The Global Challenge to America's Engineering and Innovation Position

摘要

"Analyses of current trends (in the U.S. science and engineering workforce)... indicate serious problems lie ahead that may threaten our long-term prosperity and national security." That statement was published back in 2003. Since then, the global market has been somewhat of a double-edged sword for American manufacturing companies. While gear companies and other manufacturers have discovered potential new customers, they also have been engaged in a highly competitive climate and difficult global economy over the last couple of years. Perhaps, an overview of the changes and challenges is required to assess future prospects for 2012 and beyond. Despite the fact the United States is still a leader in innovation and quality, it cannot compete with many of the emerging economies that produce goods cheaper and faster. Factor in new Southeast Asian trade deals that the U.S. administration opened in 2011, and more fuel may be added to the outsourcing fires. Until these economies become more complex and less cost effective, America will remain mostly a buyer, not a seller.