In a grand endeavor to celebrate the contributions of the U.S. equipment manufacturing industry and its workers, the AEM Manufacturing Express Tour was organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and spanned from July to October 2024. Covering over 10,000 miles and making 80 stops across 22 states, the tour aimed to honor the 2.3 million individuals in the industry who create and sustain essential tools and equipment for construction and agriculture, reinforcing the critical role they play in the U.S. economy.
Tour Objective
The primary objective of the AEM Manufacturing Express was to recognize the hard work, innovation, and significant contributions of equipment manufacturers in the United States. The tour not only served as a platform to celebrate these employees and their families but also showcased company products and innovations. It facilitated engagement between the industry and the community, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sector’s integral role in the nation’s prosperity.
Tour Route and Conclusion
Kicking off on July 1 in Knoxville, Iowa, the tour journeyed through numerous states before wrapping up in Wisconsin, which houses AEM’s headquarters. The final stops included visits to major manufacturers like CASE-CNH Industrial, Wacker Neuson, Super Products LLC, and HUSCO. The tour concluded with a festive event in Menomonee Falls, celebrating the success of the journey and the contributions of the manufacturing sector to the national economy.
Community and Industry Impact
During its extensive journey, the tour highlighted the economic significance of the equipment manufacturing sector. In Wisconsin alone, 180,000 workers contribute a staggering $21.8 billion to the national economy, underscoring the industry as a backbone of America. This sector is essential not only for building infrastructure but also for supporting and sustaining communities, making its role in the national fabric undeniable.
Engagement and Interactive Components
At each stop, the AEM Manufacturing Express included interactive elements designed to educate and engage attendees. One notable feature was the “Manufacturing Challenge” trivia game, which offered participants the chance to learn industry facts and win prizes, including a Ford F-150. These interactive activities fostered greater knowledge and appreciation of the sector, making the tour both informative and entertaining.
Advocacy for Manufacturing Policies
A recurring message throughout the tour was the advocacy for pro-manufacturing policies. Industry leaders emphasized the need for continuous investment, job creation, and supportive legislation that encourages growth and innovation in the manufacturing sector. This call for support transcended political affiliations, highlighting the shared goal of sustaining a robust and vibrant manufacturing industry.
Notable Speakers and Messages
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) organized the AEM Manufacturing Express Tour from July to October 2024 to honor the contributions of the U.S. equipment manufacturing industry and its workers. This extensive tour covered over 10,000 miles, making 80 stops in 22 states. It aimed to celebrate the 2.3 million individuals employed in this vital sector, who produce and maintain the machinery essential for construction and agriculture. Their work is crucial to the economy, providing the tools and equipment that keep these industries moving forward.
The tour not only highlighted the industry’s impact but also sought to promote the importance of manufacturing jobs, showcasing the innovation and dedication of the workforce. It served as a platform to raise awareness about the critical role these workers play in sustaining and advancing the U.S. economy. By traveling across such a vast distance and engaging with so many communities, the AEM Manufacturing Express Tour emphasized the widespread significance of this industry and its workforce in everyday American life, ensuring their contributions do not go unnoticed.
