The Economy

A Manufacturing Comeback in Cleveland

Feb. 21, 2013

Reversing a two decade trend manufacturing is now fueling Cleveland's recovery.

While manufacturing in the U.S. is projected to grow 33% between 2012 and 2020, in Cleveland that number is higher.

With high-tech, advanced-manufacturing techniques taking hold — and key sectors such as plastics and rubber hitting their stride — the region's manufacturing gross regional product is projected to grow by 39% between 2010 and 2020.

By contrast, U.S. manufacturing output is projected to grow by 33% during that same time period.

The projections come from Team NEO, a nonprofit economic development organization representing Cleveland, Akron, Canton and Youngstown — once-mighty manufacturing hubs that, until recently, have held the dubious distinction of being in the heart of the Rust Belt.

But things are turning around, according to Team NEO's fourth-quarter review of economic indicators in the 18-county region.

Click on Hot in Cleveland: Manufacturing Mounts a Comback for more on New Equipment Digest.

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.