2025: Big Wins, Bold Moves, and a Whole Lot of Momentum
Wow, what a year! If we had to sum up 2025 in one word, it would be impact. From breaking ground on cutting-edge facilities to hosting record-breaking events, we didn’t just move the needle, we pushed it forward in a big way.
Here’s the quick snapshot:
– We launched major projects to strengthen advanced manufacturing.
– We trained thousands of future-ready workers.
– We brought together over 2,300 members for networking and collaboration.
– We saved members money with new benefits and plans.
– We grew our team and expanded partnerships to keep safety and innovation front and center.
And that’s just the beginning. Let’s dive into the details of how we made 2025 unforgettable.
We Broke Ground on the Future
Construction kicked off on our brand-new robotics and automation lab thanks to the Department of Defense TIDE Grant. Funded by the department to support the defense industrial base workforce, this exciting project marks a major step forward in our commitment to expanding advanced technology training and providing the workforce with the tools they need to thrive in modern manufacturing and engineering fields.
The lab is nearing completion, and once open, it will serve as a dynamic hub for innovation, problem‑solving, and hands‑on learning. Designed with flexibility and exploration in mind, the space features an open, collaborative work area that will house both our current robotics systems and a range of new automation equipment. This setup gives trainees and instructors the ability to experiment, prototype, and learn in a real-world, industry-aligned environment.
In addition to the main lab floor, the project includes a brand-new computer lab that will function as an extra classroom. This modern learning space will support instruction in coding, robotics programming, digital design, and other emerging technologies—creating a seamless blend of theory and application under one roof.
Together, these new spaces represent more than just a construction project—they represent an investment in the future workforce. We’re building a place where ideas can spark, skills can grow, and the next generation of innovators can get their start.
We Secured Serious Funding
This year, we made a major leap forward by securing $600,000 in grant funding dedicated to strengthening technical training, expanding apprenticeship opportunities, and supporting the growth of advanced manufacturing across our region. This funding represents far more than a financial boost. It is a direct investment in people and a meaningful opportunity for our members and the broader community to gain access to stronger, more modern training.
Our apprenticeship program is stepping into its strongest phase yet. The grant allows us to modernize our processes, upgrade the tools and equipment used in training, and improve the overall experience for apprentices. These enhancements will help us deliver a program that is more aligned with industry needs and better positioned to prepare the next generation of skilled workers.
The strength of our team is also a major part of this momentum. We are continuing to build a group of leaders who are passionate about workforce development and committed to helping apprentices succeed. This year, we were proud to celebrate Chris Zimmerman, who was nominated by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for Outstanding Advocate for Building a Thriving Registered Apprenticeship Ecosystem. His dedication and leadership reflect the direction we are taking as we grow and elevate our apprenticeship efforts.
We Became a National First
This year, the Association achieved a milestone that places our region in the national spotlight. We were officially named the very first Regional Network Hub for the United States Navy’s Talent Pipeline Program. This distinction is a major step forward for our organization and for the manufacturers we serve. It creates new opportunities for collaboration, opens the door to expanded resources, and strengthens the connection between local talent development efforts and critical national defense needs.
Becoming a Regional Network Hub means that our region now plays a central role in supporting the Defense and Maritime Industrial Bases. It allows us to help coordinate training, strengthen partnerships, and create a more consistent flow of skilled workers into high‑demand technical careers. For regional manufacturers, it translates directly into more visibility, more support, and more access to a growing national network that is shaping the future of defense manufacturing.
Since receiving this designation, we have hosted two major events that brought together partners from across the region who are either already part of the network or exploring opportunities to join. These gatherings created space for collaboration, shared planning, and relationship building, and they set the foundation for long‑term coordination among employers, educators, and workforce leaders.
This recognition as the first Regional Network Hub is more than a title. It is a commitment to leading, connecting, and strengthening the workforce that keeps our regional manufacturing sector competitive and resilient.
We Brought People Together
This year, more than 2,300 members joined us for events, networking opportunities, educational sessions, and collaborative meetings. We packed the calendar with meaningful experiences that strengthened relationships and built new ones. From our 119th Annual Event to plant tours, the Golf Outing, the Stratasys 3D Printing National Tour, and our monthly Wake Up sessions, each gathering created space for members to connect, learn, and grow within the manufacturing community.
Our events are more than social meetups. They are designed to bring value to members in multiple ways, whether that means gaining insight into new technologies, exploring best practices on a plant floor, hearing from industry leaders, or simply finding time to meet other professionals who share similar challenges and goals. Throughout the year, we also facilitated partnerships for technical tours, hands‑on learning, and knowledge‑building opportunities that help strengthen the region’s workforce and manufacturing ecosystem.
In addition to in‑person events, we continued to offer educational webinars and specialized sessions that make it easy for members to stay informed and engaged, no matter where they are. These virtual experiences extend our reach and help ensure that learning and networking remain accessible throughout the year.
By creating a full and diverse calendar of events, we brought people together in ways that matter and helped keep our regional manufacturing community strong, connected, and moving forward..
We Powered the Workforce
Over 2,000 individuals advanced their skills through our programs, 180 registered apprentices grew in their trades, and over the last four years, nearly 370 high school students were introduced to manufacturing careers through pre-apprenticeships. In addition, nearly 1,000 new manufacturing supervisors enhanced their leadership capabilities through training designed to build confidence, communication, and team effectiveness.
By investing in people at every stage of their career journey, we’re helping shape a workforce that is adaptable, motivated, and ready for the future of manufacturing. Our training efforts continue to support productivity, retention, and long‑term competitiveness for employers across the region.
This year, we also deepened our commitment to workplace safety. Through our new Workplace Safety partnership with Northampton Community College and the Chesapeake Region Safety Council, members now have expanded access to OSHA courses, safety training, and practical tools that reduce risks and improve on‑the‑job awareness.
We further strengthened our capabilities by becoming a SACA Certified Training Center and certificate provider through the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA), enabling us to provide nationally recognized advanced manufacturing skills and certifications.
Together, these new initiatives empower employers to build stronger safety cultures and workforce automation skills to ensure work environments where teams feel confident, protected, and prepared to perform at their best.
We Grew the Biggest Manufacturing Tradeshow in our Region
MX2025 Manufacturers’ Expo reached a new level this year. The event brought together more than 1,000 attendees and featured 130 exhibit booths, making it the largest manufacturing tradeshow in our region. Exhibitors, industry leaders, students, and professionals filled the venue for a full day of demonstrations, conversations, and networking that highlighted the strength and innovation of our local manufacturing community.
The growth of MX2025 shows just how much energy and interest there is in showcasing the latest technologies, exploring new partnerships, and connecting manufacturers with the resources they need to continue driving the region forward. Attendees had the chance to engage with cutting‑edge equipment, discover new solutions, and meet organizations that are shaping the future of the industry.
If you missed MX2025, there will be another opportunity to be part of it this year. The momentum is already building, and we are excited to continue expanding the event and delivering even more value to the region’s manufacturing network.
We Added Perks and Savings
This year, we focused on delivering more value through improved benefits and cost‑saving programs. We launched a new dental multi-employer plan with United Concordia that offers lower premiums and an expanded provider network, giving members better access at a better price. Our vision program through NVA alos continues to offer the same low premiums and enhanced benefits.
We also continued to strengthen our Group 401(k) and Employer Health Insurance Plan, two core programs that help members manage costs while offering competitive benefits. To enhance our support even further, we welcomed Jeremy Molison as our broker partner for our medical and insurance plans and we continued working alongside the expertise of Langan Financial for all the 401k support to give more access to savings plans to our membership.
Every update was designed to help our members save money and take care of their teams.
We Expanded Our Dream Team
Three new full-time hires joined us: Marketing Manager, Training Development Manager, and Pre-Apprenticeship Coordinator, and a part-time technical trainer.
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Rebecca Sommer Marketing Manager |
Cindy Eshelman Training Development Manager |
Sheldon Rodgers Pre-Apprenticeship Coordinator |
Brian Keeney Technical Trainer |
What’s Next in 2026?
If you thought 2025 was big, just wait. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming:
- A brand-new website designed to make training and event registration easier than ever, plus improved access to benefits and services.
- Upgraded facilities, including a new automation lab, computer classroom, training room, board room, and breakout space. These updates will boost our capabilities and give members a fresh, modern environment.
- Expanded certifications through the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) to strengthen our offerings and help members stay ahead.
- And so much more! We’re just getting started.
Wrapping It Up
2025 was a year of growth, innovation, and connection. We built new spaces, launched new programs, and created opportunities that will shape the future of manufacturing in our region. And now, 2026 is calling, with even bigger plans, smarter tools, and more ways to help you succeed. Stay tuned, because the best is yet to come.
Ready to be part of the next chapter? Join us, connect with us, and let’s make 2026 another year to remember.