U.S. manufacturing employment increased by 5,000 jobs in January, marking the sector’s first monthly gain after more than a year of declines, according to new federal labor data. The improvement follows losses of 10,000 jobs in November and 8,000 in December and stands in sharp contrast to January 2025, when the sector shed 20,000 positions.

Total nonfarm payrolls rose by 130,000 jobs, while the unemployment rate edged down to 4.3 percent, highlighting continued strength in the broader labor market. Manufacturing’s return to growth signals early signs of stabilization across the industrial economy as employers continue investing in talent and positioning operations for future demand.

“Manufacturers don’t hire unless they see real opportunity ahead,” said Ohio Manufacturers’ Association President Ryan Augsburger. “After more than a year of contraction, even modest job growth signals that Ohio’s industrial base is stabilizing and preparing for the next phase of growth.”

While workforce challenges persist, the latest numbers suggest manufacturers are building momentum heading into 2026, supported by steady hiring and ongoing demand for skilled workers. 2/11/2026