Both Japan and the United States are facing a demographic shift in their work force as the “Baby Boomer” generation in the United States retires and Japan’s population decrease continues to cause labor shortages. How are these issues being addressed in each country? Additionally, how is each country ensuring that each respective labor force is better trained to face the newer, more innovative and technical jobs, especially as they relate to manufacturing? What can government do to help cultivate more entrepreneurs, inventors, technology and innovation start‐ups as another option of employment?