Ohio Manufacturing Jobs Grew While National Totals Fell
While Ohio added 13,000 manufacturing roles since January 2025, workers in Springfield face recent layoffs.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Employment
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Ohio manufacturing employment saw a net increase of more than 13,000 jobs since January 2025. This growth contrasts with a national decline of roughly 21,000 manufacturing positions during the same period.
Why it matters
These state-level gains highlight a divergence from national manufacturing trends, though local volatility continues to affect individual household income and job security.
Ohio added 13,000 manufacturing jobs since January 2025, bucking a national trend that saw a loss of 21,000 positions. Despite this growth, recent local layoffs include 1,000 workers at International Motors in Springfield.
The players
International Motors
An industrial manufacturer that recently laid off 1,000 workers in Springfield.
Roshel
A company that purchased the International Motors plant and plans to increase the local workforce.
Pixelle Specialty Solutions
A paper manufacturer that laid off 800 workers in 2025 and is exploring site repurposing.
The details
The manufacturing landscape in Ohio is shifting as older facilities transition. For example, Roshel has purchased the International Motors plant in Springfield and plans to rehire workers over time, while Pixelle Specialty Solutions is considering converting part of its Chillicothe facility into a data center following 2025 layoffs.
Timeline
January 2025 marked the start of growth for Ohio manufacturing jobs.
During 2025, Pixelle Specialty Solutions laid off 800 workers.
Last week, International Motors laid off 1,000 workers in Springfield.
October 2026 saw Pixelle announce plans to rehire some workers.
Money Landscape
Ohio's manufacturing sector has shown resilience by adding 13,000 jobs during a period when the national industry lost 21,000 roles. This divergence suggests that state-specific industrial activity is currently performing differently than broader U.S. manufacturing benchmarks.
Workers affected by plant closures or layoffs in Springfield and Chillicothe should prioritize tracking severance and benefits eligibility. Consult with a qualified financial professional to assess how changes in local industry employment might impact your household budget and long-term security.
The takeaway
While Ohio has successfully added net manufacturing jobs, the sector remains subject to localized plant restructuring that can disrupt household finances. Residents should remain aware of potential re-hiring announcements at local facilities like the former International Motors site.
Further reading
For more information on the state's labor market, visit Employment.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MS NOW.
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