<p>In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today powered by Veryable, host Matt Horine discusses the future of the American manufacturing landscape with Chris Luecke, Host of the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast. The conversation delves into the origins and evolution of Manufacturing Happy Hour, the key themes recurring in industry discussions, and the critical role of culture in manufacturing. Chris shares insights on current trends like nearshoring, automation, and the integration of AI, along with their impact on productivity and workforce retention. The dialogue also touches on how the industry can remain resilient and competitive by investing in workforce culture and strategically implementing technology. Chris offers his perspectives on the importance of attracting the next generation to manufacturing and suggests practical steps leaders can take to enhance their organizational culture. The episode concludes with predictions for the manufacturing sector in 2026 and advice on developing effective strategies for the future.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today</p><p>00:15 Meet Chris Luecke: Founder of Manufacturing Happy Hour</p><p>01:15 The Origin Story of Manufacturing Happy Hour</p><p>01:42 Evolution and Impact of Manufacturing Happy Hour</p><p>04:34 Common Themes in Manufacturing: Workforce and Automation</p><p>06:49 The Importance of Culture in Manufacturing</p><p>11:12 Trends and Challenges in Manufacturing: 2025 Recap</p><p>16:39 The Role of AI and Technology in Manufacturing</p><p>21:54 Reshoring and Nearshoring: Building Resilient Manufacturing</p><p>24:27 Workforce Development: Adapting to New Realities</p><p>28:59 Looking Ahead: Predictions for US Manufacturing in 2026</p><p>32:26 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Links</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwluecke/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Chris on LinkedIn</a></p><p><a href="http://www.chrisluecke.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Chris&#39;s Website</a></p><p><a href="https://manufacturinghappyhour.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Manufacturing Happy Hour</a></p><p><a href="https://sustainment.com/">⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠</a><a href="https://www.veryableops.com/navigating-trump-2-0">⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.veryableops.com">⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://company.veryableops.com/create-profile">⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠⁠</a></p>