White Paper: Solving the Labor Shortage — Why Mexico Is the Smartest Bet for Manufacturers

North American manufacturers are facing a workforce shortage that is no longer temporary. Recent industry data shows more than 380,000 manufacturing roles remain unfilled, with projections indicating that openings could approach 2 million by 2033.

These gaps stem from long-term structural forces, including an aging workforce, declining labor participation, and shrinking technical talent pipelines. At the same time, reshoring is accelerating as companies seek greater supply chain resilience and operational control. But without enough skilled workers, expansion becomes difficult to execute.

Against this backdrop, Mexico offers the most strategically aligned solution.

Our new white paper, Solving the Labor Shortage: Why Mexico Is the Smartest Bet for Manufacturers, provides a clear, data-backed explanation of why Mexico is uniquely positioned to support long-term manufacturing growth — and what companies need to know to capitalize on the opportunity.

Inside, you’ll find practical insights, including:

Why Mexico offers a younger and more scalable manufacturing labor force

• Average age of just 29.
• 2+ million people enter the labor market annually.
• Contrasts sharply with the aging U.S. workforce and declining industrial enrollment across North America.

How labor cost advantages in Mexico are sustained by strong technical pipelines

• Typical fully loaded manufacturing labor costs: $6–$8/hour (vs. $28/hour in the U.S.).
• Mexico leads the OECD in young technical and technological graduates, producing 407,000 technical graduates each year.
• Ensures sustained access to skilled labor.

Where regional labor dynamics create risk—and where they enable long-term stability

• Border cities carry premium wages (up to 40% higher) and turnover rates that can reach 60%.
• Interior regions offer stronger retention, deeper technical pipelines, and less competition for labor.
• The white paper details which regions offer the best long-term hiring advantages.
  

What manufacturers need to know to enter and scale successfully in Mexico

• Guidance on compliance, entity formation, site selection, and workforce strategy.
• Explanation of how shelter and Manufacturing Campus models, such as those created by Tetakawi, streamline setup, reduce complexity, and support scalable growth.