The Texas Association of Manufacturers (TAM) has announced the commencement of its 20th anniversary celebration during the 2025 Texas Manufacturers’ Day at the Capitol. This announcement was made in a press release dated February 18, 2025.
According to TAM, manufacturers from across Texas convened with lawmakers to discuss manufacturing's role in the state's economy, workforce, and national security. The association presented its 2025 "Top 10" policy priorities, which include reforms to tax structures, transportation, infrastructure, electricity markets, and workforce development. Additional priorities focus on funding for water infrastructure projects, utility rate transparency, and regulatory policies. These priorities are intended to support manufacturing growth, maintain economic competitiveness, and address global competition in advanced manufacturing.
"While much has changed since TAM opened its doors 20 years ago," said Tony Bennett, TAM president and CEO and a founding member of the Association. "One thing remains the same: Texas manufacturing is a major contributor to the Texas Miracle and more than the 847,000 Texans who work in this industry have revolutionized the economy, saved lives, and made Texas stronger. It is my distinct honor to represent them and grow manufacturing in the Lone Star State." Bennett further said that "Texas Manufacturers’ Day at the Capitol is our opportunity to remind lawmakers of the importance of their continued policy leadership to keeping Texas on top. It’s no accident that Texas has been the number one exporting state for manufactured goods for more than two decades."
TAM represents over 500 companies across various manufacturing sectors and advocates for policies that support economic growth and competitiveness. Manufacturing offers an average annual compensation exceeding $123,000—36% higher than other non-farm jobs in Texas. In 2023 alone, manufacturing contributed over $292 billion to the state's output, accounting for 11.3% of total production. For more than two decades, Texas has been leading as the U.S.'s top exporter of manufactured goods; each job in this sector reportedly creates five additional jobs within local communities.
