Maryland, with its strategic location, skilled professional and technical workers and quality infrastructure prove to be the ideal state for manufacturing in the U.S. Although it is not as large as the other states, it is an important driver of research and development, exports, and employment in numerous industries.

In 2015, the wealth accumulated by Maryland exports of manufactured goods accounted to $40.2 billion. Let us have a deeper dive into the major manufacturing industries and the leaders in each sector.

Computer and Electronics Industry

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the highest employing sector in 2016 was in the computer and electronic products industry (17,600 jobs). This manufacturing industry accounts for $4.3 billion of wealth to the economy. Although only a handful of tech companies dominate Maryland’s export base, it is estimated they account for more than their fair share of the economy.

Zentech is one of the largest computer and electronic manufacturers of all time and located in Maryland. They manufacture circuit-board-based products primarily for medical and dental clients, and defense. This Maryland company has been recognized twice in the past eight years by INC 500, as one of the fastest growing businesses in America.

America’s Vices

Food, Tobacco, and alcohol. The food manufacturing industry was Maryland’s second largest employer in 2016. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it generates about 15,100 jobs. The food, beverage and tobacco manufacturers contribute to a total of $2.9 billion in economic wealth.  In the 1770s, the tobacco trade took center stage in Maryland’s economy. Eventually, many manufacturing segments also emerged, which still flourish even today.

Alcoholic beverages are soon to change Maryland’s industry. In 2017, Diageo, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of alcoholic beverages declared its decision to invest in Baltimore County by planning to build a Guinness brewery and taproom in Relay. It adds feathers to Maryland’s cap, as this facility will be the Diageo’s sole brewery in America.

Having the nation’s highest number of doctoral engineers and scientists, Maryland provides the complete package of a skilled workforce.  A record of exporting goods to 209 countries through the port of Baltimore, Maryland also provides excellent transportation support. With companies like IBM and Zentech, the high-end technologies are available with no extra effort. A combination of all these factors will undoubtedly propel Maryland to the best manufacturing economy the state has seen for years to come.

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