The surface finishing industry is aging. This statement has been echoed across industry publications and conferences for years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of workers aged 65 and older across all industries has grown by over 117% in the past two decades. While this longevity brings experience and wisdom, it also signals an impending wave of retirements that could leave organizations struggling to fill knowledge gaps.
At MacDermid Enthone, we see this challenge as an opportunity—to drive innovation, strengthen our workforce, and cement our position as leaders in our industry. By focusing on knowledge sharing, strengthening our technical teams, and investing in the next generation of talent, we are ensuring a bright future for surface finishing.
Preserving and Sharing Industry Expertise
One of the greatest assets in any organization is the knowledge and experience of its tenured employees. As a global leader in surface finishing solutions, MacDermid Enthone is home to some of the most skilled technical experts in the field—many of whom have spent their entire careers mastering their craft and solving complex challenges for customers.
To ensure this expertise is not lost, we are committed to capturing and sharing this knowledge through structured job shadowing programs, hands-on training, mentorship, and digital knowledge-sharing platforms. By fostering collaboration across teams and regions, we empower new generations of surface finishing professionals to build on the successes of those before them.
Strengthening Our Technical Teams
To remain at the forefront of surface finishing innovation, companies must continuously strengthen their technical teams. At MacDermid Enthone, we are dedicated to hiring and developing the best talent in the industry. Our global team is composed of leading experts in surface finishing as well as specialists from key markets such as automotive, aerospace, oil & gas, and sanitary applications.
Beyond hiring the best, we invest heavily in the growth and development of our workforce. Through ongoing professional training, cross-functional collaboration, and the adoption of cutting-edge technology, we ensure our customers receive unparalleled support and innovative solutions. By fostering a culture of knowledge exchange and teamwork, we empower our technical teams to push boundaries and shape the future of surface finishing.
Investing in the Future of Surface Finishing
Innovation is the cornerstone of leadership, and to lead, we must invest in the future. This is why our commitment to talent development extends beyond hiring experienced professionals—we are actively shaping the next generation of surface finishing experts.
Through partnerships with universities, STEM initiatives, and industry associations, we are cultivating interest in surface finishing among young professionals. Our investment in education includes funding for industry-specific programs, mentorship for students, and initiatives that encourage young women to pursue careers in STEM.
Internally, we provide extensive training and career development opportunities to ensure that young talent within our organization has the tools and support needed to grow into leadership roles. By fostering an environment of learning and innovation, we are securing the long-term success of both our company and the industry as a whole.
Conclusion
The challenges facing the surface finishing industry today demand bold action and a forward-thinking approach. At MacDermid Enthone, we are rising to the occasion—strengthening our teams, preserving invaluable expertise, and investing in future generations. By embracing these principles, we are not only securing our leadership position but also ensuring a sustainable and innovative future for the entire industry.
The surface finishing industry may be evolving, but with a commitment to talent, knowledge sharing, and innovation, MacDermid Enthone is leading the way. If you’re looking to be part of this transformation, connect with us today and learn how we can drive success together.
