Manufacturing companies across Pennsylvania are navigating a new set of challenges in 2025. From Erie to Allentown, and especially in high-density industrial areas like Lancaster, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia, manufacturers are facing increasing pressure to innovate without compromising security or uptime.
And with cyberattacks on the rise and legacy systems aging out, you may be asking: Is it time to outsource our IT?
What Cyber Threats Are Manufacturing Companies in Pennsylvania Facing?
Manufacturers have always been resilient, but the digital era brings new vulnerabilities, especially for businesses without dedicated manufacturing IT services. For the third year in a row, IBM has ranked the manufacturing sector as the most attacked by cybercriminals.
Here are three of the most pressing IT challenges for manufacturers:
1. Unattended or Outdated Technology
Many manufacturing systems—like SCADA, CNC machinery, or warehouse automation tools—were never built with cybersecurity in mind. When IT maintenance is reactive (rather than proactive), these systems become ripe targets for exploitation.
2. Lack of Employee Security Training
Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls. It’s also about people. A single phishing email or unintentional click from a warehouse manager could expose the entire network to ransomware or data theft. Most manufacturing staff don’t receive regular training, leaving companies exposed.
3. Supply Chain Attacks
Manufacturers often work with third-party vendors, logistics companies, and suppliers—each one a potential entry point for cybercriminals. Without rigorous access control and vendor vetting, your business could be at risk through no fault of your own.
These challenges have caused even traditional manufacturing companies to rethink how they manage technology, and many are turning to trusted manufacturing IT services providers in Pennsylvania.
What Is IT Outsourcing, and Why Does It Matter for Manufacturers?
IT outsourcing is the practice of partnering with an external company to manage all or part of your technology operations, everything from help desk support and cybersecurity to infrastructure and compliance.
For manufacturers, this doesn’t mean giving up control. It means gaining a partner who understands the technical and operational challenges of the industry and works proactively to prevent downtime, data breaches, and inefficiencies.
What Are the Benefits of Manufacturing IT Services?
Pennsylvania manufacturers typically don’t have the budget—or the need—for a full-scale, in-house IT department. Outsourcing gives you access to a full team of experts at a fraction of the cost.
Whether it’s managing Microsoft 365 licenses, optimizing your shop floor network, or hardening security around your production systems, outsourced manufacturing IT services deliver deep expertise without the overhead.
Can IT Partners Provide Security Training?
Yes, and it’s often included in the service package. A strong IT partner doesn’t just set up antivirus software. They provide ongoing security training for your staff, so the people on your team become the first line of defense, not a liability.
Cyber awareness sessions, phishing simulations, and password hygiene education can significantly reduce your risk profile, something most manufacturers have never had access to in-house.
Does IT Outsourcing Reduce Downtime and Risk?
Absolutely. Many manufacturers experience downtime due to preventable issues—failed updates, network outages, or misconfigured backups. A proactive IT partner keeps your systems updated, monitored, and resilient.
Most quality manufacturing IT services include 24/7 monitoring, automated alerts, and rapid incident response protocols to keep your production on track, no matter what happens.
What About Your Reputation?
In manufacturing, your reputation is everything. If a client finds out you had a security breach, or if late deliveries start happening because of system downtime, your brand suffers. Manufacturing IT services help protect your reputation by ensuring your operations are secure, stable, and compliant with industry standards.
Is IT Outsourcing a Good Fit for Pennsylvania Manufacturers?
Here’s why more and more manufacturers across the state are making the switch:
- Local Compliance Requirements: Whether you’re working with government contracts or healthcare-grade materials, many Pennsylvania manufacturers must meet strict IT compliance standards. An experienced IT provider helps you hit those marks.
- Hybrid Operations: Today’s manufacturers often work in hybrid environments, with on-site production and remote design or sales teams. Outsourced IT helps bridge the gap.
- Talent Shortages: It’s hard to hire tech talent in-house, especially in more rural areas. Outsourcing fills that gap instantly with a dedicated support team.
What Should You Look for in a Manufacturing IT Partner?
Not all IT companies are the same. When evaluating providers of manufacturing IT services, make sure they:
- Have deep experience in the manufacturing industry
- Offer 24/7 support and on-site service when needed
- Provide proactive security and compliance management
- Work with your leadership team to align tech strategy with business outcomes
- Offer transparency with service guarantees and regular reporting
Technology Services Designed for You
If you’re ready to take the next step, we help manufacturing leaders across Pennsylvania build secure, high-performing operations without the burden of managing IT in-house. From cybersecurity and infrastructure to strategic IT planning, our manufacturing IT services help you modernize and secure your operations without disrupting your production flow.
Learn more and schedule your free consultation!
