Washington, D.C. – Manufacturing gained 60,000 jobs in October, according to new figures released on Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The auto industry saw major gains, with motor vehicles and parts recording 28,000 new jobs. Other sectors that saw growth included fabricated metal products, which registered 6,000 new jobs. Chemicals also saw 6,000 new jobs.
Manufacturing remains down 270,000 jobs since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in February 2020.
Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul said:
“Boom! The surge in factory jobs is welcome news. In spite of supply chain woes, a burgeoning trade deficit, and a lack of action on Capitol Hill on much-needed investments, manufacturing is still growing. Imagine the possibilities for blue-collar workers if we reshore more work and upgrade our infrastructure, ensuring our new technologies and clean energy solutions are Made in America.
“While the U.S. added nearly 400,000 manufacturing jobs over the past year, the sector is still 270,000 jobs down from the start of the pandemic. We’re committed to keeping our policymakers focused on making these new investments in American manufacturing and shaping a trade policy that is worker-centered.”