Top Industries

Manufacturing

Manufacturing Tomorrow's Breakthroughs

Pennsylvania’s manufacturing industry is an undeniable force. Not only does the sector employ 1 in 10 residents, it contributes more than $113 billion to our state economy each year. With our strong infrastructure and powerful supply of resources, Pennsylvania is primed for manufacturers looking to scale operations and lead in a competitive market.

Our regions deliver specialized expertise in diverse manufacturing segments. In the Central and Northern regions, plastic product manufacturing integrates seamlessly with the life sciences industry. Metallurgy and metal manufacturing span the state, strengthening robotics, technology, and energy. Meanwhile, our paper product manufacturing continues to evolve and deliver essential materials across sectors. The Commonwealth is investing $500 million in site development to prepare more shovelready industrial and commercial sites — so companies can get to work, fast.  

We’re also equipping Pennsylvanians with the hands-on skills they need to meet the demands of modern advanced manufacturing. Through initiatives like Manufacturing PA and our cutting-edge apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, we are preparing the workforce of tomorrow. Since 2023, we’ve secured $23.5 million in workforce development funding and launched the Commonwealth Workforce Transformation Program, set to create 10,000 new jobs. In Pennsylvania, manufacturing is more than just an industry; it’s the foundation for a future built on innovation. 

Worker in Manufacturing plant shuffling the product

“Pennsylvania is home to the largest number of critical Navy shipbuilders in the nation, and the investments by DCED and the U.S. Department of the Defense will address one of the biggest challenges for our national defense — skilled talent.” — Tom Palisin, Executive Director of the Manufacturer’s Association

“We are grateful for our partnership with Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development. The Training-to-Career grant funding supports our collective efforts to prepare the next generation of skilled workers for good-paying jobs in highdemand fields.” — Patrick M. Jones, President and CEO, Bucks County Community College

6th Largest Manufacturing Industry in the U.S. by Employment

IndustrySelect, 2024
$113.2 Billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2021 Pennsylvania Manufacturing Advisory Council
$30 Million Increase in CTE Programming and Equipment 2024-25 State Budget
45 New Apprenticeship Programs (Since January 2023) PA.GOV, 2024
564,700+ Residents Employed in Manufacturing Pennsylvania Manufacturing Advisory Council

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