Ohio Celebrates Economic Cornerstone on ‘Manufacturing Day’

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik today recognized October 6, 2023, as Manufacturing Day to acknowledge the progress being made in one of Ohio’s most important industries and shine a spotlight on modern manufacturing careers.

Manufacturing Day is an initiative of the Manufacturing Institute and celebrated nationally on the first Friday in October. It provides the industry with an annual opportunity to inspire the next generation of manufacturers through events and informative activities.

“Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our economy, and a foundation for many other industries,” said Governor DeWine. “It is vital that we show the next generation of Ohio’s workforce that there is a viable future in the manufacturing industry, and since our state is a leader in production, their future can be right here in Ohio, the heart of manufacturing.”

Manufacturing has been one of the principal economic drivers in Ohio’s economy since the late 1800s. Today, the state is ranked third nationally in manufacturing, producing more than $114 billion in manufactured goods annually.

Ohio is the first in American aircraft engine production, containing 16 percent of the total U.S. employment, as well as a leader in the production of primary and fabricated metals, machinery, electronic products, transportation equipment, food and beverages, as well as rubber and plastics.

“Ohio has always been a leader in manufacturing and now with the high-tech manufacturing jobs on the rise, average incomes in this sector are exceeding $70,000 with some manufacturing jobs paying over $100,000,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “Ohio has always been a leader in manufacturing and the future of manufacturing is very bright with existing and new companies moving to and expanding operations. Manufacturing is alive and well and thriving in Ohio, now and for the future.”

Manufacturing provides more than 691,000 Ohio jobs, which represents nearly 14 percent of Ohio’s total employment. In rural communities, manufacturing is a leading sector, with over 20 percent of the local labor force employed in the industry.

“The three most sought-after words in the manufacturing industry today are ‘Made in Ohio’,” said Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik. “By participating and hosting events for Manufacturing Day, Ohio’s technical schools and manufacturers are inspiring the workforce of tomorrow to uphold Ohio’s legacy of being a leader in manufacturing.”

Those wanting to learn more about Ohio’s manufacturing industry can visit mfgday.com for nearby events being held Oct. 6 and throughout the month.

Most events involve middle school and high school students, with many also open to college-aged students. The Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership, an office within the Department of Development, and a network of regional service providers who assist Ohio’s small-to-medium sized manufacturers, will hold events throughout the month targeted to current and future manufacturers.

For a look at hundreds of locally-made products ranging from apparel to home goods and snacking, visit Ohio.org/MadeInOhio.

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov