This week is South Carolina Manufacturing Week, and Gov. Henry McMaster issued a proclamation to raise awareness about the achievements and opportunities manufacturing provides to the state. So, we want to build up your knowledge about how this growing sector impacts our lives every day.

Manufacturing is a big deal for SC businesses – accounting for 16% of the state’s gross domestic product + employing 12% of the workforce, which is about 239,500 South Carolinians.

There are more than 5,000 manufacturing businesses in SC + in 2016, manufacturers exported $30.7 billion in goods – approx. 97% of all exports.

South Carolina’s manufacturing history dates back to the late 19th century, and by the 1930s, SC was home to the two largest textile industries in the US. Today, there’s more diversity in the products made here, from automobiles and planes to medical devices and appliances. The Palmetto State is producing advanced products + the advanced materials to create them – including high-performance polyester fiber and carbon fiber.

Since 2011, manufacturers have created 70,000+ jobs in SC. However, experts are predicting a skills gap of over 2 million unfilled jobs because of an aging workforce and a shortage in new skilled production workers. To help combat this shortage + change the stigma of blue collar professions, state leaders started the Be Pro Be Proud program.

Between BMW Manufacturing, Michelin North America, GE Power, Duke Energy, Milliken & Company, Lockheed Martin and more, the Upstate plays an important role in South Carolina’s manufacturing success.

Be Pro Be Proud is a statewide program designed to educate students and the public on the importance and opportunity that manufacturing jobs provide. A signature component of the program is the custom-designed semi-trailer that brings the training to students – with hands-on simulators from all trades, including welding + heavy equipment operation.

The mobile workshop has begun traveling to schools, fairs, career centers and military reentry programs + is accepting applications for upcoming dates.

Find the next time the Be Pro Be Proud trailer will be in Greenville here.