. If those weren’t at the top of your list, you’ll also likely be surprised from some of the other predictions.

• Nutraceutical Sector Leads Health-Conscious Manufacturing
• Renewable Energy Industry to Boost Hiring
• Electronics Industry to Drive Manufacturing Jobs
• Aerospace and Defense Sector to Increase Hiring
• Electric Vehicle Industry to Expand Workforce
• Automation and Robotics Sector to Grow Jobs
• Medical Device Industry to Hire Most Candidates
• Construction Manufacturing to Lead Job Growth
• 3D Printing Industry to See Significant Hiring
• Semiconductor Industry to Lead Manufacturing Hiring
• Textile and Apparel Sector to Drive Jobs
• Furniture Industry to Create Job Opportunities
• Pharmaceutical Industry to Ramp Up Production Hiring
• Tech and Material Handling Industries to Grow

Nutraceutical Sector Leads Health-Conscious Manufacturing

The intersection of health and wellness with manufacturing is set to transform industry trends in 2025, and I believe the nutraceutical and natural products sector—including CBD and plant-based supplements—will take the lead. We’ve noticed the incredible interest in high-quality, sustainably made health products as people increasingly prioritize natural therapies and wellness over synthetic treatments. This change represents a growth in lifestyle, rather than just a passing trend.

The worldwide dietary supplement industry is set for major growth, with customers looking for complete health solutions, and it’s expected to reach over $230 billion by 2027. With an increasing emphasis on sustainability and transparency, businesses are being encouraged to offer products that meet high standards. We take pride in overseeing all internal production to ensure our products remain pure and strong, all while adhering to ethical manufacturing standards.

Additionally, exciting new technologies such as advanced biomanufacturing and precision fermentation are set to change the way we create supplements, blending sustainability with creativity in a wonderful way. This is a fantastic opportunity for new industrial jobs, including technology operators and quality control experts!

Reflecting on our roots, my grandma taught me the value of natural medicines and inspired my passion for plant-based wellness. Today, I’m really happy that we are stepping up to meet the growing global demand for health products by blending traditional wisdom with modern manufacturing techniques. Health-conscious manufacturing is set to thrive as more businesses adopt this approach, positively influencing the market and contributing to a better, more balanced world.

Alexander Brandrup, Plant Ambassador, Founder, Neurogan

Renewable Energy Industry to Boost Hiring

In my opinion, the renewable energy industry will hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025. There are several reasons why I believe this will be the case: 

First, renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing industries globally. Wind and solar energy, in particular, are expanding rapidly as costs continue to fall and more countries and companies set ambitious renewable energy targets. Meeting these targets will require a huge buildout of wind turbines, solar panels, batteries, and other renewable energy technologies—all of which require extensive manufacturing capabilities and workers. 

Second, many renewable energy technologies like wind turbines and solar panels are still maturing. There are opportunities for manufacturing innovation and cost reductions as experience grows and new materials and designs are implemented. Companies will need skilled manufacturing workers to drive this innovation and process optimization. 

Finally, renewable energy manufacturing can provide jobs and growth for struggling industrial areas. Unlike software or finance, renewable manufacturing is place-based. There are already clusters growing in places like the Upper Midwest for wind power and the Southwest for solar. Policymakers are providing incentives to grow these clusters, which will boost hiring. For example, I recently visited a solar module manufacturing facility in Arizona. They described plans to double their workforce in 2022 alone to meet surging demand. 

Renewable energy manufacturing is set to take off, and the companies, regions, and workers that position themselves will reap the benefits. That’s why I believe it will be the top hiring industry for manufacturing workers within the next few years.

Philip Stoelman, Founder & CEO, Network Republic

Electronics Industry to Drive Manufacturing Jobs

Given the current progression and my experience in the electronics industry, I firmly believe it will hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025. This industry is experiencing a surge due to an ever-increasing demand for electronics in various fields like automotive, medical, consumer goods, and telecommunications.

Take the example of ICRFQ, the company I founded. Over just the past year, we exponentially expanded our team to address the market’s growing need for hard-to-find, obsolete, and long lead-time electronic components. Meanwhile, evolving technology trends such as 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence are constantly pushing the envelope, requiring sophisticated electronic components and chips.

At the same time, geopolitical actions, such as the US-China tech war and COVID-19 disruptions, further underscore the need for reliable and continuous supply chains, opening doors to a spike in hiring in the electronic components manufacturing field.

Robin Luo, CEO, Rantle East Electronic

Aerospace and Defense Sector to Increase Hiring

As a professional in the CNC machining industry, I believe the aerospace and defense sector is likely to hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025. Here’s why:

1. Increased Defense Spending

Global geopolitical tensions are driving higher defense budgets in many countries. This trend is expected to continue, leading to increased demand for advanced manufacturing capabilities. Defense contractors will need skilled workers to produce sophisticated equipment, from aircraft components to missile systems.

2. Commercial Aerospace Recovery

The commercial aerospace sector is projected to fully recover from the pandemic-induced slowdown by 2025. As air travel returns to pre-pandemic levels and airlines renew their fleets, demand for new aircraft will surge. This recovery will drive a need for precision-machined parts across the supply chain.

3. Space Exploration Boom

We’re witnessing unprecedented growth in both private and public space initiatives. This boom requires high-precision components for satellites, spacecraft, and launch vehicles, all demanding advanced manufacturing techniques and skilled workers.

4. Technological Advancements

The aerospace industry consistently pushes the boundaries of materials science and manufacturing processes. As new alloys, composites, and methods like additive manufacturing become more prevalent, there’s a growing need for a workforce skilled in these cutting-edge technologies.

5. Supply Chain Reshoring

Recent events have highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains. Many countries are now focusing on bringing critical manufacturing capabilities back onshore, particularly in strategic sectors like aerospace and defense. This reshoring trend will create new manufacturing jobs in domestic markets.

6. Aging Workforce

The current manufacturing workforce in aerospace is aging rapidly, with a significant portion approaching retirement age. This demographic shift is creating a pressing need for new talent to fill these positions and transfer knowledge.

These factors combine to create a strong demand for skilled manufacturing professionals in the aerospace and defense sector. Companies will likely compete to attract and retain talent with expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques, including CNC machining, additive manufacturing, and precision engineering.

Gavin Yi, Spokesperson and Product Manager, YIJIN Hardware

Electric Vehicle Industry to Expand Workforce

In my opinion, the industry that will likely hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025 is the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The shift towards sustainable transportation and the increasing demand for EVs globally will drive significant growth in this sector. As countries and companies commit to reducing carbon emissions, there will be a surge in the production of electric vehicles, leading to a higher demand for manufacturing professionals with expertise in areas such as battery technology, electric drivetrains, and lightweight materials.

For example, companies like Tesla, Rivian, and traditional automakers like Ford and GM are heavily investing in expanding their electric vehicle production capacity. This expansion will require a skilled workforce to design, engineer, and manufacture electric vehicles at scale. As a result, the EV industry is poised to be a major employer of manufacturing candidates in 2025 and beyond.

Rengie Wisper, CMO, G-BRIS

Automation and Robotics Sector to Grow Jobs

In 2025, I believe the automation and robotics sector will be one of the largest employers in manufacturing. As industries increasingly adopt advanced automation to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs, the demand for skilled workers in robotics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence is expected to skyrocket. We’ve already seen a rising need for engineers and technicians who can design, implement, and maintain these systems.

What’s driving this trend is the growing emphasis on smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Companies are investing in technology that requires not only software skills but a deep understanding of machinery. My advice for those entering the manufacturing field: gaining expertise in automation and robotics will make you a highly sought-after candidate in the coming years.

Rene Ymzon, Marketing Manager, Advanced Motion Controls

Medical Device Industry to Hire Most Candidates

I believe the medical device industry will hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025. The aging population and rise of chronic diseases are driving demand for innovative medical devices and technologies. Companies are investing heavily in R&D and expanding manufacturing capabilities to bring new products to market. Key factors that will drive medical device manufacturing job growth include:

• Regulatory changes – The FDA has implemented new programs like the Breakthrough Device Program to accelerate the development and review of innovative devices. This is incentivizing companies to expand manufacturing to commercialize new products faster.

• Aging demographics – The 65+ population is projected to double by 2060. Their healthcare needs will require more devices like joint replacements, pacemakers, and glucose monitors. Manufacturing staff will be needed to produce these devices.

• Growth markets – Emerging markets are increasing access to healthcare and medical devices. As disposable incomes rise in developing countries, it will drive demand for scaled manufacturing.

Overall, the medical device industry is rapidly innovating and has strong tailwinds for growth. I believe it will generate the most new manufacturing jobs compared to other industries through 2025. The intersection of an aging population, regulatory changes, and global demand creates a robust hiring environment for talented manufacturing professionals.

Dan Christensen, Owner, CEO and Founder, DJC Law

Construction Manufacturing to Lead Job Growth

Based on my real estate development experience, I’m seeing a massive surge in demand for prefabricated and modular construction components, which is transforming how we build. The manufacturing sector supporting construction will likely be the biggest hirer in 2025, as I’m already experiencing long wait times and rising costs due to the shortage of workers who can manufacture these specialized building elements.

Judy Michaelis, Real Estate Broker, Judy Michaelis

3D Printing Industry to See Significant Hiring

In 2025, I believe the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry will see significant growth in hiring, driven by its expanding applications in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. As companies increasingly look to optimize production processes and reduce material waste, the demand for skilled workers in 3D printing will rise.

We’ve already observed a shift towards hiring professionals with expertise in additive manufacturing technologies, especially as industries embrace the potential for rapid prototyping and customized production. The trend toward sustainability and efficiency will continue to drive this demand, making 3D printing a key area for future talent growth.

Olivia Tian, Marketing and Innovation Manager, Raise 3D

Semiconductor Industry to Lead Manufacturing Hiring

The semiconductor industry is poised to lead manufacturing hiring in 2025 due to its critical role in powering modern technology. With the demand for electronics continuing to soar, from smartphones to electric vehicles, countries are focusing on localizing chip production to ensure supply chain resiliency. Government initiatives and investments in semiconductor manufacturing are further accelerating this hiring trend. The industry’s need for skilled technicians, engineers, and operators will grow as companies expand production capabilities and embrace advanced manufacturing technologies. This focus on semiconductors reflects the world’s increasing reliance on tech-driven solutions across every sector.

Max Tang, CMO, GEEKOM

Textile and Apparel Sector to Drive Jobs

The industry I believe will hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025 is the textile and apparel sector. The growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical production is driving companies to overhaul their manufacturing practices. Brands are investing in advanced technologies like fabric recycling and water-saving techniques to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly clothing. At the same time, the move to localize production to reduce supply chain vulnerabilities is creating new opportunities for skilled workers. This combination of innovation and local manufacturing efforts makes the textile and apparel industry a key player in the hiring landscape for the coming years.

Shaun Bettman, Chief Executive Officer, Eden Emerald Mortgages

Furniture Industry to Create Job Opportunities

The industry that I believe will hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025 is the furniture industry. With the global market expected to grow to over $700 billion in the coming years, the demand for furniture is skyrocketing. Consumers are looking for more options, from sustainable materials to customizable designs, and this puts pressure on manufacturers to scale up production. The rise of smart furniture and innovative designs, combined with advancements in materials, is driving a need for skilled workers in both traditional craftsmanship and high-tech manufacturing. Companies will need people to operate advanced machinery, manage supply chains, and ensure quality standards are met, creating a wealth of job opportunities in this space.

Tracie Crites, Chief Marketing Officer, HEAVY Equipment Appraisal

Pharmaceutical Industry to Ramp Up Production Hiring

The industry that I believe will hire the most manufacturing candidates in 2025 is the pharmaceutical industry. With global health challenges continuing to evolve, there’s going to be a huge demand for both vaccines and treatments, which means pharmaceutical companies will need to ramp up production. As regulatory requirements become stricter and innovation in drug development pushes forward, these companies will need highly skilled manufacturing professionals to manage everything from drug production lines to complex quality control processes.

Mushfiq Sarker, Chief Executive Officer, LaGrande Marketing

Tech and Material Handling Industries to Grow

The growth trajectory of manufacturing in any and all industries will depend on those companies that value the investment of technology, automation, sustainability, eco-friendly options, material handling innovations, and smart manufacturing solutions. Recognizing the significance in how investing in these will enhance your operations is the biggest factor. For example, the tech industry and material handling industries may experience growth as there is more focus on solutions-based business models as we head into 2025 and beyond.

Georgina Fenning, Global Supply Chain Advisor