The U.S. manufacturing industry is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by new technologies, smarter supply chains, and an increasingly dynamic workforce. This year, small manufacturers will face a mix of opportunities and challenges as they navigate these changes. To stay competitive, small and medium-size manufacturers (SMMs) will need to integrate cutting-edge technologies that were once only a reality for larger enterprises, and train their workforce on how to use these technologies. Here’s a breakdown of our key predictions and what manufacturers can expect.
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Reshoring and stronger domestic supply chains
The Covid-19 pandemic and global disruptions have made it clear that traditional supply chains are vulnerable. As a result, reshoring—bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.—is expected to accelerate in the coming years. This trend will lead to reduced dependence on overseas suppliers, mitigate risks, and create more resilient domestic supply chains.
Predictions
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Comments
Your comments pertain…
Your comments pertain largely to discrete parts/assembly operations. While most still applies to process industries, 3D printing does not except for maintenance, spare part for own machinery. Also no mention of the workforce - it is more than about technology training. Today's workforce expects to be treated with dignity, do work with meaning, and have clarity on how their work connects to the larger mission. This takes more than upskilling - takes a cohesive leadership team, trust and transparency embedded into all interactions - employee, customer and supplier. In my experience, as large manufacturers outsourced, SMMs not only lost business but access to learning from their larger customers, this includes the quality/CI revolution of the last 30+ years in which respect for people, collaboration was a key element; we cannot assume they know how to do this with/for their workforce. A skilled employee will not stay if they are not treated well.
Well said! Thank you for…
Well said! Thank you for that thoughtful and thought-provoking addition, Dr. Schall.
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