As we enter 2010, increased improvements in manufacturing processes from around the globe continue to shake the foundation of the domestic manufacturing industry. The manufacturing sector is battling back as leaner and more efficient, ready to support the so-called second manufacturing revolution: manufacturing green energy.

By implementing advances and innovations; collaborating and partnering with other manufacturers and educators; and playing an active role in closing the gap in the pending shortage for skilled manufacturing workers, manufacturers are working to turn the tide. Discover the role economic developers play in assisting businesses as they adapt in “Manufacturing Facilities: Humming Again?

In fact, manufacturing companies are finding success and adding value to their products by leveraging their investments in skilled American workers. Find out more by viewing “In Manufacturing, It's About The Workforce.”

In one segment of manufacturing, aerospace, leaders in civil, commercial and general aviation are implementing innovations in the air traffic control infrastructure, as well as in product development, to serve emerging sectors such as unmanned aerial vehicles. Learn how the industry will progress in the coming years in “Multiple Opportunities For Aerospace In The New Decade.”

Coverage on the aerospace sector would not be complete without including the executive summary of the Aerospace Industries Association's annual industry review and forecast, which was released in December. See what's happening among the various aerospace segments in “Aerospace Industry To Endure Turbulence; Bright Spots Appear.”

Speaking of turbulence, it turns out there is a silver lining to the increases in the nation's unemployment rate, which involves the creative economy and taking risks. In “The Creative Destruction Of Layoffs” we learn the results when regions take coordinated approaches to economic development, workforce development and entrepreneurship.

Rounding out the creative economy feature series is “Tune In Executives,” which outlines how best to determine if your current or next business destination is a place talent will want to call home. There's a significant difference between what executives think the next gen wants, and what the next gen actually wants.

Wishing you a prosperous 2010,

Rachel Duran

Editor In Chief