The Commonwealth has more than 6,000 manufacturing facilities, including Ford, GE Appliances, and Toyota. Additionally, officials say Kentucky ranks number one in vehicle production and electric vehicle battery production.
Governor Andy Beshear recently declared October Manufacturing Month in the state. Beshear said the manufacturing industry contributes billions of dollars to the state’s gross domestic product.
“Manufacturing has been central to Kentucky’s growth, especially these past five plus years, and it continues to drive our economic momentum. The industry is also helping to raise wages for all of our families,” said Beshear.
For the first time in Kentucky history, the state’s incentivized hourly wage has topped $26 for three years in a row.
“Manufacturing represents over 12% of our state’s workforce. That is significantly higher than the national average of eight percent. The industry also contributes $47.5 billion to the state’s gross domestic product,” said Beshear.
Manufacturers also fuel key industries in Kentucky, including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, food and beverage, and more.