TradeCraft logo with the slogan "The Future of Manufacturing" on a black background.

THE OPERATION

TradeCraft is a documentary series in development that follows a diverse team of experts into the shops shaping the future of American manufacturing. The show highlights the skill, grit, and creativity of the people who keep this industry alive. Every episode features real work, real challenges, and the real stories behind the trades.


CURRENT STATUS: BROADCAST SERIES IN DEV.
WGAW REGISTRATION#: 2307895

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WATCH THE FULL PILOT EPISODE NOW!

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THE OBJECTIVE

Manufacturing has powered the world for generations. Behind every breakthrough are the people on the floor. Their talent, discipline, and pride deserve the spotlight.

TradeCraft exists to show the world what modern manufacturing looks like and who makes it possible.

WE ARE NOT HERE TO DO WHAT HAS ALREADY BEEN DONE.

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The creative direction of the series supports our commitment to dispel any outdated opinions that the manufacturing industry is unappealing and unimaginative. The show will feature thought-provoking stories, dynamic motion graphics, and inspiring music, giving our global audience a unique perspective on an extraordinary industry.

THE MISSION

Our team built this series with four clear goals…

Motivational quote on a dark, textured background reading 'Inspire the next generation to pursue careers in this field.'
Motivational quote on a dark textured background: "Honor the people working in the trades."
Dark gray textured background with white text that says, "Spotlight new and emerging manufacturing technologies."
Circular sign with a dark, textured background, containing the message: Help independently owned shops reach higher levels of success.
Agent profile card featuring Jim Mayer, the host of TradeCraft, with a professional headshot and details about his clearance level, alias, specialty, and base of operations, set against a futuristic technological background.
An illustration of a computer chip with various connected components and circuits.

THE FIELD AGENTS (CAST)

A team of industry professionals with decades of combined experience in machining, automation, engineering, operations, and shop leadership.

  • TradeCraft is designed for two overlapping groups.

    Inside the industry:
    Plant leaders, tradespeople, engineers, and technology adopters who want to learn from peers and see how real shops are evolving.

    Curious viewers:
    DIY fans, STEM students, families, and anyone who likes watching skilled people solve real problems.

    This type of programming has strong precedent. Shows like This Old House, Dirty Jobs, and How It’s Made reached millions of viewers. Manufacturing remains one of the largest sectors in the United States. Nearly 13 million people work in it. Millions more care about it.

    What viewers want to watch:

    • Real problems

    • Real solutions

    • Modern tools and techniques

    • Stories about leadership, culture, and teamwork

    TradeCraft delivers all of it.

    • 93% of U.S. manufacturing firms have fewer than 100 employees, though large firms (500+ employees) account for about 59% of all manufacturing workers (NAM, 2022).

    • The sector faced over 381,000 job openings as of spring 2025, reflecting continued labor demand (BLS, 2025).

    • U.S. manufacturing accounts for over 53% of private-sector R&D spending, totaling $405 billion in 2023 (NSF/NAM, 2023).

    • 287,000 jobs added  in the U.S. manufacturing sector in 2023.

    • The sector faced over 381,000 job openings as of spring 2025, reflecting continued labor demand

    • USA manufacturing added $2.95 TRILLION to the GDP in late 2024.

    • U.S. manufacturing employed about 12.8 million people at the end of 2024.

    • Estimated* that it will cost the US $2.5 trillion over the next decade due to the skills gap in manufacturing industries. 



  • Despite record investment in new facilities, productivity has stalled. Output per labor hour has declined over the last decade, even as reshoring hits all-time highs and automation continues to scale. At the same time, many manufacturing jobs continue to suffer from low pay, high turnover, and outdated systems. We’re bringing the work back, but we haven’t yet fixed the foundations. That’s the opportunity. And that’s why TradeCraft matters.

See sponsorship opportunities
Meet the Cast

PARTNER WITH US

Brands and organizations that support the manufacturing community play a major role in this project. Our sponsorship overview outlines partnership tiers and opportunities.