Six Key Predictions for 2015 Manufacturing

Joe Weinlick
Posted by in Manufacturing


Manufacturing trends in 2015 are likely to have a very positive impact on the U.S. economy if the following six key predictions prove to be true. From bringing more manufacturing back to the country to expanding the reach of technology in the industry, 2015 could see some powerful changes for people looking for manufacturing jobs in the United States.

More Reshoring, But Slower

Reshoring is definitely one of the manufacturing trends that has many job seekers excited, especially as it opens up more jobs on domestic soil. This is thanks in part to an abundance of investments into the retrieval of U.S. deposits of natural gas, one of the biggest sources of power for many manufacturing factories. More inexpensive gas means more money for production and more money for hiring.

The reshoring trend is not new, as higher shipping costs and increased labor costs have forced manufacturers to consider reshoring to save money on production. The trend occurs more slowly than before and is not likely to affect those industries where low cost foreign production remains a better financial option.

Manufacturing Boom in the United States

Future manufacturing trends indicate the United States is on the brink of a manufacturing boom in 2015 thanks to the increase in domestic production. Manufacturing jobs do not necessarily grow at the same pace, however, since new technologies have eliminated many low-skilled jobs. Still, there is likely to be real need for highly skilled manufacturing employees who can keep up with the new technology.

Greater Efficiency Through Software

Software continues to influence manufacturing trends greatly, especially as more money and research is invested into the science of linking everyday objects through the Internet, which opens up a whole new world of communications and convenience. Sensor technologies, Web browser dashboards that control manufacturing machines and mobility-based manufacturing are all likely to be key technological trends in the manufacturing world in 2015. These all work to make production more efficient and save money on the process.

More Focus on Predictive Maintenance

One of the most important manufacturing trends is going to be a focus on predictive maintenance, which involves the use of sensors to identify when a machine is likely to break down. By avoiding massive breakdowns and a loss of production, manufacturers can save huge amounts of money.

Bigger Investment in Capital Equipment

It is out with the old and in with the new, at least where aging, out-of-date capital equipment is concerned. This is partly fueled by the new developments in manufacturing technology, as companies must keep up with the times if they want to succeed.

Manufacturing to Grow Faster Than GDP

According to reports from the Institute of Supply Management, the manufacturing boom predicted in 2015 could allow the industry to grow faster than the nation's GDP for the first time in a very long time. That is good news for the economy and great news for those seeking employment in the manufacturing industry.

If predicted manufacturing trends prove to be as successful as they propose, 2015 could be a very good year for the industry. More domestic jobs, greater profits and more growth could be just what the economy needs for a great new year and beyond.

 

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net


 

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