Manufacturing under Pressure

Manufacturing is not enjoying the heyday it once did, but in America’s industrial heartland, it is still very much alive. The industry faces many challenges, and one is finding and retaining its next generation of workers. Solving the problem promises benefits to people, companies, and entire communities. Falling short means missed opportunities: undiscovered careers, firms that can’t grow as much or as fast, and communities constrained by the weakening of the sector.

This three-part series explores the booms and busts; the opportunities available for workers, including those without four-year degrees; and the ways that people, companies, and communities are responding—and can respond—to changes and challenges.