Role of Mining Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing in the Economy of Blair County

The Penn State Workforce Education and Development Initiative conducted an analysis of the economic impact of mining machinery and equipment manufacturing in Blair County in Pennsylvania. From 2004 to 2009, the mining machinery and equipment manufacturing industry underwent a period of stellar growth, underpinned by booming global demand for mineral and energy commodities. Rising resource prices led mining and oil to expand existing production and increase exploration, resulting in strong demand for machinery and equipment. After a challenging year in 2009, firms in the industry are expected to enjoy better conditions in 2010, with the global economic recovery and rising commodity prices, signaling stronger demand for new equipment.Products provided by mining machinery and equipment manufacturing are classified in the North American Industrial Classification System, code 333131. According to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, establishments in this industry "are primarily engaged in (1) manufacturing underground mining machinery and equipment, such as coal breakers, mining cars, core drills, coal cutters, rock drills and (2) manufacturing mineral beneficiating machinery and equipment used in surface or underground mines." During 2007, 11,309 U.S. workers were employed in 265 establishments in this industry, with a payroll of $557 million.