When people think of Washington County, they often picture open fields, quiet towns, and a community that feels grounded and welcoming. What is not always visible behind that familiar landscape is a network of employers supported by a talented and diverse workforce—one that helps shape the local economy and sustain the families who call the county home.

The county’s major private-sector employers provide insight into the industries that anchor the region and the opportunities they create. Together, they demonstrate how manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and more, contribute to a thriving community. These businesses play a vital role in strengthening the regional economy and shaping daily life.

Understanding the Foundation of Local Employment

Major employers do more than fill job openings—they provide stability, encourage long-term investment, and help communities thrive. Washington County’s economy is built on a diverse mix of industries that generate jobs, support local supply chains, and anchor long-term economic resilience. While agriculture is a cornerstone, manufacturing is the county’s largest employment sector and primary economic driver. Together, these industries illustrate a unique mix of heritage and innovation that continues to power a strong, adaptable local economy.

Additionally, the region benefits from strong relationships with workforce and economic development partners, helping connect residents to new skills, career pathways, and opportunities for long-term growth.

Industries That Shape Washington County

Washington County’s major employers span several core sectors that support both the economy and local communities. Manufacturing is the largest sector, growing through innovation, craftsmanship, and investment. Retail is the second-largest sector, providing everyday goods and services while supporting a diverse workforce. Healthcare and construction also play key roles. Though different industries, both provide essential services and employment opportunities that help the county thrive.

Manufacturing – Advanced Production

Companies including Fort Miller Group,  Irving Tissue, and Telescope Furniture represent the range of work happening in Washington County.

Fort Miller Group produces precast concrete used in major infrastructure projects including public spaces such as Little Island at Pier 55 in New York City. Irving Tissue provides stable employment in tissue production and plays an essential role in regional and national supply chains. Telescope Casual Furniture further reinforces the manufacturing sector through its commitment to quality production and workforce development. Together, these employers illustrate how manufacturing strengthens the local economy by cultivating a skilled workforce and supporting long-term career growth.

The strength of this sector is reinforced by long-standing partnerships with regional organizations such as the Center for Economic Growth, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, and workforce development programs that connect residents to training and emerging opportunities. These collaborations support business expansion while preparing the next generation of workers for in-demand manufacturing roles.

Manufacturing – Creative Production and Design

Some of the most distinctive employers bring creativity to the heart of rural life. Adirondack Studios, located in Argyle, NY, is a global company designing and building scenery and sets for major cultural destinations including Universal Studios, Motiongate Theme Park and The Franklin Institute. This is just one example of how local talent creates worldwide impact.

“People come to Washington County because they want to be here. The craftspeople who walk through our doors bring incredible skill, and being part of this community is a big part of why the work is so special.” – David “Thomas” Lloyd, Founding Principal of Adirondack Studios

Adirondack Studios’ work reflects the county’s talent and highlights how creative industries can succeed in a region defined by peaceful landscapes and strong community ties. The availability of careers typically associated with large cities, draws talent from both within Washington County and beyond, contributing to a more diverse and resilient local workforce.

Retail

Retailers with multiple locations including Hannaford Brothers, Market 32/Price Chopper, and Stewart’s Shops, further contribute to the local economy by supporting families and providing reliable, year-round employment. Together, these employers help sustain the welcoming character that defines Washington County and underscore the essential role major employers play in maintaining a strong, resilient community.

Complementing larger retailers, Washington County is home to a wide range of smaller retail businesses, many of them locally owned and operated. These stores reflect the innovation and dedication of business owners who choose to invest in their communities, creating jobs and delivering personalized services that meet local needs. By supporting small-scale enterprise and fostering downtown vitality, these retailers play a vital role in strengthening the county’s economic base and cultivating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive.

Healthcare

Healthcare is one of Washington County’s largest and most dynamic economic sectors, providing a wide range of employment opportunities—from clinical and administrative roles to specialized care and support services. Local healthcare employers not only deliver essential services that improve quality of life but also careers for residents across skill levels and professions.

Fort Hudson Health System and Centers Health Care are both long-standing providers of senior care, home and community-based services, and rehabilitation programs that have served local families for decades, reflecting a deep commitment to compassionate, community-centered care

Expanding access to primary and preventive medical care, Hudson Headwaters Health Network opened a new facility in Salem in May 2025. It is a state-of-the-art 14,300-square-foot center offering family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, behavioral health, nutrition counseling, and more, along with plans for an on-site pharmacy and continued growth in services.

Together with other local health centers and providers, these organizations anchor the county’s healthcare ecosystem, support local employment, and help ensure that residents have access to high-quality care close to home.

Agriculture and Food Production

Agriculture has shaped Washington County for generations. Farms and food producers remain a steady presence in daily life, carrying forward the values that define the county. With approximately 750 farms and more than 30,500 dairy cows, Washington County leads the Capital Region in dairy production and plays a major role in New York State’s milk supply. In fact, nearly 70 percent of the milk used by Stewart’s Shops is produced in Washington County.

While dairy remains the backbone of the county’s agricultural economy, the combined value of beef, other livestock, crops, and specialty products such as fiber contributes significantly to the region’s overall agricultural output—driving direct sales and supporting related businesses including processing, feed suppliers, and agritourism services.

Strategic Alliances

Collaboration between businesses and regional partners plays a key role in Washington County’s economy by helping companies grow and connecting residents to training and skill-building opportunities. These strategic alliances create a strong local talent pipeline, support workforce development, and provide the foundation for long-term stability and growth—ensuring that both established industries and emerging opportunities can thrive across the county.

Major Employers in Washington County

The Fort Miller Group, Inc.
Irving Tissue, Inc.
Centers Health Care
Telescope Casual Furniture
Fort Hudson Health System
Hollingsworth and Vose
Adirondack Scenic, Inc.
Rozell Industries
Saint Gobain Performance Plastics
Hannaford Brothers Co, LLC
Golub Corporation Price Chopper
Morcon
Commonwealth Plywood
Cambridge Valley Machining