The Manufacturing Report

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.