Marshall Celebrates Manufacturing Week: Honoring Local Innovation, Skill, and Economic Strength

Marshall, TX – Marshall Economic Development (MED) is proud to celebrate Manufacturing Week (October 6–10), honoring the local manufacturers that power economic growth, innovation, and job creation. This week highlights the people and companies that keep Marshall’s economy strong through advanced technology, skilled craftsmanship, and community commitment. Leading the way are Prysmian Group, Republic Elite, Lewis Engineering Co., and Thumper Fab, each showcasing the strength and diversity of Marshall’s manufacturing sector. MED invites residents to celebrate the contributions of manufacturers across Harrison County and the valuable career opportunities they provide. With its strategic I-20 location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment, Marshall continues to attract and grow industries that sustain the region’s economic vitality. “Manufacturing Week is a chance to celebrate the people behind the machines—the engineers, welders, technicians, and innovators who make things happen every day,” said Rush Harris CEcD, Executive Director of Marshall Economic Development. “Companies like Prysmian Group, Republic Elite, Lewis Engineering, and Thumper Fab exemplify what makes Marshall a hub for industry, innovation, and opportunity.”

Prysmian Group, founded in 1879, is a global leader in energy and telecommunications cable systems and continues to expand its operations in Marshall, Texas, strengthening its role as a cornerstone of the local manufacturing sector. Prysmian is the largest cable manufacturer in the world, and our Marshall, TX facility is the largest cable plant in North America. Every day, we produce low/ medium voltage cable solutions that power homes, businesses, wind farms, and infrastructure across the world. Our work fuels not just energy—but dreams—by connecting communities and enabling progress through reliable, sustainable technology.  "Marshall has been a cornerstone in Prysmian’s journey of growth. The community’s commitment for progress and its support for manufacturing excellence have empowered us to evolve, innovate, and lead. Being part of Marshall means being part of a culture that embraces transformation and drives success,” said Brandon Bilnoski, Training Manager at Prysmian. Through continued investment and innovation, Prysmian Group not only enhances global connectivity but also contributes to Marshall’s economic growth and workforce development.

Republic Elite, founded in 1975, is a large-scale woodworking facility specializing in the production of high-quality kitchen and bath cabinetry for multifamily housing projects across the United States.  Republic Elite offers a full portfolio of both traditional framed and European style frameless kitchen and bath cabinets in as wide variety of up-to-date stain, paint, thermofoil or melamine finishes.  On a daily basis, the plant team of over 450 employees engage in precision manufacturing processes while working collaboratively across departments to ensure safety, maintain quality standards, and meet production goals of up to 3,500 cabinets per day (approximately 1 million cabinets annually). Our facility emphasizes continuous improvement, energy efficiency, and lean manufacturing practices, supported by new and upgraded equipment and streamlined workflows. With a focus on craftsmanship and reliability, Republic Elite delivers durable, stylish cabinetry solutions tailored to the needs of developers and nationwide. Marshall, TX is the foundational home of Republic Elite's cabinet manufacturing, with decades of experience and a skilled local workforce at its core. The company's continuous investment in this manufacturing plant drives innovation and efficiency, making Marshall a cornerstone of its national success.  Steve Garwood, Republic Elite's Chief Operations Officer, commented on the Marshall team: "Our team in Marshall, Texas features some of the most skilled and dedicated folks in the business. Our Marshall team drives lean manufacturing through all aspects of the business. Their hard work, dedication and laser-like focus on quality permeates every area of our business.   Marshall, Texas has provided more than just a home for Republic Elite — it’s given us a community that believes in progress. The city’s investment in infrastructure, workforce readiness, and pro-business initiatives has enabled us to grow sustainably and continue delivering excellence to our clients.”

Lewis Engineering, founded in 1961, is a cornerstone of Marshall’s advanced manufacturing community, recognized for delivering complex machining and engineering solutions with precision, quality, and expertise. Lewis Engineering is a supplier of precision metal components to the defense, aerospace, and automotive industries.  For the last 64 years we've offered machining, metal stamping, fabrication, and metal finishing services.  We operate out of a 50,000 square foot facility and currently employ roughly 40 people. Through its dedication to excellence and craftsmanship, Lewis Engineering continues to play a vital role in strengthening Marshall’s manufacturing base and supporting the region’s industrial growth. “We've found the City of Marshall, Harrison County, and Marshall Economic Development to be great to work with.  When issues arise, they are usually quick to help us solve them,” said Doug Lewis, Vice President of Lewis Engineering. “Our location on I-20 & 59 and being centrally located in the country has helped us save money on freight and shipping to customers globally.  We find the cost of electric, sewer, and natural gas to be competitive and the availability of employees to be steady.  The availability of raw material from local steel mills and service centers keeps us able to supply our customers and get the best value on new projects,”

Thumper Fab, founded in 2019 and based in Marshall, Texas, is a leading manufacturer of high-performance accessories for UTVs and off-road vehicles. Known for its innovation and durability, Thumper Fab designs and produces products such as audio roofs, roll cages, bumpers, suspension systems, and its patented Mighty TITE tie-down system—all crafted in-house using advanced technologies like 3D scanning, CNC machining, and robotic fabrication. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Thumper Fab continues to push the boundaries of off-road customization and performance. “Marshall has been instrumental in our company’s growth and success. Marshall Economic Developments strong support for local industry, access to skilled talent, and collaborative spirit have created an environment where innovation and productivity thrive,” said J.C. Kester, Vice President of Thumper Fab. “Being part of a community that values manufacturing has empowered us to expand our capabilities and contribute meaningfully to the local economy. After a long day of making some awesome parts, Marshall is such a great place to call home too.”    

As Manufacturing Week unfolds, the community is encouraged to recognize and celebrate the skilled tradespeople and forward-thinking manufacturers that keep Marshall moving forward.