Supporting SC's economic backbone

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From textiles in the 19th and 20th centuries to airplanes and automobiles today, the Palmetto State has long been a state focused on production. And, with one out of every 11 South Carolina workers employed in manufacturing, it's clear that this industry of making things is the true backbone of the state's economy. As such, the many members of Team South Carolina continue to work hard to ensure that our existing manufacturing operations have all the resources they need to succeed. A critical component in this effort is the S.C. Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP). Established in 1989, SCMEP works directly with our state's small and medium-sized manufacturers, helping them improve their competitiveness, performance and overall profitability. In 2015 alone, the organization reported a $1 billion impact on industry in South Carolina, serving more than 250 companies statewide. While those figures are certainly important, SCMEP's true significance is probably best measured by the 2,500 jobs they helped our state create as well as retain last year. Groups like SCMEP that work to support South Carolina's existing industries are essential to the future of our state. After all, if companies are able to achieve success here, it strengthens South Carolina's overall brand as an ideal destination for business, allowing us to ensure a growing, prosperous economy for many years to come.