Manufacturing Shines in Evanston, Providing Skilled Jobs and Economic Diversification

Manufacturing Shines in Evanston, Providing Skilled Jobs and Economic Diversification Main Photo

21 Oct 2024


News, economic development

All business types are welcome in Evanston, Wyoming, but October is a great time to talk about manufacturing. Residents across Uinta County work for advanced manufacturing, chemical processing, energy, and ammunition firms that create products for the American market. Both consumers and companies are directly supported by the manufacturing companies in Evanston.

There’s also room to grow within the region. Additional manufacturing industries can hire skilled workers who keep moving to Wyoming. There are also ample opportunities for workforce development so employees can hone specific skills.

Discover the impact manufacturing has on Evanston and why these companies thrive here. The partnership between manufacturing and the residents of Uinta County will only grow in the coming years.  

Manufacturing Investment Drives Rural Economies 

A new manufacturing firm can transform a rural economy. Manufacturing companies often offer skilled jobs that residents can turn into lasting careers. The National Association of Manufacturing reported that the average salary for a Wyoming resident working in manufacturing was $75,323 per year, as of 2019.  

Many manufacturing companies further support local economies through business partnerships. They hire local vendors and suppliers because they see the value the community provides.

“We’ve seen manufacturing firms move to Evanston and inspire other companies to open here,” says Rocco O'Neill, Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Evanston. “One company can spur the growth of new companies, with vendors stepping up to support them.”

A new manufacturing company can send ripple effects through an economy. The tax contributions, support for local non-profits, and other community engagement can all boost regional growth. The salaries of the firm’s employees also support small businesses, like popular Evanston restaurants, stores, and festivals.

Manufacturing Supports Economic Diversification

Wyoming is an energy powerhouse, and Evanston is no exception. Wyoming produces 12 times more energy than it consumes and is the third-largest energy provider in the country. A significant number of manufacturing companies in the region support the energy sector. However, an economy cannot thrive with just one industrial investment. Manufacturing provides diversity, and therefore stability, to the region.

“We love our energy companies,” says O'Neill. “But it’s also cool seeing other industries discover Uinta County. New manufacturers are moving here who appreciate the business environment and see the growth that’s about to come to Wyoming.”    

Every manufacturing investment provides diversity in job creation and economic development in Evanston. Small businesses can have a big impact—even if they only create a handful of jobs. In fact, only 1.6% of manufacturing companies have more than 500 employees, while only 25% of companies have more than 20 employees. Manufacturing is a field dominated by small businesses, entrepreneurs, and creative individuals looking to solve industry problems. 

Manufacturing Firms Thrive in Evanston

Evanston wouldn’t look the same without the manufacturing investment that found value in Uinta County, and the residents employed by these companies strive to do their best work. Evanston locals who work for Mitsubishi Chemical Carbon Fiber and Composites make carbon fiber that is shipped across the globe. The products made here are essential for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries.

Another leading company is Clean Energy Fuels, which is preparing the planet for a greener future from pasture to pump. These are just two examples of manufacturing firms discovering the strengths of Evanston residents that drove them to move here.  

Get to know some of the other employers and industries in Evanston, many of which are related to the manufacturing field.

Discover Why Manufacturing Companies Choose Evanston

Moving to Evanston, Wyoming, offers several location advantages. Along with easy access to several major thoroughfares and metropolitan areas like Salt Lake City, Evanston supports businesses with 12,000 residents, and more than 20,200 in Uinta County. There is ample land, available buildings, and a supportive business community waiting for you in Evanston.

Bring your manufacturing firm to Southwest Wyoming or introduce a brand new industry to the region. Your employees and suppliers are waiting for you.