Industry must improve without skilled workers

With China's rapid economic growth, the pace at which technological products become obsolete is accelerating. As a result, having a team of skilled workers has become essential for companies to maintain their competitive edge. Therefore, our company must rethink its approach, prioritize vocational education, and address the long-term shortage of skilled labor. Germany is widely recognized for its high-quality products, largely due to its highly skilled workforce. The country fosters a social environment that values technical expertise and respects craftsmen. Many prominent politicians and business leaders in Germany started as tradespeople, and the average income of German technicians often exceeds the national average. This cultural respect for skilled labor is one of the reasons “Made in Germany” enjoys global recognition. In contrast, in China, there is a strong societal preference for academic degrees over vocational training, leading to an imbalanced educational system. Over the past three decades, China’s textile industry has seen steady economic growth. However, this growth does not always translate into higher employment rates, a challenge faced nationwide. Today, many companies in coastal regions are adopting advanced technologies and equipment, raising the skill requirements for their workers. These businesses have moved beyond traditional manual workshops into a phase of rapid development and expansion. Yet, despite these advancements, many business owners still struggle with a shortage of skilled labor. Meanwhile, numerous vocational training centers have closed down. For example, technical schools once run by factories like Hunan Shaoyang Erfangji and Changde Textile Machinery have been shut down, reflecting a broader decline in investment in skilled labor. Since the new century, Chinese textile enterprises have shifted toward high-tech, automated, and intelligent production methods, demanding higher skills from their workers. A case in point is a sweater company in Beijing, where pattern-makers are not only proficient in computer-aided design but also knowledgeable about knitting techniques and yarn quality. According to the company’s general manager, key positions are filled by experienced skilled workers who have both education and hands-on experience. Their salaries are significantly higher than those of white-collar employees, yet their social status remains low. In Heilongjiang Province’s Langxi County, a major flax production area, skilled workers are in high demand. These workers can boost productivity and research and development capabilities. However, most local companies avoid investing in worker training, leading to passive and indirect R&D efforts. Such lack of investment will eventually put them at a disadvantage in the market. To maintain a competitive advantage, companies can look to Jiangsu Nantong Lianfa. This well-known yarn-dyeing company runs a technical school that combines theory with practical training. Experienced instructors and on-site technicians teach students real-world skills. The knowledge provided is highly specific and directly applicable. Key roles within the company are held by trained workers, ensuring that the company’s standards and procedures are consistently followed from top to bottom. Investing more in vocational education improves the quality of the workforce, which in turn boosts labor productivity. Higher productivity allows companies to produce more and better goods in less time, increasing profits. These profits then encourage further investment, helping companies grow and remain competitive. For instance, Qingdao Textile Machinery regularly invests in technical training institutions, exposing students to cutting-edge technologies and broadening their understanding of the industry. The success of the textile economy relies on high-quality labor to generate greater profits. Companies must recognize this. Only a highly skilled workforce can drive sustainable development in the textile sector. We hope that in the near future, the world will take pride in “Made in China.”