Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement regarding the congressional certification of the 2020 presidential election.

“Manufacturers fight vigorously for the four pillars that have made America exceptional: Free Enterprise, Competitiveness, Individual Liberty and Equal Opportunity. But holding all of this together is the basic form of government, which has enabled us to protect those pillars: Democracy.

“Manufacturers stand with members of Congress who intend to uphold their constitutional responsibility and vote to certify the Electoral College tallies that resulted from free, fair and legal elections in the states.

“Election officials in both parties, as well as state and federal courts in more than 60 cases, have determined that the outcome is not in doubt. Joe Biden is our next President, and Congress must heed the voice of the American people. In every election, many Americans are disappointed by the results. But disappointment does not justify harming our democracy or undermining faith in our elections based on unproven charges and conspiracy theories. We have always found a way to move forward. This time should be no different, and the need to focus on critical policy priorities is more urgent than ever.

“Hundreds of thousands of Americans are dying from COVID-19—carnage on the scale of a 9/11 event every single day for the past 117 days. Millions are suffering through another month of joblessness, school closures, lack of basic food and necessities and the threat of losing their homes. Throughout this pandemic, America’s manufacturing workers have heroically stepped up to ensure that our country has the supplies, food, vaccines, medicines and equipment we need. Our industry has been fighting to protect our country, and now we ask Congress to join us in healing our nation, instead of fostering more division and vitriol.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.1 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org

Washington, D.C. – Following the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision on emissions standards for airplanes, which aligns U.S. standards with those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, National Association of Manufacturers Vice President of Energy and Resources Policy Rachel Jones released the following statement:

“America’s aerospace manufacturers have been pioneers in developing the technologies that have cut in half airline travel’s carbon footprint over the past 30 years. We support these new CO₂ standards because aligning with international rules will further strengthen the American aerospace manufacturing sector and drive innovation, support American jobs and put us in a position to continue leading on the global stage. As we help lead our country’s response to COVID-19, manufacturers remain committed to advancing responsible environmental stewardship.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Manufacturers released its final Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey of the year, which showed optimism climbing from its low in the second quarter brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the fourth quarter, 74.2% of manufacturers responding to the survey felt positive about their own company’s outlook, up from 66% last quarter. While encouraging, a wide gap remains between today’s numbers and the 90% average in 2019.

After two quarters with weaker domestic demand topping the list of primary business challenges, the inability to attract and retain talent lead the pack once again in the fourth quarter with 62.4% of respondents listing it as their primary current business challenge. Prior to COVID-19, workforce challenges had been the main concern for 10 consecutive quarters. According to the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 525,000 job openings in manufacturing in October, a record high.

“There’s no question manufacturers have rebounded since the dramatic downturn in the spring, although a return to pre-pandemic optimism is still months away,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “We were looking at levels of anxiety not seen since the Great Recession. The recent relief bill passed in Congress must be signed immediately. This, coupled with the manufacturing and distribution of vaccines, will help ensure we don’t go backward. But it’s clear that to keep moving forward in 2021, we’ll need to see more bold action that fosters growth and competitiveness for manufacturers in America and caution against any efforts that may undermine the fragile progress made in the closing months of 2020.

“It will surprise many to know that manufacturers have more than half a million jobs to fill right now. We’re hiring, and that’s why workforce challenges are once again the top concern in our survey. The pandemic delayed our Creators Wanted Tour, but we will be launching virtual tour events in 2021 and hitting the road when it’s safe. And we look forward to working with the new Congress and new administration to help more Americans take advantage of the great career opportunities in modern manufacturing.”

Read the full survey results here.

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the EPA announced its final decision to retain the clean air standards for ozone. NAM Vice President of Energy and Resources Policy Rachel Jones released the following statement:

“Manufacturers’ commitment to clean air is why we support the EPA’s decision to keep the ozone standards established under the Obama administration. This decision comes after careful review and consideration of the most current available scientific evidence and risk and exposure information, as well as consultation with the agency’s independent science advisors.

“This decision, based on sound science, advances important goals while supporting sustainable domestic growth. We have long supported smart policies that protect the environment and improve public health, and the policy announced today is the right approach.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org

Washington, D.C. – Following passage of Senate amendment to H.R. 133 – United States Mexico Economic Partnership Act [Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021], National Association of Manufacturers Vice President of Government Relations Jordan Stoick released the following statement:

“Manufacturers secured many of our top priorities in this important legislation, including numerous provisions the NAM first proposed in our ‘American Renewal Action Plan.’ The additional funds for the Paycheck Protection Program will provide a continued lifeline for small manufacturers. Furthermore, the resources for testing and vaccine distribution, as well as tax incentives for manufacturers that keep employees on payroll and invest in safety measures, will ensure America’s dedicated, essential manufacturing workers can continue their mission safely.

“Across the country, manufacturers are providing the vaccines, PPE and supplies needed to defeat COVID-19, so we have been fully engaged with House and Senate leaders to keep this vital work going. We have a difficult winter ahead, and this legislation will help save lives and livelihoods and keep manufacturers operating. As folks continue to roll up their sleeves and receive initial doses of the vaccine, we are also looking to the other priorities facing us in the new year—including historic investments in infrastructure, energy innovation and more—to ensure manufacturers can lead a full economic recovery and American renewal.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – Following President-elect Joe Biden’s nomination of North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Michael Regan to be administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:

“Manufacturers take seriously our responsibility to drive economic growth while being good stewards of the environment. Over the past decade, manufacturers in America reduced the carbon footprint of our products by 21%, while contributing 18% more value to the American economy. Across the board, we have outpaced our competitors around the world in reducing emissions, while pushing the EPA to improve and streamline its rulemaking processes. Manufacturers have led the way in innovations that improve energy efficiency and save and recycle water, we have implemented successful initiatives to reduce pollution and waste. We know that through smart policy and regulations based in science, we can continue to achieve our goals.

“So we look forward to working with Michael Regan when he becomes EPA administrator and regularly providing our perspectives on critical issues facing our industry, our workers and our environment. Given his previous service at the EPA under Presidents Clinton and Bush, he knows the agency well, and we congratulate him on his nomination. As we’ve often said, when given regulatory clarity and the tools to be competitive, manufacturers will keep our promises to protect our earth, the only home we have.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – Following President-elect Joe Biden’s nomination of Rep. Debra Haaland (D-NM) to be secretary of the Department of the Interior, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:

“We congratulate Rep. Haaland on her history-making nomination to serve as U.S. Secretary of the Interior. Manufacturers are committed to the responsible stewardship of America’s lands, waters and resources, and we look forward to working with Secretary-designate Haaland. America is blessed with abundant and diverse natural resources, and when we responsibly harness their potential, we create opportunities to build stronger communities, a vibrant economy and a brighter future—all while advancing conservation and sustainability.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – Following President-elect Joe Biden’s nomination of former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm to be Secretary of Energy, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:

“As a former governor of Michigan, Jennifer Granholm understands that a strong and thriving manufacturing industry means well-paying jobs for American workers. She also knows that manufacturers in America not only are innovative producers of domestic energy but also depend on a reliable energy supply to grow and create jobs.

“We look forward to working with her in pursuit of manufacturers’ ‘all-of-the-above’ approach to energy development, balancing the needs of American consumers and manufacturers, the opportunities for American workers and the responsibilities of protecting our environment. And we congratulate Gov. Granholm on her nomination.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org

Washington, D.C. – National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement on the loss of his father, Warner Timmons, to COVID-19:

“Our hearts were shattered last night when the patriarch of our family, Warner Timmons, died alone in a hospital. Our family is now among the hundreds of thousands of grieving families who have had a loved one suddenly and senselessly stolen by COVID-19. My mother, his wife of 66 years, was allowed to visit my father’s hospital bedside to say a final farewell the day before only because she had already recovered from the same virus. My husband, my children and I had to say our last ‘I love you’ over a computer screen.

“This hurts. It hurts in ways I never imagined. As my entire family has been, Dad had been extraordinarily careful in following CDC guidelines, even as others in public places were not.  Just a couple of weeks ago, my father was perfectly healthy. With his energy and strength, you could have mistaken him for someone decades younger. He had no preexisting conditions, no serious health issues, no ‘co-morbidities.’ He bragged about not even having had a cold since 2004. That’s how powerful and virulent this virus is. It can take any of us.

“Over the years, the father–son bond between my Dad and me had gotten so much stronger.  We always had a special relationship, perhaps because I am my parents’ only child. But when Rick and I had children of our own, the relationship became even more special as I watched him interact with his grandchildren—a goofy, fun, pure love that impacted them profoundly.

“I am proud and blessed to be Warner Timmons’ son. I share his name, as does my own son. I inherited his sarcastic chuckle and his devious laugh, as well as his love of practical jokes—and there has never been someone as good at them as him. His timing was perfect right until the end. He always looked out for those less fortunate and was always rooting for the underdog—traits that he impressed on me to carry with me throughout my career. He passed on his love of animals, especially rescued dogs and cats, of which there were many in our family. Dad taught me how to tie a tie perfectly as I entered the working world—a full Windsor knot with a dimple in the center, even though I was applying to work at a fast-food restaurant. He taught me to be respectful to every other human being I encountered and to always have confidence in myself. Even though he was raised in difficult economic conditions during the Great Depression, he coached me on the importance of table manners, of extending courtesy toward others and of maintaining a firm handshake. He taught me to work hard and to take pride in that work. His own work ethic was strengthened during his time in the U.S. Air Force, where he was an airman first class—and was also first chair trumpet in the Air Force Band on his last tour of duty in the former French Morocco in the 1950s. He enjoyed passing along his love of music to his grandkids. I, however, did not inherit that talent. Nor did I enjoy fishing as much as he did, but we did a lot of it when I was a kid, and his grandchildren have many fond memories of learning to fish with their beloved Granddaddy.

“This was all so preventable. For the past 10 months, I’ve tried to do everything I can personally and professionally to help save lives and livelihoods from COVID-19—to encourage Americans to do the right thing, to protect the most vulnerable, to support those on the front lines of this fight and to safeguard manufacturers in the United States. To watch others flout the guidelines even as doctors and nurses do herculean work has been frustrating. My father’s death leaves a profound sense of sadness laced with anger. The fact is that my Dad—like thousands and thousands of other Americans—would no doubt be alive if someone else had just been a little more cautious and even done something as simple and effortless as wearing a face covering. And that careless individual may have taken the virus more seriously if our national leaders had modeled appropriate behavior and done more to encourage Americans to follow those simple guidelines that would have kept our country safe. And I say all of this only in the hope that it will awaken others to the need to be more careful and more considerate of our fellow human beings.

“So this is my plea as I prepare to bury my father and comfort my mother for a life without her soulmate: wear a face covering, practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings of all types, wash your hands and always be cautious. Protect your loved ones and your neighbors. These winter months, while manufacturers produce and distribute vaccines, are the most critical yet.

“Maybe the most important thing I learned from my Dad is to never back down from a fight. So, Dad, I promise you one more time that I won’t stop now. I’ll keep fighting, in every way I can, to help others and to get our country that you loved so much to the other side of this nightmare that was so preventable. And I will hope and pray that doing so will protect other families from enduring the searing pain that we feel right now.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – Following President-elect Joe Biden’s nomination of former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be Secretary of Transportation, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:

“Manufacturers congratulate former Mayor Pete Buttigieg on his nomination to lead the Transportation Department. He hails from a manufacturing state, so he knows the critical role our industry plays in our economic recovery. And for our country to recover—to ‘build back better’ as President-elect Biden says—we absolutely need to see infrastructure investment of historic proportion.

“From roads and bridges to waterways, electric grids and 5G technology, the future of modern manufacturing depends on the strength of our infrastructure. America should be leading the world in modern infrastructure, not falling behind, so we look forward to working with Secretary-designate Buttigieg to achieve the goals manufacturers have laid out in our ‘Building to Win’ plan.”

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.2 million men and women, contributes $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and has the largest economic multiplier of any major sector and accounts for 62% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.