These workers already have an intimate knowledge of the production process and the firm's organization. To be selected for promotion, they must have demonstrated leadership qualities and usually have taken company-sponsored courses in management skills and communication techniques. In addition to formal training, industrial production managers must closely follow new production technologies and management practices. 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 Employment of industrial production managers is expected to decline slightly through the year 2006. However, a number of job openings will stem from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. Applicants with college degrees in industrial engineering or business administration, and particularly those with MBA's and undergraduate engineering degrees, will be in the best position to fill these openings. Employers also are likely to seek candidates who have excellent communication skills, and who are personable, flexible, and eager to participate in ongoing training. Although manufacturing output is projected to rise, growing productivity among production managers and organizational restructuring will limit the demand for these workers.