Strategic development fuels Triad's rise as advanced manufacturing powerhouse, creating ripple effects

August 11, 2025

Manufacturing

Viewpoint: Strategic development fuels Triad's rise as advanced manufacturing powerhouse, creating ripple effects

By Kevin Franklin – Randolph County Economic Development
Aug 8, 2025
Souce: Triad Business Journal

North Carolina's Triad region is experiencing a remarkable economic transformation that's reshaping not just the local landscape but establishing a new model for strategic industrial development across the Southeast.
What's happening in Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem isn't just another business success story; it's the emergence of a world-class transportation and manufacturing hub that's attracting billions in investment and creating a ripple effect of prosperity throughout the region.

Building on unmatched infrastructure
The Triad's rise as an economic powerhouse isn't accidental. The region boasts what many consider the second-best road network in the nation, providing seamless access to raw materials and finished goods markets. This infrastructure advantage is amplified by exceptional rail connectivity to major ports, making the Triad an ideal location for companies that depend on efficient supply chains and last-mile delivery capabilities.
The FedEx hub at Piedmont Triad International Airport serves as a testament to the region’s growth potential, and it's just beginning. The airport has become a magnet for aerospace manufacturing, with game-changing companies like JetZero, Boom Supersonic, and HondaJet establishing significant operations. Marshall Aerospace's presence further solidifies the region's aerospace credentials, creating a comprehensive ecosystem that supports everything from cutting-edge aircraft development to specialized manufacturing.

Manufacturing excellence across industries
The Triad's manufacturing renaissance extends far beyond aerospace. Siemens has started producing train cars in Lexington, while Toyota's battery manufacturing facility in Liberty is already shipping products that power the electric vehicle revolution. Thomas Built Buses continues its legacy in High Point, and the Mack Truck Volvo Group maintains its strong presence in Greensboro. Meanwhile, Wolfspeed's operations in Siler City represent the region's commitment to next-generation semiconductor technology.
This diverse industrial base creates what economists call agglomeration effects — when success breeds success. Each company's presence makes the region more attractive to others, building a strategic ecosystem that benefits from shared suppliers, skilled workers and specialized services. The result is reminiscent of Research Triangle Park's transformative impact on North Carolina, but with a distinct focus on advanced manufacturing and transportation.

Workforce development rising to the challenge
The influx of high-tech manufacturing companies has created sustained demand for skilled workers. Manufacturing batteries, aircraft, and vehicles require excellence at every level, and the Triad's educational institutions are rising to meet this challenge. Community colleges and universities throughout the region are innovating their programs, creating specialized training that directly supports these emerging industries.
This workforce development represents more than just job training — it's an investment in human capital that pays dividends across generations. When workers acquire advanced manufacturing skills, they command higher wages, which in turn strengthens the entire community. The rising tide of better-paying jobs lifts economic prospects for families throughout the region.

Billions in investment, lasting impact
The financial scale of this transformation is staggering. The collective investment from these major companies runs into billions of dollars, representing a vote of confidence in the Triad's long-term potential. But the impact extends beyond the initial capital investment. Better wages create stronger communities, improved amenities and enhanced quality of life that makes the region attractive to both businesses and families.
These fruits of economic development create a virtuous cycle. As companies succeed and communities prosper, the region becomes more attractive to additional investment. Infrastructure improvements, educational enhancements and quality-of-life upgrades all contribute to what some are calling "Triad Envy" — the recognition that something special is happening in the center of North Carolina.

A model for the future
The Triad's transformation offers valuable lessons for other regions seeking sustainable economic growth. Success requires more than just attracting individual companies — it demands building comprehensive ecosystems that support entire industries. The combination of strategic infrastructure, educational innovation and coordinated economic development creates conditions where businesses can thrive and communities can prosper.
As North Carolina continues to be one of the nation's fastest-growing states, the Triad's experience demonstrates that strategic economic development can create renewed prosperity. The region's success in attracting top-tier manufacturers and derivative companies proves that with the right combination of infrastructure, workforce development, and strategic vision, any region can build a foundation for sustained growth.
The Triad's economic renaissance is more than a regional success story — it's a blueprint for how communities can adapt and thrive in the modern economy. As these investments continue to mature and attract additional companies, the region is positioning itself as a national leader in transportation and advanced manufacturing, ensuring that North Carolina remains at the forefront of American economic growth.

Kevin P. Franklin is president of the Randolph County Economic Development Corp. based in Asheboro. He can be reached on LinkedIn.