Made in Texas

ith its reputation for manufacturing excellence, Texas recruited several high-profile companies to invest in the state in 2021 and 2022. These investments include Samsung and Texas Instrument’s multi-billion semiconductor manufacturing facilities to be constructed in Taylor and Sherman.

Texas has the nation’s second-largest manufacturing workforce, with nearly 250,000 employed in the sector. The state is also home to approximately 6,000 manufacturing operations, including three of the largest automakers and the top semiconductor producers.

While such huge investments are certain to grab headlines and attention, they are far from alone in selecting the Lone Star State for their manufacturing operations. From high-tech components to recycled steel and building materials, products that are Made in Texas hold a uniquely high standard around the globe. According to 2021 data from the Office of the Texas Governor, Texas leads the nation in exports — for the 20th year in a row — and is also No. 1 in tech exports for the ninth year in a row. In total, Texas exports accounted for almost 1 million jobs.

“Made in Texas is a powerful global brand, and the Lone Star State continues to dominate the nation in exports, thanks to our unrivaled and productive workforce, robust infrastructure and welcoming business environment,” said Gov. Greg Abbott.

In February, Steel Dynamics, one of the country’s largest domestic steel producers and metal recyclers, opened its new manufacturing facility in Sinton. The new facility will create more than 590 new jobs and generate more than $1.9 billion in capital investment.

“Texas remains a shining example of business excellence in the United States thanks to companies like Steel Dynamics who are moving here in droves to grow, flourish, and contribute to our booming economy,” said Governor Abbott. “I am proud to welcome Steel Dynamics to the great state of Texas and look forward to working together as we ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for Sinton and the entire Lone Star State.”

Last fall, D6, an advanced design-to-shelf packaging manufacturer using recycled plastics, announced its decision to relocate its headquarters from Portland, Oregon, to Sulphur Springs. The project will create 231 new jobs and $27 million in capital investment. A Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $1,432,200 has been extended to D6. In addition, D6 has been offered a $6,000 Veteran Created Job Bonus.  

Where the Builders Are Building

In McGregor, Knauf Insulation, Inc., a subsidiary of Knauf Group AG, a multinational producer of building materials and construction systems, announced a $210 million capital investment that will create 151 new jobs. A Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $819,175 has been extended to Knauf Insulation, Inc.  

At the time of the announcement, Knauf Insulation President & CEO Matt Parrish said the company is “excited to expand our North American manufacturing operations to McGregor. As part of a global, family-owned business, we believe the timing is right, and McGregor is exactly the type of community where we desire to expand and partner for the future.”

“As one of the world’s largest manufacturers of insulation products and solutions, expanding our North American presence is a top priority for our family’s company,” said Knauf Group AG General Partner Alexander Knauf. “Selecting the City of McGregor and the State of Texas as our next expansion location will position Knauf Insulation to continue to meet the expanding needs of the building industry for the long-term while supporting the economic expansion to this vibrant community. On behalf of our family, I want to thank Governor Abbott and the great people in the McGregor community for being strong partners.”

In Parker County, Wagners CFT, LLC has established a new manufacturing and assembly — the company’s first U.S. manufacturing plant. The company manufactures a range of structural fiberglass sections that are fabricated into beams for use in bridges, boardwalks, and marine infrastructure. The project will create 304 new jobs. Wagners received a Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $1,799,984.

Corrigan OSB, a subsidiary of Martco LLC (RoyOMartin), expanded its facility in Polk County, creating 50 new jobs and $211 million in capital investment. The wood-products manufacturing company first opened a plant in Texas in 2018, creating 170 jobs.

“With this new OSB plant, we will be well-positioned to meet the backlog of demand for quality building products, produced from renewable, sustainable resources abundant in our region,” said E. Scott Poole, RoyOMartin President and COO. “Our growth in East Texas has given us an influx of talent with a tremendous work ethic, a long-term, sustainable, raw-material base, and access to a growing and vibrant residential market. I could not be prouder to further expand our footprint in the great state of Texas. We remain steadfast in investing in our people, our forestland, quality manufacturing, and our growing customer base.”