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Quick Facts about Manufacturing

  • Contrary to popular belief and the media reports, manufacturing in the U.S. is Alive and Well.
    • In fact, if the wealth created by manufacturing products in America is ranked against the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) of countries internationally, manufacturing ranks as the 8th largest economy in the world!
    • The percentage of the United States' worldwide share of manufacturing business has remained at about 22% since 1980!  
  • Productivity gains account for most changes in manufacturing employment. However:
    • The technology that drives productivity has also creates new opportunities for high tech workers in manufacturing.
    • Demographic shifts will cause an enormous shortage in high tech workers in manufacturing in the next 10 years.
  • Manufacturing is a highly prized and sought out economic development goal in Central Oregon.
  • Our modern information age actually is changing the way in which consumers want products.
    • Consumers today want customized products tailored to their needs.
    • This trend favors manufacturing in small batches and even single piece orders made locally for the consumer.
    • Lean practices and state-of-the-art computer controlled equipment permit customization of manufactured goods at lower costs not possible just a few years ago.
  • This consumer trend also relates to a growing pattern amongst US manufacturers: size.
    • 30-50 years ago, manufacturers tended to be large 300-500 employee firms.
    • Today, nearly 60% of manufacturing companies have fewer than 10 employees and 40% have fewer than 5.
    • Advanced technology and a smaller, yet highly trained workforce are becoming the strong suite of the modern American manufacturer.

In Central Oregon-

  • There are a few 300 employee manufacturing companies.
  • However- there is an ever growing number of 10-30 employee manufacturing companies.
  • When these smaller 10 man companies hire, hiring 1 new employee is 10% of their work force!
  • Having a certificate or degree from the MATC can make a difference in you getting that job!

MATC Certificates and Degrees