U.S. manufacturers are emerging stronger, more productive and better positioned than ever to compete in world markets, and employment opportunities for men and women in many sectors are growing. Manufacturing has long been an economic driver in Washington State. According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, more than 293,000 people are employed in manufacturing, almost 10% of all non-farm employment in the state.

Spokane’s manufacturing industry is on the upswing, having added more than 10,000 manufacturing jobs in the last few years.  With over 500 manufacturing businesses powered by a workforce that exceeds 18,000, the manufacturing industry includes companies focused on aluminum casting, metal products for the semiconductor industry, pharmaceutical products and other devices for the medical industry, rugged wireless laptops and more.

Manufacturing accounts for nearly 9% of the area’s employment base and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars to the regional economy. Last year, manufacturing growth reflected this quickening pace with jobs rising about 5.4 percent for the year.

One growing manufacturing sector, the aerospace industry, is well represented in Spokane, with more than 60 manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and service organizations providing products to the industry. These companies employ more than 1,500 workers with a total payroll of $77.4 million.

Leading sectors in our region include:

• Aerospace products
• Aluminum casting
• Computer, communications and electronic equipment
• Household and institutional furniture
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Paper and plastic products
• Rugged wireless laptops
• Structural and other metal products

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