AMT Urges Protection of Technology Suppliers to Position GM for a Stronger Future
The Association For Manufacturing Technology (AMT, McLean, VA) is urging Congress and the Administration to protect the manufacturing technology supplier base in the wake of GM?s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, in order to ensure the continued strength of American manufacturing,
According to the association, bankruptcy can often lead to a company emerging leaner, more responsive and with a business plan that is more likely to lead to success than the status quo. Manufacturing technology suppliers are a crucial component to ensuring that a revived GM is once again a top international competitor, with the ability to produce the most advanced vehicles in the world. But if government fails to act, a number of those technology suppliers might not exist to further the mission of a revitalized American automotive industry.
"One critical action that government can take right now is to expand the Auto Supplier Support Program to include manufacturing technology providers up and down the supply chain, as currently they are not receiving any direct funds from the program,? said Douglas K. Woods, AMT President. "Additionally, GM has so far received $19.4 billion from the federal government to cover operations and losses. The total could reach as much as $50 billion in government support. Some portion of the additional funds should be funneled toward its key manufacturing technology providers.?
AMT?s attempts to reach out to the President?s Auto Task Force have so far not been answered. However, AMT believes it is imperative that the task force understands the vital role that manufacturing technology plays not just in the automotive industry, but also in such critical industries as renewable energy and medical. Many technology providers that supply the automotive industry also support the defense industry.
AMT implores the Administration and Congress to ensure that automotive supply chain participants are protected and also encouraged to continue toward the rebuilding of GM.
