Content area
Full Text
Innovation and customization are characteristics common among Idaho manufacturers that are managing to add jobs or at least keep staffing levels steady despite the shaky economy, TechHelp officials report.
TechHelp has federal and state mandates. It provides technical assistance, training and advanced services to improve the competitiveness of manufacturers, food processors and inventors. The program (www.techhelp.org) operates through Idaho universities.
Executive Director Mike Wojcicki, Account Manager Fred Roe, and Manufacturing Specialists Steve Hatten and Erwin Schwiebert - all based at Boise State University - have been talking to many business operators recently.
A networking equipment maker added a swing shift recently, and some other manufacturers are yet to add workers but are starting to see a bit of additional business, Schwiebert said.
Wojcicki said he still sees some hesitancy to hire. A number of businesses first want to see demand-driven pressure build for a while, he said.
Some manufacturers held onto as many employees as they could afford as the economy sagged but cut staff hours, partly so they don't have to hire right away when business improves, Hatten said.
They would increase employees' hours...