INFORMATION

U.S. Factory Orders Up Sharply

US factory orders rose 2.7% in November, rebounding from a 1.2% decline in October, driven by a 97.6% surge in commercial aircraft demand, according to the Census Bureau’s delayed report. Orders for electrical equipment, appliances, components, and fabricated metal products also increased. More HERE.

Metal Formers Express Optimism in Latest Report

Metal formers anticipate an increase in economic activity and incoming orders in the coming months, according to the January 2026 Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) Business Conditions Report. The report shows that 49% of manufacturers surveyed expect an increase in general economic activity in the next three months, up significantly from 26% in December. More HERE.

Automation Trends to Watch

As companies lean further into automated software, sensor technologies and robots to fill labor gaps and remain competitive, they also are using AI tools to bolster their cybersecurity. More HERE.

Small Manufacturers Can’t Ignore Attrition Risks

Most manufacturers don’t have structured ways to recognize their people. That might not seem like a big deal until you listen to what workers say they need. According to MustardHub’s 2025 workforce survey, 36% of respondents want regular appreciation and feedback. That also ranked as the No. 1 engagement driver for employees. (Not more money or better hours, though these are still important.) More HERE.

Hidden Air Leaks Are Draining Machine Shop Profitability

Receiver tanks, condensate drains, actuators, hoses and more are among the trouble spots in supply, distribution, and machinery. Neglecting leaks leads to repairs and expenses that outpace profits. Find out what can be done HERE.

DHS Finalizes New Weighted Selection Rule for H-1B Petitions

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security finalized a new rule implementing a weighted selection process for H-1B petitions. Effective February 27, 2026, the rule introduces a weighted selection process that prioritizes H-1B registrations based on the offered wage. This new framework will apply for the upcoming H-1B cap season and may impact your business’s immigration strategy. More HERE.

How Digitally Mature is Manufacturing Today?

Siemens research highlights the stages of digitalization maturity, emphasizing the importance of integration, digital threads, and the development of the Industrial Metaverse. More HERE.

U.S., India to Slash Tariffs Under New Trade Deal

The deal will result in India charging a zero percent levy on American goods entering the country, according to the president. More HERE.

Manufacturing PMI Expands in Jan. for First Time in a Year

U.S. manufacturing activity expanded for the first time in 12 months in January, with the Institute for Supply Management’s manufacturing PMI measuring 52.6, up from 47.9 in December. More HERE.

New Orders for Mfg. Good Increases

New orders for manufactured goods increased 2.7% in November, following a 1.2% decline in October. New orders for manufactured goods grew 3.4% over the year. More HERE.

ADVOCACY

Register Now for Virtual Briefings with GOP Governor Candidates

TMA members will have the opportunity to hear directly from the Republican candidates for Governor in the March 17 election and to ask questions, TMA has scheduled individual virtual briefings with all four candidates. Please register to participate in these briefings:

Inside Politics: 2026 Primary Election Analysis

More than 150 state and federal candidates are on the ballot in TMA member districts in the upcoming primary election. TMA is hosting an “Inside Politics: 2026 Primary Election Analysis” cigar event with political strategist Collin Corbett and his political team who will handicap the races. Join us 4:30-6:30pm on Feb. 17 at Casa de Montecristo in Villa Park. Register HERE.

Trump Picks Warsh as Fed Chair

President Donald Trump has announced his nomination of Kevin Warsh to replace the soon-to-be outgoing chair of the Federal Reserve, Jerome Powell. Back in 2017, Warsh was among the candidates Trump considered before deciding on Powell. Warsh holds degrees from Stanford University and Harvard, worked at Morgan Stanley, and in 2006 became the youngest member to serve on the Fed’s board at age 35.

MEMBERS

TMA Members Gather for Breakfast and Briefing on New Illinois Employment Law

TMA’s Morning Mixer in Tinley Park brought members together for a working breakfast on Illinois employment law regarding foreign and immigrant workers. Jeralyn Baran and Samara Ludwig of Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton led the discussion. TMA members included Tracy Hauppa-Kenyeri, Craig Zoberis, Colin Noone, Ryan Spelman, and Daniel Hession “Goat” Smith.

EVENTS

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PARTNERS

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RESOURCES

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TMA members have access to unlimited, professional HR counsel free of charge via our

HR Hotline at 888-849-0451. Additional HR services provided at a TMA discounted rate.

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