A study of the impact of globalization on Indiana's manufacturing industry

Abstract

Globalization has often been perceived as the culprit in the decline of employment in several manufacturing industries in the U.S. The purpose of this research was to investigate how globalization affected the gas engine manufacturing and parts industry in Indiana during the period 1998-2008. Despite its relevance, this industry has experienced a tremendous decline in employment numbers and almost lost its presence in Indiana. For this study an anonymous online survey was conducted targeting individuals associated with this industry and holding positions in the areas of engineering and/or management. The survey addressed the areas of technology, education, globalization/competition and employment. However, only the area of education is presented in this article. The results found in this study contradict the common perception that offshoring is the main factor for the dislocation of workers in the manufacturing sector.