Booming Arkansas Industry: Manufacturing
By Arkansas Next on Friday, October 10, 2025
Manufacturing by the Numbers
► 1 in 8 Arkansas jobs are in the manufacturing industry
► 2,227 manufacturing firms in Arkansas
► 163,000 - estimated manufacturing jobs in Arkansas in 2024
► 22,390 employed at 620 metals manufacturing establishments in Arkansas
► $2.41 billion - value added to the economy compromising
► $66,795 - average annual compensation in Arkansas manufacturing
► 47% of Arkansas manufacturers work with a high school diploma or less
► Top 5 manufacturing sectors in Arkansas:
- Food & tobacco
- Primary metal
- Fabricated metal
- Wood product
- Machinery
(Sources: nam.org, arkansasedc.com, themanufacturinginstitute.org, mni.net, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the U.S. Census Bureau, arkansaspolicyfoundation.org)
Meet The Pros
Made in Arkansas
Did you know that so many well-known products are made so close to home? Check them out, everything from cupcakes to power boats.
It's Rocket Science!
Each summer, students with a passion for science and technology get a chance to launch their dreams at Southern Arkansas University’s Rocket Science Camp. Now in its second year, the workshop gives young learners hands-on experience in aerospace and manufacturing, setting them on a trajectory toward high-tech careers right here in Arkansas.
The SAU Rocket Workshop introduces students to real-world skills used by aerospace professionals. From rocket simulation and electronics integration to precision fabrication, campers gain a glimpse of careers that are both exciting and in demand.
What’s Next for the Rocket Workshop?
Plans are underway to return bigger and better in summer 2026, with more flight electronics, a payload competition and expanded spots to welcome more eager learners. The program aligns with Level 1 High-Powered Rocketry Certification standards, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to pursue certification soon after camp.
Steel Facility in NEA Continues to Expand
The solar-powered Hybar Steel facility in Northeast Arkansas is ready to expand. Founded in 2023 with 1,300 acres completely vacant, the new steel company met its three goals within 22 months of opening its doors: Build Hybar into a state-of-the-art plant, run it with solar and battery-saved power and place a working port on the Mississippi River.
In 2023, the company started with only three employees. Now, CEO David Stickler, known as the “Steve Jobs of American Steel,” has over 100 workers in Arkansas. Not only this, but the company plans to add 200 more direct employees to new facilities.
With over 5,000 tons of steel per year and per worker being made, a second Hybar location in Arkansas is underway. Groundbreaking could start as soon as the beginning of 2026, with a $800 million investment in the works.
(Source: Arkansas Business)
More Jobs in Manufacturing
| Jobs | What They Do | Education Level Needed | Median Salary in AR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Engineer | Design or improve manufacturing systems or related processes. May work with designers to refine product designs to increase productivity and decrease costs. | Bachelor’s degree | $136,050 |
| Industrial Engineering Technologist And Technician | Apply engineering theory to problems of industrial manufacturing production under the direction of engineering staff. | Associate degree | $129,500 |
| Millwright | Install, take apart or move equipment and machinery according to layout plans or blueprints. | High school diploma or GED | $64,180 |
| Welders | Operate and tend to milling and plans for machines to mill, plane, shape, groove or profile metal or plastic work pieces. | High school diploma or GED | $63,570 |
| Team Assembler | Work as part of a team with the responsibility of assembling an entire product or one component of a product. | High school diploma or GED | $48,550 |
(Source: careeronestop.org)
