Joining in on an initiative that follows a national movement to highlight the role manufacturing plays in driving economic prosperity, the City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County have issued proclamations declaring Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, as Manufacturing Day. 

Celebrated nationally on the first Friday in October, the day recognizes manufacturing as a primary driver of our economy and brings awareness to the meaningful careers available industry-wide.

In Cumberland County, more than 6,200 people are employed by local manufacturers,

representing over $490 million in annual earnings. Manufacturing is one of the most dynamic

sectors of our economy, offering a range of careers suited for highly skilled professionals, as well as those entering the job market for the first time.

“In Fayetteville, our manufacturing workers are essential to driving innovation and producing the

goods that keep our community and country moving forward,” said Mayor Mitch Colvin in a press release. “Their dedication and skills not only strengthen our economy but also create opportunities for future generations. As we celebrate Manufacturing Day, we honor these talented, hard-working professionals’ contributions and their impact on Fayetteville’s flourishing economic future.” 

In the week leading up to Manufacturing Day, students from four Cumberland County high schools attended field trips to local manufacturers, participating in plant tours and Q&A sessions with company leaders. They saw first-hand what a career in manufacturing can look like, and what different opportunities exist as they plan their paths after graduation. Cumberland County Schools encourage students to explore manufacturing throughout the year through industry partnerships, classroom speakers, technical certifications and internship opportunities through the ICON program.

“On Manufacturing Day, we celebrate the incredible innovation driving our local industry,” shared County Chairman Glenn Adams in a press release. “The Fayetteville-Cumberland Economic Development Corporation’s commitment to showcasing our manufacturing sector recognizes the talent and dedication within our community and underscores our collective ambition to foster economic growth and create meaningful opportunities. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more prosperous future for Cumberland County.”

“Our local manufacturing partners and their employees are innovative and adaptable,” said Robert Van Geons, President and CEO of the FCEDC in a press release. “A well-supported and vibrant industry base is one of our community’s best assets. As an organization, we want to help our existing industries grow while leveraging their strengths to attract new investment and job creation.”

Employers throughout Fayetteville and Cumberland County are actively hiring in the manufacturing sector. In September, the FCEDC shared quality job openings in the manufacturing sector on its social media platforms, using the hashtag #WorkforceWednesday. These positions, which are well-suited for the area’s dynamic and uniquely-skilled workforce, offer a variety of shift schedules, competitive benefits, and opportunities for training and career advancement.

The manufacturing sector in Fayetteville and Cumberland County is experiencing significant growth. In recent years, established employers and new operations have announced projects supporting more than 4,800 jobs and adding more than $1 billion to the local tax base.