News Summary
Florida’s manufacturing sector is grappling with an aging workforce, with over 50% of workers aged 45 or older. The state, despite being third in total manufacturing companies, ranks 10th in employee numbers. A significant increase in manufacturing output and wages signals opportunity, but the urgency to attract younger talent is critical to sustain growth and address the upcoming retirement crisis. New developments in Central Florida are creating jobs, but the industry needs innovative skills to adapt to demographic shifts.
Orlando, Florida – Florida is facing significant challenges in the manufacturing sector as an aging workforce necessitates a push for younger talent. Despite being third in the nation for total manufacturing companies, the state ranks 10th in the number of manufacturing employees, with approximately 430,000 workers. This discrepancy highlights the pressing need for skilled workers amid a booming industry.
The state has experienced a notable 23.3% increase in manufacturing employment since 2014, reflecting an uptick in demand and growth. As of 2022, the average annual wage for manufacturing jobs in Florida was over $74,000, making it an attractive field for potential employees. However, Florida Commerce Secretary Alex Kelly has pointed out a significant concern: more than 50% of the manufacturing workforce is aged 45 or older, indicating a looming retirement crisis that is expected to outpace new entrants into the field until around 2035.
Industry experts stress the importance of attracting younger workers to fill the inevitable gaps created by retirements. This demographic shift underscores the urgency of addressing workforce development in a sector that is critical to the state’s economy.
In addition to workforce challenges, Florida’s manufacturing output has seen remarkable growth, rising from $43.5 billion in 2014 to $73 billion in 2022, reflecting a growth rate of 67.8%. This growth is further supported by the state’s anticipated population increase from 18.8 million in 2010 to 23.3 million by 2025, which will likely drive demand for products and necessitate a corresponding expansion of the workforce.
The Interstate 4 Corridor in Central Florida has become a focal point for manufacturing and GDP growth, especially in sectors such as aerospace and defense. New developments in the region include CAE Defense & Security’s new headquarters in Tampa, which has created space for 750 employees thanks to its proximity to major clients like MacDill Air Force Base.
Another significant project is Dassault Falcon Jet’s newly opened $115 million service facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport, which is expected to generate 400 jobs with average salaries of $86,120. These projects not only enhance the manufacturing landscape but also create economic opportunities for local residents.
On the tech front, German company TeamViewer is relocating its U.S. headquarters from Clearwater to Midtown Tampa, demonstrating a shift in the business landscape and highlighting the state’s appeal to tech firms. This move includes leasing 26,389 square feet in an under-construction office tower aimed at supporting further growth.
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, Florida is also witnessing demographic changes that could benefit its workforce. The population is becoming younger and more mobile, providing a potential talent pool for advanced manufacturing jobs that require innovative skills and adaptability.
Supporting local business competitiveness, the Florida Chamber of Commerce recently marked National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day, recognizing the role of local chambers in fostering economic growth.
In a different vein, the City of Miami is conducting a review to assess the value for money that taxpayers receive from services funded by property taxes to Miami-Dade County. This review aims to ensure accountability and efficient use of public resources.
In addition to the manufacturing sector, Florida’s stone crab season has commenced with a healthy supply expected, and claw prices are projected to be similar to those from last spring, adding to the state’s coastal economic activities.
Amid these developments, Oculus Surgical Inc. has made headlines by moving into a new 75,000-square-foot facility in Port St. Lucie, anticipating an increase in its workforce from 44 to 79 employees over the next three years, a sign of the growing demand for skilled labor in the region.
Furthermore, a new master-planned community called Sunbridge is under development southeast of Orlando, slated to accommodate industrial facilities for the likes of Blue Origin and TJ Maxx, along with significant residential and commercial spaces, showing promise for future economic expansion.
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Additional Resources
- Florida Phoenix
- Google Search: Florida manufacturing workforce
- Florida Trend
- Wikipedia: Manufacturing
- Florida Politics
- Google Scholar: Florida manufacturing challenges
- Tallahassee.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Manufacturing
- Site Selection
- Google News: Florida manufacturing growth
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
