We want to take the time to reflect significant successes of the past year for SAMA, its members and the manufacturing industry. In 2019, there has been an increase in new manufacturing companies and expansion to existing regional companies that have created over 3,550 new jobs for San Antonio and its surrounding areas. Aisin AW, Boeing, FGF Brands Texas, Navistar have all contributed over 500 jobs each. This expansion has led our state to win the Business Facilities 2019 State of the Year Award for the 4th time. It has also become the number one exporting state in the nation, exporting approximately $247 billion in manufactured goods. Manufacturers now employ more than 880,900 Texans. These achievements have also led to the personal enhancement of workers. Last year, the average salary in the manufacturing sector was more than 85,000 which is fifty percent higher than other non-farm Texas workers. In order to invest in the future workforces of the Texas region, SAMA partnered up with Alamo Academies, TX Fame, Alamo Colleges and Bexar County.
In addition, SAMA has been able to host a series of events that help facilitate conversations about the future of the manufacturing industry and its workforce. We had terrific attendance for our following events: 2019 Trade Show & Conference, seminars and programs, luncheons, mixers, and tournaments. We are proud of the strides the manufacturing industry has made in 2019 and are looking forward to what the new year has to offer!
