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How the U.S. could regain its competitive edge

Feb 24, 2021
President Biden signed an executive order Wednesday designed to make U.S. supply chains more resilient and secure.
The shortage of medical masks in 2020 was one sign that the U.S. needs to improve the security and resilience of its supply chains.
Chandan Khanna/AFP via Getty Images

The new workflow for plumbers means turning some jobs down

May 20, 2020
The owner of a plumbing company won't serve clients who are ill, and both plumbers and clients must wear face masks.
Connie DePaepe, owner of American Drain Works & Plumbing. DePaepe's rules have changed since the pandemic hit.
(Photo courtesy of Connie DePaepe)

Why is it so hard for the government to buy PPE?

May 11, 2020
ProPublica's David McSwane said brokers are trying to profit off of unprecedented demand for face masks.
Workers produce face masks at the Thai Hospital Product Co. factory in Bangkok.
Jonathan Klein/Getty Images

COVID-19 draws apparel manufacturers into the surgical mask business

Mar 24, 2020
Hanes. The fashion designer Christian Siriano. And lots of small apparel companies are getting into the mask-making business.
A shortage of surgical face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic has some unexpected manufacturers stepping up.
Scott Heins/Getty Images