U.S. Aluminum Industry Hits Record Economic Output
Aluminum | 2026-06-11 05:58:12
According to the study, growth in aluminum recycling and downstream manufacturing has helped offset declines in primary aluminum production jobs.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A new economic impact study has highlighted the strength and resilience of the U.S. aluminum industry. The sector directly employs more than 165,000 workers and generates over $115 billion in economic output, which is the highest level recorded since industry tracking began in 2013.
The 2026 Economic Impact of the U.S. Aluminum Industry report, released by John Dunham & Associates, found that overall employment in the aluminum sector has remained largely stable over the past decade despite major shifts in manufacturing activity and global market conditions.
According to the study, growth in aluminum recycling and downstream manufacturing has helped offset declines in primary aluminum production jobs. Between 2024 and 2026, employment in secondary aluminum production has increased by more than 20%. Meanwhile, jobs in the sheet and plate segment rose by 6%.
Over the past ten years, the industry has invested more than $11 billion in U.S. operations. These investments have strengthened domestic supply chains and expanded production capacity, helping the country meet the growing domestic demand for aluminum products.
Charles Johnson, President and CEO of the Aluminum Association, noted that the story of the U.S. aluminum industry over the past decade is one of resilience and reinvention.
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What has been the biggest driver of the U.S. aluminum industry's resilience over the past decade?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How significant is the U.S. aluminum industry's economic contribution?
The industry generates more than $115 billion in economic output and directly employs over 165,000 workers.
- Which segments have driven recent employment growth?
Secondary aluminum production employment has increased by more than 20% since 2024, while jobs in the sheet and plate segment have risen by 6%.
- How much has the industry invested in the U.S. over the past decade?
The aluminum industry has invested more than $11 billion in domestic operations to expand capacity and strengthen supply chains.
