September 30, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALEXANDRIA, LA – Manufacturing is a critical growth engine for the Central Louisiana economy, with almost ten thousand full-time employees at an average salary of $77,739 per job. “Recent research shows that Central Louisiana’s 10-parish manufacturing sector has grown 13% in the past five years,” said Louisiana Central President & CEO Jim Clinton. “According to the Louisiana Central Region Manufacturing Lightcast Report, the sector will grow another 15% by 2028. Currently, manufacturing generates more than $1.7 billion annually in Gross Regional Product (GRP),” continued Clinton. “This underscores the essential role that manufacturing plays in our economy.” ( Louisiana Central Region Manufacturing Lightcast Report > https://bit.ly/47PiPh5 }
Louisiana Central is proud to announce the launch of Manufacturing Month this October, a month-long celebration dedicated to showcasing the strength, innovation, and economic significance of Central Louisiana’s manufacturing sector. With the spotlight on the impact of manufacturing on the regional economy, Louisiana Central will also highlight the local career paths the industry offers.
“Manufacturing Month is an opportunity to showcase the local manufacturing industry’s contributions to our region’s economy and to inspire the next generation of talent,” said Keisha Hamilton, Program Coordinator at Louisiana Central. “We want to show our community the innovative technology and careers that are shaping our future and emphasize that there are incredible career opportunities right here in Central Louisiana.”
As part of Manufacturing Month, Louisiana Central is highlighting the region as a hub for sustainable biofuels production and manufacturing focused on alternative energy solutions. Manufacturing is not only about today’s contributions but also about driving innovation for the future.
“We are marketing Central Louisiana as the go-to place for sustainable manufacturing,” said Lafe Jones, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President of Louisiana Central.
As we celebrate our local manufacturing sector, the region is attracting international attention. Companies with ties to other countries such as Denmark (Beaver Lake Renewable Energy), Canada (Ucore Rare Metals), England (Drax Biomass), and Australia (Syrah Technologies) are increasingly recognizing the advantages Central Louisiana offers as a manufacturing hub and investing in local sites and creating good jobs.
“The world is paying attention to what’s happening in Central Louisiana,” said Jones. “With our combination of geographic locations, strong infrastructure, natural resources, and a skilled workforce, our region is positioning itself as a top location for both national and international manufacturing companies.”
Manufacturing Month will also emphasize the various career pathways available within the industry, as the workforce demand continues to grow as manufacturers expand their operations. Local manufacturers are offering tours, speakers, and events during the month. Through partnerships with local K-12 schools, colleges, universities, and training programs, Louisiana Central will also provide information on education and training opportunities that prepare students for careers in this critical field, in addition to jobs that do not require advanced training experience.
“Central Louisiana’s manufacturers are some of the most innovative businesses in the country,” said Hamilton. “From advanced manufacturing processes to application of new technologies, these companies are leading the way—and they’re offering incredible opportunities for those looking to enter the workforce.”
The initiative aims to inspire more students to pursue careers in STEM fields, which are increasingly critical to the future of manufacturing. By offering a range of training programs and certifications, Central Louisiana’s educational institutions are preparing the next generation of talent to step into well-paying roles in the region’s leading industry.
Louisiana Central invites the public, industry professionals, teachers, counselors and students to join in the month-long celebration of Manufacturing Month. In addition to a month-long digital media campaign, the organization has invited industry leaders to be guest speakers at local meetings in October, discuss exciting industry news on local radio and television shows, and will provide written stories through digital and print media. By attending events, engaging in educational activities, and exploring career opportunities, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the manufacturing sector's vital role in Central Louisiana's economy.
Join Louisiana Central in this month-long celebration:
Manufacturing Tours & Events: Find information on what companies are offering tours and events on Louisiana Centrals web page: www.louisiana-central.com/manufacturing-month-2024
Louisiana Central Social Media: Louisiana Central’s social media campaign will educate our community about the critical role manufacturing plays in the local economy and the high-demand career paths it offers, as well as spotlight success stories from local manufacturers.
Media Interviews and Community Speaking/Meetings: Engaging the public through local radio, television, online platforms, and community speaking engagements.
For direct inquiries, contact Keisha Hamilton at 318-441-3423 or khamilton@louisiana-central.com.
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About Louisiana Central:
Louisiana Central is the regional economic development organization and pivotal connector for Central Louisiana dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the ten-parish region of Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon, and Winn. By attracting and supporting businesses across various sectors, including manufacturing, Louisiana Central aims to create new job opportunities and grow the region's economy.
Learn more about Louisiana Central at www.louisiana-central.com.
Media Contact:
Britni Lilley
Marketing and Communications Manager
Louisiana Central
O: 318-441-3405
C: 318-787-3873
blilley@louisiana-central.com
