MI2 releases full economic impact study completed in partnership with the UK Gatton College of Business

Kentucky’s primary metals industry plays a critical role in powering the state’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and driving significant economic activity across communities. In 2025, MI2 partnered with the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics to conduct a comprehensive economic impact study of the sector. Led by Dr. Michael Clark, the research highlights the scale, strength, and continued growth of one of Kentucky’s most important industries.

The study found that Kentucky’s primary metals industry supports nearly 96,300 jobs statewide when accounting for both direct employment and the broader economic activity it generates. Altogether, the sector contributes approximately $37.8 billion in annual economic output. Workers in primary metals manufacturing earn an average annual wage of $90,009—about 54% higher than the average wage for all private-sector workers in Kentucky. Over the past decade, the state has also emerged as the fastest-growing primary metals employment market in the nation, with industry employment increasing by 1.7% per year even as the sector has declined nationally.

Please review the full report below to explore the study’s methodology, findings, and what they mean for Kentucky’s economy and workforce.