News Summary
Texas is set to honor Manufacturing Week, acknowledging the pivotal role manufacturing plays in the state’s economy. With a thriving $2.7 trillion economy and a strong job growth trend, Texas continues to lead in exports and job creation. Notable developments include new pharmaceutical facilities and training programs for skilled workers. As manufacturing jobs surge, Texas is committed to fostering a workforce prepared for future opportunities.
Texas Manufacturing Week: Celebrating Growth and Job Creation
Texas is gearing up for its annual celebration of one of the state’s most crucial economic sectors: manufacturing. From October 3-10, 2025, Texas will observe Manufacturing Week, a recognition proclaimed by Governor Greg Abbott to honor the innovation and hard work that make Texas the manufacturing capital of the United States.
Why Manufacturing Matters in Texas
The phrase “Made in Texas” symbolizes the spirit of freedom and opportunity that fuels Texas’s economy, currently valued at an impressive $2.7 trillion—ranking it as the eighth largest in the world. The state continues to lead the nation in job growth, with a remarkable 6.8% economic expansion experienced in the second quarter of 2025.
Moreover, Texas has distinguished itself as the number one exporting state in the U.S. for 23 consecutive years, asserting its prominence not only with traditional goods but also as the nation’s top exporter of high-tech goods and semiconductors. This means many of the high-tech devices and gadgets that people depend on daily have their origins in Texas.
Shining a Light on Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Recent developments in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector highlight Texas’s ongoing growth in this area. A notable addition is Lilly’s new active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production facility located in Harris County. This facility is crucial, as it plays a dual role by not only facilitating medication production but also contributing significantly to local job creation.
A World of Opportunities
Manufacturing Week not only celebrates successes but also serves as a platform for informing the public about vast career opportunities across various industries, including aerospace, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and automotive manufacturing. For instance, the New Braunfels area has been witnessing a boom in manufacturing jobs, with approximately 3,200 manufacturing positions currently available—just the beginning of a much larger trend.
Looking ahead, New Braunfels is projected to see an outstanding surge in job creation, expecting around 77,000 new jobs in manufacturing over the next several years. This reflects a staggering 34% increase from the last five years, with the average salary for these new positions hovering around $77,000 per year.
Training the Workforce of Tomorrow
To accommodate the growing demand for skilled labor, local educational institutions such as Texas State Technical College (TSTC) and Skillpoint Alliance are implementing new training programs geared towards preparing students for entry-level manufacturing careers. The newly launched 5-week training course aims to equip participants with essential industry skills while simultaneously connecting them with potential employers, creating a beneficial cycle for both students and local businesses.
The Future Looks Bright for Texas Manufacturing
As Texas continues to experience economic growth alongside an expanding job market and proactive workforce training initiatives, the outlook for manufacturing within the state remains promising. Whether individuals are experienced workers or newcomers to the labor market, the Texas manufacturing sector presents a wealth of opportunities marked by growth and innovation.
Texans are encouraged to come together to honor and celebrate their manufacturing sector during Manufacturing Week. This occasion is a significant reminder that each person plays a vital role in enhancing the prosperity of the great state of Texas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Kilgore News Herald
- Wikipedia: Manufacturing
- Globe St
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Manufacturing
- Manufacturing Dive
- Google News: Texas manufacturing
- Seguin Today
- Google Search: manufacturing jobs Texas
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Scholar: Texas manufacturing training program
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
