Hearing of the House Committee on Science and Technolog, Subcommittee on Technology & Innovation - Commerce Department Programs to Support Job Creation and Innovation at Small- and Medium-Sized Manufacturers

Statement

Opening Statement By Chairman David Wu

Good morning, I would like to thank everyone, and especially our witnesses, for coming to this morning's hearing on Department of Commerce programs to support job creation and innovation. The purpose of this hearing is to understand the challenges facing small and medium-sized manufacturers, and to learn about the initiatives the Commerce Department has launched to help these businesses.

The health of the manufacturing sector is critically important to the health of the economy as a whole, responsible for the creation of over $1.637 trillion worth of goods in 2008. This sector employs between 11 and 13 million Americans, and accounts for over half of the Nation's exports. Small and medium-sized manufacturers play a particularly important role in American manufacturing, representing the vast majority of the 286,000 manufacturing firms in the U.S.

Even before the economic crisis of 2008, these manufacturers have had to weather difficult economic circumstances, particularly from foreign competition. The current economic situation has made it difficult for these businesses to access credit. Many have had to adjust to the slowdown of their large customers, like the smaller firms that supply the auto industry. These are on top of the existing challenges small- and medium-sized manufacturers already face, such as finding skilled workers, exporting to foreign markets, and keeping pace with rapid changes in technology.

In the face of increasing foreign competition, capitalizing on our R&D is crucial. Firms that transition and manufacture new technology will be critical to growing U.S. manufacturing.

I am glad to have the opportunity today to learn about the pressing problems of small and medium-sized manufacturers from individuals who are closely connected with these firms. Programs like the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership have a proven track record of helping small and medium-sized manufacturing firms become more competitive and retain and create jobs. Manufacturing jobs are good jobs and I hope the success of MEP can be replicated in these other Commerce Department initiatives.

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