Machining is cool again

The headlines and corresponding stories have been prevalent for several months.

“Manufacturing is back!” (Zack’s Investment Research).

“Manufacturing has been one of the economy’s brightest spots since the recession ended in June 2009” (USA Today).

“Bring manufacturing back, not more banking” (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel).

“US Set To Regain Industrial Crown” (Financial Times).

And my favorite: “The FALL and RISE of the American Manufacturer” (Industrial Distribution).

Wow! Better late than never. And it’s exciting to see the increasing coverage of manufacturing’s contribution to a prosperous economy and the sudden rediscovery of U.S. manufacturing, of which machine shops are at the epicenter.

Understandably, you may be too busy machining parts to be aware of this reawakening, but it’s incredible to see the renewed enthusiasm. When I attend community events and business functions, more people want my thoughts about the state of American manufacturing and its impact on our communities. I tell them what I’ve always told them, “The world still desires North American-made goods, and many of these critical items are coming right out of shops in your community.”