These numbers are harder to read, mostly because they are subject to major revisions. The total change you see on the chart was the result of another bunch of small ups and downs combining, in this case, to a small up.
The question now, as it was at this time last year when we saw a surge in manufacturing employment, is whether the big change is indicative of something both big and sustainable.
Last year, we thought it was the prelude to further strength because we thought the gains were tied to more manufacturing activity associated with the anticipated changes in business activity to be brought about by the tax cuts.
We will wait for more data before trying to draw any conclusions.
