Regional manufacturers posted their strongest quarterly output in five years, according to figures released Monday by the state’s economic development office, driven largely by renewed demand for industrial components.
Employment in the sector rose for the fourth consecutive quarter, with several plants adding second shifts to keep pace with order backlogs that stretch well into next year.
Analysts caution that rising raw material costs could squeeze margins in the coming months, even as top-line growth remains strong across most subsectors.
Industry groups are calling on lawmakers to expand workforce training programs to address a growing shortage of skilled machine operators.
