#United States #Arlington #U.S. Manufacturing #NEMA #Make It American

NEMA Launches Make It American™ Certification Program

On April 30, 2025, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) rolled out an exciting new initiative known as the Make It American™ certification program. This program is designed to assist the market in identifying products and manufacturing facilities that adhere to exceptional standards in line with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act domestic content requirements.

The primary goal of the Make It American certification is to empower companies to showcase their commitment to U.S. manufacturing. Essentially, this certification helps ensure that manufacturers, government agencies, and procurement officials can confidently source materials that meet enhanced criteria for American-made content. The certification process involves rigorous third-party audits that evaluate supply chain management and production processes, providing both transparency and accountability within the industry.

NEMA's standardized certification allows companies to validate their facilities against the Make It American Process Standard, with initial focus on specifications for low-voltage power distribution equipment (LVDE) and wire and cable. As the program evolves, additional specifications for other product lines will be introduced, establishing a comprehensive framework for compliance.

Debra Phillips, NEMA's President and CEO, emphasized the significance of the program for the U.S. electroindustry, noting, "The U.S. electroindustry is the backbone of our nation's energy system, investing over $185 billion in domestic electrical component manufacturing since 2018." She underscored that the Make It American Program not only allows manufacturers to showcase their dedication to the domestic economy but also to create jobs and contribute to the growth of American manufacturing.

Several notable companies are already on board with the program. Eaton, Schneider Electric, Siemens, Southwire, and TESCO Metering are among the first organizations to receive the NEMA Make It American Process Certification. Moreover, several of these companies have also garnered product certifications, further validating their adherence to the high standards set forth by NEMA.

Eaton's President of the Americas Region, Mike Yelton, remarked on their partnership with NEMA, highlighting the strategic importance of U.S.-based manufacturing in crucial infrastructure projects. He stated, "Eaton is proud to work alongside NEMA to help validate and achieve process certification under the Make It American Program. This collaboration highlights our company's commitment to leadership and innovation in manufacturing."

Similarly, Schneider Electric's President for North America Operations, Aamir Paul, shared his enthusiasm about being part of the program, asserting the significance of such initiatives in supporting regional customers across diverse sectors including data centers and energy infrastructure. He emphasized that the certification was a testament to their commitment to U.S. manufacturing.

Siemens' Regional CEO, Barry Powell, echoed similar sentiments, applauding the program for creating a robust framework for compliance with Buy America Preference requirements. This is critical for ensuring accountability while fostering both economic growth and the highest quality standards in infrastructure development.

Southwire's CEO, Rich Stinson, expressed excitement about their role in the electrical industry and the importance of being involved in initiatives like the Make It American Program. He mentioned their company’s ongoing investments to meet the future demands of an electrified America.

Finally, TESCO Metering’s President and CEO, Tom Lawton, emphasized the crucial role that manufacturing initiatives play in sustaining high-skill jobs and stimulating local economic growth. He noted that a robust domestic manufacturing base is pivotal for ensuring reliability, fueling innovation, and supporting the communities that keep the nation running.

In conclusion, NEMA's Make It American Program is more than just a certification; it symbolizes a collective effort to prioritize and elevate American manufacturing standards. Providing resources, certifications, and guidance to navigate domestic content requirements, this initiative strengthens American manufacturers' ability to contribute meaningfully to national infrastructure and economic growth. For more details about the initiative and the registry of certified companies and products, visit NEMA's official website.