Is it Possible to Bring Back Manufacturing Jobs?

Bringing manufacturing jobs back to the United States is going to take more than a few economic incentives for companies or an advertising campaign encouraging citizens to buy American-made products. Many U.S. companies have been using offshore factories for decades, and in addition to saving on labor costs, these facilities have developed large, successful supply chains and effective modern manufacturing processes. Developing a similar system in the United States requires time and money.

Building an Ecosystem

An ecosystem is a complex network with components that receive reciprocal support to keep the network functioning. A successful industrial ecosystem requires innovators, suppliers, modern production facilities, a highly skilled workforce and a market for the finished products. Favorable government policies and connections between industry and non-industrial organizations, such as educational institutions and non-profits, help nourish a growing ecosystem, giving American industry the support it needs to continue investing in American manufacturing. Building a stable industrial ecosystem takes time, and a significant increase in American manufacturing jobs is unlikely until this type of support system is in place.

Focusing on Quality

"Buy American" may be an easy-to-remember tag line, but when used by itself, it doesn't carry a lot of weight. Americans need to know why it is a good idea to buy products manufactured in the United States. American factories generally have a stronger focus on quality than offshore operations. American workers care about the goods they produce and want to make high-quality items for use by their neighbors and others across the country. Reaching out with a promise of quality encourages Americans to spend a little extra if necessary to get an item that lasts longer or works better. When more people choose to invest in American-made products, companies have an incentive to focus on developing American production facilities, and this leads to more manufacturing jobs.

Training a Workforce

Modern factories require a skilled workforce that knows how to manage complex production methods, such as additive manufacturing and advanced robotics. A standard high school diploma isn't enough to prepare workers for these increasingly high-tech manufacturing jobs. Investing in training programs at high schools, trade schools and community colleges creates opportunities for students to developing the skills necessary to succeed in those manufacturing jobs. This requires commitment and cooperation between government, educational facilities and manufacturing businesses to fund and develop programs that emphasize the skills needed most by American industry.

Companies need support to develop the systems they need to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States. This includes a market of Americans who prefer American-made products and a well-trained workforce ready to thrive in a modern industrial environment. Building an industrial ecosystem that is as strong as offshore systems takes time. A multi-tiered focus on creating connections helps build that foundation, making it possible to bring more manufacturing jobs home.

Photo courtesy of PANPOTE at FreeDigitalPhotos.net