ver the past few decades, many manufacturing operations, including tool and die making, have been outsourced to countries with lower labor costs, such as China, India and Mexico. This shift was driven by the desire to reduce production costs and maximize profits. As a result, the domestic tool making industry in the United States has shrunk significantly. Tool making is a critical early step to making a component or product a reality. This lack of domestic tooling causes the United States to rely on overseas services to produce most new components. Without the support of foreign tool makers, the domestic production supply chain lacks the ability to create new products or innovate old ones.

The outsourcing of tool making was caused by multiple factors, from education to supply chain issues. If we address many of these, we can strengthen domestic production in the United States and reduce reliance on overseas vendors. In my opinion, one of the most damaging shifts in the American workforce has been a drift away from practical machining experience and computer-aided manufacturing training in and around high school. Understandably, many do not want high school-aged students operating heavy machinery. However, as the tool making landscape changes, the ability to use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to model parts is growing in demand. Often tools are cut and coded on computer numerical control (CNC) machines that require a 3D model or a tooling program to use. These computer-based technical skills have become a requirement that can be used to safely teach manufacturing principles to students while improving an in-demand, marketable skill during high school. If not addressed, this shift will stifle the United States’ ability to innovate and create — one of our core abilities.

This change in the marketplace leaves a technical void where inexperienced machinists do not have enough experience with manual machining principals while the more experienced machinists struggle to adapt to the software or retire before addressing the need. This is a great opportunity to safely train high school-level students in sought after software like SolidWorks and Mastercam and provide practical skills in production and design along the way. These skills even translate well to 3D printing, allowing a student to design and produce components on their own from their home or classroom. The principles and skills learned here can be translated directly to traditional machine shop courses offered at technical colleges where they can combine their knowledge of CAD/CAM software with hands-on machining experience.

To revitalize the tool making industry, we must focus on education and training. With a small number of schools offering STEM-based classes focusing component modeling and machine programming, the barrier to entry for a new machinist is lowered as a skilled machinist does not require four years of college debt to start producing, which in turn reduces labor costs.

Incorporating CAD/CAM software training into high school curriculums can provide students with valuable skills that are in high demand in the manufacturing industry. This can be achieved through partnerships between schools and local businesses, where students can gain hands-on experience and see the real-world applications of their studies. Additionally, technical colleges can offer specialized programs that focus on tool making and other manufacturing skills, providing a direct pathway for students to enter the workforce.

The integration of technology into tool making has revolutionized the industry and reduced the barrier to entry for component production. CAD/CAM software allows for precise modeling and programming of CNC machines. Artificial intelligence is starting to play a greater role in 3D modeling with the ability to complete physics simulations and automatically model from two-dimensional .DXF files. This technology enables the production of complex components with high precision and efficiency from engineers and drafters who are lacking the skills.

By embracing these technological advancements, the United States can enhance its tool making capabilities despite a gap in the workforce and ultimately reduce reliance on foreign manufacturers. Investing in state-of-the-art equipment and software, along with training programs to ensure workers are proficient in using these tools, is crucial. This will not only improve the quality of domestically produced tools but also increase the lead times of United States manufacturers in the global market.

Another critical aspect of revitalizing the tool making industry is addressing supply chain issues. The United States is uniquely positioned for vast and effective domestic and international supply chains, though the country tends to focus on our global supply chains, which cost more to secure and operate. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of relying on overseas suppliers for essential components. Disruptions in global supply chains led to delays and shortages, underscoring the need for a robust domestic manufacturing base. Unfortunately, these changes cannot be made overnight but the effects of a collapsing supply chain due to the lack of domestic tools will be felt overnight.

To mitigate these risks, the United States must invest in building a resilient supply chain for tool making and other manufacturing sectors. This includes developing local sources for raw materials, fostering collaboration between manufacturers and implementing advanced logistics and inventory management systems. By strengthening the domestic supply chain, the United States can ensure a steady supply of essential components and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers.

Government support and policy initiatives played a meaningful role in reducing the domestic tooling market and must continue to play a vital role in revitalizing the tool making industry as well. By providing incentives for businesses to invest in domestic manufacturing, the government can encourage the growth of the tool making sector. Tax breaks, grants and low-interest loans can help companies upgrade their equipment, expand their operations and hire skilled workers.

Additionally, programs using the Department of Defense’s funds could promote research and development in manufacturing technologies that drive innovation and enhance the competitiveness of US manufacturers. Focusing on automating labor-intensive processes, like mold polishing, could significantly reduce lead times and labor, making the domestic tooling market more competitive globally. Collaborations between government agencies, academic institutions and industry leaders can facilitate the development of cutting-edge technologies and best practices in tool making.

The future of the US tool making industry depends on our ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and utilize our technological advancements efficiently. By investing in education and training, embracing modern technologies, addressing supply chain issues and supporting businesses through government initiatives, we can revitalize the industry and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturers.

Furthermore, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement is essential. Encouraging companies to invest in research and development, adopt lean manufacturing principles, and implement advanced quality control measures can drive productivity and efficiency. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements and industry best practices, the US tool making industry can regain its competitive edge.

The decline of the domestic tool making industry in the United States has had significant implications for the manufacturing sector. However, by addressing the key factors that have contributed to this decline, we can strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on overseas manufacturers. It is imperative that the United States can support its own consumerism in a time where global supply chains are restricted. Critical industries such as food and medicine rely greatly on foreign tool makers. In the case of global conflict, the United States is not in the position to easily bring manufacturing of critical components back to its own shores in a timely or cost-effective manner. At present, domestic tool makers are twice the cost of foreign tool makers and often have the same or longer lead times. If the United States were to rely on the current domestic tool production workforce, I have no doubt it would collapse quickly. In the wake of a global event tooling prices would go through the roof while companies clammer to replace foreign tools they cannot retrieve. Naturally, this would lead to increased costs to be passed to the consumer. Ultimately, this would lead to a price increase for nearly everything American consumers buy while lead times could triple or quadruple for an unknown period.

By investing in the future of the tool making industry, we can create a well-compensated skilled workforce, enhance the competitiveness of US manufacturers, and ensure a robust and resilient domestic supply chain that supports its defense strategy. The path forward requires a proactive collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and government agencies to build a sustainable and thriving tool making industry in the United States.

In conclusion, revitalizing the tool making industry is not just about preserving a critical sector of the economy but also about securing the US’s position as a world leader and superpower. By taking proactive measures and investing in the necessary resources, we can create a strong foundation for innovation, growth, and economic prosperity. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of a revitalized tool making industry will be well worth the effort and kick off a new industrial revolution.