Manufacturing Day 2024: A Spotlight on Innovation, Sustainability, and Community Impact

As the backbone of our economy, manufacturing plays a crucial role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and sustaining communities across the nation. Right here in Georgia, the Energy Cities are home to a diverse range of manufacturers who produce world-class products and lead the way in sustainable practices, technological advancements, and community engagement. On Manufacturing Day, October 4, 2024, join us as we celebrate our GA Energy Cities manufacturers.

Georgia has had the second-highest manufacturing employment rate in the Southeast for more than a decade, except for April and May 2020, when it was third. According to JobsEQ, Q1 2024, here are some fun facts about manufacturing in Georgia:

• There are currently more than 435,000 people employed in Manufacturing in the State of Georgia. 
• This industry has grown by more than 70,000 people over the past decade, and it is forecasted to grow by another 30,500 over the next ten years. 
• Manufacturing employment makes up 8.3% of total employment. The average manufacturing wage in Georgia is $68,975.
• There are more than 23,700 manufacturing employers in Georgia.

The stories of our Georgia Energy Cities manufacturers are not just about business success; they are about making a lasting positive impact on their communities and setting the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future. Here are some of the standout companies that make GA Energy Cities a hub of manufacturing excellence.

Leading the Charge in Sustainability and Innovation in Calhoun: Manufacturers in Georgia’s Energy Cities are not just making products; they are pioneering sustainable practices that set new standards for the industry. Companies like Mohawk Industries in Calhoun are at the forefront of sustainability, integrating renewable energy sources and recycling initiatives into their operations to reduce their carbon footprint. Similarly, Duracell in LaGrange has committed to energy-efficient manufacturing processes, contributing to both cost savings and environmental preservation.

Building Strong Communities Through Job Creation and Career Opportunities in West Point and Newnan: Creating quality jobs and offering career advancement opportunities is crucial for local economic development. Manufacturers in Georgia’s Energy Cities know that it’s all about people! Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) in West Point, invests heavily in workforce development through training programs and partnerships with local educational institutions. Meanwhile, Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation in Newnan provides state-of-the-art manufacturing jobs and engages in significant community development initiatives.

Embracing the Future with Technological Advancements in Monroe: Manufacturers are also at the forefront of technological innovation with advancements that not only increase productivity and efficiency but also reduce environmental impact, aligning with broader sustainability goals. Hitachi Astemo Americas in Monroe specializes in automotive components and is driving the future of electric and hybrid vehicle technologies.

Resilience and Adaptability in a Changing World in Dublin and Griffin: Amid economic challenges, these manufacturers have shown remarkable resilience and continued to drive growth and innovation in their communities. For instance, Erdrich USA, Inc. in Dublin has adapted to shifts in market demand by developing innovative automotive components that meet the evolving needs of the industry. Caterpillar Inc. in Griffin has remained a steady force, actively participating in local community initiatives while maintaining a commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Impact Beyond the Factory Floor: Community Engagement and Philanthropy in Thomasville: Manufacturers invest in their communities. Check-Mate Industries in Thomasville is committed to providing quality jobs and products while focused on providing benefit to the community with its continued involvement in local initiatives.   

Celebrating Manufacturing Day

There are countless stories like these, but they all share a common theme: the vital role of manufacturers in shaping our future. We honor the manufacturers in our Energy Cities and throughout Georgia who are driving economic growth, leading the charge for sustainability, and making meaningful impact in their communities. Their dedication, innovation, and resilience are the cornerstones of a brighter, more sustainable future. Let’s celebrate their remarkable contributions and look forward to the continued success of manufacturing in Georgia.

About Manufacturing Day

National Manufacturing Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday in October, where manufacturers showcase modern manufacturing to inspire the future workforce to explore careers in manufacturing and engineering. The showcase is designed to dispel common misconceptions about the industry and enhance its importance to the economy. As the No. 1 state for business and a leader in the development of manufacturing career pathways, the State of Georgia continues to work to change outdated understandings of manufacturing, promote the importance of this industry, and help make its citizens aware of the many diverse products manufactured in Georgia that support our quality of life.

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