A recent survey indicated only 15 percent of the population thought they knew about the field of industrial distribution. And yet, industrial distribution companies are in every community across North America. Every product or service you can think of has likely been touched by an industrial distributor.
Industrial distributors are an integral part of the manufacturing supply chain. They are an indispensable partner with manufacturers – stocking, managing, servicing and distributing the products and services manufacturers need to keep their businesses running efficiently.
Serving as the backbone of support for manufacturers everywhere, industrial distributors are looking for young, bright talent with or without a college degree. Many employers are willing to train new employees with the right skill set and they are hiring now.
Industrial distribution businesses have adapted to new technologies and constantly seek to advance the level of sophistication in logistics and supply chain –it’s a career choice that offers an interesting, flexible work environment every day. It’s also a business in need of employees for every discipline: accountants and bookkeepers, customer service representatives, inventory managers, warehouse workers, truck drivers and marketing experts.
Distributors are hiring
Industrial distributors are seeking sales and service-oriented individuals with knowledge and know-how to help manufacturers maintain and grow their operations. Some industrial distributors are industry-specific. Industrial distributors stock and sell everything from chemicals, building materials, power transmission equipment like motors, pumps, chain drives, belting for conveyors and other uses, HVAC parts, cleaning products and equipment, hoses and accessories to plumbing or electrical supplies, and more.
Industrial distributors come in every shape and size. Some of these businesses are very small independents with a few employees operating in one location. Some are large, publicly-traded global conglomerates with branch operations across the globe. Some industrial distributors are in between with a few locations in a specific region. No matter what business size a job seeker is most comfortable with, there is sure to be a fit within the field.
A great career choice
More women and minorities are finding industrial distribution a place to build a career to support a family, while getting professional development leading to unlimited growth potential. Many positions enjoy great flexibility with scheduling. Industrial distributors know a diverse workforce is needed to better serve their diverse customer base.
I have spent 30 years working in the industrial manufacturing industry – both on the manufacturing side and for industrial distribution. I have worked and lived abroad in three foreign countries, travelled the world and continue to enjoyed a career in this industry because I know it is making a difference in the lives of people everywhere.
My goal now is to pave the way for the next generation of industrial distribution employees who have a passion for providing solutions, solving problems and a keen curiosity of how most of the products we use each and every day are made. I can personally attest to job satisfaction, unlimited growth and opportunities, earnings potential and intellectual stimulation from working in industrial distribution.
I learned about industrial distribution as I transitioned from an engineering and technical role and reaped the rewards. With all the options available, industrial distribution should be a career field you’ve not only heard of, but are seeking to work in!
