The UK government and the automotive industry are investing £500m ($755m) each to double the number of jobs created or secured in the automotive supply chain by developing an Advanced Propulsion Centre.

Recently, I have been speaking about the global supply chain talent shortage in countries with over a 30-percent unemployment rate. The discussion of the lack of supply chain talent in countries where the attendees are struggling to find high-paying jobs feels awkward. For many, it almost seems surreal. They are fighting so hard for jobs for their families and friends. They are consumed by the fight. To hear someone talking about a talent gap in a field of high-paying jobs with good benefits is difficult for them to conceive. But, it is true.

The non-profit Automotive Industry Action Group is partnering with automotive manufacturing associations representing the states of Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee to assist in accelerating development of the industry's supply base in the South.