The motivation to become a plant manager can be based on a desire for increased salary, prestige or power. There are four items required to become a plant manager: post-secondary education, significant workplace experience, interpersonal skills and leadership skills. A plant manager is responsible for the entire operation of a manufacturing or production plant. In most organizations, the plant manager is the most senior person in the company who is responsible for the actual operations. As a member of the executive team, the plant manager works closely with the sales and finance managers to make business decisions.

People who want to become plant managers are often outgoing, ambitious and dedicated to work. This is not an entry-level or middle-management career position but the culmination of typically at least 15 years of progressive experience in the manufacturing sector. This is a senior-level management role, so the responsibilities are quite extensive and might include multiple physical locations.

An undergraduate degree in business administration, management or engineering often is required to qualify for a position as a plant manager. In some areas, a masters of business administration (MBA) degree is expected. The best way to determine what is necessary to qualify for this role is to look at the academic credentials of current plant managers in the local area and industry.

The experience required to become a plant manager can be divided into two areas: technical and managerial. The level of technical skill essential to become a plant manager varies by business, based on the size of the organization and actual duties as a plant manager. For example, in a manufacturing plant, the vast majority of positions are technical in nature. Tasks include using industry-standard equipment and following company procedures.

Managerial experience can be gained through a promotion to line supervisor, area manager or floor manager. These progressions are part of the normal career path for anyone who wants to become a plant manager. Experience managing people helps to develops skills in conflict resolution and human resources.

Interpersonal and communication skills are an integral part of being a plant manager. The ability to resolve conflicts, create teams and inspire employees is a huge part of the responsibility of a plant manager. Communication skills include both writing and speaking in meetings and making presentations to large groups

Some people are natural leaders, but everyone can benefit from formal training to enhance team-building and people-management skills. Leadership skills required include strategic planning, problem solving and budgeting. Executive training and coaching is a common way to build the leadership skills that are needed to become a plant manager.