Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: Celebrating Nebraska Manufacturing

Manufacturing is critical for Nebraska’s economy. It contributes $21.6 billion to our annual gross domestic product. That’s a 57% increase from five years ago. Manufacturing is our second-largest economic sector. It’s easy to see why. Whether it’s the food we eat, the machines we use, or the tools that help farmers and ranchers thrive, manufacturing touches every part of our daily lives. As we end Manufacturing Month, let’s celebrate the many successes of this growing industry.

Manufacturing is a major job-creator. Ten percent of all jobs in Nebraska are tied directly to this vital industry. Nearly 110,000 Nebraskans wake up each morning, put on their hard hats or other protective equipment, and head to work in a factory, shop, or plant. These Nebraskans aren’t just earning a paycheck. They’re building a future for their families. They’re strengthening our communities. And they’re driving the engine of our state’s economy.

Our state leads in food manufacturing. Whether it’s beef, pork, dairy, or grains, Nebraska food products feed and fuel the world. Our food manufacturers ensure Nebraska-grown food products reach tables everywhere. Nebraska also leads in fabricated metal products used in everything from farming equipment to irrigation systems, vehicles, and construction. We’re at the forefront of innovation when it comes to water management. In fact, we’re the Silicon Valley of irrigation technology. The majority of the world’s center pivot irrigation systems are made here. Our technology helps farmers around the world improve yields and reduce water waste. That’s Nebraska ingenuity at work.

Supporting manufacturing has long been a priority for me. As Governor, I led trade missions all over the world to promote Nebraska manufactured products. We launched the Developing Youth Talent Initiative to give students exposure to manufacturing careers. We promoted partnerships between local employers and schools to encourage hands-on career exploration and skills development. We expanded the use of Registered Apprenticeships to allow more high school students to gain on-the-job experience while earning college credits. And we cut taxes for hardworking families and businesses.

As Senator, I’m fighting to extend the Trump tax cuts which supported manufacturing. Those tax cuts contained critical, pro-growth provisions like a lower corporate tax rate and expensing for research and development. I’m also working to reduce the corporate tax rate for domestic production. And I introduced legislation to bolster and protect our domestic food and agriculture supply chains and reduce our reliance on foreign adversaries.

On the Environment and Public Works Committee, I’m pushing back on the many burdensome regulations and mandates that drive up the cost of doing business. For example, bureaucratic mismanagement has created delays in the processing of wood imports. This has increased storage costs and raised the cost of wood. I introduced a bill to streamline this process and prevent American businesses from paying the price. I also introduced a bill to expand the use of Nebraska-manufactured biofuels on American ships. On the Foreign Relations Committee, I’m calling out the Biden-Harris administration for its failure to fight for American businesses abroad. I’m fighting against EU mandates that would threaten American manufacturers’ ability to compete in the European market.

The women and men in manufacturing are building more than just products. They’re building a future for our state. Because of their hard work, I’m confident that Nebraska’s manufacturing future is bright. We’re well-positioned to continue leading in key industries. Our state’s location, skilled labor, and tradition of innovation give us a competitive edge. I’m committed to strengthening our manufacturing sector. I’ll keep fighting to ensure our state remains a place where businesses thrive, good jobs are created, and families can build a better life.