144. Building the South Side — How JCB Is Bringing 1,500 Jobs to San Antonio

This week on bigcitysmalltown, we examine one of the most significant recent developments in San Antonio’s advanced manufacturing and economic landscape: the arrival of JCB Texas. British construction equipment manufacturer JCB broke ground on a new plant on the city’s south side in 2023—an investment that promises to bring 1,500 new jobs to the area and reshape the region’s industrial ecosystem.Bob Rivard sits down with David Carver, operations director for JCB Texas, to discuss the progress on the massive 400-acre manufacturing site, JCB’s philosophy on workforce development, and why San Antonio’s south side was chosen for this major expansion. Carver, who relocated from JCB’s UK headquarters to oversee the project, provides insight into the company’s long-term commitment to the local community, hiring timelines, and what the day-to-day experience will be for the plant’s future employees.They discuss:• The current status and ambitions for JCB’s San Antonio facility• Workforce needs—from welders and forklift drivers to engineers—and how locals can apply• JCB’s approach to training, career progression, and the influence of the company’s UK-based educational academy• The expected impact on local suppliers and the broader regional economy• Collaboration with other major employers like Toyota, and the company’s strategy to “manufacture and sell where we build”• The role of global trade dynamics and tariffs in JCB’s U.S. expansionFor San Antonians interested in the city’s economic development, workforce opportunities, and the future of advanced manufacturing on the south side, this episode provides in-depth perspective from the leader at the center of one of the city’s most watched projects.RECOMMENDED NEXT LISTEN:▶️ #125. The Man Behind Brooks: How Leo Gomez Reimagined the Southside – Dive deeper into San Antonio’s south side resurgence with host Bob Rivard and Brooks Development Authority CEO Leo Gomez. This episode unpacks the transformation of Brooks from military base to thriving community hub—highlighting the visionary leadership, strategic investments, and partnerships shaping new opportunities for local residents and businesses.-- --CONNECT📸 Connect on Instagram🔗 Join us on LinkedIn🎥 Subscribe on YouTubeSPONSORS🙌 Support the show & see our sponsorsTHANK YOU⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts⭐ Rate us on Spotify