If US manufacturers wish to reshore, they'll need to address and navigate the most vital obstacle- the stagnating labor strategy in the wake of the existing labor shortage.

The manufacturing sector has taken a blow from all the tariff uncertainties that plagued the market in 2025. It wasn't a fundamentally successful year for the domain as it continued to contract. Costs surged, and investments steadily declined. Even employment has taken a toll.

A factor that has remained consistent.

The manufacturing industry had seen a silver lining even in the wake of an acute labor deficit in 2024. The domain wasn't seen as a sustainable career choice due to significant downsizing and offshoring. But nevertheless, it continued to expand.

The influences are different now. However, the challenge remains the same- a lack of knowledgeable labor. Especially, to contribute to smart manufacturing operations and uncover a host of opportunities.

That's precisely what AFIMAC draws into- the know-how on tackling the gap. And a fundamental need to revise the existing labor strategy.