MAGNET holds first Public Officials Conference
October 1 event at GOJO Headquarters in downtown Akron draws attendees from Ashland to Avon Lake, Eastlake to Medina
The informational session was held at the headquarters building of GOJO Industries Inc. in downtown Akron and was designed to dispel the myths about manufacturing and to begin a dialogue with the public officials that will lead to a stronger, more vibrant climate for manufacturing in Ohio. |
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The event began with an overview of MAGNET and the services it provides to manufacturers throughout the region. Speaking for MAGNET was Director of Manufacturing Competitiveness Mike Pezo. |
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The public officials had the opportunity to visit a mini manufacturing trade show to learn more about MAGNET and visit with representatives of manufacturers representing the area’s start-up, small, medium and large manufacturers. The companies in the mini trade show were: Swiger Coil Systems, Green-Source Products, The Timken Company, Swagelok and Avtron Manufacturing. |
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Plenty of networking took place throughout the session. |
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MAGNET Director of Manufacturing Education Affairs Judith Crocker spoke with Ohio Senate member Dale Miller during a break. |
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Mandwel Patterson, executive director of the Canton Community Development Corp, came to the informational session representing the city of Canton. |
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A short quiz with questions concerning the state of manufacturing in Northeast Ohio was given and the officials were able to answer questions using an audience response unit. |
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A highlight of the session was a panel presentation given by representatives from the companies who participated in the mini trade show. |
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Mark Pace, director of operations with start-up manufacturer Green-Source Products, told the public officials about the climate they need to create to help foster growth for his start-up. |
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Mike Neff (left) from Swagelok made a point about the need for a skilled, educated workforce. Bob Lee (right) from Swiger Coil Systems agreed with Neff during his own presentation. |
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The event was held at the headquarters of GOJO Industries Inc. in downtown Akron. |
Akron—MAGNET’s first ever event held specifically for elected officials throughout Northeast Ohio drew an enthusiastic crowd of local, county and state representatives on Monday morning, October 1. 
