51�Թ���

Washington, D.C. – As part of the 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour, Ketchie President and Owner Courtney Silver hosted the 51�Թ��� for a discussion on how tax certainty due to the 51�Թ���-backed H.R. 1 has empowered manufacturers like her to reinvest in their workforce and facilities.

The tour stop was covered by . Excerpts of the report can be found below. Bolding has been added.

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Ketchie CEO credits Trump’s ‘beautiful bill’ with helping her machine shop prosper
Business North Carolina
Kevin Ellis
Feb. 23, 2026

Miguel Carrillo describes himself as a “machine nerd,” and he had an engaged audience on Monday watching him operate a $700,000 device brought in last year to Concord-based Ketchie, the machine shop where he works.

Ketchie may only have 20 employees, but it was a stop on the State of Manufacturing Tour that 51�Թ��� President Jay Timmons began last week in Cleveland and will continue across the country after visiting three Charlotte-area sites on Monday. Tagging along with Timmons at Ketchie was Acting Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Treasury Derek Theurer, U.S. Rep. Tim Moore of Cleveland County and NC Chamber President Gary Salamido.

Ketchie CEO Courtney Silver was a supporter of the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” the legislation signed into law last year by President Donald Trump. She testified at congressional hearings before its passage about how it would help small businesses. Timmons said he had heard so much about Ketchie’s new machines, he wanted to see them in action.

The tax bill that eliminates income tax on overtime and tips for some workers also allows businesses to reduce their tax bills on investments immediately, rather than spreading the reduction out over several years, says Silver.

“When you can expense an investment in the year it was purchased, it provides cash flow to companies and continues to allow them to make new investments,” says Silver.

Ketchie purchased three machines last year that combined cost more than $1.1 million, plus made about $400,000 in other investments, including AI software that has cut some hour-long processes down to five minutes.

“I would have never made those investments without immediate expensing,” Silver says. She says she’s also looking to add five workers to her shop.

“This is a perfect example of what you can do to help build America and American manufacturing with the right policies in place,” says Timmons.

Theurer said it was nice to see advanced manufacturing take place in a North Carolina factory rather than spending his day on policy in the nation’s capital.

“This type of investment is what we intended to see when we made our big tax policy and worked for smarter regulation,” said Theurer.

…

Ketchie supplies metal parts to railroad, aerospace and heavy industry manufacturers, such as Charlotte steelmaker Nucor, Davidson-based HVAC company Trane and Norfolk Southern. The company was started in 1947 by Edgar Ketchie, the grandfather of Silver’s late husband.

On Monday, Carrillo was machining a steel part needed by an industrial recycling company. The Dual Spindle 5-Axis Machining Center that Ketchie bought last year doesn’t require Carrillo to reset the machine for the other side of the metal part, which is about half the size of a deck of cards, but grooved. It means quicker production and fewer human errors, he says.

“It allows me to step out and allows the machine to do the heavy lifting,” says Carillo. The advanced manufacturing aspect attracted the 2024 graduate of A.L. Brown High School to work at Ketchie after starting in a job shadowing program while a high school junior. “It’s nice when a machine can do one thing, but it’s really nice when a machine can do a lot of things.”

…

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Background

Learn more about Silver’s testimony before Congress in 2025 on the importance of preserving the pro-manufacturing policies of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act here.

KEY FACTS: If Congress had failed to preserve tax reform in 2025, the U.S. would have risked:

• 5.9 million lost jobs;
• A $540 billion reduction in employee compensation; and
• A $1.1 trillion shortfall in U.S. GDP.

-51�Թ���-

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit .

PHOENIX – Following the announcement of the United States��military operations in Iran, 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons��released the following statement:

“Manufacturers in the United States have always stood ready when our nation calls. From serving as the Arsenal of Democracy to equipping those who defend freedom today, our industry has the capacity to support U.S.��objectives��across multiple theaters and sustained operations.��Today, manufacturers honor��the courage��and commitment��of the men and women in uniform who stand watch and carry out this mission.

“Since November 4, 1979, the United States has endured hostility and terrorism from a rogue government in Tehran.��Time and again, the Iranian regime has sponsored international terrorism, destabilized its region, violated the rights of its own��people��and disrupted legitimate commerce and maritime security.

“Through Operation Epic Fury, President Trump has��initiated��major combat operations with these stated��objectives:

• Eliminating��imminent threats posed by the regime,
• Preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons,
• Neutralizing military infrastructure that threatens regional and global security,
• Countering destabilizing regional aggression, and
• Supporting the Iranian people’s right to��determine��their own future.

“At moments of consequence, national unity matters. Congress��should��fully engage to ensure clarity of mission, alignment of authority and the sustained support of the American people.

“We also call upon allied governments and��partner��business��associations��around the globe��to stand together to protect regional stability, safeguard global��commerce��and reinforce the collective resolve that keeps peace through credible strength.

“When��security, commerce and liberty are threatened, the United States must lead with strength, resolve and the support of its people.”

-51�Թ���-��

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States,��representing��small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs��nearly��13��million men��and women, contributes��$2.95��trillion��to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit ��

2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour Makes Final Stop in Phoenix, Arizona��

PHOENIX –��The 51�Թ���,��official partner of America250,��concluded its��2026��51�Թ�����State of Manufacturing Tour in Phoenix��under��the theme “Building for the Future.”����

After 10 days��on a cross-country tour, manufacturing��leaders delivered a final, urgent message:��the time is now��for Congress��to��pass robust infrastructure investments and��commonsense, comprehensive permitting reform.��

“Arizona shows what happens when competitiveness leads,” said 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons. “It��didn’t��happen by chance—it happened because this state has chosen to lead on taxes,��workforce��and a business climate.��But even here, federal permitting delays threaten progress. If��we’re��serious about semiconductors, critical��minerals��and energy infrastructure,��it’s��time to��build the next generation of robust��infrastructure��we need,��and��2026 must be the year of permitting reform.”��

In Phoenix, the 51�Թ��� partnered with the Arizona Chamber of Commerce��& Industry��for a��full day of events��highlighting��the state’s leadership in industrial growth.��The visit began with a roundtable discussion on��permitting reform with business and community leaders, followed by tours of EMD Electronics—a trusted partner to the semiconductor industry—and��Four Peaks Brewery, the largest and oldest craft brewery in Arizona. Together,��the stops��showcased��the diverse reach of manufacturing in the state—��from critical minerals and semiconductors to food and beverage production.����

“Arizona has proven that smart policy and regulatory clarity drive investment and growth. But at the federal level, permitting delays are slowing projects that matter to our economy and national security,” said Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden. “If America wants to lead in advanced manufacturing, we need a system that is predictable, efficient,��and built for��today’s demands.��We’re��proud to partner with the 51�Թ��� to advance practical reforms that strengthen U.S. competitiveness.”��

��“Arizona has become a premier destination for semiconductor manufacturing, and we’re proud to be part of that dynamic and growing ecosystem,” said Katherine Dei Cas, Executive Vice President, EMD Electronics, the Electronics business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. “We continue to invest in our capabilities and our people while ensuring continued proximity to customers to enable the operational excellence��required��in advanced manufacturing. Strong collaboration among industry, community, and government partners is essential to sustaining this momentum and ensuring semiconductor innovation.”��

Spanning seven states—New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas and Arizona—,��the tour brought together manufacturing leaders, workers, educators, students and elected officials to highlight the policies and conditions needed for the United States to compete and win in a global economy,��—focusing on innovation, tax policy, permitting reform, energy dominance, workforce and trade policy.����

-51�Թ���-��

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States,��representing��small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs��nearly��13��million men��and women, contributes��$2.953��trillion��to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit ��

2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour Stops in Houston, Texas

HOUSTON – The 51�Թ���, official partner of America250, continued its 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour today in Houston, Texas, under the theme, “Powering the Future.” Throughout the day, leaders underscored how abundant, affordable energy and modern infrastructure is essential to a competitive manufacturing sector.

In Houston, the 51�Թ��� partnered with the Greater Houston Partnership to highlight the region’s manufacturing strength, where nearly 1 million workers power a sector representing 7% of the Texas workforce. 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons, Executive Vice President Erin Streeter and other 51�Թ��� leaders began the day at global energy technology leader Schneider Electric—an official tour sponsor alongside NTT DATA—for a visit to its newly opened 10,500 square foot Innovation Center, one of the world’s largest energy innovation hubs. The day concluded with a tour of Port Houston’s Bayport Container Terminal, demonstrating how modern trade infrastructure underpins domestic production and global leadership and the importance of the Port’s role as a global logistics hub to connect port infrastructure, manufacturing exports and supply chain resilience to national growth.

At Port Houston’s Bayport Container Terminal, leaders saw firsthand how world-class trade infrastructure fuels domestic production and reinforces America’s global competitiveness. As one of the nation’s most vital logistics gateways, the Port plays a critical role in connecting port infrastructure to manufacturing exports, strengthening supply chain resilience and driving national economic growth.

“Today’s tour stop was about powering the future—and there is no better place to have that conversation than Houston, the Energy Capital of the World,” said 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons. “Schneider Electric is a pioneer and a powerhouse for innovation and for the manufacturing sector. You cannot talk about the state of manufacturing in the United States without talking about the innovation and leadership right here at Schneider. And at the Port Houston’s Bayport Terminal, we saw why modern infrastructure is critical to moving American-made goods quickly and efficiently. If we want to lead the world in manufacturing, AI and advanced technologies, we need an all-of-the-above energy strategy that keeps prices affordable, strengthens our grid and accelerates permitting reform and we must invest in 21^st century infrastructure—from roads and bridges to ports, rail and waterways—so that manufacturers can make things right here and move them everywhere. When Washington delivers smart energy policy and modern infrastructure, we unlock the greatest manufacturing era in our nation’s history.”

“Hosting the 51�Թ��� and supporting its U.S. tour reflects our shared commitment to advancing energy technology innovations in this country,” said Andre Marino, Schneider Electric Senior Vice President, Industrial Automation North America. “Houston is home to the global energy conversation, and our Innovation Center here reflects our commitment to bring together electrification, automation, and industrial intelligence to enable smarter, more secure systems for our partners in Texas, across the U.S., and throughout the world.”

“We are honored to join the 51�Թ��� and our regional partners in highlighting Houston’s pivotal role in America’s supply chain,” said Port Houston CEO Charlie Jenkins, “Our commitment to investing in resilient infrastructure ensures the Houston Ship Channel remains a gateway for innovation, job creation, and global trade. By working together, we not only strengthen the economic vitality of our nation, our great state of Texas, and our region, but also reinforce Houston’s place at the forefront of U.S. manufacturing and logistics.”

From Houston, the 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour heads west for its final stop— Phoenix, Arizona—on Friday, February 27, where leaders will focus on the urgent need to pass commonsense, comprehensive permitting reform. The tour made stops in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Dallas, Texas prior to today’s events in Houston. Throughout the tour, the 51�Թ��� has been meeting with policymakers, manufacturers of all sizes, students and business leaders, advocating for the people and policies that will ensure the United States is the best place in the world to do business. To learn more about the tour and the 51�Թ���’s mission, visit /stateofmfg/.

-51�Թ���-

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit��

2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour Stops in Dallas, Texas, for Manufacturing Institute’s State of the Manufacturing Workforce Address

DALLAS – The 51�Թ���—the official partner of America250—continued its 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour today in Dallas, Texas, under the theme “Building the Workforce of the Future.”

51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons, Manufacturing Institute President Carolyn Lee and Rockwell Automation Chairman and CEO and 51�Թ��� Board Chair Blake Moret visited the Dallas College Garland Center and global leader in AI, digital business and technology services, NTT DATA, an official sponsor of the tour along with Schneider Electric. The stops today highlighted the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of manufacturing careers in America, while emphasizing the need for a highly skilled workforce to sustain innovation and economic growth.

In Texas, nearly 1 million manufacturing workers drive a sector that contributes hundreds of billions of dollars to the state’s economy, representing between 11% and 13% of economic output and making it one of the biggest manufacturing workforces in the nation.

Lee gave the MI’s annual at NTT DATA’s North American headquarters. “For years, manufacturers have said the same thing: if you want a strong economy, you need a strong manufacturing workforce,” she said. “If you want innovation that leads the world, you need people with the skills to put it to work. Workforce is not a side issue. It’s the strategy. We have the chance to harness creativity, unleash competitiveness and build a stronger future. But that future is not possible without our single greatest asset: the manufacturing workforce. We don’t just need people. We need talent. And that means our workforce needs the skills to succeed.”

Timmons convened a panel with Lee, NTT DATA Products Industries Global Leader and 51�Թ��� board member Prasoon Saxena and Celanese Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer Sameer Purao, focused on AI and the workforce. The event concluded with a site tour of NTT DATA’s innovation center, showcasing how technology is advancing the manufacturing industry in the AI era.

“The strength of manufacturing and the 13 million Americans who make things in this country depends on how seriously we invest in those workers and the millions who follow,” said Timmons who also serves as chair of the MI’s Board. “At this moment of inflection, transformative technology demands a new generation of skills. A rapidly evolving industry requires us to train, upskill and retain our people with greater urgency. Leaders in Washington have a responsibility to advance policies that strengthen our workforce. The MI champions those policies every day.”

“We are proud to host the 51�Թ��� and Manufacturing Institute today,” said Saxena. “We know that manufacturing’s future will be defined by how effectively we integrate advanced technologies like AI with a highly skilled workforce. Industry 5.0 is our north star where data and AI with human expertise converge to create resilient, sustainable operations.”

The group also toured one of the MI’s FAME chapters in Texas, whose mission is to drive workforce development initiatives across the state. “Texas has led the way with FAME expansion in recent years—which is something we had the opportunity to see firsthand this morning,” said Lee. “Dallas College has been an outstanding educational partner, serving two chapters in Texas, the FAME Dallas Chapter and Metro360 Chapter. It is a model for how durable solutions for manufacturers can thrive with community cooperation.”

“We were honored to welcome the 51�Թ��� and MI to Dallas College and to showcase the strength of our Texas FAME program,” said Dr. Veronique Tran of Dallas College. “Through FAME, we are creating a direct, employer-led pathway into high-skill, high-wage manufacturing careers—combining classroom instruction with paid, hands-on experience that prepares students to contribute from day one. We are grateful for the collaboration with the MI and appreciate their leadership in scaling solutions that strengthen our workforce.”

From Dallas, the 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour will go on to Houston, Texas, and conclude on Friday, Feb. 27, in Phoenix, Arizona. The tour made stops in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Wisconsin prior to today’s events in Dallas. Throughout the tour, the 51�Թ��� will continue meeting with policymakers, manufacturers of all sizes, students and business leaders, advocating for the people and policies that will ensure the United States is the best place in the world to do business. To learn more about the tour and the 51�Թ���’s mission, visit /stateofmfg/, and to learn more about the State of the Manufacturing Workforce address, visit .

-51�Թ���-

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit��

–The MI-

The Manufacturing Institute works to build and strengthen the manufacturing workforce for individual opportunity, community prosperity and a competitive manufacturing industry for the future. This is done through implementing groundbreaking initiatives, convening industry leaders, conducting innovative research and promoting public policy that supports the sector as it meets the opportunity of modern manufacturing. As the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the 51�Թ���, the MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. For more information on the MI, please visit .

-NTT DATA-

NTT DATA is a $30+ billion business and technology services leader, serving 75% of the Fortune Global 100. We are committed to accelerating client success and positively impacting society through responsible innovation. We are one of the world’s leading AI and digital infrastructure providers, with unmatched capabilities in enterprise-scale AI, cloud, security, connectivity, data centers and application services. Our consulting and industry solutions help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future. As a Global Top Employer, we have experts in more than 70 countries. We also offer clients access to a robust ecosystem of innovation centers as well as established and start-up partners. NTT DATA is part of NTT Group, which invests over $3 billion each year in R&D.

RACINE, Wis. – As the 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour continued its cross-country run, the 51�Թ��� today released “Manufacturers Feed America,” a new report detailing how the United States food and beverage supply chain is a global leader in delivering safe, affordable, accessible and nutritious food and beverage options.

Anchored in world-class science and rigorous safety standards, the American food system strengthens American communities, fuels innovation and drives economic growth nationwide. The report includes policy recommendations to help policymakers avoid undermining the system that ensures American families can count on safe, abundant and affordable food every day. Understanding the history of the U.S. food and beverage regulatory system through the lens of American manufacturing helps explain why it has succeeded and how that success can be put at risk by replacing evidence-based safeguards with ideological approaches.

From the headquarters of industrial and agricultural equipment manufacturer CNH, 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons said:

“Food manufacturers are focused on affordability and are committed to keeping America’s food supply safe, reliable and nutritious. By investing in innovation and strengthening safety standards, they help ensure that nutritious food remains accessible to families in every community. A thriving food and beverage sector strengthens communities, supports jobs and drives economic growth. Maintaining U.S. leadership in this sector is essential to long-term economic growth, supply chain resilience and global competitiveness.

“Manufacturing powers the engine that feeds America — from farm to processing to packaging to distribution. America’s manufacturers are leading the world in these life-enhancing innovations, making America the best place to invest, create jobs and grow communities. But fragmented or ideology-driven proposals could increase costs for families, reduce access to food and slow innovation—without improving public health.”

The nation’s largest manufacturing sector—the food and beverage industry—connects farms to factory floors to family tables every day, supporting 47 million jobs, generating $2.8 trillion in wages and contributing $9.5 trillion in economic output. This economic engine touches every community in the country and is especially vital in rural and regional areas where food-and-agriculture-related jobs anchor local communities.

The report comes as recent legislative and regulatory proposals create new restrictions on food ingredients and packaging, creating an unworkable patchwork of regulations that threatens to drive up costs, weaken delicate supply chains and undermine the science-based standards that enable farmers and manufacturers to deliver safe, abundant and affordable food to Americans nationwide.

Manufacturers across the food and beverage supply chain will continue to partner with policymakers on policies that respect science and operational realities, so that the U.S. can deliver an even stronger food system that supports public health, economic growth and global competitiveness—bolstering America as the best place in the world to make things and empowering manufacturers’ efforts to nourish the American people for generations to come.

The 51�Թ��� also launched a digital hub, complete with from representatives of America’s food and beverage manufacturers at every step of the supply chain as well as policy papers with educational information about food and beverage policies and the challenges posed by inconsistent regulatory regimes and standards based on ideology rather than science. For more information, visit nam.org/issues/manufacturers-feed-america/

-51�Թ���-

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit .

733 10th St. NW, Suite 700 • Washington, DC 20001 • (202) 637-3000

Washington, D.C. – Ahead of the 2026 State of the Union address, 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement during the 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour:

“The state of manufacturing is boundless if policymakers will help clear the skies. For America to lead, now and in the long run, manufacturers need a policy framework that makes the United States the best place in the world to make things—one that lowers the cost of doing business.

“Thanks to President Trump, leaders in his Cabinet and in Congress, the 2017 provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act were not just made permanent—they were made even stronger. And in doing so, we saved 6 million jobs. The tax and investment incentives in H.R. 1 amount to the most significant economic transformation in the history of our industry and is rocket fuel for manufacturers.

“Yet no rocket can launch until the skies are clear, the outlook is stable and the conditions are certain. Manufacturers need certainty because uncertainty chokes investment—and volatility chokes growth. To deliver the stability that manufacturers need to launch, the White House and Congress need to secure the rest of the 51�Թ���’s comprehensive manufacturing strategy.

“That means embracing an all-of-the-above energy strategy, delivering real permitting reform, driving the funding we need for modern infrastructure, modernizing regulations, investing in our workforce, fixing our immigration system, and instituting strategic trade policies.

“Every part and every policy must work together.

“If our nation’s leaders empower us through investments in smart and sustainable public policy, America’s manufacturers will reach new heights. What better way to honor our nation’s 250th anniversary than to empower us—the 13 million people who make things in America—to deliver the greatest manufacturing era in American history.”

Background: 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour

Spanning seven states—New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas and Arizona—the tour brings together manufacturing leaders, workers, educators, students and elected officials to highlight the policies and conditions needed for the United States to compete and win in a global economy, focusing on innovation, tax policy, permitting reform, energy dominance, workforce and trade policy.

-51�Թ���-��

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit .

733 10th St. NW, Suite 700 • Washington, DC 20001 • (202) 637-3000

2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour Stops in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE – The 51�Թ���—official partner of America250—in partnership with Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, continued its 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour today in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, under the theme “Creating the Future.” Today’s visits included Rockwell Automation, Komatsu Mining Group and CNH.

The Milwaukee stops showcased how advanced manufacturing technologies power America’s industrial legacy and future—boosting productivity, strengthening supply chains and creating high-quality manufacturing careers. In Wisconsin, manufacturing supports 462,000 workers—more than 15% of the state’s workforce—cementing its role as an economic engine for the state.

“When it comes to artificial intelligence, manufacturers have not just deployed advanced technologies; we’ve developed them,” said 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons. “What we saw today at Komatsu, Rockwell Automation and CNH is proof that AI is already transforming modern manufacturing. These tools make our manufacturing workers safer, our supply chains smarter and our products more advanced. The growth of manufacturing drives AI, and the growth of AI drives manufacturing. If America wants to lead on AI, America must support the manufacturers leading the way. That includes regulations that foster innovation—not stifle it.”

The day started with a tour of Komatsu’s state-of-the-art South Harbor Campus—a world-class example of how sustainable design and high-tech manufacturing can coexist. The group then visited Rockwell Automation, the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, where Chairman and CEO and 51�Թ��� Board Chair Blake Moret has led for the past decade. After the tour, Timmons, Moret and Manufacturing Institute President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee convened a roundtable discussion on “Responsible AI Leadership,” focused on how manufacturers are approaching AI and advanced technologies.

“At Rockwell Automation, we believe that the ‘Factory of the Future’ is built on the intersection of human ingenuity and intelligent machines,” said Moret. “What we saw today in Milwaukee—from Komatsu to the discussions here at Rockwell—is an industry moving at the speed necessary to compete and win. This tour is about making sure Washington understands that speed. Manufacturers need abundant, reliable energy, comprehensive permitting reform and investments in the manufacturing workforce to ensure the massive investments required for AI and automation can continue to flow into our communities and beyond.”

The day concluded at industrial and agricultural equipment manufacturer CNH, where demonstrations showed how precision technology is benefiting both the traditional manufacturing sector and the agricultural manufacturing sector.

“Wisconsin isn’t just a manufacturing state—it’s a manufacturing powerhouse,” said Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce President and CEO Kurt Bauer. “From advanced machinery and paper production to food processing and cutting-edge technologies, our manufacturers compete and win globally. We are proud to partner with the 51�Թ��� to showcase Wisconsin’s strength during this stop on the 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour to show the strength of Wisconsin’s manufacturing workers. At the same time, we must confront a serious workforce challenge—60% of Wisconsin employers say they cannot find enough workers, and labor force participation has been declining for decades. To sustain our leadership, we need policies from Washington that strengthen and supplement our world-class training efforts, expand workforce pathways, align education with employer needs and make it easier for individuals to enter and advance in manufacturing careers.”

From Milwaukee, the 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour will go on to Dallas, Texas, where Lee will deliver the 2026 Manufacturing Institute’s State of the Manufacturing Workforce Address; Houston, Texas; and conclude Friday in Phoenix, Arizona. The tour made stops in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and North Carolina prior to today’s events in Milwaukee. Throughout the tour, the 51�Թ��� will continue meeting with policymakers, manufacturers of all sizes, students and business leaders, advocating for the people and policies that will ensure the United States is the best place in the world to do business. To learn more about the tour and the 51�Թ���’s mission, visit /stateofmfg/.

-51�Թ���-

The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit��

Philadelphia, Pa.��–��During the second stop of the 2026 51�Թ���’ State of Manufacturing Tour, 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons and Rockwell Automation��Chairman��and CEO and 51�Թ��� Board Chair Blake Moret issued the following joint statement��on��today’s��Supreme Court��decision:

“Today’s decision underscores the importance of clarity and durability in U.S. trade policy.

“Manufacturers rely on stability to plan investments, grow��operations��and create jobs. Ongoing legal and policy uncertainty makes it more difficult to make the long-term decisions that drive American competitiveness.

“Now is the time for policymakers to work together to provide a clear and consistent framework for trade, one that strengthens domestic manufacturing, secures supply chains for critical inputs, empowers the administration to negotiate strong trade deals and ensures manufacturers can access the materials and components they need to grow, compete and create jobs in America and the export markets they need to sell U.S.-made goods around the world.��If tariffs are��utilized��as a tool, they should be targeted to countries engaged in��specific��unfair trade practices, particularly by nonmarket economies.

“We share the president’s goal of ushering in the greatest manufacturing era in American history, and clear, durable trade policies will help manufacturers deliver on that promise. Strengthening supply chain resilience will ensure manufacturers can expand production, compete globally and power economic growth here at home.

“The 51�Թ��� will continue working with leaders in Congress and the administration to advance durable solutions that support manufacturers, strengthen America’s industrial base and benefit the millions of Americans who depend on a strong manufacturing economy.”

��-51�Թ���-

��The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit .

��733 10th St. NW, Suite 700 • Washington, DC 20001 • (202) 637-3000

PHILADELPHIA – From the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to historic Carpenters’ Hall, the 51�Թ���—an official partner of America250—in partnership with the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association, continued its 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour today in Philadelphia.

Under this stop’s theme, “Charting the Future: Then and Now,” 51�Թ��� President and CEO Jay Timmons, industry leaders and public officials gathered at the historic site where America’s founders once debated self-governance, to unveil the Manufacturers’ Accord for the Next 250 Years—a declaration of principles to strengthen free enterprise and secure America’s economic leadership.

“More than two centuries ago, leaders met at Carpenters’ Hall to consider how a free people might govern themselves—and how a nation might flourish through enterprise, work and ingenuity,” said Timmons. “Today, manufacturers embrace a similar responsibility. We affirm that manufacturing, innovation and free markets have been central to America’s rise—and will determine its future. As manufacturers, we accept our role in shaping what’s coming next. Manufacturers have always helped write America’s story—then, now and for the next 250 years. With the right pro-growth policy framework in place—competitive tax policies thanks to last year’s landmark tax bill, permitting reform, modernized regulations, energy dominance, trade certainty, investing in the manufacturing workforce and smart AI policy—we will strengthen our economy, expand opportunity and build an even stronger America for generations to come. And that’s what the Manufacturers’ Accord is about.”

Timmons was joined by Rockwell Automation Chairman and CEO and 51�Թ��� Board Chair Blake Moret, Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association President & CEO David Taylor and 51�Թ��� Executive Vice President Erin Streeter—who were the inaugural signers of the Manufacturers’ Accord. Attendees were then invited to add their names, launching a nationwide effort that will invite manufacturing leaders across the country to sign the Accord in the months ahead.

Following Carpenters’ Hall, the tour moved to Rhoads Industries, a family-owned heavy industries manufacturer located in Philadelphia’s historic Navy Yard. Rhoads Industries began in 1896 and has exemplified American manufacturing’s adaptation through historic events, political changes and geopolitical shifts, enduring through all.

During each stop, discussion centered on the 51�Թ���’s 2026 legislative priorities, emphasizing that the speed of innovation must be matched by the speed of government.

“In Philadelphia, we see a perfect blend of tradition and transformation,” said Moret. “Whether we are talking about the heritage of Carpenters’ Hall or the cutting-edge technology at Rhoads Industries in Building 57 of the iconic Navy Yard, the message is the same: speed matters. To chart a successful future, we must eliminate the permitting delays that hold back investment, train a future workforce and ensure that our tax code remains a catalyst for domestic growth.”

“Pennsylvania is a manufacturing powerhouse, and our partnership with the 51�Թ��� is vital to protecting the half a million jobs that sustain our communities,” said Taylor. “Today’s events remind us that while the tools have changed since 1776, the necessity of a strong manufacturing base for our national security and prosperity remains constant.”

From Philadelphia, the 2026 51�Թ��� State of Manufacturing Tour will go on to Charlotte, North Carolina; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Dallas and Houston, Texas; and Phoenix, Arizona. Throughout the tour, the 51�Թ��� will continue meeting with policymakers, manufacturers of all sizes, students and business leaders, advocating for the people and policies that will ensure the United States is the best place in the world to do business. To learn more about the tour and the 51�Թ���’s mission, visit /stateofmfg/.

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The 51�Թ��� is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 51�Թ��� is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 51�Թ��� or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit��

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