Lt. Governor Smith's remarks discussed how manufacturing is essential to creating a Minnesota economy that works for everyone

 

ST. PAUL, MN - At the Lakes Area Manufacturing Breakfast in Merrifield, Lt. Governor Tina Smith today stressed at the importance of manufacturers in building an economy that works for all Minnesotans, everywhere in the state. The event was held at Clow Stamping Company, a family-owned metal stamping business, which provides parts for manufacturers in a variety of industries.

 

Overall, manufacturing supports more than 311,000 Minnesota jobs, while contributing $43.7 billion to the state's economy. This output represents 16 percent of Minnesota's gross domestic product and accounted for nearly $20 billion in state exports in 2013.

 

"Manufacturing plays an essential role in Minnesota's economy, supporting thousands of good paying jobs," Lt. Governor Tina Smith. "Minnesota's highly skilled workforce produces high-quality goods sought around the world, while strengthening families and communities across the state."

 

Governor Mark Dayton issued a proclamation declaring the Week of October 1-10 to be Minnesota Manufacturing Week. The Department of Employment and Economic Development collaborates with the manufacturing industry to sponsor activities highlighting the impact and importance of manufacturing throughout the state. Tours of manufacturing facilities around the state, speakers, and educational activities are planned throughout October as part of the celebration.

 

Manufacturing accounts for one in nine jobs in the state, and supports nearly two additional jobs elsewhere in the economy," said DEED Commissioner Katie Clark Sieben. "Manufacturers are key to the overall health and growth of Minnesota, and educational events happening throughout the state this week will inform potential workers of exciting careers in the industry that pay family sustaining wages."

 

Founded in 1970, Clow Stamping Company is a family-owned business based in Merrifield, Minnesota. It is a top provider and industry leader in full service stamping and fabrication of metal components. It produces components for a variety of industries, including: tractors and combines, industrial refrigerators, hotel fitness center equipment, and ATVs and snowmobiles.

 

More than 311,000 people work in manufacturing in Minnesota, primarily in foods, computer and electronic products, fabricated metal products and machinery. Salaries in the sector are much higher than most other industries in the state because many manufacturing jobs require high-tech skills to operate advanced technology and computer-controlled equipment. The average manufacturing position in the state paid $61,048 last year. This is roughly $10,000 more than the typical job in Minnesota.

 

Many of Minnesota's Fortune 500 companies are manufacturers, including General Mills, Medtronic, 3M, Ecolab and Hormel.