Happy Manufacturing Day 2024!

What is Manufacturing Day?

Manufacturing Day, celebrated annually on the first Friday of October, serves as an important event to highlight the crucial role manufacturing plays in the United States. It underscores manufacturing’s value as a key driver of economic growth, innovation, job creation, and national security.

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. It’s not just about the production of goods, but also about American ingenuity, global competitiveness, and the strength of national security.

📈 Economic Impact

Manufacturing continues to be a major contributor to the U.S. economy, accounting for 12% of the nation’s GDP. Beyond its economic footprint, it remains a critical source of jobs, creating millions of opportunities across various sectors. The manufacturing industry also fuels research and development, driving innovation and improving product quality.

💡 Innovation Hub

Manufacturers are at the forefront of developing new technologies that shape the future. These not only drive new industries but also inspire entrepreneurial ventures that make life better and businesses more efficient. From advancements in automation to energy efficiency, manufacturing is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

🌍 Global Competitiveness

U.S. manufacturing is making a strong comeback, fueled by advancements in technology and low-cost energy. This revitalization ensures the country remains competitive in the global marketplace. Factors like reshoring initiatives, the rise of artificial intelligence, and increasing consumer demand for “Made in the U.S.A.” products are helping to bring manufacturing back to home soil.

🛡️ National Security

A strong manufacturing base plays a critical role in ensuring national security. From defense to healthcare, a robust manufacturing sector helps maintain supply chain independence and resilience, particularly in sectors essential to national defense.

The Next Generation

Young people are showing some interest in manufacturing, but the numbers remain low. Only 31% of 18-25-year-olds would consider a career in the sector, with just 2% listing it as their top choice. However, as manufacturing becomes more technology-driven, and manufacturing companies invest in their facilities and opportunities, there’s potential for growth in interest. Many young adults are unaware of the diverse career opportunities available, while outdated views of manual labor persist. By offering apprenticeships, increasing exposure to work experiences, and highlighting the industry’s tech-forward and sustainable future, we can attract more young talent to manufacturing. (Source)

Preferred invests in relationships with colleges and students, offering hands-on experiences and mentorships. Through these partnerships, we expose students to a variety of manufacturing career paths, challenging their misconceptions about manufacturing and shaping their future ambitions.


Preferred’s Legacy in Manufacturing

Founded in 1920, Preferred Utilities Manufacturing Corporation has served the industry for over a century. Initially a fuel oil handling company, we were pioneers in researching, designing, and patenting various equipment, including anti-siphon valves, oil heaters, and even seat warmers for Sherman tanks during World War II. Our history includes outfitting heavy ocean liners with fuel equipment during the war—something we remain particularly proud of, reflected in our logo, a sailboat.

Building on this legacy, Preferred has continuously innovated and expanded into new markets. Today, we deliver cutting-edge products, such as instruments and controls systems, monitoring systems, burner applications, mission-critical redundancy systems, nuclear powerplant components, emissions reduction solutions, and renewable fuel technologies.

With 100 years of history behind us, we are ready to face the challenges of the future, navigating the evolving landscape of the manufacturing world. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability propels us into the next century, continuing the proud tradition of American manufacturing.

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