Despite broader recession fears fueled by weak jobs data, slowing consumer spending, and tariff-related inflation, leaders at U.S. metals manufacturers and OEMs report stronger orders and rising expectations. Recent earnings suggest parts of the goods-producing economy remain solid and may strengthen into 2026. And a new reader poll shows industrial firms have capacity available. This while AI contributes to the worker skills gap. Dig into this insightful issue. 

— Theresa Houck, Senior Editor-at-Large