Automotive
Manufacturing
Rankin County, Mississippi is committed to supporting the growing Automotive Industry.
Mississippi is a known leader in the Manufacturing Industry, including the growing automotive sector. Due to an extremely business-friendly climate, automotive manufacturers continue to locate and expand in the state. The state, local governments and area partners offer a variety of business incentives and resources to support the needs of the expanding industry.
The Automotive Manufacturing Industry is a significantly growing industry in Rankin County – and is only expected to continue doing so. The regional laborshed has seen a 2.5% increase in the industry over the past 10 years. This growth is supported by a commitment to investing in and bolstering the talent pipeline. Higher education providers along with industry partners are providing pathways for students to easily enter the sector with the skills needed for success.
Automotive Manufacturing Industry Call-Out Stats
2.0%
2.0% industry growth rate within a 45-minute drive time
6200
Over 6,200 employed in the automotive industry
700+
700+ manufacturing related degrees and certificates awarded annually
| Employment | Average Annual Wage | |
|---|---|---|
| Rankin County | 119 | $49,730 |
| Jackson, MS MSA | 5,745 | $54,343 |
| Rankin County Laborshed (45-Min Drive Time) | 6,275 | $53,095 |
| Mississippi | 13,515 | $56,204 |
Talent Pipeline
Five higher education institutions within the Jackson, MS MSA are issuing nearly 700 manufacturing awards annually. Hinds Community College’s Automotive Technology program prepares students to enter a career in automotive manufacturing. Students receive hands-on training and can complete their career certificates in just one year, readying them for immediate employment.
Rankin County also strives to prepare the future workforce for the automotive industry beginning in K12, with the school district offering Career and Technical Education in Automotive Mechanics for students. Students are provided with foundational skills to help them move forward in the industry.
Education & Industry Partnerships
Hinds Community College partnered with Stribling Equipment to create the Hinds Diesel Technology Program to prepare students for entry-level Diesel Technician positions. Students who enroll in the program stand out from the competition due to their experience working with leading industry experts on industry-comparable equipment. Students receive one-on-one time with their instructors, hands-on training in a variety of specialties and preparation to obtain a high-quality job upon graduation.
Top Automotive Manufacturing industry growth over the past decade includes:
- Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing
- Seating and Interior Trim Manufacturing
- Gasoline Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing
| Top 5 Automotive Manufacturing Occupations in Rankin County | Average Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Team Assemblers | $36,500 |
| Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal & Plastic | $37,400 |
| Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers and Weighers | $42,700 |
| Laborers and Freight, Stock and Material Movers, Hand | $33,100 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers | $63,500 |
Strategic Advantages
According to 2021 rankings from Area Development Magazine, among the nation Mississippi ranks
NO.
5
Speed of Permitting
NO.
7
Overall Cost of Doing Business
NO.
8
Business Incentives Programs
NO.
8
Cooperative & Responsive State Government
NO.
10
Favorable Regulatory Environment
No Sales Tax on Raw Materials or Electricity
While Mississippi boasts energy costs approximately 15% below the national average, according to EIA (2020), businesses classified by the Department of Revenue as agricultural or manufacturing may apply for a full exemption on sales tax on electricity and raw materials used in the manufacturing process.
Low Union Rates
Mississippi is a right-to-work state with the third-lowest union membership rate in the nation. This combined with low manufacturing union rates in the Rankin County Laborshed (7.8%), compared to the state (9.1%) and nation (8.4%), makes the region an aggressive manufacturing competitor.
Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit
Existing manufacturers that have operated in the state for two or more years may be eligible for investment tax credits which could be applied to the company’s state income tax liability. Existing companies must invest $1 million or more in buildings and/or equipment to qualify.
The Entergy Advantage
Entergy provides reliable electric power at very competitive rates and extensive support for existing and locating new businesses. Additionally, Entergy’s economic development rider can provide a 1-cent-per-kwh discount on electricity use for up to five years. The rider is applicable for eligible companies considering processing, manufacturing or distribution operations that meet the minimum requirement of the program.