Today’s manufacturing drives innovation and economic activity.

Manufacturing is the highest contributor to the North Carolina Gross Domestic Product and the #1 employer of all industrial sectors, providing above-average-wage jobs to one half million employees. Most of these jobs require employees that are educated, creative and poised to solve problems.

Today’s manufacturing plant is highly efficient and productive as manufacturers do more with less.

In a NC Market Skills study, 85 percent of surveyed manufacturers indicate a shortage of technically-skilled workers. Concentrations in science, technology, engineering and math curricula can lead to fulfilling career options with copious opportunity in the 21st century.

The importance of the manufacturing sector can not be denied. Follow one small company’s story to realize the impact of the sector on the global economy.

Visit the updated Manufacturing Matters site for the latest statistics of this evolving industry.