In GM’s Wake, Technology Supplier Protection Sought

MCLEAN, VA—As General Motors (GM) enters bankruptcy protection, the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT) urges Congress and the Administration to protect the manufacturing technology supplier base.

Recognizing that when GM emerges from bankruptcy as a leaner, more responsive business, AMT argues that manufacturing technology suppliers are a crucial component to ensuring that a revived GM will be a top international competitor. The association claims if government fails to act, a number of those technology suppliers might not exist to further the mission of a revitalized American automotive industry.

Douglas K. Woods, AMT president, points out that, “One critical action government can take right now is to expand the Auto Supplier Support Program to include manufacturing technology providers up and down the supply chain. Currently they are not receiving any direct funds from the program. 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.”

In a statement, the association notes, “attempts to reach out to the President’s Auto Task Force have so far not been answered. However, 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, and their survival must be guaranteed to ensure that we are not one day relying on foreign suppliers for our national security. AMT implores the Administration and Congress to ensure that automotive supply chain participants are protected.”