SC manufacturing economy continues to grow, but AI could tamp down workforce demands

By: Jessica Holdman

Outlets: South Carolina Daily Gazette

Published: February 13, 2026

Words: 753

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 6 days ago

Body Text Preview

COLUMBIA — Assembly line workers, building maintenance and mechanics who fix factory machinery are projected to be the most in-demand manufacturing jobs in South Carolina over the next five years, according to a study released this week.

South Carolina has grown into a manufacturing powerhouse over the past three decades, since German carmaker BMW planted its flag in the Upstate, transforming the former textile region into a major automotive hub.

At the same time, rapid …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us