ResilientPath Strategies: Five Steps to Reviving U.S. Manufacturing
- May 19
- 2 min read
The United States recently witnessed an impressive surge in domestic manufacturing investments, but this growth is now at risk of decline. To maintain momentum and ensure a robust manufacturing sector, we can adopt several strategic approaches:
Embrace Certainty and Predictability. Businesses thrive on stability. By providing consistent policies regarding tax credits, regulations, and tariffs, we can encourage domestic investments. Political stability may lack flair but it's essential for economic growth.
Sustain the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Investments. The IRA has played a pivotal role in driving domestic manufacturing investments by offering necessary funding and tax incentives. For the first time ever through the IRA, the tax code provides long-term certainty for clean energy incentives - something fossil energy has enjoyed for a long time - and prioritizes investments in the United States. Continuing IRA investments will help manufacturers invest locally and keep energy costs affordable for businesses and households alike. As a recession beats down our door, now is not the time to walk away from the IRA investments.
Invest in Fundamental Science and R&D. Basic research and development are crucial for advancing manufacturing technologies and maintaining global competitiveness. By fully funding initiatives like the CHIPS and Science Act, we can lay a strong foundation for future growth. Ignoring these investments, only ties the hands of our manufacturers and economy long-term.
Plan for a Future-Ready Economy. The global economy is rapidly evolving — and AI is at the center of that transformation. Yet right now, there’s little evidence the U.S. is truly prepared for what’s coming. Legislative efforts like the CHIPS & Science Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act were strong down payments, but they’re just the beginning. We need a more forward-looking strategy to equip our industries, workforce, and communities for a future defined by advanced technologies. We also can’t afford to ignore the mounting fiscal risks posed by climate change. The economic strain is already showing — from rising costs for families to budgetary pressures on the USG. It’s time to plan smartly, invest strategically, and
treat climate risk not just as an environmental issue, but as a fundamental economic one.
Modernize, Not Decimate, the Federal Civil Service. Federal workers are instrumental in implementing policies effectively. Ensuring they are well-supported and funded helps create a stable environment for investors and reduces economic uncertainty for businesses and state and local governments, who depend on Federal services. Congress needs to step-in to restore funding and confidence in our federal agencies; at the same time, we can work together to modernize the workforce. Let’s transform the USG without all the drama and trauma.
By focusing on these strategies, the U.S. can continue to foster a thriving manufacturing sector. What are your thoughts on these strategies? Please share your views in the comments below.
Laura Gillam, President
ResilientPath Strategies
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