REIMAGINE
MANUFACTURING
A New Framework to Accelerate Southeastern Pennsylvania's Manufacturing Competitiveness
A New Framework to Accelerate Southeastern Pennsylvania's Manufacturing Competitiveness
A New Framework to Accelerate Southeastern Pennsylvania's Manufacturing Competitiveness
Embracing Our Manufacturing Legacy
Historically, Southeastern Pennsylvania has been the epicenter of American manufacturing ingenuity. With a rich heritage dating back to the earliest days of the Republic, the region was witness to the rise of industries that shaped the nation's identity. From iron foundries that fueled the Industrial Revolution to the steel mills that built the backbone of modern infrastructure, the region's factories were the lifeblood of economic vitality.
Take Disston Tools. Founded in 1840 by an English Apprentice, Disston was one of the first companies to create an electric powered steel foundry and through ingenuity and fine craftsmanship, it grew to employ over 8,000 people and occupy 300 acres in the Tacony section of Philadelphia.
As decades rolled on, the manufacturing landscape underwent a transformation. The rise of commodities started to chip away at profit margins, and the allure of manufacturing careers began to fade. Today, warehouses dominate the landscape, offering low-skilled, low-paying jobs that are a far cry from the promising careers that manufacturing could provide to our local workforce.
Tacony looks quite different today and the story of manufacturing has not aged well. Manufacturing jobs have declined nationally, Since January 2000, the United States has lost over a quarter of all domestic manufacturing jobs, a decline of over 4.7 million. However, especially in Southeastern Pennsylvania, where manufacturers face 35,000 job openings annually, the outlook appears bleak.
Photo of the Tacony Section of Philadelphia, where Disston Tools Previously Occupied.
-Chris Scafario | President & CEO, DVIRC
Manufacturing's Vital Role in Critical Infrastructure & National Security
While the manufacturing landscape evolved, one aspect remains steadfast: the critical role of manufacturing in national security. Consider the extensive list of products and technologies vital to our nation's defense. Take a moment to appreciate the enormity of the Columbia-class submarine program operating in Philadelphia's Navy Shipyard. Approximately 25 to 30% of its parts are sourced within a mere 150-mile radius of the city.
Beyond national defense, manufacturers support critical infrastructure sectors, providing the materials and components necessary for various projects, from building dams to enhancing food and agricultural infrastructure. These sectors collectively form the backbone of the nation's infrastructure and rely heavily on American manufacturing.
Rather than viewing themselves as just commodity producers or job shops, manufacturers should consider how their products could enhance the lives of end-users. By focusing on the impact of their widgets and components, manufacturers can differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
DVIRC, in partnership with organizations like Milltech, is taking concrete steps to reshape the manufacturing landscape in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Our mission is to connect manufacturers with real-world problems and solutions. By identifying opportunities for innovation, manufacturers can pivot toward growth, ushering in a manufacturing renaissance in the region.
Unlike other personal achievements that fade away, a successful business can endure for generations. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that this legacy thrives. It's a question we should all be asking ourselves: What will we do to ensure our businesses continue to thrive 50 years from now?
Consider the example of Disston Saws, which sustained their business for about 150 years before experiencing a decline. It's up to us to reimagine the role of manufacturing in our region and ensure that it serves as a launchpad for innovation and prosperity.
DVIRC is dedicated to this goal which is why we're adopting this Moonshot mission to help our region embrace innovation, technology, and partnership while reimagining the role of manufacturing:
It’s the year 2030 and DVIRC is…
Connecting the brightest minds, most advanced technologies, and boldest innovations.
Transforming Southeastern Pennsylvania into a globally recognized hub for advanced manufacturing excellence.
Designing and building next generation life sustaining, life enriching, and life defending goods, services, and technologies.
Creating family sustaining careers, a thriving regional economy, and the benchmark for an American Manufacturing Renaissance.
DVIRC’s 2030 Manufacturing Moonshot is reimagining how we can advance our region and accelerate America’s industrial competitiveness through 5 key areas:
Focused efforts to develop a pipeline of skilled workers.
Incorporating new technologies into manufacturing processes and bringing innovative products to market.
Implementing strategies to ensure supply chains are robust and adaptable in the face of disruptions.
Offering resources and guidance to manufacturers to secure funding, access expert knowledge, and pursue opportunities for business expansion.
Assisting companies in planning for leadership transitions and retaining businesses within the local region.
Innovation's Launchpad
While we may never regain our status as "America's workshop," Southeastern Pennsylvania can certainly become a launchpad for innovation and a source of prosperity once more.
In this era of unprecedented challenges and opportunities, the path to a manufacturing renaissance is open, and it's a journey that will require collective effort, innovation, and unwavering commitment. We're all in for manufacturing's moonshot, and together, we'll redefine the future of Southeastern Pennsylvania's manufacturing landscape.
So, who's with us on this exhilarating journey? Let's reimagine manufacturing and propel Southeastern Pennsylvania into an era of unparalleled excellence and prosperity.
