National Manufacturing Month in Devils Lake: Strengthening Community, Industry, and Opportunity
30 Oct 2024
News
Honoring the Role of Manufacturing in Devils Lake’s Economic Landscape
National Manufacturing Month highlights the critical role manufacturing plays in communities across the U.S., and Devils Lake, North Dakota, is no exception. With a vibrant and diverse business community, Devils Lake benefits from an array of industries that fuel the economy, provide jobs, and enhance the quality of life for residents. This October, Forward Devils Lake Economic Development celebrates the contributions of local manufacturing businesses and the workers at the heart of it all.
A Diverse Economic Backbone
Devils Lake’s economy is built on a solid foundation of several industries that keep the community thriving. According to DATAUSA, the largest sectors in the area are Accommodation and Food Services (employing 558 people), Health Care and Social Assistance (489 people), and Retail Trade (447 people). These sectors are essential in providing employment opportunities, meeting the needs of the local population, and supporting tourism, another vital economic driver in Devils Lake.
Beyond these leading sectors, the manufacturing industry is crucial, contributing significantly to economic resilience and innovation. Manufacturing operations in Devils Lake produce goods that serve local, regional, and national markets, fueling job creation, skill development, and economic growth.
Tourism and Manufacturing: A Synergistic Relationship
The renowned Devils Lake, a popular fishing destination, attracts anglers and outdoor enthusiasts from across the Midwest, bringing thousands of visitors to the area each year. Tourism is a key economic pillar, employing 967 individuals in Ramsey County, according to a 2018 study by Oxford Economics. This industry boosts local businesses and creates opportunities for manufacturing companies producing outdoor recreation and tourism goods, from fishing gear to infrastructure materials. The combination of tourism and manufacturing helps sustain local enterprises and keeps the community thriving year-round.
Manufacturing’s Impact on Job Creation and Community Growth
Forward Devils Lake EDC diligently supports and expands manufacturing as a vital part of the local economy. With nearly 4,000 people employed across various sectors, manufacturing’s role in creating stable, well-paying jobs is essential. Devils Lake can continue diversifying its economy by focusing on workforce development and attracting new manufacturing ventures, ensuring sustainability and resilience in the face of broader economic changes.
Looking to the Future
This National Manufacturing Month, Forward Devils Lake Economic Development extends its gratitude to local manufacturers and their employees, whose work is integral to the city’s economy and community. As Devils Lake continues to grow and develop, manufacturing will remain a cornerstone industry, fostering innovation, stability, and a brighter future for residents. Through the EDC's ongoing efforts and community support, Devils Lake’s manufacturing sector is poised to build on its successes and expand opportunities for the next generation. Contact us here for more information.