Aerospace & Defense
Proximity to major aviation corridors and a certified supplier base support a strong aerospace and defense manufacturing presence in the region.
25+
Aerospace and defense suppliers in the region
5,000
Aerospace and defense jobs supported
$150M
In annual aerospace exports
Agriculture & Food Production
Rich farmland, reliable water access, and food-grade infrastructure make our region a natural fit for agriculture, food processing, and cold-chain distribution.
65,000
Acres in active agricultural production
300+
Working farms and food producers
$180M
Annual agricultural output value
Construction & Infrastructure
Sustained population growth is driving continued investment in construction and infrastructure, from commercial development to major public works.
$500M+
In active construction projects region-wide
9,000
Construction and skilled-trades workers
18%
Five-year growth in building permits
Energy & Utilities
A stable, cost-competitive utility grid and growing renewable capacity make our region a reliable base for energy producers and heavy power users alike.
99.9%
Grid reliability across the service area
35%
Power generated from renewable sources
400MW
New generation capacity in development
Healthcare & Life Sciences
Anchored by leading hospital systems and research institutions, our healthcare and life sciences cluster continues to attract providers, labs, and biotech innovators.
40+
Healthcare and life sciences employers
$220M
In recent healthcare capital investment
12,000
Healthcare jobs across the region
Logistics & Distribution
Positioned along major interstate, rail, and air corridors, our region gives logistics and distribution operators same-day reach to millions of consumers.
3M+
Sq. ft. of warehouse and distribution space
2
Interstate highways within the region
250mi
Reach to major metros within a day’s drive
Manufacturing
From precision machining to advanced assembly, our region is home to a diverse and growing manufacturing base backed by a skilled workforce and shovel-ready industrial sites.
120+
Manufacturers operating in the region
8,400
Manufacturing jobs supported locally
$68K
Average annual manufacturing wage
Retail & Tourism
A growing population and vibrant downtown districts support a thriving retail and tourism sector, from local shops to regional destination attractions.
1.4M
Annual visitors to the region
2,500
Retail and hospitality businesses
$1.2B
In annual retail and tourism spending
Technology & Innovation
A growing tech ecosystem — from software startups to data centers — is fueled by regional universities, fiber connectivity, and a young, educated workforce.
15+
Tech and software companies headquartered locally
10Gbps
Fiber connectivity available region-wide
3,200
Tech jobs across the regional economy