Celebrating Small Businesses: Governor Ducey Proclaims October Arizona Manufacturers Month

PHOENIX, AZ (October 5, 2016) — To raise awareness of the significant impact small and medium sized manufacturers have on Arizona’s economy, Governor Doug Ducey has proclaimed October the 4th annual Arizona Manufacturers Month.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Arizona’s manufacturing industry and their outputs are making an impact around the world,” said Governor Ducey. “Arizona manufacturers make an impressive range of products, from precision parts needed to send the Rover to Mars, to radios for first responders saving lives, to the life-saving artificial heart. Arizona Manufacturers Month provides an in–depth look at this key industry fueling our state's economic prosperity and a chance to learn about the innovations our manufacturers are advancing."

The manufacturing industry plays a critical role in Arizona’s economic growth and success. In 2015, manufacturing output in Arizona totaled $22.2 billion. Manufacturing employment exceeded 157,000 jobs in 2015, across more than 4,600 establishments. The bulk of those businesses are small and medium sized manufacturers.

RevAZ, a program of the Arizona Commerce Authority, is specifically designed to support the growth and success of these manufacturers. RevAZ is part of the National Institute of Science and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network, a public-private partnership with Centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico dedicated to serving small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Offering a comprehensive suite of customized operational and business solutions, training, and technical assistance, RevAZ’s mission is to make every Arizona manufacturer the most successful business it can be.

“Arizona is a leader in cutting-edge advanced manufacturing across many key industry sectors,” said Sandra Watson, Arizona Commerce Authority President and CEO. “Notably, Arizona was just ranked the most attractive state in the nation for aerospace and defense manufacturing by PwC. Arizona Manufacturers Month is an opportunity to recognize the impact that businesses in this industry are having on our lives and our economy and to celebrate their success.”

RevAZ, the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Arizona Manufacturer’s Council, the Arizona Technology Council, ATMA Precision and the Arizona Manufacturing Partnership, all come together in partnership to sponsor and coordinate Arizona Manufacturers Month, which consists of a wide variety of events throughout October. The events are open to the public and attendance is encouraged. The full calendar and additional information can be found at www.manufacturingrevolution.com. Please check back often as new events will continue to be added to the calendar.

Media Contact

Office of the Arizona Governor, (602) 542-1342.