Southern California’s North County region is becoming an influential force in the electronics manufacturing industry, generating $18 billion in annual economic impact. This bustling area, spanning across the cities of Carlsbad, Escondido, Oceanside, San Marcos, and Vista, is home to a diverse range of manufacturers producing products from craft beer and surfboards to life-changing medical devices.
The production of high-value goods such as computer and electronic products accounts for nearly one-third of all manufacturing jobs in North County, with 12,746 of the total 40,151 jobs. This number is expected to grow by nearly 6% over the next five years. Major companies like Panasonic, Eaton, NXP Semiconductor, Emerson, Jabil, pSemi, AMETEK, Broadcom, SML, Siemens, Samsung, Motorola, Texas Instruments, MaxLinear, Arrow Electronics, Microchip Technology, and Skyworks have established their presence in the region.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies in the region have experienced growth and expansion. For instance, Flux Power, a Vista-based lithium-ion battery manufacturer, increased its staff and revenue in 2020 and is looking to expand within the region. Similarly, Escondido-based computer and electronic manufacturing company Quik-Pak hired staff and reported increased revenue amid the pandemic.
However, the region’s manufacturing industry is also facing pressures from automation and globalization. The report by Innovate78 highlights that nearly 9,804 positions in North County’s manufacturing jobs are threatened by a higher-than-average risk of automation. To tackle these challenges, companies must invest in training and development to help workers transition to other quality jobs.
Despite these hurdles, Southern California’s North County continues to demonstrate its strength in the electronics manufacturing industry, with a rich talent pool and ample room for growth. As a result, the region is well-positioned to drive innovation and maintain its status as a key player in the global electronics sector.