The ever-volatile election cycle has ended. Gear companies—and metalworking organizations in general—must now shift their focus toward customers. Can they meet orders in a timely fashion? Is it time to strengthen the talent pool? How is their equipment stacking up against the competition? Overall, there is a feeling business will turn the corner in the 3rd and 4th quarters of 2025. Gear Technology spoke with representatives from Atlanta Gear Works (AGW), Croix Gear and Forest City Gear (FCG) on the state of gear manufacturing in 2025.
As the gear industry steps into 2025, manufacturers are navigating a landscape shaped by geopolitical uncertainties, evolving workforce dynamics, and rapid technological advancements. Alongside Gear Technology’s annual State of the Gear Industry survey, we like to gather insights from leading machine tool manufacturers on the challenges, opportunities, and trends defining the year ahead.
“Take this with a grain of salt” is that old saying you use when you offer up some advice that may or may not apply, that comes from a dubious source, or which bears skepticism. This year’s annual State-of-the-Gear-Industry survey is like that, but not because we did a poor job of it, and not because we doubt the sincerity or business acumen of our respondents, but rather, because the survey happened to come at a very turbulent time.
Every year, Gear Technology’s State-of-the-Gear-Industry survey takes the pulse of the gear manufacturing world, revealing the latest trends, challenges, and outlooks shaping the industry. Conducted anonymously, the survey gathers insights from subscribers, AGMA members, gear manufacturers, suppliers, and industry experts—primarily from North America but with voices from around the globe. This year, nearly 200 professionals shared their perspectives, offering a real-time snapshot of the industry’s health and direction.