Although certification in production management and inventory control is not required for most positions, it demonstrates an individual's knowledge of the production process and related areas. Various certifications are available through the American Production and Inventory Control Society. Industrial production managers must be able to speak and write effectively and deal tactfully with both subordinates and superiors in pressure situations. Industrial production managers with a proven record of superior performance may advance to plant manager or vice president for manufacturing. Others transfer to jobs at larger firms with more responsibilities.
Opportunities also exist as consultants.
Job Outlook Little change in employment of industrial production managers is expected through the year 2005. Although manufacturing output is expected to rise significantly, the trend towards smaller management staffs and the lack of growth in production worker employment will limit demand for production managers. Nevertheless, many additional openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. However, many of these openings may be filled through internal promotions. Opportunities should be best for those with college degrees in industrial engineering or business administration and MBA's with undergraduate engineering degrees.