At the 2024 Cleveland International Program on Public Policy (CIPPO), industry leaders convened to discuss the evolving landscape of advanced manufacturing in Ohio. A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion focused on "Understanding the Ecosystem and Landscape of Advanced Manufacturing." The panel brought together a diverse group of experts, including Mike O'Donnell, MAGNET COO and VP of Operations and Innovation. Mike, along with Steve Fritsch, Vice President, Industry Advancement and Engagement at TeamNEO, Ross Cameron, Managing Vice President, Innovation & Growth at Greater Cleveland Partnership and Mike Yost, Director of Manufacturing Excellence at Manufacturing Works, each contributed valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The Blueprint for the Next Decade
Mike discussed the comprehensive Blueprint for manufacturing in Northeast Ohio which is built on four critical pillars: Talent, Innovation, Technology, and Leadership.
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Talent: The panelists underscored the necessity of retooling the workforce, with a strong focus on developing and retaining talent. The discussion highlighted the region’s industrial heritage and the importance of continuing to invest in skills development to ensure that Ohio remains a leader in the manufacturing industry. The emphasis was on creating pathways for upskilling and fostering collaboration between educational institutions and the manufacturing sector.
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Innovation and Technology: The transition to smart manufacturing and the integration of new technologies were key topics. Panel members discussed the need for manufacturers to be open to adopting technological solutions and the importance of sharing best practices across the industry. The collective approach to innovation is vital to maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly changing global market.
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Leadership: Leadership within small and mid-sized manufacturing companies was another focus of the discussion. The panelists advocated for a community-driven approach to leadership, where manufacturers work together to bridge the gap between industry needs and available resources. This collaborative effort is essential to driving growth and ensuring the long-term success of Ohio’s manufacturing sector.
Leveraging Regional Strengths
The panel also explored Ohio's unique advantages, such as its robust transportation infrastructure, which has been a key factor in its historical success as a manufacturing hub. The discussion highlighted how the region’s industrial roots continue to be a driving force for innovation and growth in advanced manufacturing. By leveraging these strengths, Ohio is well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices.
The conversation touched on the importance of building networks among companies and fostering partnerships with educational institutions. The panelists agreed that keeping local graduates in the region and creating a thriving community for new talent is crucial for future-proofing the manufacturing sector.
Looking Ahead
The insights shared during this panel at CIPPO 2024 provided a clear vision for the future of advanced manufacturing in Ohio. The collective wisdom of the panelists emphasized the need for the industry to embrace innovation, invest in talent, and work collaboratively to ensure that Northeast Ohio not only remains competitive but leads in the global manufacturing landscape.
