Ninety-seven percent of millennials think they'll be the generation to finally achieve equal opportunities for women in the workplace. However, they are pragmatic about when it will happen, estimating it will take another 21 years. The most optimistic were established male leaders, who estimate the playing field will be level in the next 14 years, despite the fact they hold the power and influence at a time when progress is stalling.

Industrial production was transformed by steam power in the nineteenth century, electricity in the early twentieth century, and automation in the 1970s. These waves of technological advancement did not reduce overall employment, however. Although the number of manufacturing jobs decreased, new jobs emerged and the demand for new skills grew. Today, another workforce transformation is on the horizon as manufacturing experiences a fourth wave of technological advancement: the rise of new digital industrial technologies that are collectively known as Industry 4.0.

Attention, supply management professionals: Is there a young (30 or under) "rising star" at your company who is making a big impact? ThomasNet and the Institute for Supply Management are inviting the industry to recognize these achievers as "30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars." The nomination deadline for the second annual recognition program is Oct. 30, 2015.

As trucks have become more advanced, transportations companies are increasingly in need of technicians with computer skills. But truck operators say negative perceptions of the industry are making it difficult to compete for tech-savvy talent.