Manufacturing supports more than 311,000 Minnesota jobs, the state's second largest industry
ST. PAUL, MN - To highlight the importance of manufacturing, Governor Mark Dayton today issued a proclamation declaring the week of
October 1-10 to be Minnesota Manufacturing Week. 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.
"Minnesota's strong manufacturing sector makes a significant contribution to our economy. Manufacturing supports thousands of well-paying jobs," said Lt. Governor Tina Smith. Manufacturing week reminds us of the economic power of Minnesota's manufacturers and the workforce that powers them.
Plant tours of manufacturing facilities around the state and speakers and educational activities are planned throughout October in recognition of Minnesota Manufacturers Week.
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."
Manufacturing in Minnesota
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.
