Manufacturing Industry and Innovation Defines the Oconee County Economy

Manufacturing is the single largest driver of Oconee County’s economy. More than 5,000 local jobs are tied to the industry, representing over 25 percent of the workforce. Since 2020, manufacturing employment in the county has grown by nearly 50 percent, making it one of the fastest-growing concentrations in South Carolina.

“Our county has become a proven hub for advanced manufacturing,” said Jamie Gilbert, President & CEO of the Oconee Economic Alliance. “Every product produced here, from automotive components to precision cutting tools, reinforces Oconee’s position as a top-tier location for manufacturers.”

Major Employers Fuel Regional Supply Chains

Oconee is home to industry leaders whose operations extend across global supply networks:

• BorgWarner – Automotive Transfer Cases 750-1,000 Employees
• Itron – Electronic Measuring Devices, 750-1,000 Employees
• Schneider Electric – Motor Control Centers, 250-500 Employees
• JTEKT – Automotive Bearings, 250-500 Employees
• BASF – Precious Metal Catalyst and Refining, 250-500 Employees
• Clarios – Batteries, 250-500 Employees
• Greenfield Industries – Cutting Tools, 250-500 Employees
• Lift-Tek – Fork Lift Masts, 250-500 Employees
• Sandvik – Cutting Tools, 250-500 Employees
• US Engine Valve – Automotive Engine Valves, 150-250 Employees

Their continued presence demonstrates Oconee’s ability to attract large-scale and globally recognized manufacturers and retain them with strong workforce availability, competitive operating costs, and supportive infrastructure.

Regional Workforce Eight Times the Size of the Population

Oconee County’s workforce advantage is one of the primary reasons manufacturers choose to locate in Oconee County. While the county’s population is approximately 81,000, its laborshed includes 650,000 workers within a 45-mile radius. These workforce numbers give companies immediate access to a labor pool eight times the size of the county itself.

This workforce provides a steady supply of talent across advanced manufacturing, automotive, metals, plastics, and precision machinery. “From entry-level trades to advanced engineering, Oconee’s workforce has the expertise needed for global competitiveness,” said Gilbert.

Education Creates a Pipeline of Skilled Talent

Local institutions play a critical role in aligning training with industry demand.

• Tri-County Technical College delivers hands-on programs in CNC operations, mechatronics, welding, plastic injection molding, and engineering systems technology. Graduates enter the workforce with skills suited for advanced production environments.
• Hamilton Career and Technology Center serves more than 1,100 students annually, offering pathways in manufacturing, welding, engineering, electricity, and machine tool technology.

This alignment between education and industry ensures a pipeline of qualified workers who are prepared for the technical demands of modern manufacturing.

Small Businesses Drive Innovation and Growth

While global firms capture headlines, small businesses form the backbone of Oconee’s economy. These firms supply services, materials, and innovations that directly support the manufacturing ecosystem, creating a balanced local economy where both large-scale and small-scale employers thrive.

The Southeast Region of the US Continues to Be a Top Destination for Business Attraction

Oconee County’s strategic location in the Southeast enhances its competitiveness. Manufacturers benefit from the county’s favorable business climate (third lowest tax rate  in South Carolina), modern infrastructure, manufacturing workforce and proximity to East Coast consumer markets.

As the Southeast continues to attract record-breaking investment in new industrial construction, Oconee is well-positioned to capture a share of this growth due to its strong workforce base and proven track record.

Oconee County is a Top Manufacturing Destination

The data tells the story. Oconee’s manufacturing jobs represent a quarter of the workforce. Industry giants and small businesses alike choose to operate here. Education and training continuously refresh the labor pipeline. And the Southeast’s business climate amplifies these strengths.

For manufacturers seeking an environment that supports scale, resilience, and long-term success, Oconee County is a top choice that provides measurable advantages.

Contact the Oconee Economic Alliance to discuss how your business can succeed here.