Macomb County tops the nation in new manufacturing jobs

The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics recently reported that nationwide, employment in manufacturing is trending upwards. Additionally, the sector saw positive gains for the fourth quarter of 2018, with a 1.3 percent increase in productivity, a 2.3 percent increase in output and a one percent increase in hours worked.

The news is especially good in Macomb County, Mich., where new jobs created in the sector topped the nation. According to a new report from the White House Council of Economic Advisors, workforce data by industry indicates that between the fourth quarter of 2016 and the second quarter of 2018, there were 9,118 new manufacturing jobs created in Macomb County. Overall, the county’s manufacturing workforce is driven by 1,600 companies that employ more than 72,000 people.

“It’s inspiring to see the transformation of manufacturing in Macomb County,” said Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel. “A few short years ago, many people doubted the future of manufacturing in the United States. Here in Macomb, we held firm in the belief that our manufacturers would remain a key driver of economic prosperity.”

“I am pleased to see that our neighbors in Wayne and Oakland counties also made this list,” Hackel continued. “This proves to the world that greater Detroit reigns in manufacturing.”

The Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development provides assistance to all types of businesses with goals for growth and specializes in the manufacturing sector. Over the past five years, department staff provided direct service to more than 146 existing and incoming companies. These companies then invested more than $1.4 billion in new facilities and equipment.

“The future of manufacturing in Macomb County is strong,” said Vicky Rad, interim director of Macomb County Planning and Economic Development. “This industry is more prepared than ever to meet the needs of consumers and develop some of the most advanced products we have ever seen. Our world class network of manufacturers are leveraging advanced technologies and cultivating a new collar workforce. At the moment, there are more than 1,100 job postings in this sector in Macomb County. Our manufacturers are looking to hire in all positions. We encourage job seekers to turn to our Michigan Works! Office for help in updating their resume, training opportunities and more.”