Today, Ford Motor Company and the United Auto Workers (UAW) have come to a tentative agreement that will result in thousands of quality manufacturing jobs at a critical time in our economy. Ford has stated they plan to add another 5,750 U.S. jobs in addition to the 7,000 they announced in January, which will in turn create a ripple effect of new jobs for other manufacturers and businesses throughout the supply chain. Many workers and their families will benefit from these additional jobs.

Both large and small manufacturers are essential to our economy and the recovery.  The United States is still top manufacturing economy in the world and today’s announcement which will create jobs will make the manufacturing sector stronger.

Jay Timmons is president and CEO, National Association of Manufacturers.