Advanced Manufacturing
The engine that powers our region’s economic vitality and provides key opportunities for quality jobs.
62%
62%
of jobs pay a wage above the regional median wage
Manufacturing Spurs ProductivityProvides Quality JobsSparks InnovationFosters Creativity
Advanced manufacturing is a cornerstone of the metro area’s economy and a source of quality jobs for workers across the region. The advanced manufacturing sector includes high tech, metals, machinery, and transportation equipment. In 2023, the region’s advanced manufacturing gross regional product (GRP) was $20.1 billion, an increase of 85% since 2019.
2025 Regional Industry Facts
Average Wage:
$150,678
Number of Jobs:
65,349
Number of Firms:
1,445
5 Year Job Growth:
-1%
industry lq*
1.5
* Location Quotient (LQ) is a statistical measure used to compare the concentration of a particular industry, occupation, or demographic characteristic in a specific region to a larger reference area, typically at the national level. An LQ of 1.7 means the industry plays a 70% larger role in the region's economy compared to the national economy.
Primary Occupations
Manufacturing encompasses a diverse range of businesses, from heavy equipment production to solar panel manufacturing. Despite their differences, these industries share one common trait: they support jobs that make our region home to some of the most skilled manufacturing workers in the world.
Semiconductor Processing Technicians
Jobs: 5,962
Median Hourly Wage $30.96
Machinists
Jobs: 1,531
Median Hourly Wage $30.84
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Jobs: 1,959
Median Hourly Wage $29.25
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Jobs: 13,624
Median Hourly Wage $38.61
Worksystems’ Manufacturing Initiatives
We collaborate with WorkSource Portland Metro and other partners to provide pathways to Quality Jobs across the manufacturing industry. With soaring job demand and a surge in funding from the CHIPS Act, semiconductor manufacturing has become a critical focus area, driving innovation and growth in the industry.
Quick Start is a customized training developed in partnership with Worksystems, Intel, PCC, City of Hillsboro, and Washington County. This 10-day “boot camp” is the first of its kind in Oregon and the most successful model nationally at creating access to entry-level semiconductor jobs.
Since its launch in 2022, nearly 680 job seekers have engaged in semiconductor training:
- 75% identify as BIPOC or female
- 59% of graduates obtained employment in the semiconductor industry*
- Graduates are earning an average wage of $22,89
*Employment rate was closer to 70% until the industry started to slow in 2025
Additionally, Worksystems provides scholarships for Standards of Training Certification of Watchkeeping at Clatsop Community College’s MERTS Campus. This certification is required for work on a boat or ship.
This bi-state regional partnership, conceptualized and fueled by the Columbia-Willamette Workforce Collaborative, unites industry leaders, educators, workforce development, economic organizations, and community partners to tackle shared industry challenges. This network aligns public and private investments to meet regional needs. While not solely focused on workforce development, the strong relationship with industry makes it a go-to for workforce topics, showcasing Worksystems‘ effective regional networking to build stronger communities.
Each year, more than 100 businesses are supported through the Cascadia Manufacturing Network and Titanium for Trades & Manufacturing Businesses.
Employer Champions
Additional Resources
