Manufacturing Drives Montana’s Economy with $3 Billion GDP Contribution

The 2025 Montana Manufacturing Report, prepared by the University of Montana Bureau of Business and Economic Research for the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, underscores manufacturing’s vital role in sustaining healthy communities through strong jobs, steady paychecks, local employers, and a durable tax base. This is especially true in Northwest Montana, where manufacturing drives both economic output and community wellness.

In 2024, manufacturing contributed about $3 billion to Montana’s real gross domestic product, with Northwest Montana, particularly Flathead County, leading the state with 903 manufacturing establishments. The wood products sector alone employs nearly 1,200 workers in the region, generating approximately $82 million in wages. The report highlights manufacturing’s diversification beyond traditional production roles, encompassing skilled trades, engineering, logistics, sales, accounting, technology, operations, and management. This broad spectrum of careers supports not only economic activity but also civic life and family stability.

While the report does not outline specific future initiatives, its findings emphasize manufacturing as Montana’s second-largest base industry after hospitality.

Given Montana’s vast geography and dispersed population, manufacturing’s ability to provide stable, diverse employment may prove crucial in sustaining local economies and community vitality, particularly in rural areas where economic opportunities can be limited. The industry’s foundational role should influence regional development strategies and workforce planning across the state.

Guest Column: Manufacturing builds healthy communities | Daily Inter Lake

Suzanne Tilleman is the Sprunk and Burnham Endowed Dean at the College of Business at the University of Montana.