Manufacturing needs workers

New England’s manufacturing sector is often viewed as a dwindling, weakened force that is much more a piece of our past than a relevant component of our present economy.


Nicholas Salcedo, a robotics technician, gets a robotic arm ready for shipment at Yushin, in Cranston.
THE PROVIDENCE JOURNAL/MARY MURPHY

Providence, Rhode Island – But the reality is manufacturing is still a strong sector for the region: it just looks different. Last year, Rhode Island exported $1.68 billion in manufactured goods, and manufacturing remains a critical piece of the local economy.

Despite this success, it will take a partnership among New England policymakers, business leaders and academia to fully realize the opportunities presented by modern, high-tech advanced manufacturing.

Click here to read the full article by John Hailer and James Brett -  John Hailer is chairman of the New England Council, and president and CEO for Natixis Global Asset Management in the Americas and Asia. James Brett is the New England Council’s president and CEO.