Mike Rowe warns of a ‘will gap’ as millions of men abandon workforce — here’s why

The workforce landscape is evolving, and concerns about job-ready skills are being overshadowed by a new crisis: a diminishing desire to work. Mike Rowe, CEO of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, has pointed out that while the skills gap is real, there is also a significant will gap. In a recent interview with Fox Business, Rowe highlighted the fact that 6.8 million able-bodied men are not only unemployed but are not even seeking employment, a phenomenon unprecedented in peacetime.

Rowe believes that America’s famous work ethic is gradually eroding, citing data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics that shows a decline in men’s participation in the workforce. While women’s participation has remained relatively stable since the early 1990s, men’s participation has steadily decreased over the years. This trend is particularly noticeable in men in their prime working years, with many citing mental or physical health issues as barriers to employment.

However, Rowe also acknowledges that a lack of training, education, obsolete skills, and a lackluster work history are significant obstacles for many men re-entering the workforce. To address this, Rowe’s foundation has provided $8.5 million in scholarships since 2008 to support men and women enrolled in skilled trades programs across the country.

Expanding opportunities for skills training and access to financial aid, such as Pell Grants, could help bring more men back into the labor force. Additionally, workplace support programs that address health insurance, paid sick leave, disability accommodations, flexible schedules, and mental health benefits are crucial for men struggling with health challenges.

While these solutions may be complex and costly, improving male workforce participation could lead to significant economic benefits, including lower inflation and higher growth. As the workforce landscape continues to evolve, addressing the will gap and providing necessary support and training opportunities are essential for ensuring a thriving and productive workforce in the future.