Human Capital

From its history, the southern Netherlands has a strong technically skilled labour force and specialised research groups and courses. But ever-increasing shortages of technically skilled personnel at all levels, from MBO to WOO, are putting strong pressure on the productivity and competitiveness of the high-tech supply network. Manufacturing companies face a replacement demand (ageing) and an expansion demand (growth). Tightness in the labour market makes it more plausible for them to automate production processes and/or move activities abroad. For years, investments have been made in human capital initiatives, but structural solutions have failed to materialise. Labour market tightness is now visible in all sectors, not just engineering. Simple solutions do not appear to be available. There is an urgent need for an integral agenda with concrete approaches and agreements for the high-tech supply network. Full commitment to digitalisation and automation is essential for greater labour productivity to produce more with fewer people.

Ambition

Sustainable growth through higher labour productivity and a sufficient number of qualified employees with lifelong development and keeping up with innovations in the high-tech supply network. Labour capacity, productivity and quality are crucial for maintaining competitive and innovative strength. But shortage of good (skilled) people at all levels across the board (all sectors) is evident. It is crucial to increase productivity with comparatively less labour (more with less). In addition, attracting and better developing talent for the high-tech supply network is an important lifeline.