Industry Information Archives

Walk any manufacturing trade show floor today and you will hear the same two letters repeated over and over again.

AI.

Artificial intelligence has quickly moved from theory to application. Predictive maintenance platforms analyze machine data in real time. Computer vision systems inspect parts faster than the human eye. Generative design software helps engineers build lighter, stronger components in minutes instead of weeks.

But amid all the excitement, one truth often gets lost.

AI is only as effective as the people guiding it.

For manufacturing leaders, the real shift is not just adopting artificial intelligence. It is learning how to work with it. The companies that figure this out first will move faster, solve problems earlier, and operate more efficiently than those still treating AI like a novelty.

This is where AI literacy begins.

What AI Literacy Actually Means

A few years ago, people talked about “prompt engineering.” The phrase sounded technical and intimidating, as if it belonged to programmers and data scientists.

In reality, the idea is much simpler.

AI literacy is the ability to communicate clearly with AI systems so they produce useful, actionable results. It is the skill of framing problems, asking better questions, and interpreting the answers AI generates.

Think of it the same way you would think about any advanced manufacturing tool.

A CNC machine does not create precision parts on its own. A skilled machinist programs it, guides it, and adjusts it based on experience and context.

AI works the same way.

It is powerful. But it still requires human judgment to produce meaningful outcomes.

Where AI Is Already Changing Manufacturing

The shift toward AI assisted operations is already underway across the manufacturing landscape. And the use cases are becoming more practical every year.

Predictive Maintenance

Modern manufacturing equipment generates enormous amounts of operational data. AI systems can analyze that data to identify patterns that signal potential failures before they happen. Instead of reacting to breakdowns, manufacturers can schedule maintenance proactively, reducing downtime and protecting production schedules.

Computer Vision for Quality Inspection

Traditional inspection processes rely heavily on human eyes and manual measurement. AI powered vision systems now scan components in real time, detecting surface defects, dimensional inconsistencies, and material anomalies with remarkable precision.

The result is faster inspections and more consistent quality control.

Generative Design and Engineering

Engineering teams are also using AI tools to explore design possibilities that would be nearly impossible to model manually. By defining constraints such as material strength, weight limits, and manufacturing methods, engineers can generate thousands of optimized design options in minutes.

Many of the most advanced aerospace and automotive components being produced today are the result of this type of collaboration between human engineers and AI systems.

Supply Chain Forecasting

AI is also reshaping how manufacturers manage inventory and supplier networks. Machine learning models can analyze historical demand patterns, supplier performance data, and global market signals to improve forecasting accuracy and reduce supply chain disruptions.

In an era of volatile global logistics, that capability matters.

The Leadership Challenge No One Talks About

Despite all of this progress, many manufacturing organizations are still approaching AI the wrong way.

They treat it like software.

Install the platform. Train the staff. Expect results.

But AI does not behave like traditional software systems. It behaves more like a partner in the problem solving process.

If leaders ask vague questions, they receive vague insights. If teams lack context or direction, the AI models they rely on will produce generic recommendations.

This is why AI literacy is quickly becoming a leadership skill.

Manufacturing leaders must learn how to frame operational problems clearly, interpret AI generated insights critically, and guide teams in using these tools effectively. Without that human layer of understanding, even the most advanced systems struggle to produce meaningful value.

AI Will Not Replace Skilled Workers

A common fear surrounding artificial intelligence is that it will replace human workers on the factory floor.

That fear misunderstands the moment we are in.

AI excels at analyzing patterns, processing large datasets, and identifying statistical anomalies. But it does not understand nuance, operational context, or the countless small decisions that experienced technicians and engineers make every day.

In reality, AI will not replace skilled manufacturing professionals.

It will amplify them.

A maintenance technician who can interpret AI generated equipment diagnostics will diagnose issues faster. A production manager who understands how to query AI driven analytics will identify bottlenecks earlier. An engineer who knows how to guide generative design tools will unlock entirely new design possibilities.

The workforce does not disappear.

It evolves.

The Manufacturing Leaders Who Win

Manufacturing has always been defined by the ability to adopt new tools.

From the introduction of CNC machining to the rise of robotics and advanced automation, each technological shift has rewarded the organizations willing to adapt first.

Artificial intelligence is simply the next chapter in that story.

The companies that succeed will not be the ones that simply purchase AI platforms. They will be the ones that build organizations capable of thinking alongside them.

That means investing in training. Encouraging experimentation. And helping teams develop the ability to ask better questions of the systems now shaping their operations.

Because the future of manufacturing will not belong to AI alone.

It will belong to the people who know how to use it.

Every plant manager, operations leader, and HR executive we talk to in American manufacturing tells a variation of the same story: “We can’t find the skilled workers we need right here where we are.”

It’s not a seasonal blip. It’s structural.

The Manufacturing Skills Gap Isn’t Just Local. It’s National

Skilled trades shortages are more than just a recruiting headache. They’re a strategic challenge for American manufacturers. From CNC machinists and industrial electricians to maintenance techs and welders, demand is outpacing supply significantly. For example, aggregate data shows that American industries face millions of unfilled skilled trade openings annually, with an estimated 1.7 million-worker shortfall between job openings and qualified graduates every year.

That gap isn’t a local anomaly. It’s a national trend that affects manufacturing hubs and rural regions alike. Whether you’re in a highly populated metro area or a smaller community with a proud manufacturing tradition, the math is the same: there just aren’t enough qualified workers locally to meet current demand.

Why Local Labor Pools Alone Don’t Cut It

Here’s the hard reality:

Skilled trades programs and vocational pipelines have not kept pace with employer demand.
Many regions, especially outside major cities, lack the training infrastructure to produce workers with advanced, manufacturing-ready skills.
Even where local talent exists, retirements are outpacing new entrants into the workforce. Skilled trades workers in some fields are aging rapidly, and the inflow of new talent is insufficient to replace them.

This has real consequences. In some sectors, companies turn down work or delay projects because they simply cannot staff them even when demand is there and capacity exists.

The National Talent Advantage: Why Broader Labor Pools Matter

So, what’s the alternative? For innovative manufacturing leaders, the answer is clear. Don’t limit your talent strategy to the ZIP code your plant happens to be in.

A nationwide workforce model, like the one FlexTrades has built, unlocks access to talent that’s:

Pre-vetted and travel-ready, so assignments begin quickly
Diverse in skill and geography, reducing regional talent bottlenecks
Experienced across industries, bringing best practices and adaptability

In contrast to a purely local recruiting strategy, this approach allows manufacturers to tap into labor pools that aren’t constrained by geography or community demographics. This is vital when the local labor force can’t meet demand.

Real Business Impact: FlexTrades’ Nationwide Difference

We see this in action every day:

A facility in a rural Midwest town fills critical maintenance roles they couldn’t staff from local resumes alone.
A coastal plant scales up for a major production run by deploying skilled machinists from across multiple states.
A manufacturer accelerates uptime by bringing in welders and technicians from regions with stronger workforce pipelines, without draining local talent.

In each case, it’s not that the skills didn’t exist in the country. It’s that they weren’t accessible locally. A broader labor network solves that problem.

A Strategic Advantage in a Tight Labor Market

Manufacturing is at a crossroads. Investment in domestic production, from clean energy equipment to advanced electronics, is rising. But talent constraints threaten to slow progress.

Decision-makers need solutions that go beyond traditional recruiting: models that think nationally but act locally, delivering skilled talent where and when it’s needed. That’s how you keep production lines running, reduce downtime, and compete in today’s fast-moving global economy.

Because at the end of the day, not all labor pools are created equal, but the right one can make all the difference.

I wasn’t raised to think about tariffs.

Odds are, you weren’t either.

I was taught to work hard, get a job, earn a living, and if I was lucky, make a difference. That was the formula. That was the plan. No one ever pulled me aside to explain how international trade policies or import taxes might one day shape the cost of materials, the future of U.S. manufacturing, or the kinds of jobs that would still be around for my kids.

But here we are.

If you’ve worked in or around manufacturing over the last five years, you’ve probably felt it. That slow, creeping shift in how things get made, where materials come from, and how much harder it’s gotten to keep things moving on time and under budget. And while there are a lot of moving parts to that story, tariffs (those taxes we put on imported goods) are a big one.

They’re not new. Tariffs have been around since the beginning of this country. But that’s not the point.

The point is what they’re doing now.

What’s Actually Happening

Right now, tariffs are not just a talking point.

They are policy.

Tomorrow is April 2. President Trump has officially declared it “Liberation Day.” And with that declaration comes a sweeping new tariff policy that will impact nearly every foreign-made product entering the United States.

We’re not just talking about steel and aluminum anymore.

This time, it is everything. Every imported bolt, battery, bearing, appliance, tool, machine, and microchip will be taxed under what the administration is calling a universal baseline tariff.

It is bold. It is aggressive. And depending on where you stand in the supply chain, it is either a necessary correction or a massive disruption. Or maybe it is both.

If this sounds familiar, that is because it is.

Back in 2018, the Trump administration imposed a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum, along with additional tariffs on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. Some industries got a boost. Others took a hit. And many of the manufacturers we work with at FlexTrades got caught somewhere in the middle.

Now here we go again. Only this time, it is bigger. Louder. And for most companies, a whole lot harder to plan around.

The Cost of Protection

Tariffs do not just raise prices on foreign goods.

They raise prices on everything.

If your business depends on imported materials, your costs are going up. If your vendors rely on imported components, their costs are going up. And when that happens, you are either eating those costs or passing them down the line.

Eventually, those added costs land in one of two places. Either they show up on your balance sheet. Or they show up in your customer’s final invoice.

And it is not just businesses feeling the strain. It is the welders, the machinists, and the maintenance techs. It is the folks walking into the shop every morning wondering how many more curveballs this industry can throw at them.

It is the shop foreman trying to make a delivery deadline with parts that did not arrive. It is the business owner staring at a spreadsheet and wondering how to pay ten percent more for steel when the contract was signed six months ago.

Some shops adapt. A few even thrive.

But others? They are running out of road.

The Bigger Question

Tariffs are not inherently good or bad. They are tools. And like any tool, they can build or they can break depending on how they are used.

The idea behind them is simple. Protect domestic production. Level the playing field. Keep jobs at home. All of that makes sense.

But when tariffs go too far, they do not just hurt foreign competitors. They hurt the people we are trying to protect. And if we are being honest, manufacturing in America is already hard enough.

We do not need more pressure.

We need more support.

So, What Now?

Liberation Day is tomorrow.

That is not a headline. That is real.

And what comes next will impact American manufacturing in a big way. The question is, are we ready?

Because the goal of bringing jobs back is a good one. But goals without preparation tend to collapse under their own weight.

If we want this to work, we need to:

Invest in skilled trades and train the next generation of workers
Strengthen our supply chains instead of just shifting their cost
Support the companies who are doing things the right way

Tariffs might shape the playing field.

But it is people who build the field in the first place.

Every bolt. Every beam. Every overnight shift and every early morning run to the yard. It all starts with someone showing up, doing the work, and doing it right.

So the next time you see a “Made in America” label, stop and take a second look.

Because behind that label is someone’s livelihood. Someone’s future. Maybe yours.

What do you think?

Are these new tariffs going to help your business or hurt it?

And more importantly, are we doing enough to support the workers who keep this country moving?

Let’s talk.

Because this conversation matters.

Something big is happening in U.S. manufacturing.

ArcelorMittal, the second-largest steel producer in the world, just announced a $0.9 billion investment in a new steel manufacturing facility in Calvert, Alabama. The plant is set to open in 2027 and will produce 150 kilotons of non-grain-oriented electrical steel (NOES) every year. If that sounds technical, here’s what matters. This type of steel is critical for producing full-size pickups, SUVs, and other larger vehicles, and with hybrid sales climbing to a five-year high, demand is only growing.

Manufacturers are spending billions to expand production and secure supply chains, but no one is talking about the most important factor in all of this. Labor.

Steel plants do not run on investments alone. Manufacturing does not move without skilled tradespeople. It takes machinists, welders, millwrights, CNC programmers, and industrial maintenance technicians to bring these billion-dollar projects to life.

Right now, there aren’t enough of them to meet the demand.

Manufacturing is Surging. The Workforce is Not.

The U.S. automotive sector is booming. Automakers are building more. Supply chains are stretching farther. Investments like ArcelorMittal’s are only the beginning. That is all great news for the industry, but it exposes a problem that keeps getting worse. There are not enough skilled workers to keep up.

A lack of available talent means missed deadlines, supply chain disruptions, and production delays. When major manufacturing expansions happen, companies need highly trained, ready-to-go technicians who can hit the ground running. That is where FlexTrades steps in.

We specialize in solving workforce gaps before they become production problems. We do not just place people in jobs. We deploy skilled tradespeople exactly where and when they are needed. That is the difference between keeping up with demand and falling behind.

The Future of U.S. Manufacturing is Skilled Labor

ArcelorMittal’s $0.9 billion plant is a bet on the future of U.S. manufacturing. It is proof that production is not slowing down. It is also a reminder that technology and infrastructure are only part of the equation. A factory filled with state-of-the-art machines is worthless if there is no one to run them.

Manufacturers must shift the way they think about workforce strategy. Investing in the right people is just as important as investing in new plants, new equipment, and new technology. Without a scalable, flexible workforce, growth is nothing more than potential.

The companies that will thrive in this new era of U.S. manufacturing are the ones that prioritize skilled labor as a competitive advantage.

FlexTrades is already doing that.

Let’s Build the Future of U.S. Manufacturing Together

If you are a manufacturer looking for skilled tradespeople to meet growing demand, let’s talk. If you are a highly trained worker looking for opportunities to work on exciting projects across the country, we want to hear from you.

The future of manufacturing belongs to those who are ready to build it.

Tariffs have long been a cornerstone of economic policy and international trade. These taxes on imported goods have been part of the U.S. trade landscape since the nation’s founding, influencing everything from government revenue to domestic industry growth. While tariffs are designed to promote certain economic goals, their effectiveness remains a subject of ongoing debate. For manufacturers, in particular, tariffs can create both opportunities and challenges. Let’s explore the history, purpose, and implications of tariffs to better understand their role in today’s global economy.

What’s a Tariff?

Tariffs are taxes that a country’s government imposes on goods imported from other countries. They have been a part of U.S. trade policy since the United States was founded. In fact, tariffs date back to 1789 when Congress passed the Tariff Act of 1789 and President George Washington signed it into law.

Why Are Tariffs Used?

In general, experts like Douglas Irwin, a professor of economics at Dartmouth College, agree that there are three main reasons for utilizing tariffs: revenue, restriction, and reciprocity.

Revenue: Tariffs are taxes on others. When other countries pay tariffs, it increases revenue for the imposing country.
Restriction: Tariffs can limit foreign goods, restricting imports while potentially supporting domestic goods. The word “potentially” is used here because some argue that restricting imports raises the price of domestic goods, reduces the availability of inputs manufacturers rely on, and exposes inefficiencies in domestic production.
Reciprocity: Tariffs can act as negotiating tools, promoting trade agreements and creating opportunities for trade negotiations.
Some experts suggest an additional “R”: Retaliation. Governments can raise tariffs against countries that have closed their markets, using tariffs as a means of retaliation.

How the United States Has Employed Tariffs

The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the “Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States.”

Early in the nation’s history, free trade was a key principle as the United States sought independence from British influence. However, imposing tariffs during this period helped generate revenue to develop the nation while meeting its goal of separation from British policies.

Historically, the U.S. has used tariffs to encourage domestic industrial growth. Up until 1913, tariffs were the largest source of federal revenue. With the introduction of the federal income tax, the government began to rely less on tariffs as a primary revenue source.

After World War II, the global economy required cooperation to rebuild. This led to the establishment of agreements and organizations such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). These commitments to free trade sought to lower tariffs and facilitate imports and exports between countries.

What Tariffs Mean for Manufacturers

Tariffs and trade are often accompanied by tension, creating what could be called the “Three T’s.” For manufacturers, the impact of tariffs is complex, with varying opinions on their benefits and drawbacks.

Supporters of tariffs argue that they:

Increase domestic manufacturing and wages.
Boost government revenue.
Protect certain industries and intellectual property.
Address unfair trade practices.
Promote research, development, and innovation.

Critics of tariffs counter that they:

Disrupt global trade flows.
Create inefficiencies for domestic manufacturers.
Exacerbate market inequities.
Generate insufficient revenue to justify their implementation.
Increase costs for consumers.

What Do You Think?

Tariffs are a multifaceted tool that have shaped economic and trade policies throughout U.S. history. Their impact on manufacturers varies widely depending on perspective, industry, and the specific terms of trade agreements. Whether viewed as a means of promoting domestic growth or as a hindrance to global trade, tariffs remain a critical and often controversial element of economic strategy. For manufacturers and industry professionals, understanding tariffs is essential to navigating both opportunities and challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.

So, what do you think? Are tariffs a necessary safeguard for domestic industries, or do they do more harm than good?

Black Friday is the day when the holiday shopping frenzy reaches its peak, bringing excitement to consumers and chaos for retailers and manufacturing. While consumers can revel in deep discounts and doorbuster deals, U.S. manufacturers are left with a flurry of benefits and pitfalls. For many, it’s an opportunity to ramp up production and capitalize on the endless desires of US consumers. But for others, it becomes a struggle to meet demand. Here are two of the biggest benefits and struggles for American manufacturers that come from this day of massive demand.

Benefit: Increased Demand and Production Opportunities

Black Friday creates a massive surge in consumer demand, and that directly translates to increases in orders for U.S. manufacturing. Industries producing consumer goods, electronics, apparel, among others tend to be in high demand during holiday shopping.

This spike in demand is important because it allows manufacturers to scale production, increase revenue, and hire temporary workers to meet the demand. These benefits can carry over into the new year to create a great start to the year.

Benefit: Marketing and Visibility Boost for American-Made Goods

In the year 2024, consumers are much more sensitive to where their products are made than ever before. Black Friday serves as an excellent exhibit of quality and value of American-made products amidst discounts. Increased demand for made in the USA is never a bad thing for American makers.

Struggle: Supply Chain Strains and Logistical Challenges

Increased demand in terms of Black Friday can be a double-edged sword. While an increase in business is quite beneficial, it only benefits those suited to meeting the challenge. Those who cannot find themselves in a situation where the rush to fulfill orders creates quality control issues, bottlenecks, and logistical nightmares. In many cases, this leads to delays, back orders, or inflated prices due to manufacturing struggles.

Struggle: Pressure to Compete with Overseas Manufacturers

The pressure to minimize what you spend on products for Black Friday may force some US manufacturers to rely on materials and components from overseas. The overall price of these materials is much cheaper due to lower labor and production costs for these foreign manufacturers. The rapid increase in demand from Black Friday sales can lead to a reliance on such imports to complete orders on time. However, these cheap prices typically mean sacrifices when it comes to product quality.

Need help keeping up with your own customer demand? Reach out to learn how we can help boost production for your manufacturing business. Want to learn more about how online shopping affects manufacturing? Check out our blog about how Prime Day affects supply chains. And remember when you’re doing your own shopping this holiday season, if the deal seems too good to be true check into reviews regarding quality and delivery times before you buy!

Thanksgiving is a time when families gather to share gratitude and, of course, indulge in a feast that has become a cornerstone of American tradition. Behind the scenes, several major food manufacturers play pivotal roles in bringing those beloved dishes to our tables. Let’s take a closer look at five of these companies and the specialty items they produce that make our Thanksgiving celebrations so memorable.

Kraft Heinz: The Stuffing Masters

When it comes to Thanksgiving, Kraft Heinz is synonymous with Stove Top Stuffing. Introduced in 1972, this convenient stuffing mix has become a staple in many households. The manufacturing process begins with baking loaves of bread, which are then dried and cubed. These bread cubes are mixed with a blend of seasonings and herbs to create the signature flavor. Packaged for convenience, Stove Top Stuffing allows families to enjoy a delicious side dish with minimal preparation. In fact, the Kraft Heinz factory in Dover, Delaware, is a key production site for this iconic product, baking around 200,000 loaves of bread each day to meet the holiday demand.

Nestlé S.A.: The Pumpkin Pie Purveyors

No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin pie, and Nestlé’s Libby’s brand has been a trusted name for over a century. The journey from pumpkin patch to pie involves harvesting specially grown pumpkins, which are then cleaned, peeled, and pureed. This puree is canned and distributed nationwide, providing home bakers with a consistent and high-quality base for their pies. Libby’s works closely with family farms in Morton, Illinois, ensuring that the pumpkins are processed within hours of harvesting to maintain freshness and flavor.

Jennie-O Turkey Store: The Turkey Titans

As one of the leading turkey producers in the United States, Jennie-O Turkey Store ensures that millions of families have a succulent centerpiece for their Thanksgiving meal. The process begins with raising turkeys on farms where they are fed a balanced diet. Once they reach the appropriate size, the turkeys are processed, packaged, and shipped to retailers across the country. Jennie-O offers a variety of products, from whole turkeys to pre-seasoned roasts, catering to different preferences and cooking methods.

Butterball: The Turkey Talk-Line Heroes

Butterball is another heavyweight in the turkey industry, renowned not only for their products but also for their Turkey Talk-Line, a hotline that has been assisting home cooks with turkey preparation since 1981. Butterball’s turkeys are raised on farms and undergo a meticulous process to ensure quality. They offer a range of products, including fresh and frozen whole turkeys, as well as pre-cooked options for those seeking convenience. Their commitment to quality and customer support has made them a trusted name in Thanksgiving celebrations.

Cargill: The Cranberry Sauce Specialists

While Cargill is a global food corporation with a diverse portfolio, their contribution to Thanksgiving often comes in the form of ingredients used in cranberry sauce. Cargill supplies sugar and other components essential for crafting the sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory dishes on the table. Their extensive supply chain ensures that manufacturers have the necessary ingredients to produce this holiday favorite, highlighting the interconnectedness of the food industry.

Making Memories

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s worth appreciating the intricate processes and dedicated efforts of these manufacturers. From the fields where pumpkins and turkeys are raised to the factories where stuffing mix is prepared, each step is a testament to the commitment to quality and tradition. So, as you enjoy your meal, take a moment to acknowledge the journey each dish has taken to become a part of your holiday celebration.

At IMTS 2024 in Chicago, we had the pleasure of interviewing Ian Sandusky, a prominent content creator for Practical Machinist. He shared valuable insights on how machinists at any level can enhance their skills.

Check out these 5 great points Ian made highlighting strategies that can help professional machinists improve their craft and stay ahead of the curve!

1.) Engage with the Community

For novice machinists, Ian emphasized the importance of networking: “The number one thing you should do is get involved with talking to other machinists.” He suggested joining trade organizations or finding a local maker space to expose yourself to new techniques and ideas. Building connections within the community not only fosters learning but also creates a supportive network that can be invaluable, especially early in a career.

2.) Cross-Training

Ian also addressed intermediate skill-level machinists, recommending that they diversify their skill sets: “If I’m a machinist, and I’m really good at mill, well now I should be looking at a lathe or maybe something completely outside of machining, like welding.” By cross-training, machinists can become more versatile and valuable around the shop, and it may help open more career opportunities. A willingness to learn new skills is always good for personal and professional development.

3.) Stay Current on New Tools and Technology

For seasoned professionals, Ian advised staying informed about technological advancements: “If you stay up to date with advances in technology as the years go by, it’s a lot less of a challenge when you need to retrain or learn new software.” Familiarizing yourself with the latest tools and software can ease transitions and reduce the learning curve with new systems.

4.) Have an Open Mind

Ian encouraged all machinists, regardless of their skill-level, to always keep an open mind: “One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a machinist or manufacturing professional is thinking the way you do it is the only way it can be done.” By learning alternate methods, you may find an easier, safer, or quicker way to accomplish the same thing. It may even solve a problem you’ve been approaching wrong all along.

5.) Attend Trade Shows and Seek Information

How do you apply your open mind and stay current? Ian suggests, “Go and seek that information. Attend trade shows, go online and read forums, read manuals.” School may be out, but there is always something new to learn. Stay hungry for new information that can help you be a better machinist.

An Ongoing Process

Becoming a great machinist doesn’t happen overnight, it’s an ongoing process. Whether you are just starting out or you’re a master craftsman, there is always room for growth. By connecting with others, cross-training, staying updated, and leveraging available resources, machinists can significantly enhance their craft, and find even more fulfillment in their career.

Check out Ian’s interview, hear from a FlexTrades Machinist, or find more great content on our YouTube page!

Twelve years ago, in 2012, the Fabricators and Manufacturers’ Association (FMA) founded Manufacturing Day (MFG Day). MFG Day is a national movement to show the public (students, parents, and all others) just what modern manufacturing is all about because as they say, “It’s not your father’s machine shop anymore”. MFG Day is always the first Friday in October so this year we are celebrating all things manufacturing on October 4, 2024.

In addition to MFG Day, many states and manufacturing associations (including the International Trade Administration) consider the first week in October National Manufacturing Week or the entire month of October Manufacturing Month. But it doesn’t stop there for FlexTrades, we celebrate manufacturing all year long and hope you will too.

Below are ways in which you can do so!

Open your manufacturing doors to the public. You can find tips and tricks to do so
1. If you’re an employee, encourage your employer to open their doors!
Partake in trade shows as a visitor or manufacturer. Here’s a list of this year’s tradeshows, with a few left that you could still attend.
Visit or participate in a tour (or two) of manufacturing facilities. Find events to attend or ways to host an event at com
Know the industrial revolutions to understand how manufacturing has changed and why it’s so great!
Talk to the kids you know and tell them what’s it like, share your knowledge of manufacturing and discuss the vast opportunities within a manufacturing career. Show them some of these great How It’s Made videos so time on their electronics is also spent learning!
Share positive messages about manufacturing on your social media accounts.
Follow and reshare positive messages from manufacturers and those in manufacturing on your social media accounts.
Shop and buy American made products.
Donate or volunteer to the Nuts and Bolts Foundation (also known as Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs ® – NBT). NBT is on a mission to bridge the skills gap in manufacturing, keep American manufacturing alive and strong, and provide students the opportunity to learn how they can do great things working in manufacturing.
Donate your time and knowledge by visiting technical or trade schools to spread awareness about manufacturing and opportunities in manufacturing. Bring brochures with you (here’s an example).
Encourage your coworkers or employees to share their own stories with each other.
Curate an Employee Appreciation Day – managers can genuinely thank their workforce, provide pizza for lunch, organize a cookout, send thank you cards, give gift cards, sponsor a team outing, or film a video of thanks. The options are endless.

And as you celebrate, keep in mind the words of Alan Mulally, an American aerospace engineer and manufacturing executive, former executive vice president of Boeing, CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and former President and Chief Executive Office of the Ford Motor Company. Alan is well versed in manufacturing and once said:

“No country is every successful in the long term…without a really strong and vibrant manufacturing base”.

Happy MFG Day (or week or month)!

Each year, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Manufacturing Day (MFG Day), which takes place on the first Friday of October. Often, this celebration extends throughout the entire month, highlighting the significance of the manufacturing industry.

What is Manufacturing Day?

The inception of Manufacturing Day dates back to 2012 when the Fabricators and Manufacturers’ Association (FMA) joined hands with leaders from the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP). The brainchild behind this initiative was Ed Youdell, the President & CEO of FMA. Beginning as a modest concept, they conducted a pilot effort in the Midwest on the first Friday of October in 2012. As the years went by, the success of this day prompted them to collaborate with the National Association of Manufacturing (NAM) in 2016, who took the helm of the initiative. Thanks to NAM’s extensive network through The Manufacturing Institute, the event flourished. In just seven years, it expanded from around 240 events primarily in the Midwest to encompass more than 325,000 students, teachers, and parents participating in over 3,000 events across all 50 states and Puerto Rico.

How Can You Celebrate Manufacturing Day?

For Manufacturers:

Conduct Manufacturing Tours: Organize manufacturing tours within your facility. These tours can be in-person or virtual, making them accessible to individuals of all ages.
Educational Fair or Expo: Collaborate with other manufacturers in your area to host an educational fair or expo. Create informative displays, offer hands-on activities or demonstrations, and promote the event with giveaways.
Engage with Local Schools: Reach out to local schools, whether they are elementary, middle, high school, or technical colleges. Deliver presentations on the advantages of a career in manufacturing, highlighting earning opportunities, advancement prospects, and more. Foster enthusiasm among students.
Employee Appreciation: Celebrate your dedicated workforce. Show your gratitude by providing donuts, a pizza lunch, or a cookout for your employees. Express your thanks through cards, gift cards, or small tokens that convey your appreciation.
Social Media Acknowledgment: Share your appreciation on social media. Celebrate the manufacturing industry and your workforce with a heartfelt message of gratitude for their daily contributions that drive American manufacturing forward.

For Individuals:

Attend Manufacturing Tours: Attend manufacturing tours in your local area, whether in-person or virtual. These tours provide a valuable glimpse into the world of manufacturing.
Job Exploration: Approach your employer and inquire about participating in Manufacturing Day activities. Explore different areas of your workplace and spend the day learning about roles you may not have encountered before.
Educational Videos: Watch informative “How It Works” videos related to manufacturing processes. Share your favorite videos with friends and colleagues to spread awareness.
Engage the Next Generation: If you have children in your life, engage in meaningful conversations about manufacturing while enjoying ice cream. Show them videos and emphasize that it offers a viable career path with substantial earning potential and room for growth.
Educational Games: Introduce youngsters to educational games like the Manufacturing Institute’s Smart MFG 2 App, where kids can design and manufacture a drone. Additionally, consider playing board games like “The Manufacturing Game.” You can also explore a variety of factory simulation games.

There are numerous ways to celebrate Manufacturing Day, and the ones mentioned here are just a few examples. As you celebrate the manufacturing industry, its dedicated professionals, and those working tirelessly to drive it forward, remember that you can promote and celebrate it not only on one designated day but throughout the entire year!