Is your company expanding? Let Montana show you the difference a state can make. Since its statehood in 1889, Montana has continued to advance and support policies that allow the free market to flourish, and in Montana, that includes the firearm and ammunition industry and others in the outdoor economy. The firearm and ammunition industry are part of the fabric of our communities and a way of life enjoyed by Montanans. In fact, this sector is so embedded within our way of life that Montana has the highest per capita gun ownership and gun manufacturers in the United States.
Leaders in Montana are listening to industry voices and developing pragmatic solutions to address the challenges head-on, while operating at the speed of business. We believe one of the biggest solutions Montana has to offer is our people. Montanans are our best asset and can be the solution your company needs to thrive.
The Montana Legislature
Montana companies in the firearms and ammunition industry are flourishing in a probusiness, pro-jobs business climate enhanced by recent laws, including:
HB 102 (2021) allowing law-abiding Montanans 18 and older to concealed carry without a permit.
SB 359 (2023) prohibiting unjust tracking of firearms sales by financial institutions.
HB 674 (2023) creating the option of an enhanced carry permit and allows Montanans to exercise their right to carry throughout the country.
Business Programs
Montana has solutions for businesses. There are several exciting programs being leveraged by companies that are producing amazing results. These include:
Pre-Apprenticeship Program: Solutions to help prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Registered Apprenticeship Program: The state registered more than 500 new apprentices in the first half of 2022, a record-breaking year.
Pre-Employment Transition Services: A remarkable program with great results that provides Montana’s students with disabilities the opportunity to get educated, connected and ready for life, work and independence.
Workforce Programs
Workforce related programs thriving in Montana involve the state’s proud military community. Examples include:
DOD SkillBridge Program. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) SkillBridge program is an opportunity for service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships or internships during the last 180 days of service.
Army Reserves. The Army has programs that have transformed how the Army Reserve and corporate America attract, develop and retain talent.
Firearms Education
On the educational front, there are some great opportunities for industry to find remarkable talent graduating from some amazing programs:
Flathead Valley Community College. One of only six colleges in the United States offering a Firearms Technologies associate and certificate program. These programs provide a solid foundation in theory, design, function and finishing of firearms. This represents an incredible opportunity for workforce recruitment plus an opportunity for existing Montana and new companies expanding to provide input on additional course offerings as the industry evolves.
Next Frontier Advanced Manufacturing Institute
A program with a mission to “engage, lift and inspire” transitioning members of the armed services and veterans with skills-based training for advanced manufacturing. The program is based in Butte, Montana in partnership with Highlands College which offers welding and CNC rapid training courses. The curriculum will train the nation’s servicemen and women in high value CNC manufacturing and welding skills so they can obtain high-paying, critical support jobs. Credentials obtained are nationally recognized and portable from either the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) or the American Welding Society (AWS). Learn more at nfami.org.
Montana Workforce Readiness
Like most industries, the outdoor industry faces workforce challenges, which creates growth barriers. Montana has answers to these challenges. With the highest high school graduation rate in the country, Montana celebrates one of the highest percentages per capita of individuals graduating with STEM-related degrees with firearm manufacturing specific education programs offered. In addition, according to a study by the Montana Department of Labor, staff retention rates are higher in Montana, beating the U.S. average. This foundation creates excellent opportunities for employers to find amazingly skilled talent with an incredible work ethic.
A Home to Veterans
If recruiting military service members and/or veterans is part of your plans, it is worth noting that Montana has the highest concentration of veterans on a percentage basis in the continental USA. Montana is exceptionally proud of this country’s military service members and all veterans. If employing veterans is important to your company, this is another great example why you should be scoping out Montana.
Join Us in Montana
If you are looking for a state that takes the same proactive approach your company takes to overcome challenges, look no further than Montana. Our best asset are Montanans, and their talents may be the critical firepower you need to help you achieve your next level of growth.
Make the Connection in Montana
Site selectors are invited to speak with a member of our business attraction team by visiting choosemontana.com or calling 406-841-2821. Let Montana demonstrate the difference a state can make. T&ID
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