Operations
US manufacturing adds 16,000 jobs in August
Data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on September 4 showed that manufacturing added 16,000 jobs in August, raising total industry employment to nearly 12.64 million. The ISM employment index fell 1.6 percentage points from July to 51.2%, but overall manufacturing economic activity expanded for the eighth consecutive month to 54.6%.
Replicating success: The key to semiconductor reshoring at scale
Semiconductor manufacturers are investing heavily in new capacity worldwide, with governments in the US, Europe, and Asia continuing to support initiatives to strengthen local semiconductor ecosystems. However, site selection is only the first step; the more challenging task is transferring years of accumulated process optimization, quality control, and operational expertise to new facilities while maintaining equivalent performance levels. This article analyzes challenges in semiconductor reshoring, including compliance, equipment qualification, automation integration, and data continuity, and points out that through standardized equipment, measurement techniques, service procedures, and operating practices, combined with plug-and-play technologies and global service networks, companies can reduce expansion risks and achieve efficient cross-regional replication.
Manufacturing Dive Trendline on Top 5 stories from Manufacturing Dive
Manufacturers are entering the second half of 2026 with cautious optimism, balancing cost pressures from 4.2% inflation against strategic investments in localized supply chains, energy planning and AI projects. Experts highlight the importance of inventory placement and flexibility amid geopolitical and rate uncertainty.
How to choose the right scale for manufacturing applications
In manufacturing processes, weighing accuracy directly affects product quality, operational efficiency, and compliance. Selection cannot be based solely on capacity and dimensions; it requires a comprehensive consideration of process requirements, environmental conditions, sensor performance, and long-term maintenance. This article outlines key considerations and introduces METTLER TOLEDO's GWP® scientific approach, emphasizing that high resolution does not equal high accuracy, and that systematic calibration and maintenance are essential to ensure sustained reliability.
Digital Twin: How Eplan and Rittal Turn Design Efficiency into Business Growth
Manufacturing enterprises often lose efficiency and profit due to information gaps between design, procurement, and production. Eplan and Rittal integrate the process from design to delivery into a single data chain through digital twin technology, eliminating manual handover steps. The case of R&D Specialties shows that after adopting this solution, the team size was reduced from 14 to 8 people, productivity increased by 40%, and no additional hiring was needed.
Data center construction demand boosts, Deere raises sales outlook
Deere & Company raised its 2026 sales outlook, benefiting from increased orders for construction equipment driven by data centers and large infrastructure projects. The company's construction and forestry division saw quarterly sales up 18% year-over-year, but the agricultural division still faces challenges.
Z-Polymers CEO：新材料是制造业创新的关键驱动力
Z-Polymers首席执行官Mike Zimmerman近日接受Manufacturing Dive专访，强调新材料是制造业创新的核心引擎。他指出，尽管开发新工艺和设备相对容易，但真正驱动产品突破的是材料创新。其公司研发的Tullomer材料强度远超钢材，且具备耐高温、低废弃物等特性，已在医疗、航空航天等领域应用。Zimmerman还就材料开发周期长、资金短缺、人才流失及AI在材料科学中的潜力等话题分享见解。
Samsung SDI Buys Out GM's Stake in Indiana EV Battery Plant
Samsung SDI has acquired General Motors' entire 49.99% stake in the SynergyCells EV battery plant in New Carlisle, Indiana, making the facility its first wholly owned battery factory in North America. The move reflects GM's revised electrification strategy amid slower-than-expected EV demand. Samsung SDI will repurpose the plant for stationary energy storage batteries and other high-tech applications. The companies also signed a new agreement to develop high-energy-density, fast-charging prismatic cells for future EVs.
Boeing to Transfer Three Subsidiaries to Archer Aviation in Exchange for Minority Equity Stake
Boeing is divesting three subsidiaries—Wisk Aero, Insitu, and Skygrid—to electric aircraft maker Archer Aviation, acquiring a minority stake and agreeing to invest up to $55 million in Archer's next funding round. The transaction, disclosed in a Monday securities filing, is slated to close by the end of 2026.
Century Aluminum Reaffirms Oklahoma Smelter Timeline Amid Local Opposition
Century Aluminum's CEO Jesse Gary confirms the Oklahoma smelter project remains on schedule for groundbreaking this year and hot metal production by end of 2029, despite local legal challenges and permit reviews.