Key Industries
Richland county is uniquely positioned with strong, legacy industries and innovative technological advancements.
Top Industries
Targeted Industries for Growth
- Aerospace, Aviation Maintenance & Drone Technology
- Agribusiness & Ag Manufacturing
- Healthcare / Life Sciences (Supply Chain & Manufacturing)
- Defense & Satellite Communications
Advanced Manufacturing
We are makers. Richland County has been developing, producing and delivering products and services for 100+ years in a wide array of industries.
The region’s strength across the entire value chain is evident– from extraction (Utica and Marcellus Shale) and processing to manufacturing and distribution. Polymer and materials companies benefit from access to markets, customers, innovation and a skilled, knowledgeable workforce.


Metal Fabrication and Machining
Ohio is a leader across the country for metal production and fabrication. Why? Because of Richland County. Around Mansfield, there’s an exceptional established distribution infrastructure, a relatively low cost of doing business and a talented, dedicated workforce. All those combine to make fabrication a huge industry in the area with tons of growth potential.
Automotive
Our state serves as a leading producer and supplier of key automotive components and raw materials for the North American automotive industry. Many of these companies are in Richland County, supporting a range of OEM supply chains, which makes our area an ideal location to grow and expand your automotive operations.

Plastics
Some of Richland County’s largest and fastest growing companies are plastics manufacturers. It’s an anchor to the Northeast Ohio region, which is home to nearly 1,000 polymer and materials companies. We are also close to two of the top 10 polymer engineering schools in the country with Case Western Reserve University and the University of Akron.
Logistics
Ohio’s multimodal infrastructure and prime geographic location guarantee that companies can reach a significant amount of U.S. and Canadian customers – 60% are within a day’s drive – as well as customers around the world. In addition to a highly connected interstate highway system and significant rail infrastructure, Richland County also has some of the best independent flexible packaging companies to help craft the perfect solution for your needs.


Healthcare
One of Richland County’s strongest sectors. The area is home to seven healthcare systems: OhioHealth, Nationwide Children’s, Akron Children’s, University Hospitals, The Cleveland Clinic and Avita Health Systems. Ashland University’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences and North Central State offers several technical certificates in the health sciences field, including: Pharmacy Tech, Surgical Tech, Practical Nursing, and many others. Richland County is a healthcare hub and boasts cutting edge technology and cancer treatment centers.
Global Pump Systems
Global manufacturer of high-performance, top-quality pumps and pumping systems in the municipal, water, wastewater, sewage, industrial, construction, petroleum, mining, fire, and OEM markets.
