SAN MARCOS, Texas - The City of San Marcos proclaimed October as Manufacturers Month in an effort to bring awareness to the importance of the manufacturing industry in the region.

Mayor John Thomaides Monday said the average annual wage for these kinds of jobs is $55,000 per year, and the industry has provided nearly 5,000 jobs in Hays County. That's about 7 percent of total employment for the county.

The Greater San Marcos Partnership said manufacturing is a targeted industry sector for the area.

"It is a growing industry. It is an industry that we are trying to attract more manufacturers to our area. So having the right workforce, having the right business environment and the right climate is all really important to helping us grow," GSMP President Adriana Cruz said.

Hays County will also proclaim October as Manufacturers Month.