Craftsmanship Powering Modern Manufacturing

From the world's bourbon capital to cutting-edge automotive and aerospace production, Kentucky combines heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation. With 250,000+ manufacturing workers producing $35+ billion annually, the Bluegrass State builds America's future while honoring its past.
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Leading Industries Shaping Kentucky

Automotive Manufacturing

Kentucky is the #3 auto-producing state with 561,000 vehicles manufactured in 2024. Home to Ford (Louisville), Toyota (Georgetown - largest Toyota plant globally producing 550,000 vehicles), GM (Bowling Green Corvette), and the EV battery capital with $14.5 billion invested across 170+ automotive projects.

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Aerospace & Aviation

Kentucky's #1 export category at $18.9 billion annually. Safran Landing Systems, GE Appliances Aviation, and 40+ aerospace manufacturers employ thousands. Recent investments: $578.9 million creating 1,200+ jobs. Strong presence in aircraft parts, landing systems, and defense components.

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Bourbon & Distilling

The signature Kentucky industry with 95% of global bourbon production. 22,500+ jobs, 75+ distilleries, and $10.9 billion in capital investment. Major brands: Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey, Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Four Roses. Kentucky bourbon tourism attracts millions annually, supporting hospitality and logistics sectors.

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Why North Carolina Manufacturing?

World-Class Research & Development

Home to the Research Triangle Park and leading universities, North Carolina transforms innovation into production. Our pharmaceutical and biotech sectors lead the nation.

Skilled Workforce Pipeline

The nation's largest community college system partners directly with manufacturers, ensuring workers have the skills employers need — today and tomorrow.

Strategic East Coast Location

Access to major ports, interstate highways, and rail networks means your products reach markets faster. Plus, we're within a day's drive of 50% of the U.S. population.

Why North Carolina Manufacturing?

World-Class Research & Development

Home to the Research Triangle Park and leading universities, North Carolina transforms innovation into production. Our pharmaceutical and biotech sectors lead the nation.

Skilled Workforce Pipeline

The nation's largest community college system partners directly with manufacturers, ensuring workers have the skills employers need — today and tomorrow.

Strategic East Coast Location

Access to major ports, interstate highways, and rail networks means your products reach markets faster. Plus, we're within a day's drive of 50% of the U.S. population.

Why Manufacturers Choose Kentucky?

Kentucky offers a strategic advantage for manufacturers combining location, scale, and workforce strength. Positioned within one day’s drive of 60 percent of the U.S. population, the state provides efficient access to major markets while maintaining competitive operating costs.

4,500+

manufacturing firms statewide

$14.5B

invested in EV and battery manufacturing

320+

bourbon industry expansions since 2015

#3
auto-producing state in America

Kentucky manufacturing at a glance.

A cornerstone of the state’s economy, Kentucky manufacturing blends deep-rooted craftsmanship with global-scale production, supporting jobs, exports, and innovation across urban and rural communities.

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250,000+ Manufacturing Employees

One of the state’s largest employment sectors.

$18.9B in Automotive Exports

National leader in automotive exports.

$35B+ Manufacturing GDP

A major engine of economic growth.

95% of the World’s Bourbon

Global hub for bourbon production.

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Insights & Ideas

Explore Real Strategies, Trends, and Tips to Help Your Brand Grow.

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The Future of American Manufacturing: Innovation Meets Workforce

How AI, automation, and training are shaping the next generation of skilled workers.

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Alex Martinez
Industry Analyst
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Reskilling America: How Apprenticeships Are Powering Growth

Modern apprenticeships bridge education and industry, creating real career opportunities.

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Sarah Patel
Workforce Development Lead

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