Launched in 2022, the Diversity in Manufacturing Initiative (DiMi) was created in response to a need within Minnesota’s manufacturing sector: the quest for a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The demographic landscape of Minnesota’s workforce is shifting, becoming increasingly racially and ethnically diverse. At the same time, Minnesota expects more than 93,000 job openings for manufacturing production positions through 2032. DiMi aims to bridge the gap between manufacturing companies and underrepresented communities to help employers meet their hiring needs and connect more Minnesotans with good-paying manufacturing jobs.
DiMi operates as a coalition, comprised of employers, industry associations, stakeholders and staff from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). This partnership increases the initiative's influence and ability to promote the need for change throughout various manufacturing sectors. A primary goal of DiMi is to foster strong relationships with marginalized communities and help change the perception of the manufacturing industry to be more welcoming.
DiMi has established avenues for participation among manufacturing companies through its committees. These committees not only help facilitate collaboration but also allow members to share best practices and develop strategies that support diversity initiatives. Members can choose from one of four committees:
1. Community Engagement
2. Education & Training
3. Recruiting & Onboarding
4. Retention & Career Advancement
One of DiMi’s goals is to gather data and identify successful practices through research. These insights will be made available on its resources webpage on CareerForceMN.com and serve as a resource for manufacturers seeking to enhance their diversity and inclusion efforts. Although initially concentrated in the metro area, DiMi has expanded its outreach to include members in Greater Minnesota, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity across the entire state.
In pursuit of its goals, DiMi collaborates with national organizations, such as the Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Association. These partnerships broaden the initiative’s reach and impact, and the creation of a dedicated WiM webpage connected to DiMi signifies a major stride towards promoting its objectives beyond Minnesota.
The Diversity in Manufacturing Initiative is one of many avenues for exploring strategies to foster an inclusive manufacturing sector. Through collaboration, resource sharing and active engagement with underrepresented populations, DiMi is setting a precedent for a more inclusive and sustainable future for Minnesota’s manufacturers.
Growing DiMi
DiMi is growing and looking for industry employers and partners to join the initiative. For additional information about the Diversity in Manufacturing Initiative, or to express interested in becoming a partner or member, please reach out to DEED’s Metro Area Workforce Strategy Consultant, Adesewa.Adesiji@state.mn.us.
