In This Issue
- Location, Work Force Keys to Success Brownwood retains, grows manufacturing base
-
From Comptroller
Susan Combs - TEXpansion/
Texas Transparency - Mechatronics Brings Efficiencies to Texas Industry
Read how comptroller grants are training Texans - Partnering
for Impact:
Business, industrial parks coming up roses in Tyler - Enterprise Programs Seal the Deals
Combining state, local incentives to attract manufacturing investment - Sunshine Stimulus Powers Training
SECO renewable energy grants spark solar growth 
Diverse Industries Drive State
Manufacturing success comes from ingenuity, hard work
Web Exclusive
-
We Can
Work It Out
Mediation services for agricultural producers
denotes expanded online or Web-exclusive content.
A Message from Comptroller Susan Combs
Innovation is a key part of a healthy economy. And manufacturers play a crucial role in helping Texas rebound from the downturn that's been hurting the nation's economy.
The most recent U.S. Census Bureau survey for 2008 shows Texas ranks top in the nation for the value of shipments and second for manufacturing employment, annual payroll and capital expenditures. This shows just how important Texas manufacturing is to the nation.
As your strategic partner for local government management, the Comptroller’s office is pleased to present this issue of Texas Rising, which focuses on the economics of manufacturing with steps for becoming a community where companies locate, and tools to help bring investment home.
In our cover story, we look at how Brownwood’s manufacturing heritage and experienced work force have helped the community maintain its manufacturing base while other cities have struggled. Howard Payne University, Texas State Technical College and Ranger College have added higher education and skilled training opportunities, further enhancing the area’s attractiveness to large manufacturers.
Next we look at the multidisciplinary mechatronics training offered by Lone Star College District in Harris County. The program is expanding with help from a $245,000 Job Building Fund grant from the Comptroller’s Every Chance Fund. The grant lets students get hands-on experience with conveyor belts and other automated components they’ll need to operate assembly lines.
Rural communities don’t shy away from the competition to attract investment. McLennan County in Central Texas, Dalhart in the Panhandle, and Cuero in South Texas are among Texas’ communities that have used the financial clout of state incentives as an added bonus to lure companies.
Also in this issue, we look at Tyler’s postwar foresight to develop industrial development zones that are reaping dividends today. We visit companies in three Texas regions that have focused on key training and development to help their work forces rebound from the recession with a bright future ahead.
When it comes to economic development, creating jobs and generating new levels of prosperity, local governments in Texas are focused on rising to the occasion every time.
Susan Combs
Tell Us Your Story!
E-mail us at texas.rising@cpa.state.tx.us.
We want to hear about your town’s economic development accomplishments. Whether you’ve landed a new employer or partnered with a university to train tomorrow’s work force, please tell us the unique solutions you’re using to create success in your community every day.