After a year marked by stalled projects and softening job numbers, Spokane’s manufacturing sector is poised to enter 2026 on firmer footing. Industry experts describe a manufacturing landscape that is stabilizing and quietly expanding, even as automation, global market pressures, and federal funding cuts impact the way companies grow.

At least $577 million in Spokane County manufacturing facility investments, developments, and expansions are planned, underway, or have wrapped up since July by major regional employers including Kaiser Aluminum Corp., Jubilant HollisterStier LLC, and Solstice Advanced Materials Inc.

Spokane Valley Tech and Skills Center high school has emerged as a steady source of talent for Spokane manufacturers by providing hands-on training and exposure to career and employment opportunities in the Inland Northwest.