Hello EMA Members & Friends!
I’m so pleased to be connecting with you again in 2022 as we approach a lovely spring season. As some of you know, I submitted a survey in 2021 about manufacturer interest in sustainability initiatives. The results of that survey indicate a strong interest among those who took the survey, which tells me that the industry at large is too overwhelmed with other priorities. From a policy perspective, this also tells me that so few programs exist for small and mid-size companies that sustainability in manufacturing borders on being a non-issue. As I continue to keep my eyes on this topic, always feel free to contact me at aimee@ema-oregon.org with your thoughts.
Now onto workforce development! I have been researching workforce development issues and working with manufacturers on this topic since 2013 and with EMA member, Meta Fab, Inc. for the past four years. Strategies and programs DO exist for recruiting workers aligned with manufacturing culture, BUT they require companies — especially their hiring departments – to re-imagine the “ideal worker”. Here is my latest article for Meta Fab that highlights alternative hiring strategies vis-à-vis vocational and reentry programs. A swath of eligible workers is consistently overlooked, and manufacturers as the backbone to a strong economy are positioned to transform hiring practices that include if not focus on, marginalized job seekers.
With that, I wish you all a lovely rest of your February and don’t hesitate to contact me for more information on sustainability and workforce development programs.
~Aimee Sukol, JD/MA/MS Ed
Policy & Communications
Sukol Venture Consulting
EMA Board Member
Member Spotlight: Sunstone Circuits
Sunstone Circuits, located in Mulino, OR rejoined the EMA in 2019. Specializing in Printed Circuit Board manufacturing, they employ approximately 120 employees onsite and remotely.
In business since 1972, Sunstone is proud of the “family” they have employed and continue to seek new and qualified members to join the team. Learn more about Sunstone Circuits
Membership
Membership Dues: FREE UNTIL 2023 for current members!
- Some benefits of your EMA membership:
- Industry news/conversations/networking
- Share job postings
- Factory tours/events
- NEDME updates
- Visit an upcoming board meeting. (email us and let us know if you are interested)
Board Members
Megan Lammers ~ Kelly Atay ~ Leonard Weitman ~ Jill Keppner ~ Duane Benson ~ Aimee Sukol ~ Matt Stevenson ~ Mickey Deagle ~ Bonnie Hadley ~ Laura Zager
Events
#wehavemissedyou Networking Social
When: May 26, 2020 5-7pm
Where: Golden Valley Brewery (map)
Come enjoy yummy appetizers, beer & wine and each other as we kick off our first networking social, post-pandemic!
Raffle Prizes, Guest Speakers & New Member Specials!
Outdoor & Indoor space is available. Come ready to mingle and get acquainted with fellow EMA members again!