The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) today kicked off the 2016 State of Manufacturing Tour at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire.

The event, co-hosted by the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire and the New Hampshire Institute of Politics and Political Library, is the first in a series of stops in seven states over the next week to highlight the vital role the industry plays in the U.S. economy and the changing perceptions of manufacturing.

“Today’s modern manufacturing doesn’t always look like yesterday’s. We are sleek, high-tech and innovative, and manufacturers continue to drive economic growth in the United States,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “The manufacturing industry is leading an innovation revolution that will win jobs for America, raise standards of living and restore our nation’s standing around the world. Modern manufacturing touches every aspect of our lives, and it’s the backbone of our economy. Our industry is about the men and women who make things in America; it’s about their creativity and the potential we can unleash. Now is the time to embrace a manufacturing resurgence to protect and promote American Exceptionalism.”

As part of the 2016 State of Manufacturing Tour, Timmons is visiting with local manufacturers, employees, students, business and community leaders and elected officials across New Hampshire, Florida, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas and Maryland. Timmons is highlighting the real-world solutions needed to allow the U.S. economy and manufacturers to thrive. Manufacturing supports an estimated 18.5 million jobs in the United States and contributes $2.17 trillion to the economy.

In New Hampshire, Timmons unveiled “Competing to Win: Manufacturers’ Agenda for Economic Growth and American Exceptionalism”—a roadmap to guide manufacturing voters and candidates as they navigate the upcoming elections.

“It is encouraging to hear candidates on the campaign trail talk about manufacturing, but we want more than just talk,” Timmons said. “We must ensure the next president understands what a real manufacturing agenda looks like. Members of Congress and candidates for office need to know what policies to pursue. We want voters to see what solutions a candidate who truly supports manufacturing and is focused on growth will embrace.”

The agenda outlines the challenges manufacturers face as well as much-needed public policy solutions. The issues include tax; trade; energy; environment; transportation and infrastructure; labor; immigration; workforce; health care; research, innovation and technology; and regulatory and legal reform.