National Manufacturing Week Survey: Manufacturers Aren't Optimistic

March 21, 2006
In the annual National Manufacturing Week survey, released by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) on March 21, 44% of U.S. manufacturers expect manufacturing to underperform in relation to the general economy. That's up from the 34% that held ...

In the annual National Manufacturing Week survey, released by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) on March 21, 44% of U.S. manufacturers expect manufacturing to underperform in relation to the general economy. That's up from the 34% that held this view last year. Growth predictions for the U.S. economy in 2006 are coming in at less than 2.9% according to survey respondents.

However all is not lost as more than 50% of the respondents expect to increase capital spending and employment. Almost 75% report exporting their products to other countries, with 41% expecting imports to increase.

The labor shortage, however, is still a pressing concern. "Half of the respondents currently have unfilled positions because they can not find qualified workers, and 70% of the new jobs that survey respondents anticipate creating will be for either skilled production workers or highly educated professionals. The need for highly-educated professionals specifically has nearly doubled from 2005 and we anticipate it will continue to grow in the future," expalined John Engler, president of NAM.

Survey results are available at: www.nam.org/nmwsurvey.

Popular Sponsored Recommendations

Navigating Disruption: A Leader’s Guide to Strategy Under Uncertainty

Nov. 1, 2023
AI, sustainability, digital--industrials are facing disruptive forces that are redefining what it takes to win. What got your company where it is today won’t get you where you...

Powering Up Productivity: The Transformative Power of AP Automation in Manufacturing

Oct. 25, 2023
Discover how AP Automation is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry, driving efficiency, cost savings, and security. In today's world, automation is the key to staying competitive...

Lean Manufacturing in the Age of the Industrial Internet

Oct. 24, 2023
Read how advanced MES capabilities can help you improve your labor utilization, reduce WIP, and optimize your production. Download the white paper today.

Smarter Savings for Manufacturers - Guide

Sept. 12, 2023
Enhance your service experiences and boost revenue while reducing costs. Learn how one platform can help your business be more agile and productive in today's market.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!