A Strong Military Needs a Strong Manufacturing Base. Your Involvement in the NJTMA Helps Support Both.
- Craftsman Marketing Group, LLC
- Sep 30
- 3 min read
The strength of a nation's military is closely tied to its manufacturing capabilities. A well-equipped military requires advanced technology and a steady supply of materials.
The New Jersey Technology & Manufacturing Association (NJTMA) understands the vital link between these two sectors, and the important role played by high-tech manufacturing based in New Jersey. The NJTMA actively supports both the military and NJ manufacturing industry through its various on-going programs.
NJTMA supports initiatives like the NJ Manufacturers Extension Program (NJMEP), Blue Star Mothers, and the New Jersey Mission of Honor to help strengthen our military and connect service members with training and support to help them enter into manufacturing positions in New Jersey.
The Importance of a Strong Manufacturing Base
A strong manufacturing base is critical for national security. It ensures that a country can consistently produce the needed equipment and supplies for its military, reducing dependence on foreign sources. Self-sufficiency becomes especially important during conflicts when supply chains may be disrupted.
Economic statistics highlight this: in 2021, the U.S. manufacturing industry was responsible for approximately 8.5% of the nation's GDP, contributing nearly $2.4 trillion. Additionally, this sector employs over 12 million workers, highlighting its role in job creation. The NJTMA plays a crucial role in enhancing New Jersey's manufacturing base.
By advocating for beneficial policies and providing workforce development resources, and apprenticeship programs, as well as a scholarship program, NJTMA helps ensure skilled workers find their way into open job positions and help keep manufacturing companies adequately staffed.
Supporting Active-Duty Service Members and Their Families
A key initiative of NJTMA is its support for active-duty service members and their families through the Blue Star Mothers program.
This organization helps military families by providing resources and support while their loved ones serve.
Blue Star Mothers engage in various activities, such as sending care packages to deployed service members. In 2022 alone, they sent over 5,000 care packages filled with essential items and personal notes of encouragement.
They also organize community events that bring together families to share their experiences and provide emotional support. This sense of community helps alleviate some challenges military families face, allowing service members to focus on their duties without added stress about their loved ones back home.
Supporting programs like Blue Star Mothers not only boosts the morale of service members but also strengthens the bond between the military and the community. This connection is essential for maintaining a strong military presence and ensuring that service members feel valued.
Training Veterans for Manufacturing Jobs
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging, particularly in finding meaningful employment. The NJ Manufacturers Extension Program (NJMEP) addresses this issue by providing training and resources to help veterans secure jobs in the manufacturing sector.
NJMEP offers programs specifically designed to equip veterans with workplace skills. For example, they provide hands-on training workshops that teach skills in advanced manufacturing techniques and industry-specific certifications. In 2022, NJMEP helped over 1,000 veterans obtain new skills, facilitating their transition into manufacturing roles. By focusing on veterans' strengths and experiences, NJMEP ensures they can smoothly integrate into the workforce, allowing them to contribute significantly to the manufacturing base that supports our military.
This collaboration between NJTMA and NJMEP not only benefits veterans but also strengthens the manufacturing sector.
Companies gain access to dedicated and disciplined individuals who bring valuable experience and a strong work ethic to their roles.
Honoring Our Fallen Heroes
Another essential initiative supported by NJTMA is the NJ Mission of Honor, which ensures dignified military burials for veterans lacking resources for a proper farewell. This program is crucial in giving all veterans the respect they deserve for their service.
NJ Mission of Honor works diligently to coordinate burials, provide necessary resources, and support families during their loss. In 2022, they conducted over 100 military funerals, ensuring that fallen heroes receive proper recognition.
By honoring our veterans, this program reinforces the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. It serves as a powerful reminder that the military community is not just about active-duty personnel but also about honoring those who have served.
The Interconnectedness of Military and Manufacturing
The relationship between a strong military and a robust manufacturing base is clear: a strong military requires a strong manufacturing base. NJTMA continues to support both through supporting the well-being of active-duty service members, veterans, and their families and investing in training, apprenticeship and scholarship programs that connect veterans to high-paid manufacturing jobs. Our work highlights the importance of collaboration between the military and manufacturing industries. When these two pillars work together, they help ensure that our nation remains prepared for future challenges.
We must recognize the interconnectedness of these areas and continue to invest in efforts that support them. Doing so ensures our military remains strong and capable, backed by a robust manufacturing base prepared for future challenges.
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