Johnson & Johnson has announced it will spend over $1 billion in Jacksonville, Florida. This is indeed a sign of trust in American manufacturing and the workers it takes to keep it running smoothly.
The investment will expand J&J manufacturing in Jacksonville by scaling up manufacturing, packing, and shipment capabilities when it comes to Northeast Florida. This includes the building of a new, modern distribution facility that is scheduled to come online in 2028.
- The investment constitutes a component of J&J’s previously disclosed $55 billion commitment to U.S. manufacturing, research & development, and technology by 2029.
The announcement was made by Joaquin Duato, the J&J chairman and CEO, at an event held on June 15, 2026, in Jacksonville. Among those on the guest list were Carolyn Lee, the Manufacturing Institute president, and members of Congress, along with Donna Deegan, the Jacksonville mayor, as well as other local leaders.
In her remarks, Lee highlighted the urgency of closing the manufacturing workforce deficit and the important role that employers play in growing the skilled talent required to drive sustainable development and competitiveness.
- She emphasized Johnson & Johnson’s leadership in bringing together employers and educators as well as community partners to create sustainable talent pipelines.
Apparently, J&J and the workforce development and education affiliate of NAM, the MI, are working to develop guidelines for a new FAME chapter in the Jacksonville region.
- MI’s FAME, the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, happens to be an earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship course of study that educates the next generation of manufacturing talent.
- There are over 45 chapters of FAME in 17 states. The network is expected to add over 15 chapters in the next few years.
Since 2021, J&J has been an official health care sponsor of MI’s Heroes MAKE AMERICA initiative, helping to prepare newly discharged service members and veterans for fresh careers within the industry. Jacksonville has a large military and veteran population, so to expand J&J manufacturing in Jacksonville is indeed a perfect fit for HMA’s work at close-by Fort Stewart.
- J&J participates actively in HMA career fairs as well as tours of facilities.
According to Lee, “Johnson & Johnson understands that a facility is only as strong as the people inside it. Their investment in Jacksonville, paired with their long-standing commitment to workforce development, is a model for what manufacturing leadership looks like today.”