Manufacturers rely on more than equipment, technology and processes to compete. They also depend on workforce, infrastructure, transportation, industrial space and access to resources that help businesses move forward.

Those factors make economic development an important part of a strong manufacturing environment.

Pierce County is home to a diverse business and industrial base that includes advanced manufacturing and industrial businesses, aerospace, and maritime, trade and logistics. Its location and connections to major transportation and freight networks also support the movement of people, materials and finished products throughout the region.

Pierce County Economic Development works directly with businesses on the practical challenges that come with operating and expanding.

Its business assistance includes connecting companies with resources related to workforce and operational needs, regulatory questions, financing, permitting, relocation and available commercial and industrial properties.

For a manufacturer, those needs can emerge at many stages of the business.

A company may be looking for additional space, navigating a permitting question, identifying workforce resources or considering an investment that requires connections to financing, agencies or other organizations.

For small and midsized manufacturers in particular, navigating those questions can require time and expertise that may already be stretched across other responsibilities.

Pierce County Economic Development works with strategic partners to ensure businesses find the resources and connections they need to navigate those decisions.

These connections are especially relevant to the conversations CAMPS is bringing forward at the 2026 CAMPS Annual Manufacturing Conference, FUTURE READY: Leadership, Change & the Road Ahead.

Manufacturing leaders are making decisions about workforce, technology, operations and growth while continuing to manage the daily demands of their businesses. The environment surrounding those businesses plays an important role in what comes next.

CAMPS appreciates Pierce County Economic Development’s support as a Conference Sponsor of this year's event and its work supporting businesses throughout the county.

2026 CAMPS Annual Manufacturing Conference
FUTURE READY: Leadership, Change & the Road Ahead

October 22, 2026 | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Seattle Airport–Southcenter | Tukwila, WA

Learn why businesses are Pivoting To Pierce County, where future-focused businesses, opportunities, and talent converge: https://www.pivottopiercewa.com

Get the Pivot To Pierce Guide: https://flipbooks.piercecountywa.gov/PivotToPierce

Conference details and registration: https://www.campsconference.com/