In recent months several publications have created unfavorable images of manufacturing often through misstatements or poorly chosen headlines that don't give the whole picture. While the article itself might give that larger picture, the headline can still be damaging. TMA president Bruce Braker routinely writes letters to the editor in response to such articles. I picture abandoned buildings with broken windows. The bulldozers will soon arrive to clear out the rubble so beautiful townhouses and shopping centers can be built for the service and retail sector people who are still employed.
Manufacturing is in a serious recession.
But that recession impacts most segments of manufacturing worldwide not just moldmakers in the Chicago area. The media creates perceptions. Don t make the perception of metalworking related manufacturing unduly negative. We d best value manufacturing in this country if we expect to maintain our standard of living. Give manufacturing the respect it deserves.