A century-old company is reinventing itself to solve one of manufacturing’s biggest challenges. Rachel Zapernick, general manager at Thomas (now part of Xometry), discusses the company’s evolution from a printed directory to a leading digital platform connecting U.S. manufacturers with buyers. She covers how the company addresses labor shortages through workforce development and the growing role of automation and AI in the industry. Zapernick also shares how Thomas is investing in the next generation of talent and working to reshape the public perception of modern manufacturing careers across the country.

With a background as unique as her mission, one woman is bringing fresh energy to U.S. manufacturing. Christine Holly Ngo, founder of Silicon Valley Elite Manufacturing and host of the Making Things Fun, Cool & Sexy podcast, shares her journey from red carpet entertainment reporter to manufacturing advocate, detailing how she reconnected with her family’s business and launched efforts to make manufacturing exciting and accessible. She discusses reshoring in Silicon Valley, engaging the next generation, empowering women in the industry, and embracing automation and robotics as part of America’s manufacturing revival.

Marlin Steel Wire Products LLC President & Owner Drew Greenblatt knows the power of manufacturing jobs in America, but he also knows that unfair trade has stacked the odds against this vital industry — something he's told four U.S. presidents over the course of his career. Is Washington getting the picture now? Greenblatt offers his take on The Manufacturing Report podcast.

Photo courtesy Drew Greenblatt

Wright Tool Company's hand tools have been used by the Department of Defense in every conflict around the world since the department's founding, as well as in the construction or repair of every power plant, bridge, and so many other critical pieces of infrastructure in the United States. That's the kind of patriotic pride that's the backbone of this family-owned company building and defending our country.

Tom Futey, Wright Tool president and owner, discusses why the company has chosen to manufacture its high-quality hand tools near Akron, Ohio, for almost a century and reflects on the value of in-house manufacturing, workforce development, innovation in tool design, and the challenges of staying competitive amid globalization and post-COVID labor shifts.

Today, we spotlight the workers at the heart of American manufacturing! Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul shares powerful stories from factory workers across the United States and offers a ground-level view of American Manufacturing today. From steel mills in Indiana and Ohio to copper mining in Utah and paper production in Oregon, workers share how manufacturing sustains families, communities and local economies. Workers also share the importance of strong trade policy and why keeping jobs in America matters now more than ever.

A viral TikTok trend is taking viewers inside Chinese factories, promising designer-quality goods at rock-bottom prices — but at what cost? The Alliance for American Manufacturing’s Cat Adams and Scott Paul unpack the truth behind these videos, explore the ethical and economic issues tied to cheap imports, and highlight the growing movement to support American-made products. Plus, hear how NFL star Jason Kelce is teaming up with American Giant to promote U.S. manufacturing through fashion with a purpose.

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Ideas can come from anywhere… even while just doing laundry! Holli Harris, founder of The Nice Rack, shares how a Scottish drying rack inspired her to launch a Made-in-America business from her garage. She details the product’s development, early sales through Etsy, and her hands-on approach to manufacturing. Holli discusses the challenges of sourcing materials locally, her commitment to sustainability, and the joy of building a functional, beautiful product.

Photo courtesy of The Nice Rack

On April 2, the United States launched its boldest trade move in decades. Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul and Senior Vice President For Government Affairs & Policy Scott Boos break down the sweeping tariff changes, marking a strong shift away from globalization. They discuss how reciprocal tariffs what it means for trade with countries like China, the EU, and Mexico. They also talk about the closure of the de minimis loophole affecting platforms like Temu and SHEIN and the rollout of steep auto tariffs aimed at rebuilding U.S. manufacturing and strengthening national security.

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Buy America isn’t just a slogan — it’s a lifeline for U.S. manufacturers and local communities. No one knows this more than Hollie Noveletsky, CEO of Novel Iron Works in New Hampshire. Hollie shares why strong Buy America policies are essential to leveling the playing field and how they reinvest public infrastructure dollars into local jobs and communities.

Photo courtesy of Hollie Noveletsky

One company has been crafting durable American-made baskets for over a century. Paul Lordan, second-generation owner of Steele Canvas Basket Corp, shares how the company expanded beyond its industrial roots, with its carts appearing in movies and even Red Sox celebrations. The 2008 recession and COVID-19 forced the company to adapt, leading to a thriving e-commerce business. Despite foreign competition, Steele Canvas remains committed to U.S. manufacturing and craftsmanship.

Photo courtesy of Steele Canvas