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 keep informed of 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.
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 a college degree in industrial engineering, management, or business administration, and particularly those with an undergraduate engineering degree and a master's degree in business administration, enjoy the best job prospects. Employers also are likely to seek candidates who have excellent communication skills, and who are personable, flexible, and eager to enhance their knowledge and skills through ongoing training. Although manufacturing output is projected to rise, growing productivity among production managers and organizational restructuring will limit the demand for these workers. Productivity gains will result from the increasing use of computers for scheduling, planning, and coordination.