Final Manufacturing Survey of 2020 Finds Cautious Optimism to Close Out Turbulent Year
Washington, D.C. The 51勛圖厙 released its final Manufacturers Outlook Survey of the year, which showed optimism climbing from its low in the second quarter brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the fourth quarter, 74.2% of manufacturers responding to the survey felt positive about their own companys outlook, up from 66% last quarter. While encouraging, a wide gap remains between todays numbers and the 90% average in 2019.
After two quarters with weaker domestic demand topping the list of primary business challenges, the inability to attract and retain talent lead the pack once again in the fourth quarter with 62.4% of respondents listing it as their primary current business challenge. Prior to COVID-19, workforce challenges had been the main concern for 10 consecutive quarters. According to the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 525,000 job openings in manufacturing in October, a record high.
Theres no question manufacturers have rebounded since the dramatic downturn in the spring, although a return to pre-pandemic optimism is still months away, said 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons. We were looking at levels of anxiety not seen since the Great Recession. The recent relief bill passed in Congress must be signed immediately. This,coupled with the manufacturing and distribution of vaccines, will help ensure we dont go backward. But its clear that to keep moving forward in 2021, well need to see more bold action that fosters growth and competitiveness for manufacturers in America and caution against any efforts that may undermine the fragile progress made in the closing months of 2020.
It will surprise many to know that manufacturers have more than half a million jobs to fill right now. Were hiring, and thats why workforce challenges are once again the top concern in our survey. The pandemic delayed our Creators Wanted Tour, but we will be launching virtual tour events in 2021 and hitting the road when its safe. And we look forward to working with the new Congress and new administration to help more Americans take advantage of the great career opportunities in modern manufacturing.
Read the full survey results here.
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The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit .
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Manufacturers Encouraged by EPAs Proposal to Keep Obama Ozone Standard
Jones: This decision, based on sound science, advances important goals while supporting sustainable domestic growth.
Washington, D.C. Today, the EPA announced its final decision to retain the clean air standards for ozone. 51勛圖厙 Vice President of Energy and Resources Policy Rachel Jones released the following statement:
Manufacturers commitment to clean air is why we support the EPAs decision to keep the ozone standards established under the Obama administration. This decision comes after careful review and consideration of the most current available scientific evidence and risk and exposure information, as well as consultation with the agencys independent science advisors.
This decision, based on sound science, advances important goals while supporting sustainable domestic growth. We have long supported smart policies that protect the environment and improve public health, and the policy announced today is the right approach.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org
Manufacturers Secure Priorities in Year-End Stimulus Legislation
Stoick: We have been fully engaged with House and Senate leaders to keep this vital work going"
Washington, D.C. Following passage of Senate amendment to H.R. 133 – United States Mexico Economic Partnership Act [Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021], 51勛圖厙 Vice President of Government Relations Jordan Stoick released the following statement:
Manufacturers secured many of our top priorities in this important legislation, including numerous provisions the 51勛圖厙 first proposed in our American Renewal Action Plan. The additional funds for the Paycheck Protection Program will provide a continued lifeline for small manufacturers. Furthermore, the resources for testing and vaccine distribution, as well as tax incentives for manufacturers that keep employees on payroll and invest in safety measures, will ensure Americas dedicated, essential manufacturing workers can continue their mission safely.
Across the country, manufacturers are providing the vaccines, PPE and supplies needed to defeat COVID-19, so we have been fully engaged with House and Senate leaders to keep this vital work going. We have a difficult winter ahead, and this legislation will help save lives and livelihoods and keep manufacturers operating. As folks continue to roll up their sleeves and receive initial doses of the vaccine, we are also looking to the other priorities facing us in the new yearincluding historic investments in infrastructure, energy innovation and moreto ensure manufacturers can lead a full economic recovery and American renewal.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
Manufacturers Congratulate EPA Nominee Michael Regan
Washington, D.C. Following President-elect Joe Bidens nomination of North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Michael Regan to be administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
Manufacturers take seriously our responsibility to drive economic growth while being good stewards of the environment. Over the past decade, manufacturers in America reduced the carbon footprint of our products by 21%, while contributing 18% more value to the American economy. Across the board, we have outpaced our competitors around the world in reducing emissions, while pushing the EPA to improve and streamline its rulemaking processes. Manufacturers have led the way in innovations that improve energy efficiency and save and recycle water, we have implemented successful initiatives to reduce pollution and waste. We know that through smart policy and regulations based in science, we can continue to achieve our goals.
So we look forward to working with Michael Regan when he becomes EPA administrator and regularly providing our perspectives on critical issues facing our industry, our workers and our environment. Given his previous service at the EPA under Presidents Clinton and Bush, he knows the agency well, and we congratulate him on his nomination. As weve often said, when given regulatory clarity and the tools to be competitive, manufacturers will keep our promises to protect our earth, the only home we have.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
Manufacturers Congratulate Interior Nominee Rep. Debra Haaland
Washington, D.C. Following President-elect Joe Bidens nomination of Rep. Debra Haaland (D-NM) to be secretary of the Department of the Interior, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
We congratulate Rep. Haaland on her history-making nomination to serve as U.S. Secretary of the Interior. Manufacturers are committed to the responsible stewardship of Americas lands, waters and resources, and we look forward to working with Secretary-designate Haaland. America is blessed with abundant and diverse natural resources, and when we responsibly harness their potential, we create opportunities to build stronger communities, a vibrant economy and a brighter futureall while advancing conservation and sustainability.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
Bidens Energy Pick Knows Importance of American Manufacturing
Washington, D.C. Following President-elect Joe Bidens nomination of former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm to be Secretary of Energy, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
As a former governor of Michigan, Jennifer Granholm understands that a strong and thriving manufacturing industry means well-paying jobs for American workers. She also knows that manufacturers in America not only are innovative producers of domestic energy but also depend on a reliable energy supply to grow and create jobs.
We look forward to working with her in pursuit of manufacturers all-of-the-above approach to energy development, balancing the needs of American consumers and manufacturers, the opportunities for American workers and the responsibilities of protecting our environment. And we congratulate Gov. Granholm on her nomination.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org
Manufacturers Ready to Build American Infrastructure Back Better
Washington, D.C. Following President-elect Joe Bidens nomination of former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be Secretary of Transportation, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
Manufacturers congratulate former Mayor Pete Buttigieg on his nomination to lead the Transportation Department. He hails from a manufacturing state, so he knows the critical role our industry plays in our economic recovery. And for our country to recoverto build back better as President-elect Biden sayswe absolutely need to see infrastructure investment of historic proportion.
From roads and bridges to waterways, electric grids and 5G technology, the future of modern manufacturing depends on the strength of our infrastructure. America should be leading the world in modern infrastructure, not falling behind, so we look forward to working with Secretary-designate Buttigieg to achieve the goals manufacturers have laid out in our Building to Win plan.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
Manufacturers Welcome COVID-19 Vaccine Authorization
The fight is far from over; Americans need to roll up their sleeves, take the shots in the arm
Washington, D.C. Following the Food and Drug Administrations emergency authorization for Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
Americas biopharmaceutical manufacturers have a long history of first-in-the-world research that has yielded amazing results, leading to the eradication of the worst epidemics our country has faced. Todays remarkable announcement will hopefully go down as yet another lifechanging development, and we are looking forward to future successful clinical trials and FDA approvals, hopefully in the near future.
While science has a strong hand in eliminating vexing diseases, it is the people behind the vaccine who are to be heralded todaythe innovative scientists, the lab workers, the doctors, the nurses and the thousands of volunteers who stepped up to the plate to trial this groundbreaking vaccine.
But the fight is far from over. Americans need to roll up their sleeves, take the shots in the arm and recognize that its our innovation and our actions aimed at the greater good that will put a stop to this pandemic. Thats the obligation we have thanks to the gifts of freedom and free enterprise that have been bestowed on us.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
Manufacturers Welcome Familiar Face at USTR
Timmons: We worked extensively with her to ensure the USMCAs passage, she is quick to listen to manufacturers concerns,
Washington, D.C. Following President-elect Joe Bidens announcement nominating Katherine Tai as the United States Trade Representative, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released this statement:
Manufacturers congratulate Katherine Tai on her historic nomination to serve as United States Trade Representative. With years of experience at the highest levels of U.S. trade policy, Katherine is widely respected. We worked extensively with her to ensure the USMCAs passage, she is quick to listen to manufacturers concerns, and she has frequently briefed our members on ongoing trade issues. She has the expertise to confront Chinas unfair trade practices. Her past work as USTRs chief counsel for China trade enforcement and her experience bringing U.S. disputes against China to the World Trade Organization position her well to lead efforts to improve U.S.China trade relations.
Opening new markets and forging comprehensive new trade agreements with Americas trading partners are critical to manufacturings future and our nations recovery. To create more jobs in the United States, we need more opportunities to sell our products overseas. The 51勛圖厙 is committed to working constructively with Katherine, and we look forward to supporting her efforts to advance robust, open and rules-based global trade as we emerge from the pandemic.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
Manufacturers Congratulate McDonough on VA Nomination
Timmons: "He brings a focused, collaborative approach to any mission, and he has proven a strong commitment to our nations veterans"
Washington, D.C. Following President-elect Joe Bidens announcement nominating Denis McDonough for Secretary of Veterans Affairs, 51勛圖厙 President and CEO Jay Timmons released this statement:
Throughout his career, Denis McDonough has proven to be a leader of extraordinary capability. He brings a focused, collaborative approach to any mission, and he has proven a strong commitment to our nations veterans. We congratulate him on this announcement.
Through The Manufacturing Institutes Heroes MAKE America initiative, manufacturers are working every day to help our veterans and members of the military community find new careers in modern manufacturing. We have been working with the VA to support the veteran community in translating their skills into new opportunities in our industry. We look forward to working with Secretary-designate McDonough and the VA in the Biden administration to build on this worksupporting our heroes and strengthening manufacturing in America.
-51勛圖厙-
The 51勛圖厙 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 more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The 51勛圖厙 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勛圖厙 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
About the MI
The MI grows and supports the manufacturing industrys skilled workers for the advancement of modern manufacturing. The MIs diverse initiatives support all workers in America, including women, veterans and students, through skills training programs, community building and the advancement of their career in manufacturing. As the workforce development and education partner of the 51勛圖厙, the MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with resources necessary to solve the industrys toughest challenges. For more information on the MI, please visit creatorswanted.org
About Heroes MAKE America
Heroes MAKE America, an initiative launched by the MI to build connections between the military community and manufacturing industry, is a Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge approved training program that equips participants with the skills and certifications needed to find and excel in manufacturing careers. Service members, their families, veterans and reservists are eligible for the program which currently operates at military installations in Georgia, North Carolina, Texas, Kentucky and Kansas. The Heroes team recently launched Heroes Connect, a 100 percent virtual offering that allows prospective talent from the military community to connect with hiring managers from manufacturing companies. The new offering was created to supplement a cornerstone of the Heroes program which was to provide weekly tours of manufacturing facilities looking to hire Heroes graduates. For more information on Heroes initiative, please visit themanufacturinginstitute.org/veterans/heroes-make-america