McLean, VA–The Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT) applauds President Obama’s creation of a new post overseeing manufacturing policy. Ron Bloom was named special assistant to the president for manufacturing policy within the White House’s National Economic Council. Bloom has been the administration’s auto czar since 2009 and has overseen the auto industry restructuring.

AMT’s President Douglas K. Woods is optimistic that the move is a step in the right direction toward establishing a national manufacturing strategy.

“For nearly two years, and as part of our manufacturing mandate, AMT has been advocating for the appointment of a senior position on manufacturing policy at the White House,” said Woods. “I’m hopeful this is recognition from the administration that job creation and competitiveness depend on a national agenda that emphasizes the importance of manufacturing.”