From the CEO: "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you always got." - Henry Ford

AME | October 10, 2024

Last week, we celebrated Manufacturing Day, celebrated annually on the first Friday of October. This day brings communities together to raise awareness about the significance of manufacturing in the economy.

It is a day to encourage people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. It is a day to connect local manufacturers to the community and show how manufacturing jobs pay incredibly well and help professionals develop transferable skills. And it's a day to demonstrate how today’s manufacturing jobs are not the perceived manual jobs of the past.

Today’s manufacturing incorporates innovation and technology, enabling the workforce to utilize industry best practices such as Industry 4.0. This fourth industrial revolution refers to the advanced technologies that are reshaping industries by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, cloud computing and additive manufacturing (3D Printing and augmented reality (AR)) to increase efficiency and productivity.

The manufacturing sector contributes approximately 16% of the world’s GDP, generating trillions of dollars in output each year. Manufacturing provides great sustainable income, and manufacturing facilities often form the economic backbone of communities, particularly in rural or industrial regions. Manufacturing is the foundation of economic development and innovation across the globe.

Years ago, I was part of a Manufacturing Day team that brought educators and parents into a shipbuilding facility. Participants were stunned at the vast, unique and fun opportunities that existed. One participant shared, “This is not the manufacturing of the past,” and another asked, “Where do I sign up?”

Manufacturing Day is more than just a celebration; it is a reminder of the crucial role manufacturing plays in building prosperous and sustainable economies. By fostering interest in STEM education, addressing labor shortages and promoting sustainable practices, this day brings attention to an industry that is essential to every aspect of our lives. Simply put, manufacturing will continue to be a driving force in shaping a better future for all.

That is why we celebrate Manufacturing Day and all of the AME family's manufacturers, suppliers and workforce. You are critical and important members of AME, our communities and the world. Thank you all for what you do.

In a few short weeks, we will celebrate manufacturing at the largest continuous improvement conference: the AME Atlanta 2024 International Conference. If you have not signed up, it is not too late! You can attend incredible tours at companies in manufacturing and other industries, including Carolina Handling LLC, Chick-fil-A, Delta Air Lines TechOps, Georgia Tech, Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP), Georgia-Pacific Packaging and Cellulose, Georgia-Pacific Technology Group, Grady Health, Interface, Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US, Northeast Georgia Health System, Porsche Consulting, Power Partners (an ERMCO company), RealTruck, SMI Composites LLC and ZF.

How did you celebrate Manufacturing Day? I'd love to hear from you. As always, please stay safe and keep looking out for one another.