Georgia is experiencing a significant construction boom, largely fueled by key industries such as auto supply manufacturing, solar panel recycling, life sciences, and aircraft maintenance. According to the state’s Department of Economic Development, in a year-long period, there were 429 new locations and facility expansions, bringing over $20.3 billion in investments and creating 26,900 new jobs.

Notably, 83% of these expansions are being directed to areas outside the 10-county Atlanta region, contributing more than 18,300 jobs and $12.5 billion in investment. Gov. Brian Kemp emphasized that the Department of Economic Development is closely collaborating with local and state partners, particularly in rural regions, to bring more jobs to communities across Georgia.

Metro Atlanta remains the leading force in this growth, serving as a crucial logistics and business hub, attracting nearly $7.8 billion in investments. Statewide, new locations accounted for $12.8 billion in investments, while expansions led to the creation of 9,800 new jobs.

In 2023, Georgia was ranked as the top state for construction by the Associated Builders and Contractors, with construction contributing $45 billion to the state's GDP of $878 billion. The sector employed 220,900 people by August 2023, a rise of 12,900 jobs from 2020.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones attributes the success to the state’s workforce training programs through technical colleges, universities, career academies, and public-private partnerships. He remarked, “As we build on this great momentum, we have to ensure that businesses coming to Georgia or expanding their footprint have the necessary workforce.”

Recent announcements highlight the growing investment in Georgia's economy. A $5.5-billion Hyundai electric vehicle and battery plant in Ellabell, set to employ 8,500 workers, and over $4.5 billion in projects for state ports and infrastructure were among the top developments. Additionally, a $28-million Ritz Instrument Transformers facility will be established in Waynesboro, while Lee Kum Kee Sauce Group is investing $288 million to build a plant in LaGrange, creating 267 jobs.

Solarcycle has also announced an accelerated expansion in Cedartown, investing $62 million to meet rising demand for solar panel recycling. This expansion will enable the company to process up to 10 million solar panels annually and add 640 full-time jobs by 2025. The company’s new facility, located near its existing solar glass factory, will produce five to six gigawatts of solar glass each year, positioning it as one of the first U.S. manufacturers of specialized glass for photovoltaics.

In the automotive sector, Shinsung Petrochemical is investing $11.2 million in Toombs County to create over 30 new jobs. This facility, expected to be completed by 2025, will produce products like auto sealants for Hyundai Motor Group in Bryan County. Toyota Industries Electric Systems North America is also expanding its presence in Pendergrass, investing $69 million in a manufacturing facility that will create 250 jobs.

StandardAero, a major provider of business aircraft maintenance services, is undertaking a $33-million expansion in Augusta, adding 80,500 square feet to its operations and creating approximately 90 new jobs by 2025. Meanwhile, Gerresheimer, a supplier to the pharmaceutical, biotech, and cosmetics industries, is investing $180 million to expand its Peachtree City facility, which will create 400 new jobs.

These ongoing projects underscore the continued growth and development of Georgia’s economy and workforce.