2015: Manufacturing’s Next Act Is Here

04 Jan, 2015

The U.S. manufacturing sector appears to be on a secure path as we enter 2015. There are many reasons as to why; however, there are also many challenges to overcome, including EPA-related regulations. “Manufacturing: Growth and Reshoring Shape 2015” says one of the best ways manufacturers can defeat impediments is to become involved, adding their voices to create change. For instance, in regard to workforce issues, by partnering with education providers companies can hire individuals directly from programs they help shape.
The article also tells us manufacturing innovations are enabled by the reshoring of manufacturing activities, bringing manufacturing and engineering within proximity of each other to improve products and processes.
One of the innovations to watch is additive manufacturing, or 3-D printing. While the technology has evolved in the 30 years it has been around, applications are accelerating, transitioning from prototyping to larger-scale production capabilities, which results in the prospect of faster, cheaper and more flexible manufacturing. Read “Additive Manufacturing on the Make” to find out why industry insiders believe additive manufacturing is the next industrial revolution.
The creation of the “next big things” are most likely occurring right now. Today’s innovators have options when it comes to workspaces, allowing them to emerge from garages or basements in favor of collaborative and vibrant spaces. Co-working spaces/hubs are places where entrepreneurs support each other, have access to low cost and flexible leases, and prove their ideas. These hubs, which are often found in downtown areas, foster the creation of companies and jobs, as well as attract economic developments.
Additional Regional Economic Coverage
Starting with this issue we are adding regional economic profiles in addition to our regularly appearing Quality Places Profiles, where we highlight state business climates. The profiles will highlight the nine economic regions of the United States, and four economic regions in Canada. Economists from The Conference Board, and the Conference Board of Canada, will discuss economic indicators, and outline the strengths and weaknesses of these regional economies, as well as their top-performing metro areas.
Best wishes in 2015,
Rachel Duran
Editor in Chief

Rachel Duran

Rachel Duran is the editor in chief for Business Xpansion Journal. Contact her at rduran@latitude3.com.

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