Center for Economic Growth

February 22 Career Fair
2024-02-13 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | NY

Get the 411 on New York State Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP)
2024-01-23 09:30 - 10:30 | NY
The Manufacturers Intermediary Apprenticeship Program (MIAP) will be conducting an overview of what Registered Apprenticeship is and how companies across New York State have been utilizing this model. Prasad Mathew, Skilled Trades Development Coordinator with Eastman Kodak Company, will share how they use Registered Apprenticeship to attract and retain a solid workforce.
Find out how Registered Apprenticeship can work for your company!
RSVP Today!
Registration is required for this no-cost event.
Zoom login details will be sent the day before the session.

New York State 2024 Legislative Session Preview: MACNY, The Manufacturers Association and The Manufacturers Alliance of New York
2024-01-09 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Its full steam ahead for the New York State 2024 Legislative Session for MACNY, The Manufacturers Association and The Manufacturers Alliance of New York (the Alliance).
The New York State 2024 Legislative Session convenes on Wednesday, January 3. Governor Hochul delivers her 2024 State of the State Address on Tuesday, January 9 in the Assembly Chamber, and proposes her FY 2024-25 Executive Budget proposal by Tuesday January 16.
These three events over the first three weeks of the New Year mark the start of the annual process to enact a State budget before April 1, and the six-month legislative calendar to review and pass legislation through the Senate and Assembly.
Join us for our webinar on January 9 for Knowledge @ Noon to learn more about key legislation that impacts your company:

Workforce development (MIAP)
Tax parity (eliminate franchise tax for S corps)
Energy regulations under New York Cap-and-Invest
Extended producer responsibility (EPR)
COVID paid sick leave
Unemployment insurance

Our presenters:
Randy Wolken, President and CEO, MACNY, The Manufacturers Association which serves over 300 companies that employ more than 50,000 people within a 26-county region in Central and Upstate New York. He is also President and CEO, the Manufacturers Alliance of New York, which is a coalition of manufacturing groups representing over 2,500 companies and over 425,000 employees across New York State.
Matt Geitner, Director, Government Relations, MACNY, The Manufacturers Association. He directs advocacy for MACNY and The Manufacturers Alliance of New York State overseeing policy and strategy development along with coordinating state and federal political action committees and keeping member companies informed of important issues and legislation.

Register here>>
Following the presentation there will be an opportunity for Q&A.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insights and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organizations learn and grow.

Healthcare Workforce Collaborative
2023-12-05 09:00 - 17:00 | The Century House, 997 New Loudon Rd, Latham, 12110, United States
CEG is co-hosting a new event and we’d love to see you there. Join us for the next Healthcare Workforce Collaborative, December 5, 2023 at 9:00 AM at Century House in Latham. This meeting will share recent regional healthcare data and provide an opportunity to dive more into discussions around technology/AI/VR, career webs and career ladders, retention and selfcare, and marketing and promotion.
Light breakfast provided. Register soon because space is limited!
Agenda
9:00 AM – 9:05 AM Welcome and Introductions
9:05 AM – 9:10 AM Healthcare Workforce Collaborative Overview (Amanda Duff)
9:10 AM – 9:40 AM Capital Region EDC: 2023 Workforce Development Strategy (Christine McLear & Heidi Pasos)
9:40 AM – 9:55 AM IHA Semi-Annual Vacancy and Turnover Report (Grace Rust)
9:55 AM – 10:10 AM Healthcare Project Data
10:10 AM – 10:40 AM Breakout Groups (Kelly Owens, Christine McLear, Grace Rust, Heidi Pasos)
Participants will be asked to choose one of the following breakout groups: Technology/AI/VR led by Kelly Owens; Career Ladders vs. Career Webs led by Christine McLear; Retention and Selfcare led by G…
10:40 AM – 10:55 AM Group Share
10:55 AM – 11:00 AM Next Steps

Register here

Offshore Wind Ready: Manufacturing | For New Jersey and New York Companies
2023-11-16 10:00 - 16:00 | NY
This registration is for the Offshore Wind Ready: Manufacturing educational program taking place virtually in Zoom on Thursday, November 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST.
After you register, you will receive an email that contains complete information about the program.
This Offshore Wind Ready training, hosted by the Business Network for Offshore Wind in partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, is only open to businesses in New Jersey and New York.
What is Offshore Wind Ready: Manufacturing?
Offshore Wind Ready: Manufacturing is a one-day educational program designed for manufacturing businesses who want to learn more about specific business opportunities in the growing U.S. offshore wind industry. Learn about project development, a project’s supply chain component parts, and how to identify where your business fits in. Offshore Wind Ready: Manufacturing helps you determine if this growing industry is a good fit for your business.
Attend Offshore Wind Ready: Manufacturing and you will:

Identify where your manufacturing business fits in the supply chain
Learn how your manufacturing business can receive assistance and guidance as you begin to navigate the market
Identify additional training and certification requirements
Gain a basic understanding of project development

Who should attend?

Any New Jersey and New York manufacturing business or individual ready to learn about specific business opportunities in the U.S. offshore wind industry.

The Business Network for Offshore Wind reserves the right to remove attendees whose business does not do business in the states of New Jersey or New York.

REGISTER HERE

Knowledge @ Noon: Manage Change with Success and Deliver Extraordinary Results
2023-11-14 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
The world of business is changing at a faster pace than ever, yet most people don’t like or even resist change.
How do we manage these circumstances and help our teams not only accept change, but embrace it?
This webinar will share a key ideas and concepts to consider, manage and deliver change more successfully, with individuals, teams, and the entire organization. Webinar content will be enriched with easy-to-use tools that can be applied immediately to your business.
About Your Facilitator
Bruce W. Parsons – Principal Consultant
For over 40 years, Bruce Parsons has followed his passion for helping people and organizations achieve extraordinary performance and deliver breakthrough results. He currently serves as a Principal Consultant with Mahoney Performance Institute and is responsible to plan and deliver strategic planning and execution engagements, lead MPI training events, deliver business consulting services, coach and mentor business leaders, develop new business and manage client accounts.
Prior to joining MPI, Bruce served as Vice President with Blue Slate Solutions and EXL Service where his efforts were focused on planning and delivering innovative transformational change with Medicare Administration Contractors leading to substantial increases in operational effectiveness and efficiencies. He also led his own business, Parsons Associates, delivering strategic planning, organizational and leadership development, business consulting, performance management and coaching services to small and mid-sized businesses in the greater Glens Falls and Saratoga regions.
Bruce’s distinguished career also includes six years in operations excellence, program management and supply chain management with Boston Scientific/Navilyst Medical in Glens Falls, NY; three years in Project Management with GE Power Systems in Schenectady, NY where he earned his Green Belt Six Sigma Certification; and 15 years serving in construction and project management, sales, marketing and business leadership roles with Andritz Ahlstrom in Glens Falls, NY.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series , offered through the *Manufacturing Innovation Network, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.
REGISTER HERE

Mastering Sustainable Growth: A 360° Approach to Effective Sales & Marketing Processes Workshop
2023-10-31 08:00 - 11:00 | Capital Region Chamber / CEG, 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY, 12205, United States
Mastering Sustainable Growth: A 360° Approach to Effective Sales & Marketing Processes WorkshopPresented by: The Manufacturing Network Powered by CEG, Sandler – Albany & SIX Marketing
Is the slower growth of your manufacturing company causing frustration as it falls short of projected expectations?
Join us on October 31st, from 8 – 11 AM at CEG/Capital Region Chamber Office, 5 Computer Drive South Albany, NY 12205, for insights on aligning sales and marketing strategies to foster sustainable growth within your organization.

Discover how your company can:

shorten sales cycles,
proactively prospect,
implement effective sales processes, and
start developing a sales team culture that produces real results.

Topics to be discussed include:
An intro to the Manufacturing Innovation Network powered by CEG and how it can help your organization become more competitive and successful

Identifying your Highest Value Customers
How to Attract Them
How to Build-First Touch Credibility – what to say once they are engaged
How to Properly Qualify & Close Prospects & Ultimately Shorten the Sales Cycle

Don’t miss out on this chance to learn how to effectively grow your business from manufacturing sales and marketing experts.

Q&A questions may be submitted in advance of the event during registration checkout!
EARLY BIRD PRICING – $99.00 – Ends Friday October 20th at midnight.
General Admission -$149.00 – Starting Saturday October 21st.
Includes continental breakfast

REGISTER HERE!

Meet the Presenters:
Donald J. Wiesenforth M.B.A., Senior Vice President, Center for Economic Growth, Director of the MEP
Don is a seasoned leader with over twenty-six years of diverse professional experience including as owner and president of a local manufacturing company, founder and partner of an exhibition management company, leading a lean transformation in healthcare, as well as a strategic business advisor to manufacturing and technology companies.
Throughout his career, Don has been successful using the servant leader mindset to drive staff engagement, operations excellence, and change management. Don is a certified TWI (Training within Industry) Job Instruction, Job Relations and Job Method Improvement Instructor, a certified Innovation Engineering blackbelt through the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and a highly experienced lean leader/practitioner. Don holds a Master of Business Administration from the State University of New York at Albany and a Bachelor of Science from Bentley College with a major in Marketing Management.

Matt Scarchilli, Owner, Sandler Training Albany, NY
Matt worked as a staff pharmacist for Latham Pharmacy (5 yrs) and Supervising Pharmacist with Community Health Plan in Troy (5 yrs) before transitioning to pharmaceutical sales (10 yrs). In 2004, Matt was president of Latham Circle Soccer Club where he and John Haller met and together, they founded SportsSignup. SportsSignup was a SaaS business that automated the tasks in running a youth sports organization (online registration, scheduling, stats, standings, etc.). While at SportsSignup, the company made 3 acquisitions. Matt’s role was Managing Partner and Vice President of Sales. After building the business to national success with 40+ employees and managing a team of 15 in the sales department, SportsSignup was acquired by Time, Inc. in July of 2015. The company was run as Sports Illustrated Play while owned by Time Inc. The SportsSignup software is now owned and run by NBC Sports.
Having 25 years of sales experience, Matt started Winning Process, LLC and acquired Sandler (sales,management and customer service training and consulting) in 2016. He can be contacted at Matt.Scarchilli@sandler.com

Christopher Ryan, CEO & Supreme Commander, SIX Marketing
Christopher Ryan, the CEO & Supreme Commander of SIX Marketing, is a serial entrepreneur with a remarkable journey that began at the age of six when he founded his first successful venture, opening a blackberry business that partnered with the renowned local figure, Farmer John.
With a career spanning over 25 years in marketing, Christopher’s expertise evolved through ownership of a thriving promotional company and leadership as the Director of Marketing at a prominent pharmaceutical chain. Over twelve years ago, he founded SIX with an ambitious mission to revolutionize the traditional advertising agency model by aligning marketing, sales and technology to maximize growth.
Today, SIX’s excels in empowering the manufacturing industry through specialized marketing solutions. In addition to his role at SIX Marketing, Christopher also owns another successful business focused on providing turn-key supply chain management for manufacturers, streamlining their processes. Christopher’s unwavering commitment to the success of manufacturing businesses allows him to offer invaluable insights to those striving to excel in the competitive market.
Under Christopher’s visionary leadership, SIX Marketing has grown into an industry powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on countless enterprises. With his passion, expertise, and dedication, Christopher Ryan continues to steer the company towards unparalleled success, shaping a brighter future for businesses worldwide. He can be reached at cfr@six.marketing.

Leah Parillo, VP Business Development, SIX Marketing
Leah Parillo brings a wealth of experience from her diverse marketing roles. Currently, she holds the position of VP of Business Development at SIX Marketing, specializing in manufacturing marketing and contributing significantly to the company’s growth.
Before her role at SIX Marketing, Leah was at RenderTribe, initially as a Strategic Marketing Consultant and later as VP Consulting Services/Account Management.
In November 2009, Leah founded Parillo Prime Marketing, with a focus on SaaS, finance, and technology, and served as its Founder until July 2015. Prior to this, she worked at McMURRY/TMG, LLC, where she held the position of Senior Account Manager/Strategic Marketing Consultant. Her responsibilities included developing new product lines and mentoring the account management team.
Leah’s earlier career included the role of Marketing Director at RainMaker Software, where she played a key role in expanding the business, ultimately leading to its acquisition.
Beyond her marketing expertise, Leah also performs as a studio singer and entertainer. You can reach out to her at leah@six.marketing.

REGISTER HERE!

Career Jam™ Explore
2023-10-19 08:00 - 17:00 | Hudson Valley Community College, 80 Vandenburgh Ave, Troy, NY, 12180
Career Jam™ Explore is back in the Capital Region this Fall! Don’t miss your chance to sign up for the upcoming events: Wednesday, October 4 at Tec-Smart in Ballston Spa and Thursday, October 19 at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy. Shape the future workforce through this transformative experience!
School registration (Bring your 8th & 9th grade students!): https://bit.ly/3Qv4S12
Employer registration (Showcase your business!): https://bit.ly/3OzlsdH
Sponsor CapNY Career Jam events: https://bit.ly/45t78Kx

Career Jam™ Explore
2023-10-19 08:00 - 17:00 | TEC-SMART, 345 Hermes Road, Malta, NY, 12010, United States
Career Jam™ Explore is back in the Capital Region this Fall! Don’t miss your chance to sign up for the upcoming events: Thursday, October 19 at Tec-Smart in Ballston Spa and Thursday, October 19 at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy. Shape the future workforce through this transformative experience!
School registration (Bring your 8th & 9th grade students!): https://bit.ly/3Qv4S12
Employer registration (Showcase your business!): https://bit.ly/3OzlsdH
Sponsor CapNY Career Jam events: https://bit.ly/45t78Kx

2023 Capital Region BioInnovation Forum
2023-10-18 08:00 - 12:00 | ETEC Building – University at Albany, SUNY, 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12206, United States
JOIN US
Capital Region BioInnovation Forum 2023
Fostering Industry and Academic Partnerships
Wednesday, October 18 | 8am – 12pm
University at Albany, ETEC, 1220 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12226
The Capital Region BioInnovation Forum showcases New York’s expanding and vibrant life science hub. This event brings together industry experts, innovators, academics, and leaders who are transforming the field of Life Sciences. National Science Foundation Program Director for Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers, Crystal Leach, will serve as keynote speaker. The session will also feature panel and case study presentations centered around early ideation, the development stage and partnering locally and regionally to achieve success. Win Thurlow, Executive Director of LifeSciencesNY, formerly MedTech, will serve as moderator.

Learn more & Register here

New York State Innovation Summit
2023-10-16 08:00 - 15:30 | Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866
FuzeHub invites you to join us for the New York State Innovation Summit on October 16-17, 2023 at the Saratoga City Center. This multi-day is event for NYS organizations that want to showcase and discover new and emerging technologies that support innovation and drive business growth.
The event serves as an opportunity to foster collaboration; introduce industry to experts that can assist growth, strengthen our statewide innovation ecosystem and showcase promising early stage companies. Whether you’re a startup, an economic developer, or an established manufacturer, the NYS Innovation Summit is for you.
The 2023 New York State Innovation Summit will showcase companies and researchers at the forefront of emerging technologies and new advancements in production capabilities. This event celebrates New York State leadership in technology-led economic growth with experts in biotechnology, new materials, energy innovation, and artificial intelligence that will explore current technology convergence opportunities, ways to accelerate commercialization, and issues of manufacturing sustainability.
“New York State Innovation Summit to Feature Top Leaders of GlobalFoundries, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Empire State Development, NYSERDA”

Learn More & Register Here!

Knowledge @ Noon - The Practical Guide to AI for Business Owners and CEOs
2023-10-10 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
This workshop aims to cut through the noise and hype of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and give business owners and executives a practical guide to leveraging AI technologies within their business. In this highly interactive workshop, we will explore ~20 different AI applications that can provide immediate value for your sales, marketing, service, operations and backoffice teams.
Meet the Presenter:
Jeff Oskin is the managing principal at Newlogiq, a Saratoga Springs, NY-based consulting firm focused exclusively on helping small-to-midsize businesses maximize their value through the deployment of artificial intelligence applications. He is the former Founder and CEO of Jolt Consulting Group, a Salesforce consultancy Jeff started, grew organically and inorganically and ultimately sold in 2022, a past Vistage Chair and the former President of a publicly traded software company. Jeff brings over thirty years of strong leadership and financial acumen to his role as a leader, coach and mentor. Jeff is an expert in helping businesses craft and implement business strategies that improve enterprise value. He has proven countless times throughout his career an ability to be a savvy executive who understands the nuances of optimizing business operations, managing change, acquiring technology and managing large-scale programs/projects. He is a certified Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert and has spent nearly his 30+ year career in the technology space. In addition to his role at Newlogiq, Jeff currently is the Chair of Sage Advisors, an Albany, NY area CEO peer advisory group, an executive coach to dozens of executives and sits on the board of the Saratoga Senior Center, a non-profit serving the senior community of the greater Saratoga Springs, NY region. Jeff earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and his MBA from Boston University. Jeff resides in upstate New York with his wife and enjoys golf, hockey and spending time with his family.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series , offered through the *Manufacturing Innovation Network, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.

Register here!

Global NY's Doing Business in West Africa Webinar
2023-10-04 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
Global NY’s Doing Business in West Africa Webinar
Wednesday, October 4, 2023 I 1:00PM via ZOOM
With representatives around the world and programs offering export funding and assistance, Global NY helps New York businesses enter or expand their presence in the global marketplace. Global NY is inviting you to learn industry opportunities in the West African market such as:

Agricultural Products and Equipment
Electricity and Power Generation
Healthcare and Medical Devices
Information and Communication Technology

Register here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jpvYHzpcRN6_yStVI-aulw
Presentations by: Mo Sumbundu, International Trade Manager, Global NY
Richard Zurba, Africa Director, Global NY

CEG 2023 Annual Meeting
2023-09-27 16:30 - 19:00 | Event Center at Rivers Casino, 1 Rush St., Schenectady, NY, 12308, United States
In 2023, CEG developed a proactive Regional Attraction and Growth Plan to help shape future economic development opportunities for the region.
Join us and be the first to hear the recommendations!
Presentation by the consulting team about forward-thinking trends, market needs, and strategies for the Capital Region to best position itself for business attraction and growth.
4:30-5:00pm – Check-In & Networking
5:00-6:00pm – Remarks & Program
6:00-7:00pm – Networking Reception
Discounted rate for CEG investors! Unsure if your company is an investor in CEG? Check out our investor list here.
Standard Rates: CEG Investors: $110 | Non-Investors: $150
Register Here!

Presenting Sponsor:

Reception Sponsor:

Supporting Sponsors:

Knowledge @ Noon - Authentic Leadership
2023-09-19 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Did you know that a staggering 58 percent of employees trust a stranger on the street more than they do their own boss? According to a Harvard Business Review survey, this alarming statistic sheds light on the pressing need for authenticity in leadership within today’s corporate landscape.
In this engaging and interactive session, we will explore Authentic Leadership and its power to transform. By providing simple and practical insights tailored for the workplace, attendees will gain valuable insights to bridge the authenticity gap and drive real change, amplify influence, enhance effectiveness, boost morale, and ultimately drive the realization of business objectives.
By the completion of this session, participants should be able to:
• Define Authentic Leadership and its implications.
• Discuss five key characteristics of Authentic Leadership.
• Recognize the importance of cultivating leaders at every level of your organization.
• Explore a framework designed to nurture leadership excellence and foster self-awareness.
By the end of this event, you’ll have some actionable tips to lead authentically, inspire trust, and pave the way for a thriving organizational culture. Don’t miss this chance to revolutionize your leadership approach and drive meaningful change within your team and company.

Meet the Presenter:
Tim Williams is on a mission to help leaders build resilient and successful organizations that adapt to a market that is continually changing. He is the CEO of the veteran owned management consultancy, The 110 Group. He has over 20 years’ experience in organizational change management and consulting to health care, higher-ed, non-profits, public safety, and businesses across the U.S. Tim guides his clients to intentionally manage change using a formal, deliberate, and comprehensive approach helping them emerge stronger and better able to respond to an ever-changing business environment.
Tim has a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from Rhode Island College and a Master of Business Administration from the University at Albany.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series , offered through the *Manufacturing Innovation Network, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.

Register Here!

2023 EDGE Symposium
2023-09-19 - 2023-09-22 | GE Research, Niskayuna, NY
Join us September 19-21 for the 2023 EDGE Symposium at GE Research in Niskayuna, NY.
The Edge Symposium combines four major technology tracks–Edge & 5G, Controls & Optimization, Cybersecurity, and AI/ML & Robotics–into one exciting, in-person event! The first two days will feature keynote talks, workshops, technical sessions, and live demonstrations to highlight the latest research and developments in these areas. The third day is reserved for networking sessions and side bar discussions.
Don’t miss this collaborative and hands-on learning experience connecting 400+ industry thought leaders in these fields. It’s a great opportunity to network with key government agencies, industry customers, and technology partners.

Learn more & Register here

Workforce Funding Opportunities Through OSWD
2023-08-31 11:00 - 12:00 | NY
Date: Thursday, August 31 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Description: As part of Governor Hochul’s $350 million investment in workforce development in the enacted FY2023 budget, the Office of Strategic Workforce Development (OSWD) was created within ESD to administer a $150 million workforce development grant program to support employer-driven, high-skilled workforce training programs. Through OSWD, ESD will help create new economic opportunities for unemployed, underemployed and underrepresented workers, while simultaneously meeting the labor needs of the state’s highest-growth industry sectors.
Join us on Thursday, August 31 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm to learn more about these funding opportunities and how they can be used to develop and grow workforce development programs in your region.

Register here!

Knowledge @ Noon: Using Analytics & Modeling to Support and Enhance Business Decisions
2023-08-08 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Companies are experiencing the following performance improvement results by analyzing and digitizing their manufacturing operations:
• 15-20% Cost Reduction
• 15-30% Productivity Increase
• 10-30% Throughput Increase
Come learn how a company’s data can be effectively used as an asset to make better decisions, faster using a Visualize, Analyze, Optimize methodology. Matt Hodson of Growth & Performance Solutions will discuss the current landscape of data analytics and discuss how organizations are receiving significant benefits from a model-based analytics approach.
Topics to be discussed include:
1. Improve Performance (Lean Six Sigma)
2. Balance Workforce (Shift/ Personnel Optimization)
3. Prepare for Growth (CapEx/ Capacity Planning)
4. Improve Supply Chain Resiliency
5. Improve Scheduling/ Planning
Don’t miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the future of analytics and prepare your company for future performance and growth.
Meet the Presenter:
Matt Hodson is the President and Owner of Growth & Performance Solutions in Albany, where he provides advisory, consulting, and training services to manufacturing, logistics, and services organizations across North America. Matt has over 20 years of experience supporting organizations in modeling & analytics including GE, Lockheed Martin, NASA, Pfizer, AltaMed, Boeing, and others.
Matt received an MBA, an M.S. in Operations & Information Technology, and a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He is also certified in Lean, Six Sigma, and Scrum Master. He can be contacted at MattHodson@GrowthPerformanceSolutions.com or 508.450.9379.

REGISTER HERE

Becoming An Employer of Choice
2023-07-13 08:00 - 10:00 | Capital Region Chamber / CEG, 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY, 12205, United States
Thursday, July 13 | 8 – 10am | 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY 12205
According to the National Association of Manufacturers recent survey 75.7% of manufacturing leaders listed attracting and retaining quality workforce as a primary business challenge.
The same playbook is not enough. Workers seek quality jobs, and companies that prioritize job quality become employers of choice.
Job quality is not just about the job; it is a combination of key drivers that are important to each worker’s overall employment experience. Pay and benefits matter, and so do a multitude of other factors like workplace safety and health, a voice, culture, scheduling predictability, skills building, and advancement. Together, these distinguish an employer of choice from the rest. The bottom line, It all matters.
Join us and learn what strategies you can take to become an employer of choice.
Speakers:
Mary Malone McCarthy, Founder and CEO of M3 Placement & Partnership, a national executive search, talent acquisition, and strategic HR firm. As CEO she has led the organization to significant growth through the team’s focus on building strong partnerships with a shared services approach and a passion for exceptional service. Prior to founding M3, Mary Malone spent over 15 years as Senior Vice President at Northland Communications, responsible for the oversight of Human Resources, Marketing and Client Relations for the organization. See full bio here>>
Donna Hughes, JD, Founder and CEO of Hughes Solutions, LLC, an executive coaching and human resources consulting business. Donna launched her business to enable senior and emerging leaders to excel in their leadership capabilities, and to support diversity in the C-suite, where women and people of color remain underrepresented. Donna is a sought-after speaker for institutions of higher education, national organizations, and has been a guest podcast speaker on various topics including, embracing change, the value of leadership coaching, conscious leadership, diversity, equity and inclusion, culture transformation, and leading organizations through the Covid-19 pandemic and social unrest. See full bio here>>
Anne Rush, Founder and CEO of Elasta Jobs, LLC, recognizes the growing need for creative and individualized talent solutions for organizations. She started Elasta Jobs to create mutually beneficial HR solutions for independent talent and companies. Placing a premium on earning our clients’ trust, Anne leverages her prior experience as an HR Executive to vet the talent within the Elasta Jobs’ network. Anne is recognized as an HR thought leader and has been featured in a variety of publications and speaking venues.
Christine McLear, Director of Workforce Development, Center for Economic Growth, started at CEG in 2021 to oversee workforce programs and partnerships, including management of CEG’s group sponsor program for NYS Registered Apprenticeship. With a specific focus on manufacturing trades, this program supports attraction and retention of diverse talent to meet workforce needs.
Don Wiesenforth, a seasoned leader with over twenty-six years of diverse professional experience including as owner and president of a local manufacturing company, founder and partner of an exhibition management company, leading a lean transformation in healthcare, as well as a strategic business advisor to manufacturing and technology companies. He currently serves as Senior Vice President of Business Growth Solutions at the Center for Economic Growth (CEG) and Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center Director. See full bio here>>
Register today!

Knowledge @ Noon: Sustainability Basics to Build Your Business & Reduce Your Footprint
2023-07-11 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insights and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organizations learn and grow.
In this Knowledge @ Noon monthly series the Manufacturing Innovation Network provides a great opportunity to learn why a sustainability vision is important, how to get started and resources to assist with the journey. Hear from the experts at the Pollution Prevention Institute and how a local manufacturer, ClearView Packaging, is making the transition.
Speakers:
Kim Bawden is the Technology Commercialization Program Manager and is a Senior Staff Engineer at the NYS Pollution Prevention Institute at RIT, where her primary role is to provide technical assistance to industry. Ms. Bawden supports manufacturers throughout the supply chain by assessing manufacturing processes for improvement opportunities, performing material and energy balances for baseline metric quantification, researching and identifying environmentally preferable and cost-effective alternatives, and by assisting companies in meeting sustainability certifications/scorecards. Prior to joining NYSP2I, Ms. Bawden worked in industry for eight years in various manufacturing engineering capacities for Harris RF Communications and Microwave Data Systems. She holds an M.S. in Sustainable Systems from RIT’s Golisano Institute for Sustainability as well as a B.S. degree in Industrial Engineering and a M.E. in Engineering Management, both from RIT. She is also a Life Cycle Assessment Certified Professional (LCACP).
Trent Romer is a sustainability expert, author, and TEDx Speaker who has spent 30 years in the plastic bag manufacturing industry before serving as a sustainability operating partner for a private equity firm. His latest book, “This Is Our Home,” is a cautionary yet inspiring tale to take personal action in the fight against the planet’s destruction. Romer has multiple certificates and degrees from prestigious universities including Yale, Harvard and University of Albany. In 2022, Romer spoke at TEDxBoston. He authored Finding Sustainability, a “gold winner” in the Non-Fiction Book Awards.

Following each segment there will be an opportunity for Q&A.
*The Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), serves as a forum for Capital Region manufacturers to Learn, Share, and Grow. This Network brings together Capital Region manufacturers to learn from experts on industry relevant topics, participate in thematic roundtables, discuss common issues, and expand their network.
Register today!

Bots & Brews: Manufacturers Networking Event
2023-06-22 15:00 - 18:00 | Nine Pin Ciderworks, 929 Broadway, Albany, NY, 12207
Join the Manufacturing Innovation Network, featuring Ralph W. Earl, for Bots & Brews on Thursday, June 22 from 3 – 6 pm at Nine Pin Cider in Albany, NY.
Come see how cobots are putting the power of automation in manufacturers’ hands.
You’ll get to experience the UR20 cutting-edge features firsthand. Test its programming, feel its new footprint, and witness its enhanced speed and capabilities. Don’t miss out – see the UR20 in person now!

hold the teach pendant
explore the new software
test its enhanced speed
witness its expanded capabilities

Don’t miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the future of robotics.
Thank you to our Sponsors:
Beverage Sponsor Garnet River
Food Sponsor: R.W. Earl

FREE DRINK: One ticket purchase is good for one beer, cider or non-alcoholic drink per person!
Manufacturers! Register Today!

2023 Global NY Export Experts Tour
2023-06-13 14:30 - 18:30 | ETEC Building – University at Albany, SUNY, 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12206, United States
Expand Your Presence in the Global Marketplace
Empire State Development’s Global New York Division is taking its expertise on the road!
Global New York programs connect companies with sales agents and distributors abroad and offset the costs of exporting with grants and loans, as well as help New York businesses enter or expand their presence in the global marketplace.
From June 12 – 16, Global New York is bringing its eight foreign office representatives from Canada, Mexico, Europe (U.K.), South Africa, Israel, India, the Caribbean, and China on an seven-stop export promotion tour to regions across New York State.
Join us on the 2023 Global New York Export Experts Tour and learn how to expand your presence in the global marketplace.

Long Island
June 12

Central New York
June 14

New York City
June 12

Finger Lakes
June 15

Mid-Hudson
June 13

Western New York
June 16

Capital District
June 13

To attend an event, or for more information, click to see the flyer or visit https://esd.ny.gov/global-ny-trade-promotion-tour

Knowledge @ Noon - Effective Onboarding by M3
2023-06-13 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insights and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organizations learn and grow.
In this Knowledge @ Noon monthly series the *Manufacturing Innovation Network will explore the significance of effective onboarding, a critical process for organizations that helps to increase employee engagement, reduce turnover rates, and improve productivity by providing structured support and training for new hires.
Statistics on the importance of onboarding:

According to a survey conducted by Careerbuilder and Silkroad Technology (nine percent,) or 1 in 10 have left a company because of a poor onboarding experience, and 37% percent of employees said their manager did not play a critical role in their onboarding experience support.
Without proper onboarding procedures increases in employee turnover and loss of productivity occur. This decreased employee engagement costs companies large sums of money every year.
When a company has great onboarding 69% of employees are likely to stay for at least 3 years.

SHRM (the Society for Human Resource Management):

69 percent of employees are more likely to stay with a company for three years if they experienced great onboarding.
New employees who went through a structured onboarding program were 58 percent more likely to be with the organization after three years.
Organizations with a standard onboarding process experience 50 percent greater new-hire productivity.

Speakers:
Mary Malone McCarthy is founder and CEO of M3 Placement & Partnership, a national executive search, talent acquisition, and strategic HR firm. As CEO she has led the organization to significant growth through the team’s focus on building strong partnerships with a shared services approach and a passion for exceptional service. Prior to founding M3, Mary Malone spent over 15 years as Senior Vice President at Northland Communications, responsible for the oversight of Human Resources, Marketing and Client Relations for the organization. See Mary Malone’s Bio here>>
Donna Hughes, JD, is the Founder and CEO of Hughes Solutions, LLC, an executive coaching and human resources consulting business. Donna launched her business to enable senior and emerging leaders to excel in their leadership capabilities, and to support diversity in the C-suite, where women and people of color remain underrepresented. Donna is a sought-after speaker for institutions of higher education, national organizations, and has been a guest podcast speaker on various topics including, embracing change, the value of leadership coaching, conscious leadership, diversity, equity and inclusion, culture transformation, and leading organizations through the Covid-19 pandemic and social unrest. See Donna’s bio here>>
Following each segment there will be an opportunity for Q&A.
*The Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), serves as a forum for Capital Region manufacturers to Learn, Share, and Grow. This Network brings together Capital Region manufacturers to learn from experts on industry relevant topics, participate in thematic roundtables, discuss common issues, and expand their network.
Register Here

Coffee & CapNY: Tools for Talent Attraction & Intern Best Practices
2023-05-31 08:30 - 10:30 | Center for Economic Growth, 5 Computer Drive S., Albany, NY, 12205, United States
The Center for Economic Growth invites you to join us for two consecutive morning programs focused on:
(1) Talent attraction and retention tools using the CapNY resources
(2) Internship program “how-tos” and best practices
These programs will be free of charge. You can attend one or stay for both.
Who should attend:

Human Resource Departments
Talent Acquisition/Retention Specialists
Marketing Departments
Businesses/Leaders interested in starting an internship program
Intern managers interested in strengthening their internship program

RSVP HERE

Ralph W. Earl Automation Solutions Expo 2023
2023-05-18 09:00 - 14:00 | Crowne Plaza Albany – the Desmond Hotel, 660 Albany Shaker Road, Albany, NY, 12211, United States
Join us for our annual Automation Expo, as we showcase our wide offering of automation solutions from our 25+ exhibitors. Visit with industry leading Automation Experts, and interact hands-on with the the technologies on-site.
The event starts at 9 am and ends at 2 pm. Lunch will be served from 11 am to 2 pm.
There is no cost to attend.
We are expecting a large turn-out, and registration is limited. Register as early as possible to avoid missing out on this opportunity.
We look forward to seeing everyone at the event!

Learn More & Register here

Knowledge @ Noon - Energy Partner Resources for Manufacturers
2023-05-09 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insights and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organizations learn and grow.
The *Manufacturing Innovation Network through our Knowledge @ Noon monthly series is bringing New York State energy experts together to highlight ways in which they support manufacturers.
From sharing insight and resources to incentives and programs.
Joining us will be:
• Amanda Vitullo-Huttig, Senior Economic Developer, National Grid
• Amber Sisson, Sr. Program Manager, Economic Development, New York Power Authority
• Joseph M Sayre, Senior Economic Development Specialist, New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E)
Following each segment there will be an opportunity for Q&A.

*The Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), serves as a forum for Capital Region manufacturers to Learn, Share, and Grow. This Network brings together Capital Region manufacturers to learn from experts on industry relevant topics, participate in thematic roundtables, discuss common issues, and expand their network.
Register Here

Stay Connected with Manufacturing Innovation Network

Semiconductor Day at HVCC TEC-SMART in Malta, NY
2023-04-21 08:00 - 11:30 | TEC-SMART Facility, Malta, 345 Hermes Road, Malta, NY, 12010, United States
Applied Materials, in partnership with GlobalFoundries, is hosting an upcoming event at TEC-SMART in Malta on April 21, 2023. Join us for a roundtable discussion with leaders from business, industry, and academia who will speak to the importance of educating the workforce for semiconductor manufacturing. Panelists include AMAT, GF, RPI, HVCC and SUNYPOLY. The afternoon will include VR tech camps for high school students.

Register Today!

Principles of Lean Enterprise Methodologies and Simulation
2023-04-20 07:30 - 16:00 | Capital Region Chamber, 5 Computer Drive South, Colonie, NY, United States
Lean Manufacturing encompasses a set of continuous improvement techniques that, when implemented, shorten the time between customer order and shipment by eliminating or reducing non-value added activities. One effective approach to capturing the power of Lean is the CEG’s signature Lean Simulation. Working for “Buzz Electronics” (a mock manufacturing facility), participants assemble a product on a simulated factory floor, incorporating the various principles of Lean along the way. By participating in a Lean Simulation, you experience how to use half the manufacturing space and half the effort to produce products in half the time with fewer defects.
SIMULATION OBJECTIVES
This full-day program combines a comprehensive classroom presentation with hands-on simulation of a production facility. In this workshop, we introduce the basic concepts of Lean Manufacturing and demonstrate the tools and methodology necessary to implement “lean” on the shop floor.
Participants act as production workers, applying the lean tools to their individual workspaces as well as across the entire product line. This learn-do technique over four “shifts” illustrates cause and effect relationships for the lean tools presented. Participants review methodology and lessons learned from previous shifts, deciding what and how to implement while working with realistic constraints such as available resources, cash flow and resistance to change.
TOPICS COVERED
• Traditional Manufacturing
• Defining Lean
• Eight Wastes
• Standardized Work
• Total Productive Maintenance
• Visual Controls
• Workplace Organization (5S)
• Plant Layout
• Quick Changeover
• Point of Use Storage
• Quality at the Source
• Pull Systems
• Cellular Flow Manufacturing
• Batch Size Reduction
• Takt Time
• Work Balancing
• Keys to Success
BENEFITS OF THE LEAN MANUFACTURING OVERVIEW
Participants will learn how to identify the eight wastes in manufacturing and experience how productivity can be improved by applying standard work, visual controls, quick changeover, batch size reduction, point-of-use storage, quality at the source, pull systems and more.

*Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Register Today!

Smart Manufacturing – What it is, Why it Matters, and How to Get Started
2023-03-28 07:30 - 12:30 | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Howard P. Isermann Auditorium, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, 1623 15th St, Troy, NY, 12180
Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by the Center for Economic Growth, is proud to present the RPI Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center and CESMII – “The Smart Manufacturing Institute”, as their industry experts provide an introductory workshop on Smart Manufacturing and why it is critically important to implement now to secure the future success of your manufacturing operations.

Smart Manufacturing – What it is, Why it Matters, and How to Get Started
Strategies for leveraging real-time [manufacturing process] data to improve decision making and optimize performance.
Tuesday, March 28, 2023, | 7:30am-1:00pm (Tour will conclude at 1pm)
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Howard P. Isermann Auditorium, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies
1623 15th St, Troy, NY 12180 (parking instructions to follow)
Meet the Speakers!

Check out their bios here>>

In this workshop, you will learn about:
The Business Case for Smart Manufacturing
• What is Smart Manufacturing and why it matters to manufacturers
• Closing the gap between business strategy and technology enablement
• How new capabilities bring together people, process, and technology
• Tactics for upskilling the workforce

Smart Manufacturing Building Blocks
• Smart Manufacturing Principles
• Going beyond process control and dashboards (Industry 3.0 vs. Industry 4.0)
• Digital Lean and Smart Manufacturing synergies
• Leveraging Cyber-Physical systems, OT-IT partnerships, the SM Innovation Platform, and SM applications

Taking the First Step
• Smart Manufacturing critical success areas
• Understanding your current state
• Establishing a strategic vision and roadmap
• Prioritizing quick wins and longer-term plans
• Techniques for digitally connecting manufacturing systems to collect actionable data for better decision making

And tour the RPI Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center in the Manufacturing Innovation Learning Lab (MILL).
• See Smart Manufacturing systems in action, in an agile manufacturing facility that looks like yours
• Understand from industry experts how to digitally connect modern and legacy manufacturing equipment to collect contextualized data and implement powerful analytics
• How to protect data security including trade secrets, intellectual property and company privacy

Plus, connect with the regional Smart Manufacturing ecosystem, including SM experts and suppliers, and view Smart Manufacturing Project Success Stories

REGISTER TODAY!

Building an Ecosystem: Troy’s AI Center of Excellence
2023-03-09 18:30 - 20:30 | Tech Valley Center of Gravity, 30 3rd Street, Troy, NY, 12180, United States
Summary
AI is finally mainstream. Join us to learn about the burgeoning community at the AI Center of Excellence in downtown Troy – an upcoming resource in the upstate innovation ecosystem. We will discuss the facility’s mission and share tactical next steps for regional innovation industry players to connect and grow our ecosystem.

About the AI Center of Excellence
The AI Center of Excellence will form the point of aggregation for AI-related expertise, resources and capabilities for the purpose of creating AI-enabled solutions for commercial and public sector customers, incubating AI start-ups, and facilitating R&D opportunities for research organizations. It will compliment and strengthen Regional industry hubs, including video gaming, nanotechnology, and life sciences.
The AI Center — the first of its kind in the Northeast — will have a suite of spaces to host educational activities, conferences and events, and showcase AI capabilities to the public. The Center will also sponsor a range of educational outreach programs designed to elevate the Capital District to becoming the most AI literate community in the world. The AI Center of Excellence is being designed to perpetuate AI literacy and learning across all demographics segments.

About Bob Bedard
Bob’s career has centered on building market-changing products, services, and businesses based on opportunities to gain competitive advantages by applying emerging information technologies. As an early pioneer in online services and electronic commerce, the commercial solutions he brought to market have helped thousands of Fortune-ranked to middle-market customers realize competitive advantage. Over the past ten years, Bob has turned his attention to commercializing emerging Information Technologies in Corporate Planning, Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, and Business Intelligence.

THIS EVENT IS IN PERSON.

Register here>>
