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Manufacturing in South Carolina is Strong

**Greenville, SC**

South Carolina has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its manufacturing sector. Once heavily reliant on the textile industry, the Palmetto State has diversified and emerged as a force in advanced manufacturing. From automobiles to aircraft, the state delivers complex products that bolster its reputation on the global stage.

**Leaders Weigh In on Manufacturing Strength**

Recently, a roundtable discussion brought together key leaders in the field, sharing insights on the current state and future prospects of manufacturing in South Carolina.

**Rob Moser: A Persistent Growth**

Rob Moser, a senior investment manager at SC Launch, emphasized the dynamic growth and partnerships flourishing across the state. “From larger industry partners to new startups, we see continual development and collaboration,” Moser noted.

**Andy Carr: A Powerhouse in the Making**

Andy Carr, president and CEO of the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership, described the sector as “very robust.” He credited long-term efforts from various state entities in making South Carolina a “manufacturing powerhouse.” “We’re in good shape, particularly with the transition to electrical vehicles. Recent announcements about battery plants and recycling facilities further assure our bright future,” Carr added.

**Charles Wall: Continuous Growth in Steel**

Charles Wall, president of S.C. Steel, shared a historical perspective. Dating back to the 1950s, Wall’s company has seen an upward trend in the steel fabrication business. “Strong government support and a skilled workforce have sustained continuous growth,” Wall said, while cautioning the need to balance the supply and demand of skilled labor.

**Warren Blanchard: Unprecedented Prosperity**

Warren Blanchard, senior vice president at McGriff Insurance, highlighted the success and resilience of manufacturers during the pandemic. “Most of my clients would say 2022 and 2023 were their best years financially,” he stated. However, Blanchard also noted the struggles within the textile sector due to post-Covid issues.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

Despite the success, leaders identified several challenges and opportunities:

**Workforce Training and Apprenticeship Programs**

With high demand for skilled labor, the focus is on attracting and training a capable workforce. Wall emphasized partnerships with local career centers and technical colleges to ensure future needs are met. Carr highlighted Apprenticeship Carolina as a “nation-leading” program crucial to maintaining South Carolina’s manufacturing edge.

**Automation and Robotics**

With labor shortages driving the adoption of automation and robotics, companies are finding these technologies indispensable. Charles Wall shared that robotics increased their throughput without displacing workers. Carr reminded manufacturers always to consider the specific problem they’re trying to solve before adopting new technologies.

**Preparing for the Future**

To ensure sustainable growth, stakeholders stressed the importance of education and outreach. Engaging students early and educating them about the wealth of opportunities in manufacturing is vital. Carr suggested that manufacturers actively promote their business to the community to attract future talent.

As South Carolina continues to navigate the complexities of the modern manufacturing landscape, the consensus is clear: Manufacturing in South Carolina is not only strong but positioned to lead.

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