Targeting the Next Generation with Smart Machinery
The fenestration industry has been at a crossroads in recent years. As the older generation retires and fewer young people take on skilled trades, manufacturers are feeling the strain of a growing workforce shortage.
At the same time, production demands are increasing, quality expectations are higher than ever, and delivery timelines continue to tighten.
The good news?
Automation and smart machinery are now redefining what a career in fenestration looks like, improving efficiency and throughput while making the industry far more attractive to the next generation of workers.
The Workforce Challenge Facing Fenestration
Like much of manufacturing, fenestration has long relied on skilled, hands-on labor. But today’s reality includes an aging workforce, physically demanding jobs, and a lingering perception that manufacturing is outdated or low‑tech. In fact, it’s predicted that over 1.9 million jobs will go unfilled by 2033 (NAM).
These factors make it difficult to compete for the younger generation who grew up in the digital age, prioritize work-life balance, focus on sustainability, and are motivated by opportunities to learn and grow. Traditional manual processes don’t always align with those expectations.
But smart machinery changes that equation entirely.
Automation has become a key factor in combating the workforce crisis. Want to learn how? Read our article: Bridging the Gap: How Automation Is Solving the Manufacturing Workforce Crisis.
Automation is Transforming Perception and the Shop Floor
Smart machinery shifts fenestration manufacturing away from repetitive, labor-intensive tasks and toward technology-driven operations.
Automated cutting, welding, material handling, and assembly systems reduce physical strain while increasing consistency and efficiency. This transformation makes the plant environment safer, cleaner, and more appealing to a workforce that values ergonomics and well-designed workplaces.
Just as important, automation reframes manufacturing roles. Instead of purely manual labor, today’s operators are technicians, programmers, and decision-makers, which are roles that resonate with the younger generation who grew up in the digital era.
This enables employees to move into higher-value roles focused on optimization, maintenance, programming, and continuous improvement. These career paths offer growth, variety, and long-term opportunities, all key factors in attracting and retaining younger workers.
Opportunities to Utilize Advanced Technologies
Modern fenestration equipment integrates software, data, and connectivity. Touchscreen interfaces, diagnostics, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance feel intuitive to younger employees. These systems allow operators to see immediate results, analyze performance, and continuously improve processes.
Younger workers are more likely to engage in manufacturing environments that leverage advanced technology and automation rather than relying solely on manual labor. And they are equipped for it with digital processing skills, artificial intelligence training, and adaptable mindsets.
Streamlining Onboarding
One of the biggest advantages of automation is streamlining onboarding and training.
Smart equipment reduces the time it takes for new employees to become productive by embedding process knowledge directly into the machine. Guided workflows, automated adjustments, and built-in quality controls help bridge the experience gap left by retiring workers.
This not only eases the skills shortage but also appeals to younger employees who want to make an impact quickly and see measurable results from their work. Technology-enabled training builds confidence and supports long-term retention.
Energy-Efficient & Sustainable Operations
Based on a 2025 Deloitte survey, about 70% of Gen-Z applicants take into account a company’s environmental footprint. This makes energy-efficient operations a necessity for solving the workforce shortage.
Manufacturers can create more sustainable practices with smart systems that monitor energy usage and lessen their carbon footprint.
These initiatives not only appeal to environmentally conscious talent but also reduce long-term operating costs. Over time, sustainable operations strengthen employer branding while improving overall resilience and efficiency.
Looking for a way to add smart systems to your fenestration production line? Turn your gaze to the AUTOSCREEN™ Trio.
A Competitive Advantage for the Future
For fenestration manufacturers, investing in smart manufacturing not only drives efficiency but also promotes workforce growth. Companies that embrace smart machinery position themselves as innovative, forward-thinking employers. They attract talent that wants to work with advanced technology, solve meaningful problems, and build a future-proof career.
At Haffner Machinery, automation is a strategic tool to help fenestration manufacturers thrive in a changing labor landscape. By modernizing workflows, manufacturers can meet today’s workforce challenges while building an environment that inspires the next generation to join and stay.
Partner with Haffner to start integrating smart systems today.
