Industry Overview

Where the jobs are — and where they're going.

Six major sectors driving growth, innovation, and opportunity across the 14-county Dayton Region.

🛩️

Defense & Aerospace

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base anchors a massive defense ecosystem. The largest single-site employer in Ohio, WPAFB drives $3.4 billion in annual economic impact.

38,000+
Regional Jobs
+3.2%
YOY Growth
Key Employers
Wright-Patterson AFBL3Harris TechnologiesSAICNorthrop GrummanLeidos
🏥

Healthcare

The region's largest employment sector. Two major health systems, a growing health-tech presence, and competitive salaries with significantly lower cost of living.

45,000+
Regional Jobs
+4.5%
YOY Growth
Key Employers
Premier HealthKettering HealthCareSourceMiami Valley HospitalDayton Children's
⚙️

Advanced Manufacturing

Not legacy manufacturing — robotics, additive manufacturing, and precision engineering. The region is a national leader in aerospace components and auto parts.

25,000+
Regional Jobs
+2.8%
YOY Growth
Key Employers
Honda (nearby)Delphi TechnologiesFuyao GlassDayton Freight LinesMidmark Corp
💻

Technology

Ranked #3 nationally as a CBRE tech talent market. Growing startup ecosystem, established players, and defense-tech crossover opportunities.

12,000+
Regional Jobs
+6.1%
YOY Growth
Key Employers
LexisNexisCoverMyMedsReynolds & ReynoldsTeradataSparkCognition
📦

Logistics & Distribution

Strategic central location with I-70/I-75 interchange, Dayton International Airport, and proximity to DHL's Americas hub.

18,000+
Regional Jobs
+3.8%
YOY Growth
Key Employers
Dayton Freight LinesAmazonFedExUPSRyder
🎓

Education & Research

31 colleges and universities, nationally ranked research institutes, and workforce development programs feeding every sector in the region.

20,000+
Regional Jobs
+2.1%
YOY Growth
Key Employers
University of DaytonWright State UniversitySinclair CollegeUDRIAir Force Research Lab

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