OPINION:
Although political speeches often echo with promises to “bring manufacturing back to America,” those of us in the electrical manufacturing industry know this is more than a campaign slogan; it’s an urgent imperative. Revitalizing domestic manufacturing isn’t a future goal; it’s a mission we’re advancing right now, with real benefits for America’s economic strength and energy security.
Alongside leaders from some of the largest and most innovative electrical manufacturers in America — Eaton, Schneider Electric, Siemens, Southwire and TESCO — I’m proud to sign a joint open letter reaffirming our shared commitment to strengthening American manufacturing. Together, we’re backing that commitment through the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’s new Make It American™ certification program.
Make It American fills a critical gap by translating complex infrastructure requirements into clear, actionable standards and a rigorous third-party certification process. It’s more than a label; it’s a commitment. As public- and private-sector leaders look for ways to strengthen domestic industry, Make It American offers manufacturers a credible path to prove they are building here at home. With independent verification, the program helps companies navigate the Build America, Buy America Act and supports real investment in U.S. supply chains, facilities and workers.
This effort is about more than checking a compliance box. It’s about delivering on the promise that domestic manufacturing can and should be a strategic advantage for our country.
As manufacturers of the critical technologies that power our homes, hospitals, data centers and national defense systems, we know that a strong electrical manufacturing sector is essential to a resilient American economy. In a time of global instability, investing in local supply chains and workforce development is not just smart policy; it’s an economic and national security imperative.
To fully realize the benefits of this investment, however, we need to align industrial and trade policy. That means ensuring fair competition for U.S.-based manufacturers, providing incentives that encourage domestic production and maintaining consistent policies that reinforce resilient, regional supply chains. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association and the companies represented in our joint letter, the first companies to participate in the Make It American program, are stepping up, but we need the policy environment to keep pace.
This program is a visible and verifiable commitment to that vision. It tells customers and communities that we’re not just buying American; we are rebuilding America. It sends a powerful signal to the next generation of engineers, electricians and skilled workers: There is a future for you in American manufacturing. Not just a job, but a career, with purpose, pride and the power to make an impact.
This is a moment of opportunity. We are sourcing more materials domestically, training more American workers and investing in technologies that position the U.S. as a global leader in innovation. Our industry is ready to lead, and we’re inviting others to join us.
The Make It American program supports sectors such as appliances, valves and construction materials. To every company in the manufacturing sector: Now is the time to commit. Join us in building a smarter, more self-reliant America. It’s not just good business. It’s good for our economy, good for our workers and essential for our energy security.
The future of American manufacturing depends on the decisions we make today.
• Debra Phillips is president and CEO of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.