Licking County, Ohio has a growing robust economy. With close proximity to the state capital of Columbus, communities in Licking County are booming with opportunity as development continues across the Central Ohio region. From paint production, to dairy product manufacturing, to one of the largest advanced recycling facilities in the world, Licking County saw several expansion and attraction announcements in 2022.
Licking County has seen major growth across all industries in recent years. In 2022, Licking County was awarded the largest economic development deal in Ohio’s history with the announcement of Intel Corporation’s new semiconductor fabrication site in New Albany. In addition to the generational opportunity resulting from this project, the groundwork laid for manufacturing success in Licking County continues to reap benefits across industries. The four main industries in Licking County are manufacturing, healthcare, warehousing and logistics, and computer systems and information technology.
Manufacturing
Licking County has a long tradition of material manufacturing including fiberglass, plastics, polycarbonate, and other engineered materials. Many of these manufacturing facilities have been around for generations. More recently, Licking County has welcomed three organic and non-GMO food manufacturers. This diversity in manufacturing has led to a strong manufacturing base and an increase in research and development capabilities.
Licking County is home to over 150 manufacturing employers. These employers provide over 7,000 manufacturing jobs. Those numbers have continued to increase in recent years. Since 2015, Licking County has led Central Ohio with a 17% growth in manufacturing jobs.
As demands grow, local manufacturers have adapted by integrating new technology and processes. Robotics and automation continue to evolve within the manufacturing industry. Local manufacturers have integrated automation and robotics into their manufacturing processes. This helps streamline the process for tedious, more repetitive tasks while reassigning employees to more highly-skilled tasks.
Licking County manufacturing continues to grow, providing high-paying jobs for an in-demand industry and fueling production outcomes in the region’s economy.
Healthcare
Healthcare is another industry in Licking County that has experienced significant growth. Nursing is one of the most in-demand occupations throughout the nation, and Licking County is no exception. With more than 330 employers and over 7,000 healthcare jobs in Licking County, there are many opportunities for growth within the healthcare industry. Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) is one of the largest employers in Licking County with over 2,200 employees. “Over the past decade, our staffing levels have increased by more than 20%, and we anticipate a greater need for healthcare employees within our organization in the near future,” said LMHS President & CEO Rob Montagnese. “Our mission to improve the health of the community includes maintaining a high level of staffing, in addition to providing needed health specialties and cutting-edge medical technologies to ensure excellent care, close to home.”
There are many local educational opportunities available for potential healthcare employees. From patient care assistants (PCA) to nurse practitioners, people can enter the industry at various skill levels and develop a fulfilling career in healthcare. “At LMHS, we provide internal training for PCA positions, and tuition reimbursement and educational opportunities for staff who wish to further their medical career,” said Rob. “We also partner with local educational institutions such as The Ohio State University at Newark, Central Ohio Technical College, and C-TEC to increase the number of highly trained healthcare individuals in the local area.”
Warehousing and Logistics
Licking County is fast becoming a major hub for Ohio’s distribution and warehousing industry. There are over 15,000 warehousing jobs and over 100 employers in Licking County. Located just 25 miles east of Columbus, Licking County is a day’s drive from 60% of the U.S. population and 50% of the Canadian population. The geographical convenience of Licking County’s location has attracted many major businesses, including Amazon and Kohl’s, to the area for warehousing and logistics facilities.
Computer Systems and IT
Computer systems and information technology industries have seen significant growth in Licking County. Vast amounts of data stream through technology used for business operations, governance, education, and entertainment. Licking County is home to many major data centers, including Facebook and Google. The increased need for data processing has expanded the need for computer systems and IT across all industries.
Workforce Development
The success of Licking County’s in-demand industries is attributed to one of the community’s primary assets – its workforce. Licking County is home to many education and career development resources. These resources contribute to local workforce development efforts and provide opportunities to potential employees. C-TEC of Licking County, Central Ohio Technical College (COTC), The Ohio State University Newark Campus, and Denison University have all developed intensive programs to provide the next generation entering the workforce with in-demand skills. With maintained competitiveness in the local job market, it is important to continue to upskill local employees and those interested in learning new career pathways.
