The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) reported for every $1.00 in manufacturing, another $1.48 was added to the economy. In addition, for every 100 jobs created in manufacturing, another 60 are created in service sectors.  Advanced Manufacturing requires more skilled and technical labor, as well as IT and digital infrastructure.  Average wages are 13% higher than traditional manufacturing and 48% higher than average wages for all industries.  Advanced manufacturing jobs require training courses and degree programs through K-12 technical education, community or technical colleges, and university level to support growth.

Nacogdoches is the perfect host for manufacturing plants to improve products or processes using innovative technology.   The labor force is diverse, ranging from skilled high-school graduates to alumni from Stephen F. Austin State University. Several manufacturers have found success in “The Oldest Town in Texas.” Mast Motorsport, Eaton and NIBCO, Inc are amongst the myriad of success stories producing products such as bronze valves, electric transformers, giant flanges, high-efficiency vehicle engines, customized luxury motorhomes, and heavy-duty trailers. 

“For 75 years, NIBCO INC has enjoyed a ‘favorite neighbor’ relationship with the City of Nacogdoches. From our elected officials to the residents that come to work with us every day, NIBCO Nacogdoches could not have a better pool of resources to build on. Our success can be attributed to the strong and consistent support the community provides.” – Sheri Howard, Plant Manager of NIBCO, Inc. 

Advanced manufacturers in the area find available workforce skilled in technological advances.  Along with Stephen F Austin’s existing engineering physics degree, SFA’s two new undergraduate programs in electrical and mechanical engineering prepare students for many advanced careers from communications to manufacturing and aeronautics. SFA’s Center for Applied Research and Rural Innovation (CARRI) partners with local manufacturers to advance technology and sustain economic growth by increasing the capacity of the regional workforce in key areas such as data analytics, digital media, and tech commercialization and transfer.