Manufacturing represents nearly 9% of employment across the greater Spokane region. With more than 500 manufacturers and nearly 18,000 employees, the region features a well-developed supply and service chain for manufacturers.
Multiple community colleges and technical schools in the region also create a good supply of labor with the right skills for nearly any trade.
As regional manufacturing continues to increase across the greater Spokane market, the West Plains area between Spokane and Cheney has seen considerable growth.
Caterpillar Inc. is one of the latest to recognize the advantages of the area with construction of a $37 million, 500,000 square foot parts distribution center. This major investment is one of several signs of increased development in the immediate vicinity of Cheney.