Cedar City Schools Equip Workforce for Surge in Manufacturing Jobs

Cedar City is experiencing a significant expansion in its manufacturing sector, with several companies establishing operations and creating numerous high-paying jobs.

 

To meet this demand, local educational institutions are proactively preparing the workforce.

 

Southwest Technical College and Southern Utah University (SUU) are at the forefront of this initiative.

 

SUU's Thunderworks Makerspace offers students hands-on experience with equipment such as 3D printers, CNC routers, and welding tools.

 

Professionals from the manufacturing industry frequently visit the Makerspace, seeking to hire skilled graduates.

 

Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at SUU, Lance Richman, emphasized the importance of practical experience, stating, "The first thing that [employers] ask is, 'What have you built?' And here we are, it's the Makerspace. We build things."

 

In addition to educational efforts, Cedar City has attracted significant manufacturing investments.

 

In July 2025, Hive Plastics announced a $12.6 million facility, and in September 2025, PPI America Inc. revealed plans for a $52.2 million manufacturing plant, expected to create 50 new jobs with an average salary of $100,000.

 

These developments underscore the city's commitment to economic growth and workforce development.

 

To further support this growth, the state offers programs like Custom Fit, which covers up to 40% of employee training costs in manufacturing.

 

Such initiatives aim to ensure that Cedar City's workforce is well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the manufacturing industry.

 

As the manufacturing sector continues to expand, the collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners remains crucial in sustaining economic development and providing residents with lucrative employment opportunities.