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In 1984, MAGNET embarked on a mission to empower Northeast Ohio’s manufacturing industry. 40 years later, we’re thrilled to celebrate a legacy of growth, innovation, and community impact that has transformed businesses and shaped the economic landscape of our region. Called "Forging the Future," our new anniversary campaign celebrates the proud history of manufacturing in our region while looking boldly towards the next 40 years of growth and innovation.

A Look Back: How It All Started

MAGNET began as one of the first pilot programs for the federal Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a national initiative aimed at supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers. What started as a program providing engineering support has grown into a comprehensive resource for Northeast Ohio’s manufacturing community. From workforce development programs to advanced technology consulting, MAGNET has continually evolved to meet the needs of our clients and our region.

Over these four decades, we’ve helped more than 10,000 companies drive innovation, improve operations, and cultivate leadership. From pioneering the MEP to groundbreaking workforce initiatives, MAGNET’s commitment to manufacturing excellence has created a profound $10 billion economic impact across the region.

According to MAGNET’s President and CEO, Ethan Karp “Manufacturing creates 270,000 jobs in our region, and every one of those jobs supports four more jobs – that’s more than one million jobs. Manufacturing drives half our regional economy. In Northeast Ohio, manufacturing growth IS economic growth. That’s why MAGNET is so committed to helping the industry grow and prosper.”

Forging the Future: The Manufacturing Blueprint

MAGNET’s anniversary campaign will showcase stories in many forms that take people on a journey through Northeast Ohio’s manufacturing past, present, and future. Showcasing the collective voices of community partners, company leaders and MAGNET, this campaign will strengthen awareness of the economic power and potential of manufacturing and the vital role it plays in Northeast Ohio’s economic growth. At the heart of this work is our Manufacturing Blueprint, a strategic roadmap based on four key pillars:

• Talent: Building a strong workforce is essential to our region’s success. Programs like Early College Early Career (ECEC) offer young people hands-on experience and valuable skills to pursue fulfilling manufacturing careers.
• Technology Transformation: Helping businesses adopt cutting-edge technologies—like Industry 4.0 and additive manufacturing—enables them to stay competitive and grow.
• Innovation: Product development and strategic consulting services equip local manufacturers to tackle new challenges and seize opportunities for growth.
• Leadership: Visionary leadership drives industry success. MAGNET’s programs empower manufacturers to cultivate leaders who can navigate the complexities of modern manufacturing.

Celebrating Our Partners and Community

Our achievements wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible partners, clients, and champions across Northeast Ohio. Throughout the year, we’ll be sharing client success stories and spotlighting programs that have impacted our region. We invite you to join us in celebrating these stories of resilience, innovation, and transformation.

What’s Next? Join Us in Shaping the Future

While our past is a source of pride, we’re focused on what lies ahead. Our goal is to continue driving progress by empowering manufacturers to lead the way in smart manufacturing, sustainable growth, and community impact.

Follow MAGNET on social media: Linked In, Instagram and X and check out our blog for the latest 40^th Anniversary spotlight stories as we continue Forging the Future of manufacturing in Northeast Ohio. Tag us on any of the social platforms to have your story shared in this celebration!