Mason County Celebrates its Manufacturers

October 1 is Manufacturing Day, designed to recognize the manufacturing companies and hard-working employees across the country. The Economic Development Council of Mason County is celebrating those businesses and individuals in Mason County for their employment opportunities, innovations and dedication to the community. Many global manufacturing companies produce goods using the latest technologies and plentiful raw materials Mason County has to offer. 

Manufacturing Day Stretches Through the Whole Month of October

Launched annually on the first Friday in October with events that continue throughout the month, Manufacturing Day shows the reality of modern manufacturing careers by encouraging thousands of companies and educational institutions around the nation to open their doors to students, parents, teachers and community leaders. With the theme of “Creators Wanted,” the focus is on building the workforce of the future by educating America’s youth about the incredible career pathways that modern manufacturing offers. Manufacturing creates careers that are full of opportunity for advancement and stability.

Manufacturing in Mason County

The Economic Development Council of Mason County would like to recognize the many manufacturing companies in our community. Manufacturers such as Sierra Pacific Industries, Taylor Shellfish Farms, Alta Forest Products, Gem Shavings, Limb Saver, Riverdance Soapworks, Belco Forest Products and Camco Cedar Mill are leaders in our community. They excel in technology, good workplace practices, produce high quality products and consistently innovate to progress their industries. We are proud these companies have made their home in Mason County.

Manufacturing Sector Growth in Washington

Manufacturing’s importance in Mason County and throughout Washington is due to the sector’s stability and growth. In fact, manufacturing contributes 10.64% to the Gross State Product annually, according to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). The export of manufacturing goods from Washington was also over $26.16 billion, creating jobs and economic opportunities for the state.

The Washington manufacturing industry employed 265,000 people in 2020, and as reported by NAM, the average annual compensation for Washington’s manufacturing jobs was over $95,000 in 2019. Upon graduating high school or trade school, students can begin working for one of Mason County’s manufacturing companies, and within a few years, reach a level of income that surpasses the average household income in the United States. 

Reasons to Locate in Mason County

Mason County offers several advantages to national and global manufacturing companies, beginning with its location. With a close proximity to the vibrant industries of the Seattle metropolitan area, yet far enough away to enjoy the advantages of small-town life, Mason County businesses and residents benefit from each.

Local businesses have access to a range of transportation options not found in many larger metropolitan areas. The I-5 corridor offers highway transportation that extends the entire West Coast, from Canada to Mexico. Ports on Puget Sound open up shipping and receiving of products and supplies for manufacturers without paying the high cost of operating in larger port cities. Quick and reliable rail access is prominent throughout the county as well. Finally, the Seattle Tacoma International Airport is a short drive from Mason County, offering worldwide shipping and travel options. 

Sites and buildings are available for manufacturing companies looking to expand. Here, businesses have the room they need to grow, and local economic developers are available to make it easy to find the perfect location. In certain cases, financial incentives can be applied to make the move an even better investment. 

Additionally, Mason County’s workforce is skilled and plentiful. Training and further education is readily available. Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council is responsible for workforce development in five regional counties, including Mason County. Through strategic alliances and innovative workforce solutions, it creates a talented labor pool ready to provide local employers the skilled resources needed for success. Olympic College Shelton is a 27-acre campus located in Mason County that provides a variety of educational and training programs. From GED preparation classes to vocational and technical training, including an onsite Welding Center Olympic College Shelton works with employers and workers alike to meet the demands of each.

To learn more about manufacturing opportunities in Mason County, email the Economic Development Council of Mason County or call (360) 462-2276.