The Surge: October 2024

As we celebrate Manufacturing Month, it’s a great time to reflect on how far Central Texas has come in shaping an ecosystem that balances both advanced technology and traditional manufacturing. What began in the 1980s with the arrival of industry pioneers like IBM and Dell has now grown into one of the most dynamic manufacturing hubs in the nation. Today, more than 1,900 manufacturers in our region employ over 74,000 workers, and this number continues to rise as new companies and sectors choose Austin.

The Austin region's manufacturing sector is diverse—from high-tech fields like semiconductors to traditional industries like welding and machining. Recent expansions, including Acutronic Group’s new divisional headquarters in East Austin and its upcoming manufacturing facility in Bastrop, highlight how we continue to attract global leaders in innovation. Samsung's $40 billion investment in a semiconductor manufacturing facility in Taylor underscores our region's role as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.

Workforce development is a critical component of this growth. Training programs at local ISDs, universities, and colleges are helping prepare local talent for the high-demand jobs in manufacturing. These initiatives ensure that the region’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed to meet evolving industry demands.

Opportunity Austin is committed to recruiting new manufacturers to the region while continuing to support workforce training programs and cross-sector partnerships. Together, we are building the future of Central Texas—one innovation, one job, and one opportunity at a time.

- Ed Latson, CEO of Opportunity Austin

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