Nothing personal, but a lot of parents wouldn’t want their kids to work for your manufacturing company. No, it’s not because they think you’re using child labor. Rather, it’s because too many American parents believe that manufacturing jobs aren’t “good jobs.” So when parents talk to their kids about classes and careers, a future in manufacturing isn’t even an option. …

Rick Smith, the founder of the Global Coalition on Additive Manufacturing (GCAM), believes that 3D printing is about to disrupt your industry. In an article for Forbes magazine, the co-founder of CloudDDM claims that industrial 3DP “has reached its tipping point and is about to go mainstream.” Smith then explains why technologies that were once limited to prototyping are now revolutionizing full-scale production.

Cyber attacks aren’t just aimed at websites, computerized databases, and other digital assets. They also target physical assets such as industrial equipment. Late last year, cyber attackers struck a German steel mill and caused massive damage to the facility. Using a technique known as “spear fishing,” cyber criminals stole logins and passwords, accessed furnace control systems, and then caused the equipment to malfunction.

How will the Obama Administration’s plans to extend overtime protection to more workers affect manufacturing in New York State? Under a proposed rule from the U.S. Department of Labor, salaried employees who earn up to $50,400 annually would be eligible for overtime pay.

Makers includes inventors, designers, and artisans who create small batches of products in workshops, garages, and home offices. The Maker Movement is a global phenomenon, but New York City hosts one of the world’s eight great Maker Faires, events that attract tens of thousands of attendees. As the Maker Movement continues to grow, what’s the best way to maximize its economic development potential?

Empire State Development announced FuzeHub Board Member Santokh S. Badesha has earned his 200th Patent from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Badesha plays a vital role at FuzeHub, working with board members and industry experts to connect New York’s small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses to the resources and expertise needed to expand and succeed.

Between 2011 and 2014, the number of NYS solar projects grew from 8,989 to 25,947 – nearly a three-fold increase. Growth in the Albany region was especially strong, and the Capital District added almost 43 new megawatts (MW) of capacity, a five-fold increase.

Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reports for manufacturing and non-manufacturing support interesting sector comparisons.

If you’re skeptical about the quality of 3D printed parts, could DARPA’s development of 3D printing standards change your opinion of additive manufacturing?

Are you optimistic about Made in the USA manufacturing in New York State? According to the Reshoring Initiative, 2014 was another strong year for reshoring and foreign direct investment (FDI). Longer-term trends are also positive.