Throughout October, the Discover Kalispell Chamber’s Manufacturing Alliance invites the community to celebrate Manufacturing Month 2026, recognizing the innovation, quality, and diversity of products made right here in the Flathead Valley. Throughout the month, participants have the opportunity to take part in exclusive facility tours and events hosted by leading local manufacturers and employers. These tours provide a firsthand look at how products are made, the technology driving production, and the high-quality, high-paying careers available right now in northwest Montana. 

Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the local economy. Flathead County leads the state in manufacturing, with companies producing everything from semiconductor equipment, connected mobile operations centers, timber products, and concrete components to firearms, beverages, skincare, building materials, and more. Together, these industries showcase the innovation and talent that position Montana on the national manufacturing stage. One of this year’s signature Manufacturing Month events is the 2026 Flathead Manufacturing Symposium, taking place Tuesday, October 13, at Flathead Valley Community College. Featured speakers include Paddy Fleming and Clint Finlayson with the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center and Eric Harry with the Wachholz Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center, with a focus on how AI, robotics, and automation are changing manufacturing. The symposium will also include updates on Montana COREWORKS, registered apprenticeship opportunities, the FVCC Trades Institute, and Small Business Administration manufacturing programs. The Manufacturing Luncheon, sponsored by Nomad GCS, A Kratos Company, will continue the conversation with a panel discussion focused on how local manufacturers are already using AI, automation, and robotics here in the Flathead Valley. 

Another of this year’s signature events, the Flathead Timber Tour, will take participants on a journey from forest to finished product on Thursday, October 22nd from 12-5pm. The tour includes a visit to an active F.H. Stoltze logging site to learn about forest management practices and sustainable harvesting and a guided tour of Weyerhaeuser’s MDF plant.  Pre-registration is required, and space is limited.   Register for the Timber Tour, Manufacturing Symposium & Luncheon, and other Manufacturing Month tours: business.kalispellchamber.com/mfgtours

About the Manufacturing Alliance The Manufacturing Alliance, a program of the Discover Kalispell Chamber, connects businesses, educators, and community partners to strengthen the local manufacturing sector. The Alliance works to promote awareness of manufacturing careers, foster industry collaboration, and highlight the products that keep Montana competitive nationwide.