America Counts: Stories Behind the Numbers

U.S. manufacturing experienced a substantial decline in employment from 2000 to 2010 due largely to the 2008 Great Recession but rebounded ? until the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020. Despite these fluctuations, it began inching up again in 2021.

But the renewed upswing doesn?t mean a return to traditional manual jobs. Instead, manufacturing employers now need a new kind of worker, one with skills to operate in a highly automated environment.

This shift may be opening doors to more women, according to data and trends in the manufacturing industry the Census Bureau is highlighting as the nation celebrates Manufacturing Day (October 7).

Some facts about women in manufacturing:

• They made up about 47% of the American workforce but only 30% worked in manufacturing.
• One out of four management positions were held by women.
• They earned on average 16% more than the national median annual income for women who are employed.

Continue reading?to learn more about:

• Manufacturing historical trends

• Increased diversity

• Recruiting women

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