What Innovation in Manufacturing Means Today

What do smartphones, batteries, defense systems, and solar panels all have in common?

They all depend on critical minerals like lithium, graphite, gallium, and polysilicon. Access to these resources affects how people, businesses, and governments communicate, generate power, and operate.

In this episode, Chris sits down with Representative Haley Stevens from Michigan’s 11th district to discuss her plans for lessening U.S. dependence on the production and refining of these resources from other countries.

The conversation digs into the current state of the U.S. supply chain. We look at how innovation shaped the auto rescue during the 2008 recession and how it will continue to influence the success of the American auto industry over the next 25 years.

We also unpack why Representative Stevens is passionate about the manufacturing industry, how it continues to shape her career, and the type of legislation changes you can expect from her 100-page proposal.

In this episode, find out:

• How the auto rescue saved 200,000 Michigan jobs
• The impact of the manufacturing industry on Representative Steven’s career in Congress
• How barriers to entry are costing the manufacturing industry room to innovate
• Why it's important to bring the entire supply chain to the U.S.
• How Representative Stevens plans to lessen U.S. dependence on other countries for critical minerals
• What needs to change from a federal level to fix supply chain vulnerabilities, lower costs, and create jobs
• How environmental concerns fit into legislation plans
• The importance of a tax code that empowers manufacturing workers and small businesses
• What will secure the future of American manufacturing for the next 25 years

Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!

Tweetable Quotes:

• ”Somewhere between 85 and 95% of critical minerals are processed and refined in China. It’s a supply chain vulnerability.”
• “We need to lessen our dependence on China, invest in loan guarantees and tax credits that will grow this industry here in the United States of America.”
• “Who will continue to lead the free world in the next 25 years? Well, it's going to be American industry through free market principles that allow for equal opportunity and people to thrive.”

Links & mentions:

• Kennedy’s Irish Pub, a longstanding Irish pub serving up draft brews, cocktails, and casual eats in a funky, upbeat atmosphere in Waterford, MI.
• Representative Haley Stevens, Congresswoman for Michigan's 11th District.

Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.

Mentioned in this episode:

Industrial Marketing Summit 2026

The Industrial Marketing Summit is the go-to gathering for marketers working in the manufacturing, engineering and industrial sectors. Built by Gorilla 76 and TREW Marketing, IMS delivers strategic insight, hands-on learning and true community. Whether you’re a team of one, or leading a scaled marketing department, you’ll walk away ready to market smarter, lead stronger and impact your business. Make sure to use the code "happy hour" at checkout for $100 off registration.

Industrial Marketing Summit 2026