UT manufacturing program drives $300 million economic impact across Tennessee
In 2025, TMEP assisted 218 manufacturers across Tennessee, generating more than $300 million in economic impact.
Last year, manufacturing added $70.0 billion in value to the economy, accounting for 11.7% of Tennessee’s GDP. Employing more than 360,600 people statewide, the industry offers high-value careers, with average annual earnings for manufacturing employees reaching $96,823 (National Association of Manufacturers).
Despite these strong numbers, many local plants face outdated processes, high defect rates, supply chain disruptions, and cybersecurity threats on a daily basis.
The Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Program (TMEP) provides complimentary initial consulting to help a facility identify its core problems and formulate a solution.
Operational excellence
TMEP experts work directly with companies to solve the operational challenges that slow production, increase costs, or limit growth.
The program also supports manufacturers as they adopt advanced technologies, including automation, digital systems, and practical AI applications. Through hands-on training and on-site support, TMEP helps companies determine where these technologies add value and how to prepare their workforce to use them effectively.
For many small and rural manufacturers that lack the deep pockets of large corporations, this levels the playing field. The program connects these businesses with university research, industry expertise, and grant resources.
Manufacturing leadership development
The program also supports executive development through the Knoxville Executive Peer Group. This year-long cohort brings regional manufacturing leaders together for monthly meetings to share challenges, successes, and feedback. Facilitated by Ashleigh Walters, the sessions provide a unique space for manufacturing executives to gain fresh perspectives on the hurdles their teams face.
Knoxville-area executives interested in participating can reach out to their solutions consultant or email tmep@tennessee.edu to learn more.
Proven impact
The results of this hands-on approach are measurable. In 2025, TMEP assisted 218 manufacturers across Tennessee, generating more than $300 million in economic impact.
Program participants rave about TMEP’s support.
“I have been extremely impressed with UT CIS. The Value Stream Mapping activity that was previously set up for Knox Wire Harnesses via UT CIS was terrific for our team. It prepared our team to help the company graduate to the next stage. I was also extremely impressed with the Vital Learning leadership class we sent our managers to. I noticed a difference in how they handled situations with employees after taking the course,” said Mark Barath, COO of Knox Wire Harness.
“We were very thankful to have found the CIS TMEP as a small business resource. Through their services, we have improved our ISO 9001:2015 QMS and feel confident in our ability to certify to ISO 13485 in 2025,” said Cindy Montano, COO of Matlock Endoscopic Repair.
“The TMEP consultants are extremely knowledgeable and resourceful. When we need services that are non-traditional, the team members go the extra mile to help identify the right industry expertise to help solve problems. This service has been very important to our success,” said Carolyn Hardy, President of Hardy Beverages.
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