Did you know that October 4th was National Manufacturing Day? Don’t worry if you didn’t have it marked on your calendar next to “National Taco Day” or “International Talk Like a Pirate Day.” But, if you live in Kerr County, you’re going to want to break out the confetti (or maybe just some machine oil) to celebrate the local manufacturers who are keeping the gears turning—literally.
Kerr County may be known for its rolling hills, outdoor beauty, and a penchant for festivals that revolve around deer and wine, but did you know it’s also home to a thriving manufacturing sector? Yep, behind those scenic landscapes are factories and workshops where things are getting built, fabricated, and sometimes welded into shapes you didn’t even know you needed. So, grab your safety goggles, and let’s take a look at how the manufacturers of Kerr County are making a big impact on the local economy—and beyond.
1. The Backbone of the Economy: Kerr County’s Manufacturing Sector
You might not think “manufacturing” when you picture Kerr County, but trust me, it’s as integral to our community as cowboy boots and barbecue. From metal fabrication and machinery to electronics and custom parts, the local manufacturing sector is bustling. According to the Kerr Economic Development Corporation, manufacturing in the county supports over 1,200 jobs and generates millions in revenue annually. That’s a lot of families and businesses relying on local manufacturers for their livelihood.
It’s also the kind of economic diversification that keeps a community resilient. Sure, tourism and agriculture are great, but when you add manufacturing into the mix, you’ve got a recipe for long-term stability. Think of it as a three-legged stool: agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing—take one away, and you’re sitting on the floor. And let’s be honest, no one looks good getting up from the floor.
2. Local Heroes: Manufacturers Making a Difference
Let’s give a shoutout to some of the local manufacturers who are shaping Kerr County—sometimes literally. Mooney International, for example, has been producing high-performance aircraft right here in Kerrville since 1929. Yes, you heard that right: airplanes! While the rest of us were still figuring out how to work our toasters, Mooney was already helping people fly. This iconic company is known for its sleek, speedy planes that have set multiple world records, proving that you don’t have to be Boeing to make a big impact in aviation.
Then there’s James Avery Artisan Jewelry, another household name. Their jewelry manufacturing facility in Kerrville produces some of the finest handcrafted pieces you’ll ever see, and it’s all happening in a place known more for cattle than couture. The company has created hundreds of local jobs and keeps Kerr County on the map for quality craftsmanship.
3. Supporting the Sector: How Kerr County Keeps the Wheels Turning
It’s one thing to have manufacturers; it’s another thing to make sure they thrive. Kerr County has stepped up to the plate with initiatives aimed at supporting local manufacturers, helping them stay competitive in today’s fast-paced world. The Kerr Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) works closely with local businesses to provide incentives, workforce development programs, and even help with infrastructure improvements. Think of it as Kerr County’s way of saying, “Hey, we know building things isn’t easy—let’s help you keep the lights on.”
One of the ways the county supports its manufacturers is through partnerships with local educational institutions like Schreiner University and the Alamo Colleges District. These partnerships create a pipeline of skilled workers who are ready to jump into careers in manufacturing, equipped with the training they need to succeed. It’s kind of like a matchmaking service, but instead of setting people up for romantic dates, it’s setting them up to weld, mill, and troubleshoot complex machinery.
4. Why Manufacturing Matters: Beyond the Dollars
It’s not just about money, although yes, we do like money. The impact of the manufacturing sector reaches far beyond the dollar signs. Local manufacturers provide good-paying jobs that support families and contribute to the community’s overall well-being. They also foster innovation and keep skilled trades alive. In a world that seems increasingly obsessed with software and tech startups, there’s something refreshingly grounded about companies that actually make things you can hold, fix, or even fly.
Manufacturing also promotes a sense of pride and craftsmanship. When you know that the jewelry you’re wearing was crafted just a few miles from home, or that the airplane flying overhead might have been built by your neighbor, it brings a whole new meaning to the phrase “shop local.” There’s a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing that Kerr County’s economy is built on a foundation of people who take pride in their work—and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little bragging rights?
Raise a Wrench for Kerr County’s Manufacturers!
National Manufacturing Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder that even in a county known for its natural beauty and quaint charm, industry and innovation are alive and well. Kerr County’s manufacturers are hard at work every day, creating products that reach far beyond the Texas Hill Country. So, let’s give a round of applause to the companies that keep our economy strong, our workforce skilled, and our community resilient.
And hey, next time you drive past a factory or see the “Made in Kerr County” label, remember to feel a little extra pride. Because whether it’s a piece of jewelry, an aircraft part, or a finely crafted tool, you’re looking at more than just a product—you’re looking at a testament to the spirit of Kerr County.
