Texas invests heavily in boosting its growing manufacturing industry

Governor Greg Abbott recently underscored the strength of Texas' manufacturing sector, noting significant investments aimed at enhancing the "Made in Texas" brand globally. Governor Abbott stated, “Through innovation, dependability, and our world-class workforce, our manufacturing industry ensures ‘Made in Texas’ remains a powerful global brand.”

Throughout 2024, several key developments were highlighted in the state's manufacturing industry. In March, Governor Abbott introduced the inaugural members of the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium Executive Committee. This committee is tasked with maintaining Texas’ leadership in semiconductor research and manufacturing. “Texas is the birthplace of the integrated circuit,” noted Governor Abbott. He emphasized that recent legislative efforts like the Texas CHIPS Act are designed to reinforce this position.

April saw the groundbreaking of an advanced manufacturing training facility as part of Texas A&M University’s South Texas Workforce Development Project near Brownsville. Governor Abbott remarked on its significance for preparing Texans for future workforce demands: “This new state-of-the-art facility here at the Port of Brownsville will train Texans to lead the workforce of tomorrow.”

In August, attention shifted to Corpus Christi where Governor Abbott celebrated a new program under Texas A&M's Coastal Bend Occupational Advanced Skills Training initiative. This program aims to equip workers with skills needed by local businesses experiencing rapid growth. According to Governor Abbott, “Businesses here need highly-skilled employees—and they are willing to pay for it.”

Manufacturing Day in October brought Governor Abbott to Waco's Texas State Technical College (TSTC), where he praised career and technical skills training programs. “‘Made in Texas’ has never been a bigger brand,” he stated.

Later in October, Governor Abbott attended Corrigan OSB’s facility opening, commending its contribution to building materials supply and regional economic growth: “We are proud that Texas is home to a booming manufacturing sector."

The month also saw an announcement regarding Bell Textron Inc.'s expansion project in Fort Worth under the new JETI program. The project involves creating over 400 jobs with a $429 million investment: “This new advanced manufacturing facility is the first project under Texas’ new JETI program," said Governor Abbott.

The ongoing initiatives reflect concerted efforts by state leadership and partners to bolster economic opportunities through strategic investments and partnerships across various sectors within manufacturing.