[citation needed] Among its missions is "to explore common solutions to challenging public policy topics such as job creation, infrastructure investment, international trade, and global competitiveness."
[citation needed] AAM maintains a Washington D.C.–based lobby and research operation including a national field staff.
The organization works to promote strong Buy American provisions both federally and locally, advocates for fair trade and works to revitalize industry through a long-term national manufacturing strategy.
AAM conducts research, public education, advocacy, strategic communications, and coalition building around the issues affecting America's manufacturing sector.
On April 14, 2008, both Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton spoke to the AAM's national convention being held at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh.