Bay Area Manufacturers Association Manufacturing News

The Business Show Miami

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:47:19 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Empowering Businesses for the Next Era: The Business Show Miami 2026 Delivers Knowledge, Connections, and Solutions for South Florida Leaders

Miami, FL: [01/13/2026]: The Business Show is a premier international business event designed to inspire, educate, and connect entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. With events held worldwide, it provides the tools, insights, and connections businesses need to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace. Returning to Miami this April 29th & 30th at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The two-day event will bring together thousands of business professionals and thought leaders for unparalleled networking, inspiration, and eye-opening perspectives.

This year’s show features keynote speakers from global powerhouses, including Microsoft, UBS, LinkedIn, Samsung, Google, Salesforce, and more. Attendees will have access to 200 forward-thinking exhibitors, hands-on workshops, and masterclasses tailored to South Florida’s dynamic business landscape.

The Business Show Miami is about connecting local entrepreneurs and executives with the insights, tools, and networks they need to grow and succeed in today’s fast-paced market.

Miami has rapidly become a magnet for startups, technology ventures, and international investment. Its strategic location as a gateway to Latin America, diverse talent pool, and growing tech ecosystem make it uniquely positioned for businesses looking to expand regionally and globally. At the same time, local entrepreneurs face challenges such as rising operational costs, talent retention, and navigating a competitive, international marketplace. The Business Show Miami 2026 will address these issues through targeted workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities designed to help South Florida businesses overcome barriers, seize new opportunities, and scale successfully.

Attendees can look forward to educational sessions, practical tools, and real-world strategies that can be immediately applied to their business, transforming chaos into confidence. From exploring the latest in supply chain and AI-driven solutions to investment strategies and latest e-commerce trends, the event delivers actionable insights for companies of all sizes.

From startups taking their first leap to established companies aiming for the next level, The Business Show Miami delivers the tools, connections, and inspiration to accelerate growth - all amid the vibrant energy of a city redefining itself as a global hub for innovation and international trade.

Visit our websites: https://thebusinessshowus.com/?utm_source=PARTNERbayareamanufacturersassociation

Register for your free ticket here: https://eventdata.uk/Forms/Form.aspx?FormRef=TBM46Visitor&TrackingCode=PARTNERbayareamanufacturersassociation

About Business Show Media

Business Show Media is a global exhibition organiser delivering industry-leading business events across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia. Its portfolio includes The Business Show World Series, White & Private Label Expo, The International Franchise Show, and the B2B Marketing Expo US. Business Show Media connects entrepreneurs, business leaders, and suppliers across multiple sectors, creating platforms for growth, innovation, and international trade.

Media Contact:
Carmen Palma
Marketing Executive
Business Show Media
Email:Carmela.palma@bsmexpo.com
Website: businessshowmedia.co.uk/

Tampa Bay 3D printing entrepreneur beats the odds with moxie, fortitude

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 20:42:09 GMT

Two times Roy Kirchner, founder of Ultimate 3D Printing Store in Pasco County, didn’t think he was going to make it.

Once was when he graduated from high school at a fourth grade reading level and was told he wouldn’t amount to anything. The other was in 2021, the year his company grew 355% — from four employees to 38, from 1,900 square feet of space to 65,000 square feet, handling $10 million in annual revenue. He also found himself in the hospital that year, racked with Covid for two months.

Massive growth like that sounds wonderful on paper, But it nearly wrecked Kirchner — and the business. The company wasn't prepared, in processes or in people, to handle the surge. Outsiders were congratulating Kirchner. But he knew better.

"Let me tell you what, like that was, I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy,” he says. “I'm just saying everything goes wrong."

Things have since evened out. His company stabilized at around $4 million in revenue and his employees have leveled out to a more manageable 18.

The lessons Kirchner learned, from the before, during and after of that entire process, are relevant for business owners and entrepreneurs in nearly any field. The list includes hiring and surrounding yourself with smart people; being able to turn down business that will dilute customer service; and making decisions sometimes without all the needed data.

Ultimate 3D Printing Store has two arms: selling 3D printers as a retailer and providing 3D printing services to customers who need it but maybe aren’t ready to onboard the technology in their own business. The more profitable arm is the retail side and the majority of the technology comes from China.

“The thing that you have to remember is, I'm an entrepreneur," Kirchner says, "and there's one word that does not exist in my vocabulary. It just doesn't exist, and that's the word quit. So you're always going to be up against things. You just push through. That's it."

The first obstacle: Discouragement

There was a learning curve to get to where he is today as a CEO. Kirchner took a job at Cici’s Pizza out of high school based on feedback he was given about not amounting to anything, eventually coming to the understanding that he had a learning disability.

He bounced around odd jobs, including detailing cars, when a sales manager from Gateway Honda in New Port Richey approached him about moving into sales.

He only managed to sell one car in two months and was let go. “I was getting ready to go back to the restaurant business, and I said, ‘You know what? I think the car business is good. Let me just try one more time.’ I just didn't want to quit,” he recalls.

From there, he went to another dealership and with proper training was propelled to the No. 2 spot out of 65 salespeople. It was here he started plotting his next move.

Kirchner notes that in the process of selling a car, he had access to all kinds of information — where a person lived, for how long and how much they made. Instead of simply envying their status, he became inquisitive.

“When I saw a successful person and I was selling them a car, this is what I said to him. I said, ‘John, I'm selling you a car today, but can you do me a favor?’ And John says, ‘Well, what can I do for you, Roy? And I said, ‘Sir, can you pretend like I'm your kid?’” Kirchner explains, "On my day off, I want to come to your work and I want to shadow you. Because if you're making this much money and you're this successful, I want to be this one day.”

This proved successful.

“And that's how I made it," he says. "I found people who were successful, and I just latched on to them and I never let go".

The second obstacle: Untenable growth

After leaving the car business, he spent about a decade in marketing — working for companies and starting his own — before research led him to see the future of 3D printing. He founded Ultimate 3D Printing Store in 2015.

For many business owners, Covid was a time of upheaval in a negative way – just trying to stay afloat and keep the lights on. For Kirchner, his company exploded.

Shortages in traditionally manufactured equipment resulted in demand for 3D printing services for goods like health care and automotive equipment, according to a report from The Business Research Co., a global data analytics firm.

That demand drove Ultimate 3D Printing to that 355% annual revenue growth — and its greatest crisis. "You don't have the ability to go from four employees to 38 and you don't have time to hire qualified people," Kirchner says. "You don't have time to train them, you're just throwing bodies at it, and everything is just not going right.”

He describes being greeted every day with multiple emergencies and having to pick the worst one to solve first and then solving the rest. By the end of each day, he hadn’t accomplished anything he set out to do.

This went on for two years.

At the height of all this, he caught Covid.

“I abandoned the company for two months," he says. "I literally called up one day, and I said to my chief of staff and my CFO, I said, ‘I'm not going to be able to answer any questions. I'm not going to be able to tell you anything. You're just going to have to run it.'"

Jamie Lea Stinnett was chief of staff at that time and remains in her role today.

“There was just so much going on that I think it was just kind of instinctual. You can't really stop and think about it, or you'll never get through it. You know, you just have to do what needs to get done,” she recalls. “A lot of our staff was out. I remember looking around one day and there's like three of us sitting where a room of 30 had been.”

Stinnett credits the team for helping the company come through the crisis. “I was steering the ship, but it wasn't me. It was my people, it was all the employees," she says. "I didn't hear ‘That's not my job’ or ‘That's not what I get paid to do.’ Everybody stepped in where they could.”

Soon after that, another turning point for Kirchner was being introduced to Chris White, a business coach and entrepreneur out of Orlando. Through White’s System and Soul coaching framework, Kirchner was able to begin implementing policies and procedures that calmed the chaos.

“He saved me,” he says.

The third obstacle: Tariffs

Now there are more challenges, namely, tariffs. Given the firm's business connections in China, this is more acute.

“When they put this tariff thing in effect, within an hour, all of the Chinese warehouses here basically said, ‘Until this is over, we're not selling to you.’ So they wouldn't even process the orders we had,” Kirchner says.

Kirchner says he's trying to be both pragmatic and patient, having plan Bs and Cs depending on where things go with tariffs. “One day, boom, tariffs hit, and everything changes. So that's life, but that's business, and that's entrepreneurship.

Adds Kirchner: People's lives are in my hands, so I can't quit, right?”

Read the full article here.

MANUFACTURING RISING - Workforce Reshoring

Wed, 14 May 2025 18:23:55 GMT

Read the full article about Workforce Reshoring here.

MADE IN TAMPA BAY EXPO & JOB FAIR RETURNS APRIL 9, 2025!

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:29:06 GMT

Connect with Local Manufacturers & Discover Exciting Career Opportunities

CLEARWATER, FL (March 19, 2025) – The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) and CareerSource invite job seekers to the Made in Tampa Bay Expo & Job Fair on April 9, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM EDT at the EpiCenter in Clearwater. This free event connects attendees with dozens of top local manufacturers hiring for entry-level to advanced technical roles while showcasing Tampa Bay’s thriving manufacturing sector.

"Manufacturing is one of Tampa Bay’s fastest-growing industries, offering great wages and career stability," said Beth Galic, BAMA Executive Director. "This event is the perfect opportunity for job seekers to meet top employers, learn about industry trends, and even interview on-site."

BAMA President Andrew McCutcheon emphasized the event’s impact on changing perceptions about manufacturing careers. "We’re not just offering jobs—we’re opening doors to long-term careers in an industry embracing innovation and providing competitive wages and benefits," he said.

Event Highlights:

Job Fair & On-Site Interviews: Connect with hiring manufacturers and interview on the spot. Free registration for Job Seekers.
Networking: Build connections with industry leaders, business owners, and fellow job seekers.
Product Showcase: Explore locally made products and meet the innovators behind them.
Breakout Sessions focusing on training and scholarships, apprenticeships, AI in manufacturing, tariffs, made in America initiatives and more.

Event Details:

Date & Time: April 9, 2025 | 2:00 – 6:00 PM EDT
FREE Admission & Parking | Bring your resume | Prepare for Onsite Interviews
Location: The EpiCenter, 13805 58th St N, Clearwater, FL 33760

Job seekers register for free here: https://bit.ly/BAMAExpo25.

Manufacturers register for booths at: www.bama-fl.org/event-5931713

About BAMA:

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) advocates for and supports manufacturers across the Tampa Bay region, driving industry growth and innovation through workforce development, networking, education, advocacy, and technology, fostering industry growth and innovation.

2025 Florida Manufacturing Days Advocating for a Stronger Manufacturing Future

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:08:44 GMT

Tampa, FL – Last week, the Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council celebrated 2025 Florida Manufacturing Days in the state capitol, bringing together nearly 50 manufacturing stakeholders to advocate for policies that strengthen Florida’s manufacturing sector.

The Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council is a coalition of industry champions working to advance a legislative climate that supports manufacturers. Representing well over 1,000 manufacturing stakeholders statewide, the Council consists of regional manufacturers’ associations and industry groups united in their advocacy efforts.

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) is a proud member of the Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council. The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) represents and promotes the interests of manufacturers throughout the Tampa Bay region, fostering growth and innovation in the manufacturing sector through advocacy, workforce development, and industry collaboration.

A Platform for Advocacy and Engagement
Florida Manufacturing Days provides manufacturers and industry stakeholders with a platform to engage directly with legislators and statewide partners. Through meetings with legislators, participants lend their voices to shaping Florida's manufacturing business environment while gaining insights into the legislative process.

Each year, Advocacy Council members collaborate to develop a legislative agenda that addresses the industry’s most pressing needs. The 2025 Advocacy Agenda includes two key legislative priorities:

1. Support “An Act Relating to Manufacturing” (Senate Bills 600 & 602; House Bills 561 & 563)
Sponsored by Representative Nan Cobb and Senator Keith Truenow, this bill aims to enhance Florida’s manufacturing ecosystem through strategic initiatives, including:

· Institutionalizing the Chief Manufacturing Officer (CMO) position within FloridaCommerce to provide dedicated leadership and coordination for manufacturing initiatives statewide.

· Launching the "Made in Florida" Program to establish a statewide designation and marketing campaign, promoting locally manufactured products and increasing awareness of Florida’s manufacturing capabilities.

· Authorizing a Biennial State of Florida Manufacturing Report through FloridaCommerce in collaboration with the state’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership to provide comprehensive data and insights into the industry’s economic impact, helping drive policy and investment decisions.

· Creating a Technical Support Program for Florida Manufacturers to provide grants or low-interest loans for small and medium-sized manufacturers to adopt advanced technologies, improve cybersecurity, and enhance workforce training programs.

2. Encourage Growth Through Strategic Investments
To ensure a competitive business climate for manufacturers, the Council advocates for policies that drive high-wage job growth and capital investment:

· Expanding the Capital Investment Tax Credit (CITC): Broaden eligibility to all manufacturing subsectors (NAICS codes 31, 32, 33) and reduce investment and job creation thresholds, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized manufacturers in rural communities.

· Reestablishing the Qualified Target Industry (QTI) Tax Refund Program: A proven economic development tool that incentivizes high-value job creation by providing performance-based tax refunds only after businesses have created and verified new jobs. Historically, QTI has delivered a strong return on investment, generating more than $5 in additional state revenue for every dollar refunded.

Beth Galic, Executive Director of BAMA emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “Florida Manufacturing Days provides manufacturers with a chance to connect directly with lawmakers, ensuring that the unique needs and challenges of our industry are recognized. Advocacy like this plays a key role in influencing policies that drive economic growth and innovation within Florida’s manufacturing sector.”

A participating manufacturer, Andrew Kossowski, owner of Veterans Metal, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with legislators, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the manufacturing sector and government officials. "I was pleased to participate in Manufacturing Days and engage with our legislators on topics vital to the success of our industry such as workforce development, regulatory initiatives, and economic growth strategies. The receptiveness of the legislators to our concerns and ideas was truly encouraging, and we look forward to continued collaboration to drive positive change in the manufacturing sector for our state.”

To learn more about Florida Manufacturing Days and the advocacy initiatives of the Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council, visit www.floridaMFGadvocacy.com.

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About BAMA:

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) represents and promotes the interests of manufacturers throughout the Tampa Bay region, fostering growth and innovation in the manufacturing sector through advocacy, workforce development, and industry collaboration.

About the Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council
The Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council is a coalition of manufacturing champions dedicated to advancing policies that support the industry. By leveraging local relationships and grassroots advocacy, the Council works to ensure a thriving manufacturing sector in Florida. For more information, visit www.floridaMFGadvocacy.com.

Press Release

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 19:28:33 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 4, 2024

Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) Announces Appointment of Andrew McCutchen as New President

McCutchen, president and founder of Tampa Bay area's Baymar Solutions, brings on-the-ground expertise to area's #1 resource for advancing manufacturing sector

Tampa, FL, – The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) is thrilled to an announce that Andrew McCutchen was recently appointed as president of BAMA. He is the founder and president of Baymar Solutions, a product development and contract manufacturing firm specializing in highly regulated industries such as medical devices and aerospace/defense. Andrew has a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Arizona and has been in the manufacturing and product development space since 2002 and started Baymar Solutions in 2006.

“I take great pride in creating an environment for our team members to thrive and serve our customers with creative and efficient solutions to the problems they bring us,” said McCutchen. His team has successfully grown to more than just an engineering solution provider by vertically integrating contract manufacturing in-house which provides their customers with shorter lead times and higher quality. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to serve the greater Tampa Bay area as the president of BAMA and help bring new and exciting events and training to the manufacturers in this region.

According to the inaugural Florida Manufacturing Report recently published by FloridaCommerce with support from FloridaMakes, manufacturing in Florida's manufacturing output (GDP) has grown from $43.5 billion in 2014 to $73 billion in 2022 resulting in a 67.8% growth rate over 9 years. The Tampa Bay Area reports a manufacturing GDP of $14.7 billion with 3,535 manufacturers and 68,061 jobs.

Andrew’s deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers in the Tampa Bay Area will power his strategic vision and commitment to fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders. His expertise is instrumental in advancing BAMA's mission of promoting economic growth, advocating for policies that support manufacturing, and providing valuable resources and networking opportunities for its members.

"We are thrilled to welcome Andrew as the new President “said Beth Galic, Executive Director of BAMA. “His extensive experience and dedication to the manufacturing industry makes him the ideal leader to guide our association toward continued growth and success. We look forward to working closely with Andrew to further our mission of supporting and strengthening the manufacturing community in the Tampa Bay Area."

Andrew will lead BAMA's efforts to provide advocacy, education, and networking opportunities for manufacturers throughout the Tampa Bay Area, driving economic prosperity and ensuring the industry's continued success.

Image: Andrew McCutchen/photo courtesy of BAMA

Contact: Beth Galic, Executive Director

beth@bama-fl.org

727-536-5809

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About the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA)

BAMA provides a forum to exchange ideas and share best practice information, network with colleagues, and learn about manufacturing related topics through educational programs and tours. BAMA supports STEM programs and offers scholarships to students pursuing manufacturing and STEM education. Manufacturing provides jobs for approximately 60,000 people in approximately 3,000 facilities throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. With a diverse membership base representing a wide range of industries, BAMA provides workforce development, technology, advocacy, education, and networking opportunities to help manufacturers thrive in a competitive global market. BAMA is part of the FloridaMakes Network of regional manufacturing associations working to unlock growth opportunities and cost savings for Florida manufacturers. More information about BAMA is available at www.bama-fl.org and FloridaMakes at www.floridamakes.com.

2023 Florida Manufacturing Report

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 15:50:28 GMT

Working with the Department, FloridaMakes had the opportunity to compile the initial draft under their direction and review. This report was the culmination of several months of effort, led principally by Zoraida Velasco and Mike Aller, with significant network staff support in the research, development, and drafting phases of the effort. As well, the Florida Commerce Workforce Statistics and Economics Research team, led by Jimmy Heckman, contributed significantly to the research, analysis, and in shaping the overall structure of the report. In mid-November, the draft was delivered to the Secretary for review, input, and editing. The report highlights the impactful work the stakeholders in our manufacturing ecosystem collectively undertake to support and elevate the manufacturing economy in Florida.

As you dive into the 2023 Florida Manufacturing Report, know that it was our hope in drafting that the readers – policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens alike -- will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the importance of manufacturing to our economy and the role it will continue to play in advancing our standard of living. Further, it is our hope to those same policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens all gain a better appreciation for including “manufacturing” as an integral part of Florida’s brand identity.

We believe this report has the potential to make a significant impact on our initiatives to elevate manufacturing in Florida. We hope you will find valuable insights into key trends, challenges, and opportunities within the manufacturing landscape. Further, we believe that this document will not only serve as a valuable resource for our internal teams but also as a powerful tool for us to leverage in advocating for the growth and success of manufacturing in our state.

Please click the image below to read the 2023 Florida Manufacturing Report

BAMA Welcomes New Board of Directors

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 14:35:31 GMT

Jacob Solar and the Hidden Talent Pipeline of People with Disabilities: A Manufacturing Success Story

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Mon, 14 Sep 2020 21:32:02 GMT

“It’s all about ability and fit. When companies have leaders committed to establishing and managing both, the benefits of hiring people with disabilities far outweigh the investment,” says Mike Brewster, Chief Production Officer, at Monin, a manufacturer of premium flavorings for cocktails, coffees, teas, and more, and a member of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA).

In 2015, Mike and other team members from Monin attended a local Disability Employment Awareness Celebration. This is where they were first introduced to Jacob Solar, and everything about the young man impressed them. Jacob was receiving an award for his work at TSE Industries, Inc. Later that fall, Mike received a call from TSE human resource manager, Michelle Hinz-Prange. TSE had run out of work for Jacob, and Michelle strongly recommended that Monin consider hiring him at their facility. Having had a prior positive experience hiring a person with a disability, it was an easy choice for Mike and his team. For Monin, hiring Jacob was putting company values into practice.

Many manufacturers have little experience supervising employees with disabilities, and often have concerns about safety. However, Mike and his team found that with thoughtful leadership, most of the challenges are easily overcome. Monin engages managers and supervisors to identify work tasks and job functions that can be done safely and with minimal risk.

When you hire a person with a disability, research consistently shows that you get a more loyal employee who will work harder and have lower absenteeism and turnover. Jacob is a great example of these attributes. He is very independent, is always on time, and has never missed a day of work. He’s even taken the initiative to move from part-time to full-time work so he is eligible to have health insurance. But, most of all, he is open and honest. Working alongside Jacob has taught others at Monin that open dialogue, done in a respectful way, is an effective way to work together.

A diverse and inclusive workplace starts at the top, says Allison Chase, who manages The Able Trust’s business leadership and exchange program, known as the ABLE Network. The more intentional and direct that business leaders are in their commitment, the more likely it is that others within the company will follow their lead.

If your company is ready to engage an inclusive workforce, consider these tips from The Able Trust to help chart your course:

· Focus on abilities, not perceived barriers. Workers with disabilities are loyal and flexible problem-solvers with longer-than-average job tenure.
· Secure support for hiring and assistive technologies. There are many agencies already in your community, as well as tax credits and grants, that can assist and reimburse employers with everything from hiring to training to accommodations.
· Join the ABLE Network. The ABLE Network is a B2B/peer-to-peer program for business leaders committed to diversity and inclusion. The network fosters business-to-business learning and best practices for disability workforce inclusion. To find out more about how you can enhance your business impact, contact us at Business@AbleTrust.org.

Jacob’s first day at Monin happened to be Mike Brewster’s birthday. He says, “it was a great birthday present…hiring people with disabilities is a win-win with bottom line benefits when done right!”

Association gets focused on Tampa Bay manufacturers’ needs

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 12:23:31 GMT

By Alexis Muellner – Editor, Tampa Bay Business Journal

Aug 14, 2020, 5:00am EDT

When Beth Galic took over the lead role at the Bay Area Manufacturers Association in New Port Richey a year and a half ago, the group was struggling with declining membership and a lack of return on investment for members.

Pre-Covid, its activities were mostly tied to nighttime dinner functions.

“They would go to meetings and they were being sold by associates so BAMA got a bad rap,” Galic said.

She made changes, including putting in place a 75:25 ratio of manufacturers to associate members, limiting events for associate members, and doing away with dinners in favor of events at manufacturing facilities. Membership is now up, with more than 70 manufacturers and no attrition from January to June.

FloridaMakes Works with Industry to Sponsor the First Statewide Online Manufacturing Apprentice Program

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 16:40:07 GMT

April 30, 2020

MEDIA CONTACT:

Zoraida Velasco

407.430.7714

Zoraida.Velasco@FloridaMakes.com

Orlando, FLA. –– FloridaMakes is sponsoring a statewide registered apprenticeship program –– the FloridaMakes Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship. The first program offered will focus on entry-level skills for new and existing employees in the Industrial Manufacturing Technician (IMT) occupation. With online, on-demand access to the foundational Manufacturing Skills Standards Council’s (MSSC) Certified Production Technician training curriculum, this new approach brings Florida’s manufacturers a hybrid training model that addresses entry-level skills gaps and provides foundational manufacturing knowledge regardless of the specific occupation, which will help give apprentices the tools they need to move on to more specific occupations. It also bypasses the need for employees attending courses at institutions and provides flexible access for students with lifestyles, work schedules, and geographical barriers that often prohibit participation in traditional “in-class” offerings.

“The future of the Florida economy depends on expanded access to meaningful workforce education opportunities,” said Henry Mack, Chancellor for Career and Adult Education at the Florida Department of Education. “If we are to become No. 1 in workforce education by 2030, we must double-down on apprenticeships, especially those as innovative and market-driven as this one.”

“FloridaMakes is here to serve and assist our manufacturers with talent development challenges,” said Tina Berger, Director of Talent Development at FloridaMakes. “For years manufacturers have voiced a need to revamp the tried and true earn-and-learn apprenticeship programs, calling for competency-based versus time-based learning models. The IMT Apprenticeship Program addresses this request as a gamechanger for small and medium-sized companies and, in particular, for those with facilities in rural communities without access to traditional vocational training centers.”

The program was designed through a sector strategy approach led by multiple employers within the industry, represented within the Florida Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Leadership Council (AMWLC), in collaboration with FloridaMakes, CareerSource Florida, the Florida Department of Education’s Division of Career and Adult Education, and the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC).

“CareerSource Florida is proud to support the new Industrial Manufacturing Technician apprenticeship program to address ongoing talent needs in one of Florida’s key industry sectors,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Michelle Dennard. “The use of online training curricula is a vital component in addressing immediate concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the long-term, critical need to ensure Floridians have access to apprenticeship opportunities in high-demand fields. We are pleased to participate with our partners in expediting this much-needed program.”

The IMT Apprenticeship Program is a career pathway to higher-skilled positions for entry-level workers and especially for women and underrepresented populations for whom traditional “classroom” training programs may pose attendance difficulties due to lack of transportation and inflexible time constraints.

“This new Industrial Manufacturing Technician apprenticeship is a great step forward for manufacturers and for employees or potential employees in the manufacturing field,” said Roy Sweatman, CEO of Southern Manufacturing Technologies and Chair of the Florida Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Leadership Council. “It is short enough to feel attainable and flexible enough to be used in almost any manufacturing business. It is a great stepping-stone to bigger and better things for the future of Florida’s workforce.”

Program policies are being formalized with an expected launch to accept applications in late May 2020. For more information about the IMT Apprenticeship Program, please contact Tina Berger, Director of Talent Development at FloridaMakes by email at tina.berger@floridamakes.com or by phone at 407.450.7206.

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About FloridaMakes

FloridaMakes is a statewide, industry-led, public-private partnership operated by an alliance of Florida's regional manufacturers associations with the sole mission of strengthening and advancing Florida’s economy by improving the competitiveness, productivity and technological performance of its manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on small- and medium-sized firms. It accomplishes this by providing services focused on three principle value streams: technology adoption, talent development, and business growth. FloridaMakes is the official representative of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network in the state of Florida, a program of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce. For more information about FloridaMakes, please visit FloridaMakes.com and follow @FloridaMakes.

About the Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Leadership Council

Florida’s Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Leadership Council (AMWLC), through a sector strategy approach, serves to provide an essential business feedback loop to ensure Florida’s training and workforce system has a deep understanding of, and is responsive to, the talent needs of the advanced manufacturing industry sector. The Council is comprised of manufacturing CEOs, plant managers and HR executives representing Florida’s regional manufacturing association network, work together with other industry stakeholders to address statewide talent and workforce policy matters.

AIF in Partnership with Space Florida and FloridaMakes Accelerates Critical Connections Between Florida Manufacturers & Businesses During COVID 19 Pandemic

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 16:39:13 GMT

For Immediate Release

April 8, 2020

Contact

AIF: Sarah Bascom / Kristen Bridges

Space Florida: Sara Shell

FloridaMakes: Zoraida Velasco

Enclosure

Connex Florida Why Join + FAQs 04.2020

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) in partnership with Space Florida and FloridaMakes today announced the deployment of an online database for Florida’s small to large manufacturers to engage in the marketplace. The online database, Connex Florida, started as a disaster risk mitigation effort in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and is proving to be a critical tool to streamline connections between Florida manufacturers and businesses in need of their products during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Recognizing a critical need for Florida businesses during the unforeseen COVID-19 pandemic, this partnership between AIF, Space Florida and FloridaMakes will allow more than 20,000 Florida manufacturers to connect with public/private organizations through a platform for this essential exchange,” said AIF President and CEO Tom Feeney. “As Florida’s official affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, we thought this was the best way we could do our part in helping manufacturers across the Sunshine State have the opportunity to compete for business by connecting them through this database to other Florida businesses in need of their much-needed materials and supplies.”

In Florida, manufacturers are identified as essential critical infrastructure who bear a unique responsibility during a crisis to continue operations that, in turn, contribute to overall sustainability of Florida’s communities. As such, AIF, Space Florida and FloridaMakes have begun compiling a database on industrial assets, capabilities and capacities that can be drawn upon at this time of critical demand.

“Space Florida is delighted to offer its support to mature the industrial base of Florida for a robust recovery, and to better equip our supply chain to respond crisply to future crises,” said Space Florida President and CEO Frank DiBello. “This capability will be a major competitive advantage for Florida.”

“We are proud of our partnership with AIF and Space Florida on the Connex Florida database,” said FloridaMakes CEO Kevin Carr. “It is imperative that we have a functioning industrial base as we respond to the COVID-19 emergency, including innovative solutions to help our supply chain here in Florida and across the nation. Together, all three organizations represent a cross-section of manufacturers of all sizes across the state for which this tool is tailored to meet their needs by collecting their capabilities and capacities to efficiently connect them to businesses in need of their supplies.”

Connex Florida is a statewide manufacturing supply chain, workforce and R&D connection solution offered free of charge to manufacturers, educational institutions, and those performing manufacturing R&D in Florida. To request access to the platform visit Florida.MfgConnex.com, or for more information view PDF or contact Connex@FloridaMakes.com.

Connex Florida is also designed to be interoperable with the Manufacturers Marketplace that was developed by AIF and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), as well as the COVID-19 Response Tool. All of these databases are available at no cost during the pandemic to help streamline critical connections within the supply chain.

The COVID-19 Response Tool is accessible both locally and nationally and searchable by government and industries to aid in streamlining critical connections between manufacturers/suppliers and organizations seeking to purchase much-needed materials and products, such as masks, personal protective equipment (PPE), medical devices and component parts. Suppliers are being added daily. To access the COVID-19 Response Tool visit COVID-19.ManufacturersMarketplace.US.

The Manufacturers Marketplace is the U.S. supply chain connection solution built in partnership with NAM, manufacturers from across the country, and many other leading state and national manufacturing organizations. If you are a manufacturer, you can register at ManufacturersMarketplace.US and be granted free access during the COVID-19 pandemic by contacting DSmart@ManufacturersMarketplace.US.

# # #

About AIF

Known as “The Voice of Florida Business” in the Sunshine State, Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) has represented the principles of prosperity and free enterprise before the three branches of state government since 1920. A voluntary association of diversified businesses, AIF was created to foster an economic climate in Florida conducive to the growth, development, and welfare of industry and business and the people of the state. For more information on AIF, please visit AIF.com and follow @VoiceofFLBiz.

About Space Florida

Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as the global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s aerospace and spaceport development authority, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed. For more information on Space Florida, please visit Spaceflorida.gov and follow @SpaceFlorida.

About FloridaMakes

FloridaMakes is a statewide, industry-led, public-private partnership operated by an alliance of Florida's regional manufacturers associations with the sole mission of strengthening and advancing Florida’s economy by improving the competitiveness, productivity and technological performance of its manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on small- and medium-sized firms. It accomplishes this by providing services focused on three principle value streams: technology adoption, talent development, and business growth. As a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, approved Center, FloridaMakes is the official representative of the MEP National Network in the State of Florida. For more information about FloridaMakes, please visit FloridaMakes.com and follow @FloridaMakes.

OVER $1 BILLION IN IMPACT REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS WORKING WITH THE FLORIDAMAKES NETWORK

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Tue, 13 Aug 2019 14:36:00 GMT

OVER $1 BILLION IN IMPACT REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS WORKING WITH THE FLORIDAMAKES NETWORK

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) Improves the Competitiveness and Productivity of Tampa Bay, Florida’s Manufacturers

Tampa, Florida August 13, 2019 – BAMA, a member of the FloridaMakes network, announced today that Florida manufacturers who received services through our state-wide FloridaMakes network have reported a combined total of over one billion dollars in measurable economic impacts and created or retained 6,953 manufacturing jobs since the program started delivering services in 2016.

The FloridaMakes network is a state-wide industry-led initiative operated by Florida’s Regional Manufacturers Associations in partnership with industry, research, educational, and economic development organizations, both public and private, at the state and national levels. The network’s mission is to improve the productivity and technological performance of Florida manufacturers by accelerating technology adoption, talent development, and business growth, and to strengthen the state’s high-wage manufacturing economy. BAMA, through its participating partners, provides services that are customized to meet the needs and opportunities of individual companies.

Impact results represent data from 283 client engagements across the state and were obtained through a survey conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce. On average, $3.7 million in total impact, and over 24 jobs were created or retained per firm (total survey data through Q1, 2019). The numbers break down as follows:

• Increased and retained sales: $697 million
• Total cost savings: $97.9 million
• Total investments: $249.5 million
• Jobs created and retained: 6953

“This remarkable impact demonstrates the significant strides manufacturers have taken in improving their businesses, and FloridaMakes’ dedication to helping Florida companies increase their global productivity and technological performance,” stated Maria Alfano, FloridaMakes’ Chief Operating Officer.

BAMA supports manufacturers and promotes economic development in the Tampa Bay Region.

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association is a Tampa Bay resource that helps companies address current challenges, create new opportunities for growth, and achieve measurable results. To learn how we can unlock growth opportunities and cost savings for manufacturers, contact Paula DeLuca at 727-498-0990.

###

About BAMA

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) supports manufacturers and promotes economic development in the Tampa Bay Region. BAMA provides a forum to exchange ideas and share best practice information, network with colleagues and learn about manufacturing related topics through educational programs and tours. BAMA supports STEM programs and offers scholarships to students pursuing manufacturing and STEM education. Manufacturing provides jobs for approximately 60,000 people in approximately 2,500 facilities throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. More information about BAMA is available at www.bama-fl.org.

About FloridaMakes

The FloridaMakes network is a state-wide, industry-led initiative operated by an alliance of Florida's Regional Manufacturers Associations with the sole mission of strengthening and advancing Florida’s economy by improving the competitiveness, productivity and technological performance of its manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on small- and medium-sized firms. It accomplishes this by providing services focused on three principle value streams: technology adoption, talent development, and business growth.

The FloridaMakes network is the official representative of the MEP National Network, which is operated by NIST, for the State of Florida. More information on the FloridaMakes network is available at www.floridamakes.com. More information about the MEP National Network is available at www.nist.gov/mep.

Tariff Update

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 16:35:15 GMT

Trying to navigate the impact of upcoming tariff changes on Chinese goods? Attend our free webinar to hear from our experts on what you can do now to address these changes. Reserve your spot: http://ms.spr.ly/6049TJjK3

Business Advisor Joins BAMA

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 17:25:27 GMT

Paula DeLuca is a FloridaMakes Business Advisor that will now be based at the Bay Area Manufacturers Association. Paula has worked in manufacturing for more than 30 years, and has extensive experience in the aerospace, security & defense, electronics, sheet metal, machining, automotive and medical device manufacturing industries.

Paula’s areas of expertise include materials and inventory management, logistics management, Lean manufacturing/Kanban/ISO, Toyota Daily Kata process, ERP implementation, supply chain management, MRP product planning & scheduling, material flow, new product development and customer support management. She has additional experience in small business government reporting, quality audits conducted by suppliers for major OEMs, managing direct reports, and training for manufacturing employees.

Paula most recently served as the Business Advisor for FloridaMakes in the Jacksonville area for the past 2 years. She has both served as an independent consultant and worked for a wide variety of manufacturing companies across the country, including: Kaman Integrated Structure & Metallics, B/E Aerospace, Triumph Actuation Systems, L-3 Communications, Eaton Corporation, Environmental Technologies/Johnson Controls, E-L Products, and Ohmeda.

Paula holds a Bachelors of Science in Business Management and her Masters of Science in Management from Hodges University/International College in Naples, Fl. She has been a member of the American Production & Inventory Control Society (APICS) since 1984, served on the BOD and is a Past-President of the Buffalo chapter.

MILLIONS IN IMPACT REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS WORKING WITH FLORIDAMAKES

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 15:04:58 GMT

We are excited to report that Florida manufacturers who received services through FloridaMakes have reported a combined total of over $906 million in measurable impacts (total survey data through Q4, 2018). The results break down to include:

• Increased or retained sales: $592.3 million
• Total cost savings: $87.3 million
• Total investments: $226.6 million (equipment, new products, skills and other)
• Jobs created or retained: 5,915

The survey results represent data from 266 firms. On average, $3.4 million in total impact and over 22 jobs were created or retained per firm.

The findings were reported directly by manufacturers through a third-party outside survey conducted on behalf of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership.

FloridaMakes is a great resource and can help your company address current challenges, create new opportunities for growth and achieve measurable results. To learn how FloridaMakes’ services can unlock growth opportunities and cost savings for your company, contact your FloridaMakes’ Business Advisor at info@floridamakes.com.

FloridaMakes is an industry-led public-private partnership operated by participating regional manufacturer associations throughout Florida. As part of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership network, FloridaMakes is the official representative of NIST MEP in the State of Florida. Learn more at www.floridamakes.com.

Manufactures: Join BAMA's Instructor Incubator Committee

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 14:55:42 GMT

Recently BAMA held a workforce development roundtable discussion in partnership with FloridaMakes and FLATE. The group of over 25 people was composed of manufacturers, educators, and community leaders in economic development. Both manufacturers and educators shared the great things we are doing in the Tampa Bay area, and identified a few key challenges we face. The one challenge echoed by all of the manufacturers was the lack of skilled labor available to fill open positions. In order to address this issue the group decided that fostering a stronger relationship between manufacturers and educators was critical, and that one way to do this in a relatively short period with realistic deliverables was to create an Instructor Incubator Committee.

Many of our local educational institutions have a difficult time finding instructors for the industrial or manufacturing courses they offer. The Instructor Incubator Committee, composed of manufacturers, will identify several topics or skills that are important to the job functions at their facilities, and identify candidates from the manufacturers that can provide instruction on the those topics or skills. The instructors would not have to teach for an entire semester, they would only need to teach a specific topic as a guest lecturer.

Help BAMA by participating in this exciting new endeavor

Contact Committee Chariperson, Peter Cirak for more information: PeterCirak@sealdynamics.com

Summer Job Connections

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Mon, 13 May 2019 14:33:59 GMT

RCRA Hazardous Waste Training

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 12:00:00 GMT

HRP's fast-paced RCRA seminar is designed to provide both entry-level and experienced environmental managers with a comprehensive review of state and federal hazardous waste regulations. The four-hour seminar assists industry in meeting their annual RCRA training requirement. Regulatory examples and case histories are used during this seminar to emphasize and reinforce aspects of the hazardous waste regulations. The key training topics include:

What wastes are hazardous?
Satellite accumulation requirements
Hazardous waste classification differences
Container management requirements
Universal wastes
Used oil requirements
Enforcement
What to do if inspected

Certificates of Completion will be provided to all attendees.

RCRA: $245pp/$225pp for multiple registrants from same company

Embassy Suites Tampa Brandon, 10220 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619
(813) 653-1787

Click here for more details - http://bit.ly/hrp-fl-training

DOT Hazardous Materials Training

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 17:00:00 GMT

The highly-interactive DOT four-hour training program is designed to provide both entry level and experienced environmental managers with an in depth understanding on how to properly prepare a hazardous material package for transportation and their responsibilities under the DOT’s Hazardous Material Transportation regulations. The Hazardous Material Transportation Training Manual, which is designed to address the types of issues environmental professionals face on a daily basis, provides a clear and concise reference on how to complete each step for hazardous materials transportation. Topics to be introduced and discussed during the four-hour session include the following:

Classifying a Hazardous Material;
DOT Hazard Classes;
Hazardous Substances/Marine Pollutants/Elevated Temperature Materials;
How to read and use Hazardous Material Table 172.101;
Proper Shipping Name Identification;
Proper Packaging;
How to Mark and Label hazardous materials packages;
How to prepare Shipping Papers;
Placarding Requirements;

Training and Record Keeping requirements;
Safety and Emergency Response Information requirements; and
DOT Security requirements.

Certificates of Completion will be provided to all attendees who successfully pass the required quiz. Every attendee will receive a copy of the most recent Emergency Response Guidebook.

DOT: $195pp/$180pp for multiple registrants from same company

Click here for more details - http://bit.ly/hrp-fl-training

Manufacturing makes a comeback in Bay Area

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 02:01:03 GMT

Roy Sweatman, the president of Tampa-based Southern Manufacturing Technologies was interviewed by Fox 13 News to address the challenges manufacturers face in finding skilled people to fill manufacturing jobs.

Made in Tampa Bay: Seaway Plastics

Bay Area Manufacturers Association — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 01:45:48 GMT

BAMA member Seaway Plastics Engineering was recently featured on the segment, Made in Tampa Bay on Fox 13 News. Seaway is a custom plastic injection molding company specializing in low to mid volume production located in the Port Richey area.

Read the full story here.

PLCs Certification Training at SPC

(Past member) — Thu, 10 May 2018 13:01:14 GMT

Upcoming PLCs Certification Training at St. Petersburg College

June 4 – July 1, 2018

July 2 – July 29, 2018

August 6 – Sept 2, 2018

The 5 day hands-on lab classes are conducted at BRAAS Company:
230 Douglas Rd., Oldsmar, FL 34677

Lab times: 1-4 PM or 5-8 PM
(Monday – Friday)

The 30 hour SPC Workforce Institute PLCs Certification Program is a hybrid program providing 12 hours of online courseware, 15 hours of intensive hands-on lab activities, and 3 hours of online preparation for the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) exam.
3 hours of course credit can be articulated to AS Engineering degree program.

Register today by clicking this link and selecting the dates and lab sessions that you would like to attend.

For more information regarding PLCs training, please contact Fred Tucker with the Workforce Institute at 727-791-2409 or tucker.fred@spcollege.edu.

Fred Tucker, GCDF

Program Coordinator, Manufacturing

727.791.2409

tucker.fred@spcollege.edu

Mettler Toledo opens new facility

(Past member) — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 20:06:46 GMT

Mettler Toledo plans to have 600 people employed at their new facility in Pasco County in the next few months, of which, 185 of those are new jobs.

WATCH THE STORY

Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Community Conversation

(Past member) — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 18:49:31 GMT

Pinellas SBE Community Conversation

Come share your experiences, successes and barriers in doing business with Pinellas County Government. Our Pinellas Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Purchasing and Economic Development departments will be listening to the voices of our citizens and local business owners to enhance the SBE program.

Meeting Location: SPC Epi-Center, Clearwater
Date: Thursday, April 19, 2018
Time: 9 - 11 AM

This activity is free

Click here for more info and to register.

USF Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

(Past member) — Tue, 13 Mar 2018 16:54:48 GMT

The University of South Florida's Office of Corporate Training and Professional Education works to extend the reach of USF's academic programs, and promotes advanced professional development in order to contribute to building a world class workforce in the Tampa Bay Area.

Over $90,000 is the estimated average salary for a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in Tampa, Florida*

Get Started Now!

No application or previous Lean Six Sigma Green Belt experience required to register for our program.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Program will meet 9am - 5pm, the following 8 Saturdays:
• May 5 (Define)
• May 19 and May 26 (Measure)
• June 23 and June 30 (Analyze)
• July 21 (Improve)
• July 28 (Control)
• August 11 (Storyboard Presentations and Exam)

What You Will Earn
To successfully complete the program, participants must meet the attendance requirement, successfully complete a storyboard and pass the final exam. You will earn continuing education contact hours/PDUs and you will receive a letter of completion, which may apply for professional development credit. Upon successfully completing this program, you will receive a Certification from the USF Office of Corporate Training and Professional Education.

Cost of Attendance
$2,995 (includes cost of all materials and the tool that will be used for the duration of the course, final exam and final storyboard review for certification) The Lean Six Sigma program will encompass all the necessary requirements for you to obtain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification including training hours, project assessment and the exam. Learn More!

Register Now!
USF Office of Corporate Training and Professional Education
www.usf.edu/continuing-education | (813) 974-5550 | CE-Inquiries@usf.edu

*Source: Glassdoor.com. Six Sigma Green Belt Salaries in Tampa, FL (2018). https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/tampa-six-sigma-green-belt-salary-SRCH_IL.0,5_IM850_KO6,26.htm

Small Business Conference

(Past member) — Fri, 02 Mar 2018 18:21:44 GMT

Registration Open for 31st Annual Government Small Business Conference
Friday, May 4, 8AM - 5PM

Florida SBDC at USF (TAMPA) – The Florida SBDC at University of South Florida, in conjunction with the Florida Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at USF, are pleased to announce registration is now open for the 31st Annual Small Business Conference. This co-hosted conference, titled Strategy & Acquisition: Success in Federal Contracting, is a unique conference for small business owners to learn how to optimize government contracting opportunities through informative workshops, panel discussions, and a Business Opportunity Expo, featuring federal agencies.

Led by the region’s leading experts, the information covered will help business owners strengthen their government contracting relationships and gain insight into working with federal buyers.

“This is our premiere event each year for government contracting,” Stacey Dadd, marketing and communications officer for the Florida SBDC at USF, said. “Government contracting is such a vital area of business for many of our clients and opportunities abound. You just have to know where to find them.”

Cost is $149 per person during the early bird registration period. Early registration discounts end April 13. The conference will take place at the Holiday Inn Tampa Westshore, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m..

In addition to training and networking opportunities, the afternoon will feature a Small Business Awards Luncheon with a prominent keynote speaker.

To register for 31st Annual Government Small Business Conference, click here.

About the Florida SBDC Network:
For over forty years, the Florida SBDC at USF, the state's principal provider of business assistance [Fl. Stat. 288.001], has nourished a statewide partnership between higher education and economic development to provide emerging and established business owners with management and knowledge resources that enable overall growth, increased profitability, and economic prosperity for the state. A statewide network of over 40 centers, the Florida SBDC is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Defense Logistics Agency, State of Florida and other private and public partners, with the University of West Florida serving as the network's designated lead host institution. The Florida SBDC Network is nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs. Florida SBDC services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Language assistance services are available for individuals with limited English proficiency. For more information, please visit www.FloridaSBDC.org.

About the Florida PTAC at USF
This Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Defense Logistics Agency.

PLC Training

(Past member) — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 18:35:49 GMT

Manufacturing is alive and well in the U.S. Industrial automation in industry is providing a growing number of jobs for technically trained people who can build, program, integrate, service, maintain and operate PLCs. Job opportunities include programming, packaging, power generation, mining, machine design, and building automated systems, maintenance, transportation, systems integration, component testing, technical sales, quality control, electrical, mechanical, computer, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. PLC Technicians install and repair industrial electronic equipment including I/O networks, data highways, and variable speed drives, process control equipment, and write PLC programs for a wide variety of automated control systems ranging from simple on-off controls to robotics.

Upcoming Course Dates:
Mar. 12 - Apr. 8, 2018
Apr. 9 - May 6, 2018
May 7 - June 3, 2018

The 5 day hands-on lab classes are conducted at BRAAS Company:
230 Douglas Rd., Oldsmar, FL 34677

Lab times: 1-4 PM or 5-8 PM
(Monday – Friday)

The 30 hour SPC Workforce Institute PLCs Certification Program is a hybrid program providing 12 hours of online courseware, 15 hours of intensive hands-on lab activities, and 3 hours of online preparation for the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) exam.
3 hours of course credit can be articulated to AS Engineering degree program.

Register today by clicking this link and selecting the dates and lab sessions that you would like to attend.

For more information regarding PLCs training, please contact Fred Tucker with the Workforce Institute at 727-791-2409 or tucker.fred@spcollege.edu.

St. Pete College manufacturing courses

(Past member) — Wed, 28 Feb 2018 20:32:05 GMT

MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) Course
This 9-week course provides entry-level training in manufacturing essentials to include safety awareness, production and processes, quality assurance, and maintenance awareness. Upon successful completion, students will obtain the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification.

Upcoming Course Dates:
March 10 – June 6, 2018 (Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 5:30-8pm for 9 weeks)
Classes are held at the SPC Epicenter, Room 1-318, located at 13805 58th St. N. Clearwater 33760.
15 hours of course credit can be articulated to the college’s AS Engineering degree program.
Register today by clicking Here.

For more information on Manufacturing course offerings, please call Fred Tucker at 727-791-2409.
For information on all other training, please visit SPC’s Workforce Institute page or contact us at (727) 341-4445 or workforce@spcollege.edu.

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) Certification Course
PLC Technicians install and repair industrial electronic equipment including I/O networks, data highways, and variable speed drives, process control equipment, and write PLC programs for a wide variety of automated control systems ranging from simple on-off controls to robotics.

The 30 hour SPC Workforce Institute PLCs Certification Program is a hybrid program providing 12 hours of online courseware, 15 hours of intensive hands-on lab activities, and 3 hours of online preparation for the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) exam.
Upcoming Course Dates:
• Mar. 12 - Apr. 8, 2018
• Apr. 9 - May 6, 2018
• May 7 - June 3, 2018
The 5 day hands-on lab classes are conducted at BRAAS Company:
230 Douglas Rd., Oldsmar, FL 34677
Lab times: 1-4 PM or 5-8 PM (Monday – Friday)

Register today by clicking the link and selecting the dates and lab sessions that you would like to attend: Register Here

3 hours of course credit can be articulated to AS Engineering degree program.
For more information on Manufacturing course offerings, please call Fred Tucker at 727-791-2409.
For information on all other training, please visit SPC’s Workforce Institute page or contact us at (727) 341-4445 or workforce@spcollege.edu.

2018 Florida Invention Convention & Entrepreneurship Expo

(Past member) — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 17:49:10 GMT

The 2018 Florida Invention Convention & Entrepreneurship Expo is 90 days away!

With the USF Young Innovators Competition now part of the Bright Young Minds Coalition & Florida Invention Convention & Entrepreneurship Expo, we cannot wait to see the incredible Young Inventors, Innovators and Entrepreneurs in action! This partnership means students, teachers and classrooms now have access to year-round support, curricula, resources and tools. Teachers will have access to all tools and resources provided by The National STEMIE Coalition. STEMIE is a STEM based program infused with Invention & Entrepreneurship. Invention Education has been around since the 1980's and precedes STEM by about 20 years. Students go through an 8-step process to take them through the entire Invention Process from Idea to Prototype and Pitch to Presentation.

The value of invention education, according to kids: http://video.newyorker.com/watch/kid-inventors-tell-all

STEMIE Invention & Entrepreneurship Education is currently in more than 35 states in the United States and this year we are so thrilled to have gone Global! The Global Invention Convention & Entrepreneurship Expo is May 31st - June 3 in Dearborn. MI being held at The Henry Ford Museum. We are blessed to have wonderful National Partners like The Henry Ford Museum, The Lemelson Foundation and UTC to name a few. We have garnered a great deal of National attention recently. But really need support here locally. Winners from the Florida Invention Convention may be invited to participate in the National & Global Invention Convention!

Bright Young Minds Coalition has partnered with Pinellas Technical College to host the Florida Invention Convention & Entrepreneurship Expo on May 4th & 5th. We are expecting to host 300-500 Young Innovators, Inventors and Entrepreneurs.

If you are an educator and want to learn more about upcoming Professional Development Workshops, implementing Invention Education or how your student(s) can participate in Invention Convention we look forward to getting your school registered! If you are a parent or student inventor and want to learn more about Invention Education or participating in Invention Convention or Spring Break and Summer Camps, please email Tracy for more details. Invent Florida School Registration

If you would like to get involved we have many opportunities for volunteerism, judging, donations, Award or Category Sponsors and Corporate Sponsorship, I would love to talk with you personally! An event of this size spread over two days is a massive undertaking and an excellent opportunity for supporters of STEM, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education to become involved and take part in helping to create our future leaders, inventors, and entrepreneurs. I am available to answer any questions about student inventors participating in FLIC, helping schools and teachers learn more about STEMIE Invention Education and discussing ways you or your company can become involved! Please feel free to email or call Tracy directly.

Global Invention Convention comes to The Henry Ford

Contact: Tracy Zuluaga
Executive Director
O: 800-311-6744
M: (305) 753 5755
tracy@inventflorida.org

www.brightyoungmindscoalition.org
www.inventflorida.org
www.stemie.org

M-PACT: Meetings That Educate, Inform and Connect Our Manufacturers

(Past member) — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 20:54:55 GMT

The Manufacturing Alliance of Hillsborough County is proud to announce M-Pact, a new series of events aimed at educating, informing, and connecting manufacturers. Each meeting features an expert speaker covering a critical area, such as training opportunities, employee development and more.

Potential topics include :
• Free Training Grants/Tax Incentives for Employees
• Workforce Trends – Investing in staff development; Bridging Generational gap

The first M-Pact meeting is scheduled for March 7 at the Hillsborough Community Center - Brandon Campus, Room BADM 116-117 (Conference Center). If you are a manufacturer and would like to recommend a specific topic, please contact Elizabeth Vocke at evocke@thinkcreativeinc.com.

PLC Certification Course from St. Pete College

(Past member) — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 16:38:39 GMT

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) Certification Course

PLC Technicians install and repair industrial electronic equipment including I/O networks, data highways, and variable speed drives, process control equipment, and write PLC programs for a wide variety of automated control systems ranging from simple on-off controls to robotics.

The 30 hour SPC Workforce Institute PLCs Certification Program is a hybrid program providing 12 hours of online courseware, 15 hours of intensive hands-on lab activities, and 3 hours of online preparation for the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) exam.

Upcoming Course Dates:
Feb. 5 - Mar. 4, 2018
Mar. 12 - Apr. 8, 2018
Apr. 9 - May 6, 2018
May 7 - June 3, 2018

The 5 day hands-on lab classes are conducted at BRAAS Company:
230 Douglas Rd., Oldsmar, FL 34677
Lab times: 1-4 PM or 5-8 PM
(Monday – Friday)

Register today by clicking the link and selecting the dates and lab sessions that you would like to attend:
Register Here

3 hours of course credit can be articulated to AS Engineering degree program

For more information on PLC course offerings, please call Fred Tucker at 727-791-2409.
For information on all other training, please visit SPC’s Workforce Institute page or contact us at (727) 341-4445 or workforce@spcollege.edu.

Composite Manufacturing Training Program

(Past member) — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 15:40:38 GMT

Composite Manufacturing Training Program
Pinellas Technical College (PTC) – Clearwater.

The composite manufacturing program is designed to provide beginning and intermediate technical skill training to individuals interested in a career in the composite manufacturing industry. The curriculum is in draft stages right now but will involve basic safety, tools and processes, intermediate technical skills and processes and materials management. To better guide the program from inception to students being placed on the job, we are assembling employers/manufacturers who would have interest in advising us as to what to teach, help guide the program through development and operation and employ the graduates of the program.

We are planning the first meeting of interested employers for January 26, 10:30am at Pinellas Technical College-Clearwater and would value your involvement. At this meeting we will explain in detail the plan for the program and how your involvement can help us implement a training program that will fill your need for entry-level composite technicians.

Please share your ability to attend this meeting in person or by calling in, designee are also welcome:

January 26, 10:30am
Pinellas Technical College – Clearwater
6100 154th Ave. N., Clearwater 33760
Or Call In to: Toll-Free number: 1-888-670-3525
Participant code: 2330752893

CONTACT:
Mark Hunt
Executive Director
Career, Technical and Adult Education
Pinellas County Schools
301 Fourth Street SW, Largo, Florida 33779-2942
Office (727)588-6006
Cell (813)453-3820
Huntwi@pcsb.org

TechHire program

(Past member) — Tue, 16 Jan 2018 21:17:02 GMT

The Tampa Bay TechHire program will provide FREE IT training to youth and young adults between the ages of 17 and 29.

Some of the different certifications you will have the opportunity to earn once you have successfully completed the program are as follows:
• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Security+
• CompTIA Network+
• Java programming
• USF Innovative Business Technology Boot Camp

Spaces still available for the following classes!
• CompTIA Network+ 1/25/2018
• CompTIA Security+ 1/29/2018
• USF Innovative Business Technology Boot Camp 1/22/2018

If you have interested parties, please send them to http://careersourcetampabay.com/pages/TB_TechHire to complete an online application, or email Gabrielle Howard at howardg@careersourcetampabay.com.

Manufacturing in the U.S. Just Accelerated to Its Best Year Since 2004

(Past member) — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 22:20:10 GMT

U.S. manufacturing expanded in December at the fastest pace in three months, as gains in orders and production capped the strongest year for factories since 2004, the Institute for Supply Management said Wednesday.

Read the article in Bloomberg

Free Webinar on Exporting

(Past member) — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 00:12:16 GMT

FREE WEBINAR
EXPORTING: Getting Started or Expanding into new Markets

Wednesday, Dec. 20
10:30 am

REGISTRATION
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/exporting-get-started-or-expand-into-new-markets-tickets-41058398776

Contact: Sandro Murtas, CICP, CGBP
Regional Export Finance Manager, Central & Northern Florida
Office of International Trade, U.S. Small Business Administration
U.S. Export Assistance Center
13805 58th Street North, Suite 1-200, Clearwater, FL 33760
Tel: 727-464-7177
Mob. 727-365-6939
sandro.murtas@sba.gov

National Conference on Industry Sector Growth Strategies

(Past member) — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 16:41:05 GMT

National Conference on Industry Sector Growth Strategies
December 7-9
Location: Marriott, St. Petersburg/Clearwater

Join other business and community leaders to include Boeing, Gulfstream Aerospace, HCA, Raymond James, and US Representative Virginia Foxx to take part in The Voice of Business: National Conference on Industry Sector Growth Strategies.

Attendees will be able to provide and gain feedback on industry needs, vision for the future of work, talent challenges, and skills required to take their business to the next level. In addition, experts from fast-growing industries will share their insights on current economic position and what its future may hold.

Keynote Speaker: Mark Blyth, Political Economist & Author
[https://www.careersourcetampabay.com/img/public/blyth_mark_web(1).jpg]
Noted author, professor and expert on global politics and economics, Dr. Blyth regularly speaks to diverse global audiences including financial institutions, multi-national corporations, associations, governments and literary festivals. In addition to keynote speeches, he is a sought after moderator and live interviewer for notable figures such as Tony Blair, Gerhard Schroeder, and the ex-Greek Finance Minister, Yanis Varoufakis. Blyth distinguishes himself on the speaking circuit with an ability to break down complex, financial and political issues with clarity and sharp Scottish wit. He predicted the Brexit vote, Trump’s election and Italy’s referendum well before most pundits. Hear him speak about “Politics and Economics in a New Era.”

To register & see the schedule: https://careersourcetampabay.com/pages/conference

Manufacturers needed to take a survey on curriculum

(Past member) — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 16:30:38 GMT

Curriculum Survey

FloridaMakes, Polk State College (PSC), and FLATE (Florida Advanced Technological Education Center of Excellence) are requesting your extremely valuable participation in a short 15 minutes survey designed to define curriculum content of schools preparing competent workforce to meet your demand.

This is pretty straightforward with drop downs, not written responses needed. Simply rate how important each topic is to you, how much and how often does it come into play.

Click here to take the survey

We sincerely appreciate you taking the time to provide us your valuable feedback and will share the results when all the data has been compiled. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our team. Please respond by November 30.

Sincerely,
Mori Toosi, Polk State College, mtoosi@polk.edu, (863) 837-5937
Marilyn Barger, FLATE, mbarger@fl-ate.org, (813) 259-6578
Phil Centonze, FloridaMakes, phil.centonze@floridamakes.com, (954) 648-2642

Business Opportunities in Costa Rica

(Past member) — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 16:13:59 GMT

Business Opportunities in Costa Rica Roadshow

Date: Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Time: 8:00 - 11:00 am
Where: EpiCenter at St. Petersburg College
13805 58th Street N, Room 2-302 Clearwater, FL 33760

From February 26 - March 1, 2018, Enterprise Florida will lead an Export Sales Mission to San Jose, Costa Rica. To learn more about the business opportunities for you in Costa Rica and the mission, you are invited to join us for a briefing on Wednesday, November 8, 2017.

Bilateral trade between the U.S. and Costa Rica totaled $10.2 billion in 2016, and Florida leads all states in two way trade. As Florida’s 12th largest merchandise trading partner in 2016 with nearly $3.6 billion in total trade and nearly $2.5 billion in exports, Costa Rica holds vast opportunities for Florida companies.

Facilitated by the U.S.-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), the U.S. has become the chief trading partner for Costa Rica and exporters benefit from eliminated tariffs and barriers. See what they can mean to your business!

The guest speaker for this event is Mr. Eric Wolff, Regional Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica, and will discuss best export opportunities for Florida companies.

A limited number of one-on-one appointments with Mr. Wolff will be available after the briefing. To reserve a one-on-one appointment, please email Joseph Bell at jbell@enterpriseflorida.com.

Register: Click Here

Cost: Free
Contact: Joseph Bell
Enterprise Florida
813.276.9430
jbell@enterpriseflorida.com;

UAS Remote Pilot Certificate Prep Course begins Nov. 7

(Past member) — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 14:06:23 GMT

Next UAS Remote Pilot Certificate Prep Course Begins on Tuesday, November 7th

UAS Remote Pilot Certificate Prep Course

NOV 7 - DEC 5, 2017

(No class the week of 11/20

due to Thanksgiving)

Tuesdays, 6:00-8:30PM

SPC EPICENTER (ROOM 314)

13805 58TH ST. N.,

ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33760

Register today HERE

Course Details:

This 4-week course is designed to prepare students to pass the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate exam. Topics include:

• UAS Regulations

• Flight operations and restrictions

• Loading and performance

• Emergency procedures

• Crew resource management

• Radio communication procedures

• UAS performance

• Psychological effects of drugs and alcohol

• Aeronautical decision-making and judgement

• Airport operations

• Maintenance and pre-flight inspection procedures

Career and business opportunities with UAS training include entrepreneurship, military UAS pilot, firefighter, disaster relief, search and rescue, law enforcement, oil and gas operations, border patrol, agriculture, package delivery, forestry, engineering, computer science, real estate, film and photography, and other industries.

For more information on UAS (Drone) course offerings, please call Fred Tucker at 727-791-2409.

For information on all other training, please visit SPC’s Workforce Institute page or contact us at (727) 341-4445 or workforce@spcollege.edu .

FREE Webinar on Flexible Hybrid Electronics

(Past member) — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 16:19:07 GMT

FloridaMakes Webinar: Flexible Hybrid Electronics: What it Means for Your Business
Wednesday, November 15
12 p.m. -1 p.m.

Click here to register.

Presenter: C. Andy Helm, Strategic Business Manager, Enterprise Innovation Institute, Georgia Tech.
Flexible Hybrid Electronics: What it Means for Your Business

Manufacturers across the world are already using FHE to increase their manufacturing capabilities. Are you familiar with FHE and what it can do for your business? If not, you should be.

In a nutshell, FHE eliminates many of the barriers associated with traditional rigid electronics and allows for new and exciting applications. Some examples may be process sensors resulting in improved shop floor efficiencies or sensors monitoring environmental conditions throughout transit.

With the emergence of technology within manufacturing the only consistency is change, but change can mean great things for manufacturers, if you allow yourself to be exposed to new ideas and concepts to help grow your business.

The Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP) at Georgia Tech is conducting a free, 50-minute webinar to introduce you to Flexible Hybrid Electronics and to better understand how small to mid-size manufacturers can incorporate this into their plant.

Please register at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/573546333226714625

To learn how FloridaMakes’ services can unlock growth opportunities and cost savings for your company, contact your FloridaMakes’ Business Advisor Amy Lee at Alee@steic.org or at (727) 424-3698 (cell).

FloridaMakes is the official representative of the MEP National Network and NIST MEP in the State of Florida.

####

Hydro-Dyne named Florida Company to Watch

(Past member) — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 13:02:58 GMT

Congratulations to BAMA member, Hydro-Dyne® Engineering for being named one of Grow Florida, Florida Company to Watch Winner for 2017. Hydro-Dyne is a custom engineered manufacturer of mechanical, screening and grit removal equipment for water and waste water treatment.

Read more about their award here.

Operational Excellence: How to Make It Stick

(Past member) — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:25:36 GMT

Two manufacturers share tactics for keeping lean and continuous improvement fresh, growing and top of mind among the workforce.

Read more... http://www.industryweek.com/operations/operational-excellence-how-make-it-stick

Manufacturing Talk Radio

(Past member) — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 13:04:49 GMT

Did you know there is a Manufacturing Talk Radio? Listen live every Tuesday at 1:00 p.m.
Check it out: https://mfgtalkradio.com/

Internship Hiring Event

(Past member) — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 15:12:04 GMT

CareerSource Tampa Bay and CareerSource Pinellas are excited to announce the Internship Hiring Event to be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2017.

Employer set up is from 1-2 pm, Event runs from 2-4 pm
Location: CareerSource Tampa Bay-North Tampa Office
9215 North Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612

This internship targeted hiring event will showcase the brightest and most motivated young talent from local universities and post-secondary institutions to include University of South Florida, St. Petersburg College, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, University of Tampa, Eckerd College, and many more!

Please note, while this event is primarily featuring Internships, it is also available to employers seeking recent grads!

As a valued business partner, we cordially invite you to participate in this Internship Hiring Event. There are no costs associated with participating; however, opportunities are available for Sponsorships for the event. Sponsorships for the event are available for as little as $250! As a contributing sponsor of the event, our staff will work to directly recruit and pre-screen highly qualified Intern candidates for your positions. In addition, your company name and logo will be placed on all media, which may include event flyers, Social Media, Newspaper, and web advertisements.

The deadline for registration is Wednesday, October 4th, 2017.

Space is limited to only 50 employers, so be sure to reserve your booth space now! **Only paid internships are accepted for this event.** Be sure to submit Job Descriptions along with the Registration Form, as the positions will be posted to Employ Florida and Tampa Bay Intern.

Thank you again for your interest in this unique opportunity to promote your company to future business leaders and offering them meaningful ways to develop their workplace competencies.

Please contact Jason at drudingj@careersourcetampabay.com or via phone at 813-397-2088 (Hillsborough), 727-608-2524 (Pinellas).

PLC Training

(Past member) — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 18:27:05 GMT

Registration for the PLC training being offered by St. Pete College is OPEN! The links below will take you to the registration page. Seats are limited and we are expecting the classes to fill so please sign up quickly.

For more information, contact:
Fred Tucker, GCDF Program Coordinator, Information and Innovative Technologies
727.791.2409, tucker.fred@spcollege.edu

Below are the registration links for the two PLC classes.
10/9/17 to 11/5/17, 1-4pm http://bit.ly/2xUlkjI
10/9/17 to 11/5/17, 5-8pm http://bit.ly/2xydRWF

Jabil honored for hiring people with disabilities

(Past member) — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 12:53:37 GMT

Vocational Rehabilitation Celebrates Disability Employment Awareness Month with Event Honoring Businesses Committed to Hiring People with Disabilities

In honor of Disability Employment Awareness Month, Vocational Rehabilitation will recognize five local businesses: FBD Signs, Inc, HSN (Home Shopping Network), Jabil, Mister Car Wash, and Professional Surveys, Inc. (PSI), who are committed to hiring people with disabilities. The event is free and open to the public. Please indicate any special accommodations you may need.

Date: Friday, October 21
Time: 8:30-10:00 a.m.
Location: Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront, 333 1st Street S.

SPECIAL GUESTS: Community leaders who are scheduled to attend, include: Senator Brandes, Senator Latvala, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, Pinellas County Commissioner Pat Gerard, and Master of Ceremonies Jeff Paterson of WFLA.

Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a federal-state program committed to helping people with disabilities become part of America’s workforce. The employer-focused website, https://abilitieswork.employflorida.com/, allows businesses to search at no charge for employees who are ready to go to work, as well as to post available jobs. VR has 90 offices across Florida, and last year helped 5,760 Floridians with significant disabilities find or keep a job. For more information about VR and its services, call (800) 451-4327 or visit http://www.Rehabworks.org.

Vocational Rehabilitation
Sarah Timoti
(850) 245-3280
Sarah.Timoti@vr.fldoe.org
www.rehabworks.org

How one Tampa manufacturer slowed the revolving door of staff turnover

(Past member) — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 12:35:20 GMT

Article in the Tampa Bay Business Journal

Mettler Toledo cut its staff turnover at its Tampa operation from 25 percent to 10 percent in 10 years. Still, workers leaving their jobs remains a major challenge, said Viggo Nielsen, general manager of the local plant, which manufactures food inspection equipment. He suspects that’s true for most manufacturers.

“If we really knew what the cost of turnover is we would be extremely worried and try harder to avoid it,” Nielsen said, during an executive roundtable hosted by the German American Chamber of Commerce of the South-Florida Chapter.

Nielsen said there were four keys to hiring success for Mettler Toledo Tampa.

Read more of the article in the Tampa Bay Business Journal

SBA Opens Business Recovery Centers in Florida

(Past member) — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 15:30:15 GMT

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the opening of Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) to help businesses impacted by Hurricane Irma. SBA representatives at the Centers can provide information about disaster loans, answer questions and assist businesses in completing the SBA application.

The location of the BRC in our area is at The EpiCenter-Pinellas County Economic Development Center, 13805 58th Street North, Clearwater, FL 33760
Hours: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday - Saturday
Closed: Sundays

“The SBA is committed to facilitating economic recovery in this disaster. We want area businesses to have a resource where they can meet individually with SBA representatives and find out how a low-interest disaster loan can help them recover,” said Frank Skaggs, director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East in Atlanta. The SBA offers low-interest, long-term disaster loans for physical damage and working capital. To be considered for this assistance, you need to apply by the deadline.

Additional information on the disaster loan program may be obtained by calling SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Loan applications can be downloaded from www.sba.gov. Completed applications should be returned to a recovery center or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

FEMA Teleregistration: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
SBA Customer Service Center: 1-800-659-2955
Hours:
8 a.m. - 8 p.m. (ET) Monday - Friday
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (ET) Saturday and Sunday

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 9, 2017. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 11, 2018. For more information about the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, visit our website at www.sba.gov/disaster.

AmSkills Roundtable

(Past member) — Wed, 13 Sep 2017 16:06:42 GMT

AmSkills - A New Approach to Workforce Education
How Education is the Key to the Renaissance of U.S. Manufacturing!
Panel Discussion & Cocktail Dinner

Panelists Include:
- Viggo Nielsen, General Manager, Mettler-Toledo Safeline, Inc.
- Kathryn Starkey, Commissioner, Pasco County, District 3 / AmSkills Board Member
- Hubertus Muehlhaeuser, President & CEO, Wellbilt, Inc.
- Gardner Carrick, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, National Association of Manufacturers, Manufacturing Institute

Monday, September 18, 2017
6:30 p.m. Registration & Cocktails
7:00 p.m. AmSkills Presentation
7:20 p.m. Panel Discussion
8:30 p.m. Cocktail Dinner

Location: Oxford Exchange
420 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL 33606

Members: Free of Charge; Non-Members: $40.00
Contact: TMudano@AMSkills.org

2017 Hillsborough Ready Business workshop

(Past member) — Tue, 29 Aug 2017 12:33:23 GMT

July 2017 Veteran Employment Update

(Past member) — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 20:41:59 GMT

An increase in 63,000 manufacturing jobs from July 2016 to July 2017

Project Management classes begin

(Past member) — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 13:55:20 GMT

The Workforce Insitute is coming to Downtown St. Pete with a new weeknight version of the PMP/CAPM Exam Prep Course starting this Monday, July 24th!

3 reasons why you need a Project Management Certification and How to get it.. Read more

Here's what the job outlook is for project managers.. Read more

Reserve your spot today!

Supported by:

13805 58th Street North

Clearwater, Florida 33760

Phone: (727) 341-4445

spcollege.edu/workforceinstitute

ICCC Tampa Bay

(Past member) — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 19:21:16 GMT

Through Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC), business owners receive cost-free executive education focused on business growth and access to capital and one-on-one coaching to help strengthen their companies.

Suggested profile of a small business to recruit for 2017 ICCC-Tampa Bay
• Annual company revenues: $500,000 and above
• Age of business: 2 years or longer

The most important qualification is the readiness of the CEO to participate in a program that will enable him/her to fully explore business growth challenges and develop strategies to enhance leadership skills, engage new business networks & prepare for a much-needed capital infusion

For questions, please contact Hyacinth Vassell at hvassell@icic.org or 617-238-3019

CLICK HERE IF YOU ARE A BUSINESS AND WOULD LIKE TO APPLY TO PARTICIPATE in ICCC Tampa Bay.

Mfg of the Year nominations are open

(Past member) — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 17:19:23 GMT

Nominations are now open for the 2017 MAF Manufacturer/Distributor/Supplier/Logistics
Business of the Year Awards

Anyone or entity can nominate a company in Florida for these awards AND companies may self nominate. July 31, 2017 is the deadline for nominations.

USF Continuing Education

(Past member) — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 15:45:07 GMT

USF Continuing Education Courses - http://www.usf.edu/continuing-education/

07/29/17 - 08/12/17 (3 consecutive Saturdays)

Effective Project Management, the prerequisite course for the Project Management Certificate

This course will deepen your understanding of the basic principles and techniques used in managing projects successfully. You will apply practical tools presented through scenario analysis, role playing, case studies, discussion and other experiential techniques.

The classroom-based course fulfills the educational requirement for the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® examination, and provides fundamental information necessary to begin preparing for PMI certifications. The PMBOK® Guide will be provided.

07/19/17 and 07/20/17
Values Based Leadership

During this course, participants will:

Understand their behaviors and how they impact the ability to lead
Learn how to tap into the strengths to be the best leader possible
Create a better understanding of their organization's foundational communication items and an action plan to be sure they complement each other

07/31/17 and 08/07/17
Building High-Performing Teams

During this course, participants will:

Learn the key elements of effective teams and stages of team development
Develop skills to enhance team cohesion and performance
Learn to foster a culture of creativity and collaboration

USF Continuing Education | 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, LIB608, Tampa, FL 33620-5650

3D Tech Open House

(Past member) — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 14:53:48 GMT

EMS 3D Tech Open House - Tuesday, June 27
New 3D Printing from HP, RIZE, Desktop Metal & more!

Technology advances in 3D printing by HP, RIZE, Desktop Metal and others are igniting a revolution in product development and manufacturing.

When: 10 AM - 3 PM
Where: EMS, Inc., 5803 Breckenridge Pkwy, Ste D, Tampa, FL 33610

Join us Tuesday, June 27th to see demos of these innovative new technologies, and talk directly with representatives from EMS, HP, RIZE, and Desktop Metal. PLUS, pick up a free custom 3D printed fidget spinner.

Register here. https://www.ems-usa.com/ems-3d-tech-open-house-hp-multijet-fusion-rize-more/

The event is free. Sign up today to reserve your free HP 3D printed fidget spinner. Register here. We look forward to showing you the future of prototyping and additive manufacturing.

About EMS
Founded in 2001, EMS Inc. is a leading single source provider of 3D scanning and 3D printing solutions to customers across the automotive, aerospace, military, consumer products, medical, art and entertainment industries. With over 15,000 projects completed in 15 years, EMS specializes in streamlining product development through advanced rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, reverse engineering and inspection solutions. EMS is an authorized reseller of HP, RIZE, 3D Systems, Creaform, SpaceClaim, Wenzel, GeoMagic, Zeiss, Surphaser, API Sensor, Innovmetric, LaserDesign, and SolidWorks.

For more information, contact us at www.ems-usa.com or 822-845-2700.

MacDill Career Fair - July 21

(Past member) — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 20:37:33 GMT

MacDill AFB Career Fair

Friday, July 21, 2017
11:00 AM TO 2:00 PM
JOB SEEKERS & EMPLOYERS - FREE
MEET 70+ EMPLOYERS FROM LOCAL & NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Location: SURF'S EDGE CLUB, 7315 BAYSHORE BLVD, MACDILL AFB, FL 33621
*Open to All Veterans , Active Duty, Guard/Reserve, Family Members That Have Access To Military Installation.
No Endorsement Made or Implied By DoD, USAF and Federal Government

Event Website: www.TransitionCareers.com/events/MacDill
RSVP REQUIRED
MacDill A&FRC POCs:
Mr. Troy Johnson, 813-828-0138, troy.johnson.1@us.af.mil
Mr. Evans Dasque, 813-828-3428, evans.dasque@us.af.mil

Follow-Up Report to 2013 Skills Gap Analysis

(Past member) — Fri, 12 May 2017 16:53:30 GMT

Regional Stakeholders Announce Follow-Up Report to 2013 Study

TAMPA BAY, FL – To evaluate the current local manufacturing environment, CareerSource Tampa Bay in partnership CareerSource Pasco-Hernando, CareerSource Pinellas, Florida High Tech Corridor, Pasco County Economic Development Council, Pinellas County Economic Development, Tampa Bay Partnership, and Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation announced the publication of the 2016 Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce Analysis. The goal of the report was to understand local needs for skilled manufacturing employees and quantify difficult to fill manufacturing skill sets in Tampa Bay.

The first Hillsborough-Pinellas Manufacturing Skills Gap Analysis was conducted in 2013. As a follow up on the progress made to the key findings at that time, the economic and workforce development organizations re-evaluated the industry in 2016. A targeted survey was conducted from June 2016 through September 2016, which included over 450 manufacturing employers in the Tampa Bay area and examined 109 manufacturing skill sets across 16 job type categories and their corresponding experience levels and certifications.

The Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce Analysis was designed to be a comprehensive skill set demand analysis, so that community leaders and educational institutions can develop the qualified workers needed to support local industry. Based on the responses of the employers surveyed and local, state and national employment projection data opportunities in manufacturing are anticipated to continue to grow in the Tampa Bay region.

The full analysis can be viewed at www.tampabaygapanalysis.com.
###

About Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce Analysis
A regional task force of business and economic development partners provided oversight and strategic direction for the Tampa Bay Workforce Analysis. The report was funded by the CareerSource Tampa Bay.
Media Contact: Kimberly Williams
Phone: (813) 397-2085

EXPORT SALES MISSION TO BOGOTA, COLOMBIA

(Past member) — Tue, 09 May 2017 19:58:17 GMT

The Tampa Bay Export Alliance is going to Colombia.
September 27-30, 2017

Colombia is Florida's second largest export market and the fourth largest economy in Latin America making it an excellent market for Tampa Bay exporters.

U.S. exports to Colombia have increased 15 percent since the implementation of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which immediately eliminated import tariffs on 80% of U.S. consumer and industrial products.

Mission will include the U.S. Commercial Service Gold Key program, customized one-on-one meetings with potential customers in Colombia. Grants will be available to qualified companies.

Want to learn more? Attend a complimentary workshop
Special guest: Ms. Norcia Ward-Marin, U.S. Commercial Service Trade Specialist in Bogota, Colombia

Hillsborough Session
June 13, 2017
9:00am - 10:30am
Florida SBDC at USF
1101 Channelside Drive. Suite 200
Tampa, FL 33602
REGISTER NOW

Pinellas Session
June 13, 2017
1:00pm - 2:30pm
Collaborative Labs at EPI Center
13805 58th Street North, Suite 1-200
Clearwater, Florida 33760
REGISTER NOW

Please contact Aly Fernandez, International Business Development Manager for details.
afernandez@tampaedc.com or at (813) 518-2668

Training grants are available

(Past member) — Wed, 03 May 2017 13:58:20 GMT

Come learn about the different training grants available for your organization.

Thursday, May 4th, 2017
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Let us assist your organization to grow, become more proficient, increase customer satisfaction, streamline processes, improve quality, and become more effective and efficient. We will give you the tools that are necessary to meet the challenges of today’s contemporary workplace!

Workforce Institute, EpiCenter
Room 324
13805 58th St. N, Clearwater 33760

Please RSVP to Mariana Leslie at Leslie.Mariana@SPCollege.edu

Goodwill Community Job Fair seeks participants

(Past member) — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 17:51:04 GMT

Community Job Fair, in honor of Goodwill Industries® Week

Wednesday, May 10, 2017
10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Pinellas Technical College – St. Petersburg Campus Main Building, 901 34th Street S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711-2298

They are seeking employers and businesses that are currently looking to fill both part-time and full-time positions with qualified candidates.

Their goal is to provide a career fair that meets the needs of job seekers and the businesses within our community.

Organizations / Recruiters will be able to arrive as early as 8am to set up; Job Seekers who register early will have early access at 9:30am.

More information: www.goodwill-suncoast.org/job-fair

Contact:
Lori Garcia
Employment Specialist
http://www.goodwill-suncoast.org/job-connections
Office: 727-321-7337
Mobile: 727-276-6666
Email: lori.garcia@goodwill-suncoast.com

The most profitable industry in each state...

(Past member) — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 15:12:51 GMT

And it's not tourism in Florida!

Civilian Aircraft, Engines and Parts
2016 Value: $5.4 billion
Florida's massive aerospace industry includes $5.4 billion worth of civilian aircraft, engines and parts exports. The sector represents 10.4 percent of all exports that leave the state. That number has increased steadily from nearly eight percent in 2013.

Read the MSN article here.

How do you know you have an effective Quality Management System?

(Past member) — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 00:04:57 GMT

BAMA announces its next Manufacturers RoundTable Forum
“How do you know you have an effective Quality Management System?”
Thursday, May 18, 5:30 – 8:00 pm
Location: Rusty Pelican, 2425 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa FL 33607

The purpose of this Roundtable event is to examine this critical manufacturing business process – both for companies with mature Quality Management Systems (QMS) as well as manufacturing companies that want to build, expand or overhaul their current system.

Participants will be exposed to QMS fundamentals as well as lessons learned and best practices from BAMA members. Our manufacturing roundtables are designed to be interactive and this event will provide an opportunity to learn from a Quality Management System expert, benchmark with other members and learn ways to help improve the competitiveness of your business.

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) Manufacturers RoundTable Forums focus on areas of interest for area manufacturers and are designed to promote sharing of best practices to its members with a goal of improving our manufacturing business base.

Topics from our previous successful RoundTables were:
• The Value of Pursuing Outside Awards & Recognitions for Your Company
• Visual Management best practices
• Measure what matters: How to establish a Continuous Improvement Program that works
• Developing an effective Lean strategy that works – a collaborative discussion
• How to start and maintain an effective lean program that will deliver results

Moderator for the evening:
J.D. Renner, Quality Assurance Manager, Coating Technology, Inc.

Roundtable Facilitator:
Jim Long – Vice President, Operations and Electronic Manufacturing Services for Sypris Electronics

These Roundtables are offered to facilitate discussion and determine specific focus areas of interest manufacturing members would like more support from BAMA; to provide a forum to discuss and share best practices within manufacturing members; to provide a forum to learn and provide resources to our membership to improve manufacturing competitiveness.

The Manufacturers Roundtable is another example of BAMA’s ongoing efforts to expand the strength of Tampa Bay’s manufacturing base. Manufacturers may register for this event at www.bama-fl.org/event-2162851. Questions may be directed to becky@bama-fl.org.

For more than 50 years, The Bay Area Manufacturers Association has been helping manufactures in Tampa Bay. BAMA’s mission is to support manufacturers and promote economic development in the Tampa Bay Region. BAMA provides a forum to exchange ideas and share best practice information; network with colleagues; and learn about manufacturing related topics through educational programs and tours. BAMA supports STEM programs and offers scholarships to students pursuing manufacturing and STEM education. Manufacturing provides jobs for approximately 60,000 people in approximately 2,500 facilities throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

For more information, please visit our website: www.bama-fl.org.

FLATE's Robotics Open house

(Past member) — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 20:23:12 GMT

To celebrate National Robotics Week (April 8-16) FLATE is hosting a robotics open house at Hillsborough Community College in Brandon. The open house will be on Thursday, April 13 from 3-6 p.m., and will feature a number of activities and stations geared to spark local students’ interest in robotics and STEM education and related career pathways.

Featured activities include: programming a robotic arm and EV3 robots, learning to operate a 3D printer, watching a demo of an electric car, meeting local robotics teams-including a demo of a 6ft humanoid robot, learning about the engineering technology program at HCC and other Florida colleges, meeting local manufacturers- including members from FIRST VISTA, and getting up-close and personal with Jane, FLATE’s humanoid robot. Plus, enter a raffle drawing for a chance to win a FREE week of the FLATE robotics summer camps!

To RSVP for this FREE event, click here, or contact Janice Mukhia, FLATE’s Project and Outreach Manager, at outreach@fl-ate.org.

Call to action - business rent tax

(Past member) — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 19:51:17 GMT

This Wednesday the House will be workshopping their tax package which could potentially reduce the business rent tax for all Florida businesses! MAF has been lobbying this issue and now is the time where we need your support

Send a letter to all your state legislators with one simple form! Our lobbying team will be testifying in support of the reduction and we would like to be ready with as many emails in support of cutting the rent tax as possible.

Let's cut the tax and grow business together!

#CutTaxGrowBiz

TAKE ACTION

Apply now for a Florida Incumbent Worker Training grant

(Past member) — Mon, 27 Mar 2017 14:26:24 GMT

When workers lack needed training and businesses experience skill gaps, the company’s ability to compete, expand, and retain workers can be compromised. Florida’s Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) Program addresses such needs. The IWT Program was created for the purpose of providing grant funding for continuing education and training of incumbent employees at existing Florida businesses.

Incumbent Worker Training grants are available through the State of Florida until July 1. You can find more information here or by clicking the link below.

careersourceflorida.com

Trailblazing Women in STEM

(Past member) — Thu, 23 Mar 2017 20:43:54 GMT

Our country has come a long way in expanding women’s access to roles in science and technology. During National Women’s History Month, with the 2017 theme of “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business,” we recognize trailblazing work being done to bring more women into these fields.

From the US Department of Labor Blog by Joan Harringan-Farrelly / Read the US Dept of Labor article here

What You Need to Know about the New NIST 800-171

(Past member) — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 19:00:52 GMT

Defense and Government Suppliers: What You Need to Know about the New NIST 800-171 Publication
Free Webinar
March 30 - 9-10 AM

If you are a defense / government supplier – or if you are a subcontractor selling to a government supplier – you need to know about the new NIST 800-171 publication, and take steps to assess and comply with the suggested guidelines by the end of 2017.

Free Webinar - Register here

Lightweight Conference & Tour in Central Germany

(Past member) — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 13:41:50 GMT

Here is your opportunity to travel to Germany and attend an event series on lightweight construction in Central Germany in the week of June 11-16, 2017. The program is offered by the Investment and Marketing Group of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.

Participants will have the chance not only to attend but also to potentially speak at the global panel of the lightweight conference of the VDI (Association of German Engineers) and to tour company facilities such as BMW, Porsche, Dow as well as the Fraunhofer Pilot Plant Center for Polymer Synthesis. Additionally, they will have the chance to exchange ideas at different workshops, meet representatives from German lightweight companies and network with peers at various receptions. We would greatly appreciate if you could share the attached flyer with interested companies within your network. We would also like to encourage representatives of Bay Area Manufacturers Association to join the delegation as it is a great opportunity to gain international exposure and to start an exchange with the German business community.

All costs in Germany (ground transportation, event participation, interpretation service, programming, etc.) will be covered by IMG. Participants are responsible for their flight expenses and accommodation costs, as well as conference participation (two-day program offered at a group discount).

For more information, contact:
Sonja Sobota, Consultant, Federal Projects
German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern U.S., Inc.
(404) 586-6802 | ssobota@gaccsouth.com

A Discussion on the Supply Chain Talent Gap, Careers, & Leadership

(Past member) — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 20:54:14 GMT

A Discussion on the Supply Chain Talent Gap, Careers, & Leadership
Held at the SPC Clearwater Campus, Room ES104
St. Pete College, 2465 Drew St, Clearwater, FL 33765

As the demand for supply chain professionals grows, employers need to find increasingly scarce talent to support this increasing demand... Join us in an interactive discussion on bridging the Supply Chain talent gap, capitalizing on career opportunities, and unleashing your leadership potential.

Why Attend?
· Great opportunity for face-to-face time with employers who have hiring advice!
· On-the-spot resume reviews.
· Event is FREE and open to the Public

Get Hired!
An interactive Discussion
Panel members include:
· JJ Jones – V.P. Supply Chain, Monin Gourmet Flavorings
· Tonya Jones – Operations Manager of Logistics, Valpak
· Jane Gevo – 1st V.P., Institute for Supply Chain Mgmt., Florida Gulf Coast Chapter
· Josh Main – V.P. Membership, Council of Supply Chain, Management Professionals, Central Florida Roundtable
· John T. Bittrich (Moderator) – V.P. of Executive Recruiting, Training & Consulting, Meri M. Stockwell LLC

Refreshments will be served. Networking before/after event.
To RSVP, contact LINCS@spcollege.edu

R&D Tax Credit

(Past member) — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 20:12:21 GMT

R&D Tax Credit Application To Open Soon
The Florida Department of Revenue will accept applications for the R&D Tax Credit against the Corporate Income Tax for tax year 2016 starting Monday, March 20, 2017 through Sunday, March 26, 2017, at 11:59 PM. The amount of credits that will be awarded is $9 million total. If applications exceed the cap they will be awarded on a pro-rata basis. Prior to applying through DOR, companies must certify through the Department of Economic Opportunity that they are a qualified targeted industry business. For additional information on how to apply DOR has released a “Tax Information Publication” which can be found by clicking here.

The Future of Supply Chain, Today

(Past member) — Wed, 01 Mar 2017 13:29:25 GMT

Honeywell LIVE: The Future of Supply Chain, Today highlights the latest technology breakthroughs and innovative solutions from Honeywell Safety and Productivity Solutions that will help drive value across supply chain operations. Key Honeywell business leaders discuss new additions to the company’s evolving portfolio that improve safety, productivity and efficiency for manufacturers, distribution centers, logistics firms, retailers and more.

Published on Feb 17, 2017
Watch video

New NIST 800-171 Regulation webinar

(Past member) — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 21:09:27 GMT

Defense and Government Suppliers: What You Need to Know about the New NIST 800-171 Regulation
FloridaMakes Webinar
March 30 - 9 to 10 am

If you are a defense / government supplier – or if you are a subcontractor selling to a government supplier – you need to know about the new NIST 800-171 regulation, and take steps to assess and comply with the regulation by the end of 2017. This new regulation covers the protection of “Controlled Unclassified Information,” defined as information created by the government, or an entity on behalf of the government, that is unclassified, but needs safeguarding.

Sign up for this free March 30 FloridaMakes webinar, designed to provide manufacturers with an overview of what the regulation requires, and what’s needed to develop a plan of action.

Register here by March 29.

Tampa Bay ranks as one of most affordable markets in U.S.

(Past member) — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 12:21:11 GMT

The Tampa Bay area ranks once again as one of the most affordable metros in the United States and the second most affordable market in Florida. With a 2016 Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 91.5, the Tampa market is 8.5 points lower than the national average of 100.

In comparison with the rest of Florida, the Orlando market’s COLI was 94.2, Miami was 111, and Jacksonville was 95.8. The lowest composite score of 90.6 belonged to the Palm Coast-Flagler County area. The Tampa metro came in more affordable than major markets across the United States as well. Atlanta’s composite score was 98.7, Dallas sat at 100.4, and Raleigh was 94.4.

FloridaMakes/ Florida Sterline Mfg Business Excellence Award

(Past member) — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 16:36:20 GMT

Manufacturing Business Excellence Award

(Past member) — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 12:46:41 GMT

There is still time for making nominations to the FloridaMakes/Florida Sterling Manufacturing Business Excellence Award. Please consider recognizing your deserving suppliers, customers, or partners with a nomination for this prestigious award. Please pass along this solicitation to your colleagues. We are accepting nominations through Monday, February 13, 2017.

The nomination process is very simple...just reply and send the following information to me in an email, or use the link at https://www.floridamakes.com/nominator.stml

-Name of the company
-Contact person
-Email address
-(Phone, if available)

That's it...NO nominee write-ups are required. Every Florida manufacturing company is eligible. It is not necessary for the nominee to be a member of any association.

Additional information about the awards process can be found at https://www.floridamakes.com/what-we-do/mbe-award.stml

Awards will be announced at the 25th Annual Governor's Sterling Award Banquet at the conclusion of the Florida Sterling Conference on Friday, June 2, 2017. More information about the Conference and Award Banquet can be found at https://www.floridasterling.com/conferences/annualconference

If you have any questions, contact: Phil Centonze, Lead Judge, FloridaMakes, 954-684-2642, phil.centonze@FloridaMakes.com

Tampa Bay StartUp Week

(Past member) — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 19:05:40 GMT

Tampa Bay Startup Week is a five-day celebration of our community. Last year over 5,000 business and community leaders attended to help bring out the best in local talent.

This event contains over 50 unique sessions teaching attendees about startup and existing business topics from technology to accounting, marketing and public relations, legal topics, beer manufacturing and more.

The best part of Tampa Bay Startup Week is that it is free to attend. They also have 2 very unique opportunities for startups and businesses under 10 years old and they are encouraging startups to apply for approval to set up a table for free at the launch party.

Review the schedule at https://tampabay.startupweek.co/. Need more information? Contact: Ebony Grimsley-Vaz, ebony@abovepromotions.com, (813) 383-1914, ext 1000

USF Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

(Past member) — Fri, 13 Jan 2017 20:50:38 GMT

The USF Lean Six Sigma program will encompass all the necessary requirements for you to obtain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification including training hours, project assessment and the exam.

Program Begins: January 20
Meets Jan.20; Feb.3,4; Mar.3,4,31; Apr.1,21
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Questions?
Call 813-974-5550
Email CE-Inquiries@usf.edu

More Information

Jabil Moves One Step Closer to a 3-D Future

(Past member) — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 16:53:31 GMT

As an HP foundational partner, Jabil Circuit was among the first companies to receive pre-production Jet Fusion 3-D printers earlier this year. Now, they have the real thing and are open for business.

Read the article online at Industry Week.

Local STEM fairs need judges

(Past member) — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 15:49:27 GMT

Currently, we are looking for people who would like to judge for the BAMA special award the upcoming STEM/Science fairs. What this entails is looking at the projects and picking out ones that apply specifically to manufacturing. Those students are then given a cash award and invited to attend our annual dinner in June.

Here is the info on the fairs:
Pinellas County - February 4, 8am-3pm (or until we’ve selected winners) at Seminole Middle School, 8701 - 131st Street North, Seminole, FL 33776
Hillsborough County - February 14, 8am-1pm (or until we’ve selected winners) at Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St. Tampa, FL 33607

If you can take time out of your busy schedule to help, please contact becky@bama-fl.org ASAP.

Argentina Export Trade Mission

(Past member) — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 17:49:41 GMT

Opportunity for Pinellas County companies to find customers in Argentina Export Trade Mission to Buenos Aires, April 23-27

With a population of 41.5 million people and a GDP of approximately $609 billion, Argentina offers excellent opportunities for Pinellas companies. Argentina is Florida's fourth largest export destination with an estimated $3.3 billion worth of exports.

Due to recent changes in political leadership, the country has adopted a pro-business approach, and new legislation allows Argentine importers an easier process to buy foreign goods.
Best export opportunities for local industries include:
• Medical Technologies
• Information and Communications Technology
• Telecommunications Equipment
• Transportation Infrastructure Equipment and Services
• Electronic Security Equipment
• Food Processing Equipment
• Agricultural Machinery and Part

This Enterprise Florida Export Sales Mission, supported by Pinellas County Economic Development, will provide local companies with the U.S. Commercial Service's Gold Key Service (GKS) Matchmaker program of customized one-on-one meetings with potential customers and partners in Argentina.

Click here for the agenda and costs of this Export Trade Mission to Argentina

Reimbursable Gold Key/Matchmaker Grants from Enterprise Florida can assist local manufacturers with a reimbursement to qualified companies of up to $1,000 for a stand-alone Gold Key/Matchmaker service.

Ready to learn more? Contact Brent Barkway at (727) 464-7411 or barkway@pinellascounty.org to discuss this trade mission and opportunities for your company. Visit PCED.org/international for more information.

Tampa Bay Regional Goods Movement

(Past member) — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 14:03:55 GMT

BAMA members are invited to the next Tampa Bay Regional Goods Movement Advisory Committee meeting on Feb. 1.

Their guest speaker for this meeting is Ram Kancharla from Port Tampa Bay who will be presenting Vision 2030, the new Masterplan for Port Tampa Bay (Website link). He will be answering questions you may have and they will be providing an update on other freight initiatives occurring in the Tampa Bay region.

Meeting details are provided below:
Goods Movement Advisory Committee Meeting
February 1, 2017 at 1:30 PM
FDOT District 7 Auditorium
11201 North McKinley Drive
Tampa, Florida 33612

Please RSVP to adouglas@citiesthatwork.com

PH Middle School hosts Lego League tournament

(Past member) — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 12:57:55 GMT

On January 21st, Palm Harbor Middle School will be hosting its first FIRST Lego League tournament. As of right now we will be hosting 26 teams from all over Florida. These tournaments consist of building and programming EV3 Lego robots to go through the robot games, and explaining the engineering and programing behind it. They also have a project to help animals in needs, with creative and innovative solutions.

This event is open to the public, and we invite everyone to come take a look at the fun! Don’t want to be just a spectator? We are in need of volunteers! If you would like to refer or judge at the tournament please visit www.Firstinspires.com and register as a volunteer. If not you can walk up and register.

The tournament starts at 8:00 am with the award ceremony concluding at 4:00 pm. Please contact Diamond Sadlowski at Sadlowskid@pcsb.org, or visit www.firstinpsires.com for more information

Tournament Information:
Saturday, January 21st 2017
8 am to 430 pm
Palm Harbor Middle School
1800 Tampa Rd
Palm Harbor FL, 34683”

St. Pete College CPT class begins in Jan.

(Past member) — Tue, 13 Dec 2016 14:40:56 GMT

Certified Production Technician (MSSC-CPT)

ID : 66911

Provides entry-level training in manufacturing essentials to include employability skills, safety awareness, production and processes, quality assurance, and maintenance awareness. Upon successful completion, students are prepared to sit for the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Production Technician (CPT) certification examination.

Prerequisite:

High school diploma, GED or equivalent and passing scores on the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) or Tests of Adult Basic Education (TABE)
Academic achievement to demonstrate college readiness: examples include college transcripts, Postsecondary Readiness Test (PERT) or Tests of Adult Basic Education (TABE)
Meet Essential Job Functions.

Description:
The CPT Certification addresses the core technical competencies of higher skilled production workers in all sectors of manufacturing. MSSC awards certificates to individuals who pass any of its five Production Modules: Safety; Quality Practices & Measurement; Manufacturing Processes & Production; Maintenance Awareness; Green Production and a full CPT Certification to those who pass all four core modules

Benefits of Certification:

Industry certification provides job candidates with industry-recognized credential (More job opportunities)
You are more marketable to employers as certification eliminates or reduces remedial training costs by providing well prepared workers (potential increased pay scale)
You become skilled in the new ISO standard in certificates companies and are knowledgeable of common practice throughout operations, which prepares you for opportunities beyond the entry-level CPT (Increased subject matter expertise)
This certification allows a student to articulate 15 semester hours into the Engineering Technology program at St. Petersburg College (over a $1600 value to continue your training)

Location:
St. Petersburg College-Oldsmar Training Center
127 State Street West
Oldsmar, FL 34677

Price:

$1,295.00*
*(Includes textbooks, certification exam vouchers, and tuition) *

Dates & Times:

January 24^th through March 2^nd
Tues, Wed, Thurs from 2:00PM to 6:00PM
Additional online assignments are required at home to supplement in-class learning.

Payment Plans

*YOU MUST CONTACT WORKFORCE BY TELEPHONE TO ENROLL IN THE PAYMENT PLAN, (727) 341-4445.*

There are a number of scholarship and grant opportunities based on age, income, and employment status so be sure to ask about opportunities that may apply to your situation. In addition, upon completion of the MSSC-CPT, you may be eligible for a paid apprenticeship as well.

In addition to a one-time payment in-full, the below is a zero interest payment plan option:

Item	Dollar Amount
Down payment to secure seat in the course	$323.75
Payment due by first day of class (Jan 24)	$647.50
Payment due 30 days after class start (Feb 24)	323.75
TOTAL	$1295.00

Information about the Certifying Organization:

The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) is an industry-led training, assessment and certification organization focused on the core technical competencies needed by the nation’s front-line production and material handling workers. The nationwide MSSC certifications, based upon industry-defined and federally-endorsed national standards, offer both entry-level and incumbent workers the opportunity to demonstrate that they have acquired the knowledge and skills increasingly needed in the technology intensive jobs of the 21st century. MSSC applies to all front-line manufacturing production jobs (7 million) and all front-line material handling and distribution jobs (5.4 million). MSSC has developed two nationally portable certifications for this workforce:

“20/20” Vision: MSSC’s vision is to assess 20% of the nation’s front-line manufacturing production and material handling workers in 20 years--3 million workers by 2030. To achieve that goal, MSSC offers industry a new set of tools to ensure that both entering and incumbent workers are flexible, easily trainable, and highly motivated knowledge workers able to keep pace with technological change—the “Industrial Athlete of the Future.”
Call 727-341-4445 to register.
Find more online

The Additive Cyber Risk of Additive Manufacturing: Six Steps Towards Greater Security in the Supply Chain

(Past member) — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 17:20:50 GMT

Free Webinar from IndustryWeek

"The Additive Cyber Risk of Additive Manufacturing: Six Steps Towards Greater Security in the Supply Chain"
DATE: Thursday, January 12, 2016
TIME: 2:00 p.m. EST (GMT -5, New York)
DURATION: One hour
COST: None

Click here to sign up for free webinar and more information.

The digitalization of physical products through additive manufacturing (AM) opens the supply chain to entirely new threats: those of cybersecurity. Join Deloitte experts Kelly Marchese, Supply Chain Strategy & Manufacturing Operations Leader, and Deborah Golden, Federal Advisory Cyber Risk Services leader, January 12 as we discuss the issues facing your company, including:
Reviewing the unique challenges facing various public sector entities globally vs. private sector manufacturers and discuss how policy gaps can be addressed to improve AM cyber-risk.

Illustrating a framework and series of standards that can be used to maintain the Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability of data, networks and systems (the "CIA Triad") to manage these risks.
Discussing potential solutions such as public key encryption; creating traceability through watermarking; using existing technologies to limit printing to authorized, approved objects; development of AM file standards; and protection across the digital thread will be discussed and explored in detail.

Click here to sign up for free webinar and more information.

In partnership with Deloitte

USF Project Management Courses for 2017

(Past member) — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 20:40:02 GMT

Effective Project Management
Wednesday, January 25th until Friday, January 27th, from 8:00am - 5:00pm

Project Risk Management
Friday, February 24 and Saturday, February 25, from 8:30am - 4:30pm

Leading and Influencing Projects
Tuesday, March 7 until Thursday, March 9, from 8:30am - 4:30pm

Effective Business Analysis
Thursday, April 6 and Friday, April 7, from 8:30am - 4:30pm

Monitoring and Controlling Projects
Wednesday, June 7 until Friday, June 9, from 8:30am - 4:30pm

Florida High Tech Corridor Career Expo Set for March 2017

(Past member) — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 14:11:33 GMT

The 4th annual FHTCC Career Expo will take place March 6-8 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. This unique event brings together high tech businesses and K-12 school systems in the Florida High Tech Corridor to meet with career center professionals from UCF, USF, UF and other top universities throughout the nation, plus a number of other state colleges in Florida.

During the three-day event in Orlando, representatives from local companies and K-12 school systems visit with each university and state college to discuss employment opportunities, hiring needs and strategies to attract the best and brightest graduates for high tech work in Florida. This is a great opportunity for your company to meet with over 50 universities and state colleges in one location.

Click HERE for more information and to register.

US Manufacturing Output Rose for a Second Month in October

(Past member) — Thu, 17 Nov 2016 11:25:10 GMT

US Manufacturing Output Rose for a Second Month in October
Output at U.S. manufacturers rose for a second month in October, a sign the industry is gradually recovering from a prolonged period of weakness.

BAMA Member Survey

(Past member) — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 18:23:49 GMT

Results from the survey that BAMA members recently completed can be found here.

Gross Receipts Tax Updated Price Index for Industrial Natural Gas

(Past member) — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 20:11:00 GMT

DOWNLOAD

2016 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED: MANUFACTURERS AND DISTRIBUTORS OF THE YEAR

(Past member) — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 22:08:43 GMT

The best in Florida's manufacturing and distribution industry to be recognized

TALLAHASSEE, FL. - The 13th Annual Manufacturers Summit and Marketplace is being held on November 15-17, 2016 in Gainesville, Florida to acknowledge the progressive achievements in Florida's manufacturing industry. As the climax of the event, the Manufacturers Association of Florida will recognize and honor Florida's top manufacturing and distribution companies.

Throughout late spring, dozens of nominations were accepted for distinguished manufacturers and distributors across the state of Florida. A team of fourteen judges, selected for their intimate knowledge of the industry and track records of successful ventures, evaluated each nominee on leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge management, workforce focus, and operation focus. At the conclusion of the initial evaluation, twelve companies were selected as finalists in four distinct categories.

The finalists chosen by category

Small Manufacturer (1-75 Employees):
Data Graphics, Inc. of Mount Dora
Fracture, Inc. of Gainesville
Trilogy Laboratories, LLC of Fort Myers

Medium Manufacturer (75-200 Employees):
American Elite Molding of Crestview
KRS Global Biotechnology of Boca Raton
UTC - Aerospace Systems Worldwide Repair of Miramar

Large Manufacturer (200+ Employees):
Harris Corporation of Palm Bay
Sikorsky Aircraft Florida Assembly & Flight Operations of Jupiter
Vac-Con, Inc. of Green Cove Springs

Distributor/Logistics/Supplier:
C.H. Robinson North American Surface Transportation of Tampa
City Furniture of Tamarac
Johnson & Johnson Vision Care Consumer & Logistics Services of Jacksonville

"These twelve finalists represent not only the strength and agility of the industry, but an unprecedented level of merit which will drive Florida forward in the coming years. With the advantages and opportunities present in today's market, we are proud of these companies for their leadership and influence within their industries," said Nancy Stephens, Executive Director, Manufacturers Association of Florida. "The MAF membership is anxiously awaiting the annual announcement of winners from this prestigious selection of finalists which truly represents a superior level of professional integrity."

Those companies that are both MAF members and finalists will also be granted MAF's Seal of Excellence for 2016. The annual awards ceremony will take place during the President's Dinner on November 16 in Gainesville, Florida. Event tickets may be purchased at www.MAFMFG.com. ###

Vote for BAMA!

(Past member) — Mon, 24 Oct 2016 18:01:57 GMT

Click here to vote for BAMA in Best Networking Group (question #22) in the Business Journal's Best in the Biz.

MSSC CPT certification

(Past member) — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 19:53:25 GMT

Hillsborough Community College, with support from the Manufacturing Alliance of Hillsborough County, is offering a free program leading to the MSSC CPT certification. The instructor-led course is being held at HCC's Ruskin campus in the southern part of the county, not far from the Manatee county line.

The three-week course starts Oct. 31 and runs during the daytime.

Link to download PDF.

Stories of Story

(Past member) — Wed, 19 Oct 2016 22:36:15 GMT

On Oct. 8, BAMA members got to spend an afternoon with an astronaut when we were the presenting sponsor at an event at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) with Astronaut Story Musgrave, the only person to fly on all five space shuttles.

Story Musgrave is a man with a humorous, fascinating and impressive background. During the afternoon, Musgrave talked about his life, entertaining the audience with tales of his youth, and spoke about the Hubble Missions. His talk was followed by a film on MOSI’s five-story IMAX® screen on the Hubble Missions.

Musgrave was born in 1935 on a dairy farm in Stockbridge, MA. He was in the forests alone at 3 and by 5 floated his homebuilt rafts on the rivers. He rode combines at 5, drove trucks and tractors at 10 and when alone in remote fields, repaired them by 13.

He never finished high school, instead running off to Korea with the U.S. Marines where he was an aircraft electrician and an engine mechanic. He started flying with the Marines and over the next 55 years accumulated 18,000 hours in over 160 aircraft. He is a parachutist with over 800 freefalls.

Although never earning a high school diploma, interesting enough, he went on to obtain seven graduate degrees in math, computers, chemistry, medicine, physiology, literature and psychology. Working as trauma surgeon along with a 30-year astronaut career.

Story was an NASA astronaut for over 30 years and flew on six spaceflights. He performed the first shuttle spacewalk on Challenger's first flight, was a pilot on an astronomy mission, conducted two classified DOD missions, was the lead spacewalker on the Hubble Telescope repair mission and on his last flight, he operated an electronic chip manufacturing satellite on Columbia.

To read more about Story Musgrave, his biography is titled, “The Way of Water.”

MAF Environmental Teleconference on Oct. 20

(Past member) — Fri, 14 Oct 2016 11:59:03 GMT

MAF Environmental Teleconference
Thursday, October 20, 2016
3 – 4 p.m.
Dial in Number 712.775.7000; PIN 317371#
Staffed by Hopping Green & Sams
Moderator: Mike Petrovich, Hopping Green & Sams

For more information, contact nancy@nstephens.com

Who is killing American manufacturing?

(Past member) — Fri, 30 Sep 2016 11:29:31 GMT

Article from Industry Week website - click to read article.
Who is Killing American Manufacturing?
by Leo Gerard, International President, United Steelworkers

St. Pete College on News

(Past member) — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 13:02:29 GMT

St. Pete College featured on ABC News on Sept. 14

Watch the video online.

Intellectual Property Law Update - Teleconference on Oct.6

(Past member) — Mon, 26 Sep 2016 16:02:40 GMT

The National Association of Manufacturers is holding a teleconference on October 6th at 10:00 AM (EDT) about the new federal trade secrets law.
Click for Registration Info

Manufacturing Workforce Analysis Survey

(Past member) — Tue, 13 Sep 2016 20:20:41 GMT

CareerSource Tampa Bay is conducting a Manufacturing Workforce Analysis Survey in partnership with CareerSource Pinellas, Florida High Tech Corridor, Pasco Economic Development Council, Pinellas County Economic Development, Tampa Bay Partnership, and Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation.

The goal of the survey is to understand local needs for skilled manufacturing employees in Tampa Bay. Individual company identities and responses will be kept confidential. Thank you for providing this critical information that will assist us in addressing the gap between the supply and demand for manufacturing workers in the Tampa Bay area. https://www.careersourcetampabay.com/

The survey deadline is this Friday, September 16.

Live 2 Lead Tampa Bay - Oct. 7

(Past member) — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 16:09:11 GMT

Live 2 Lead Tampa Bay
Friday, Oct. 7
Use the promotional code “BAMA2016” when registering for individual admission to receive a $10 discount. Then, $10 will be donated to BAMA Scholarship and STEM fund.

Click here to register

MSSC Certified Production Tech courses begin

(Past member) — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 15:53:33 GMT

Manufacturing Skill Standards Council
Certified Production Technician
Certification Program

This is a 100 percent web-based course consisting of five modules and four assessments for a total of 80 hours (a headset and microphone is required). Upon successful completion of the course, you can earn your MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification. The CPT is a nationally recognized certificate that can be used for employment across all manufacturing sectors.

Consisting of:
- Maintenance
- Awareness
- Quality and Continuous Improvement
- Manufacturing Process and Production

Throughout the training, students take MSSC assessments. After passing each assessment, a Certificate of Recognition from MSSC is provided. When all four key assessments are successfully completed, the MSSC CPT Certification will be awarded and 15 credit hours toward an A.S. in Engineering Technology degree can be used at all state colleges in Florida that offer the A.S. in Engineering Technology degree.

Training starts Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Classes are conducted online Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 - 10 p.m., October 4 through December 13.
Fee: $899* per person
*Includes registration with MSSC, five coursebooks, four assessment codes and facilitation. (No class on Thanksgiving)

For more information and to register, visit SCF.edu/CCDenroll or contact Lee Kotwicki at 941-363-7218, KotwicL@SCF.edu.

Mettler Toledo building new facility in Pasco County

(Past member) — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 12:24:31 GMT

METTLER TOLEDO Announces New Facility to be Built in Pasco County
Company expected to add 185 jobs and invest more than $30 million in the project Lutz, Fla.

(August 23, 2016) — Today. the Pasco Economic Development Council gathered with representatives from Enterprise Florida and Pasco County officials to announce that METTLER TOLEDO will construct a new 250,000-square-foot facility at a site adjacent to the Suncoast Parkway in Lutz, Florida. The new facility, built for the company’s Product Inspection Division, will be home to more than 500 employees, including 185 new positions and 320 retained jobs. More than $30 million in capital will be invested in the region. METTLER TOLEDO’s Product Inspection Division is the global market leader in the field of check-weighing, industrial metal detection, and x-ray inspection systems for the food, pharmaceutical, and packaged consumer goods industries.

“We are very excited to have made the decision to locate our new facility in Pasco County,” said Viggo Nielsen, General Manager of METTLER TOLEDO Safeline. “We wanted a location where our current staff would be able to follow us and where we could pull new team members from a diverse and well educated pool. The support we have been getting from Pasco County, The State of Florida, and Duke Energy has been outstanding."

METTLER TOLEDO cited access to the area’s diverse, experienced labor pool in addition to the location’s easy access to regional infrastructure as prime reasons for choosing the Pasco County site for the new facility. “I have often touted that Pasco County’s strong workforce and affordable cost of doing business makes our community an ideal location for foreign direct investment,” said Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey. “I am delighted that METTLER TOLEDO has found that Pasco County is the best location for their long-term growth.”

Bill Cronin, President/CEO of Pasco Economic Development Council added, “METTLER TOLEDO's relocation is another wonderful testament to the outstanding assets Pasco County has to offer businesses of all sizes across many industries. METTLER TOLEDO will benefit from our strategic location, the outstanding talent in the region, and we are grateful for its investment in Lutz.” The company will ultimately consolidate operations from one other location to the new Lutz facility. Construction is expected to be complete in the fall of 2017.

“This is a very rewarding win for Florida,” said Crystal Sircy, Executive Vice President & COO of Enterprise Florida, Inc. “Not only is METTLER TOLEDO—a global industry leader—bringing more jobs to the state, but this is a great example of the strong economic development partnerships that exist in Florida. The state has a great business story to tell and we have tremendous partners around the state to help us share that story.”

Florida’s advanced manufacturing industries are diverse and include sectors for producing intermediate and finished products ranging from plastics to tortillas to auto parts. In total, Florida is home to more than 19,000 manufacturers employing 331,000 workers. These strong industry assets help manufacturing businesses ramp up fast in Florida.

Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “We’re proud to work together with local, regional and state partners to attract strong job creators like METTLER TOLEDO to Florida. The company’s expansion will support more than 500 Florida families and bolster the state’s growing advanced manufacturing sector.”

Project partners included Enterprise Florida, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, the Pasco Economic Development Council, CareerSource Florida, and Duke Energy. Chris Hart IV, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida, said, “This latest expansion of METTLER TOLEDO is great news for Pasco County and surrounding communities. CareerSource Florida has been proud to support METTLER TOLEDO’s growth through employee skills training, and looks forward to assisting with recruiting, hiring and training needs at the new Pasco facility.”

“Duke Energy was honored to partner with Pasco County and the Pasco Economic Development Council to identify excellent sites and market the communities we serve to businesses in and outside of Florida,” added Alex Glenn, President of Duke Energy. “METTLER TOLEDO's new Pasco location will bring high-level, high wage jobs and capital investment to the area, and our smart grid will provide clean and reliable energy service to the company’s new operations.”

Mettler Toledo is holding a job fair on Sept. 21 at its Tampa facility, 6005 Benjamin Rd., Tampa 33634, from 6-8PM and jobs can also be viewed at www.mt.com/careers.

# # #

About METTLER TOLEDO
METTLER TOLEDO (NYSE:MTD) is a leading global supplier of precision instruments and services. It is the largest provider of weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial and food retailing applications. The Company is also a leading provider of analytical instruments and systems for use in the life science industries, and of process analytics instruments used for in-line measurement in production processes. In addition, METTLER TOLEDO is the largest supplier of in-line inspection systems used in production and packaging for food, pharmaceutical and other industries. www.mt.com.

About Enterprise Florida
Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) is a partnership between Florida’s businesses and government leaders and is the principal economic development organization for Florida. EFI facilitates job growth through recruitment and retention, international trade and exporting, promotion of sporting events, and capital funding programs to assist small and minority businesses. EFI launched “Florida – The Future is Here” to promote the state as the nation’s premier business destination. www.enterpriseflorida.com

About Pasco Economic Development Council
Pasco EDC is the lead economic development organization dedicated to the overall growth and prosperity of Pasco County through the development of a sustainable and diversified economy. Pasco EDC continues to be a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County. www.pascoedc.com

Free Hurricane Preparedness Guidebook for your business

(Past member) — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 13:31:41 GMT

USI Insurance has shared with BAMA members its Risk Management Hurricane Preparedness Guidebook which will help you in your storm-related property conservation efforts.

You can find the guidebook here.

FREE Geometric Detailing & Tolerancing Workshop

(Past member) — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 16:12:20 GMT

EMS is hosting a one day GD&T Workshop at their Tampa office on Wednesday, August 31, 8:30am - 4:00pm. Geometric Detailing & Tolerancing (GD&T) it is a quality control system used in all aspects of manufacturing and inspection.

It will be a full day workshop with GD&T expert Mark Foster and is free to anyone interested in attending. Each participant will receive a certificate of completion for the workshop. In addition, lunch will be provided and there is a give away for a pair of Zeiss binoculars.

We only ask that everyone register so we have enough food and certificates for everyone who attends.

https://www.ems-usa.com/ems-and-zeiss-gdt-workshop/

Focus Group: Working in manufacturing

(Past member) — Wed, 10 Aug 2016 15:53:18 GMT

MacDonald Training Center is an agency that provides job skills training to adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities. They are currently developing a training curriculum to assist individuals in obtaining entry level manufacturing/production jobs within our local community. After researching for similar training programs, and being unable to identify any within the state of Florida, they are collaborating with Hillsborough Community College and University of Tampa to ensure the design will give individuals the skills that are needed to succeed within the industry. Their goal is to become certified, through the Department of Education, in offering a training program that will ensure individuals who have barriers to employment will be ready for the workforce.

The Business Services Team at MacDonald Training Center has been working closely with Sims Recycling and their hiring managers are excited to become a part of another focus group.

MTC would like to extend an invitation to you to participate in the next focus group to get a clearer idea of what training can be put in place for people with disabilities to work in manufacturing. The next focus group is on Thursday, August 25 at 3:00 p.m. at MacDonald Training Center, 5420 West Cypress St., Tampa 33607.

If you cannot make this meeting, perhaps you can extend the invitation to someone else in your company.

If you have any questions or would like to RSVP, please contact Leah Herring at 813-870-1300, x307 or LHerring@macdonaldcenter.org.

How smart are your manufacturing operations?

(Past member) — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 17:19:05 GMT

The Rise of Smart Operations: Reaching New Levels of Operational Excellence
White Paper by UPS

"Lean and Six Sigma (Lean Sigma) continuous improvement discipline has been at the center of operational excellence strategies in the manufacturing industry for decades. The new complexities of manufacturing — serving demanding customers with a rapidly increasing number of products and services — have tested the limits of Lean Sigma. In response, manufacturing firms are looking to technologies that instrument processes (e.g., the Internet of Things) and analyze information (big data/cognitive) in real time to supercharge value chains and create a new approach to operational excellence. This new approach is called smart operations."

Dr. Dean Bartles appointed President of NAMRI/SME

(Past member) — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 15:12:47 GMT

The North American Manufacturing Research Institution of SME (NAMRI/SME), a research and development-based subset of manufacturing nonprofit association SME, installed its 2016-17 board of directors on July 1. Dean Bartles, PhD, FSME, 2016 SME president, chief manufacturing officer and executive director of the Digital Manufacturing & Design Innovation Institute in Chicago, assumed his position as the new board president.

#FLMfgMonth16: Help MAKE FLORIDA #1 Again!

(Past member) — Mon, 11 Jul 2016 13:24:16 GMT

It’s that time of the year when we start focusing our efforts on Manufacturing Day. We invite each of you to join forces with FLATE and its network of statewide partners that include the Bay Area Manufacturers Association to promote and celebrate 2016 Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY)/Month! Last year, FLATE, together with statewide partners, worked cohesively to coordinate and organize industry tours for hundreds of middle and high school students and teachers. This strategic effort enabled students and educators across Florida to visit local manufacturing operations across Florida on Manufacturing Day and throughout the entire month of October. It also placed Florida at the #1 SPOT IN THE NATION for hosting total number of tours and events for the 4th consecutive year!

This year we’re hoping to do even better and we need your continued support and participation to make that a reality. Read how you can participate and be part of this national phenomenon on the FLATE Blog, or visit the “Made in Florida” site http://madeinflorida.org/manufacturing-day, and contact Dr. Marilyn Barger, Executive Director of FLATE at barger@fl-ate.org/813.259.6578 or Contact Becky at BAMA at 727-754-3385 or becky@bama-fl.org.

Deadline for MAF award is soon!

(Past member) — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 19:03:23 GMT

Each year, the Manufacturers Association of Florida (MAF) recognizes the best in the industry with the annual Manufacturer of the Year awards. Recognize your colleagues or your own company for this prestigious award! All Florida manufacturers, distributors, suppliers and logistics companies are eligible to compete and self nominations are welcome!

Nominate Form is Here!

Deadlines:

July 29, 2016 is the deadline for nominations
August 5, 2016 is the deadline for nominated companies to return their company questionnaire (applications)

All nominations, questions and applications should be sent to Jeff Littlejohn, WSource 850.363.9644

Announcing new features
The Distributor category has been expanded to include suppliers and logistics companies.
MAF members who become Finalists will earn the MAF Seal of Excellence!
The seal distinguishes manufacturing companies above others in the industry by showing the receiving company holds a higher standard of excellence.

This year, the awards dinner will be on Wed, November 16 in Gainesville. Finalists are expected to attend. Winners will be announced at the awards dinner and all finalists and judges will be recognized for their achievements.

Target Sector Trade Grants available through Enterprise Florida

(Past member) — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 19:49:44 GMT

Enterprise Florida is offering eligible small and medium-sized manufacturers and professional service providers Target Sector Trade Grants to help Florida companies grow export sales through overseas international trade shows. Target Sector Trade Grants are reimbursable grants that will help offset exhibition booth expenses for trade shows that Enterprise Florida participates in, as well as other approved trade shows in one of Florida's identified target sectors. The grant covers 50% of basic turnkey booth expenses, up to $6,000. For more information, please contact your local Enterprise Florida trade representative or follow this link.

5 Things Supply Chain Managers Need to Know about ISO 9001:2015

(Past member) — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 10:55:16 GMT

ISO 9001 has provided a common basis for communicating and specifying requirements through supply chains for nearly three decades. The standard has evolved from the heavily manufacturing bias in the 1980s and 1990s, to one that delineates requirements to define and control processes for any type of organization.

The future of manufacturing

(Past member) — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 13:46:54 GMT

A couple of news articles that may be of interest:

How to Revitalize US Manufacturing
The importance of selling and what China and the U.S. can learn from each other

Build-A-Drone & Manufacturing Exploration Camp Starts June 13

(Past member) — Tue, 31 May 2016 13:46:04 GMT

The American Manufacturing Skills Initiative (AMskills) is sponsoring a summer program for teens and young adults ages 15 – 24 starting on June 13 through July 1st in Pasco, Hernando and Pinellas Counties. This years program will introduce participants to the a variety of hands-on projects in mechatronics, pneumatics, electronics, CNC Machining and others. The highlight will be assembling a Drone and participating in a Drone Flight Demonstration; Ropes Course and manufacturing tours to PharmaWorks and Pall Aerospace.

A special invitation is offered to all children of manufacturing employees. Your children may have heard what your career is and perhaps they want to follow in your footsteps. The AMskills program gives them the chance to experience your world and help them to open their eyes to a career in manufacturing. There is no fee for the program, however donations are requested. Time is running out to register!

To learn more, call Jady Vargas at 727.301.1282 ext. 103.
Register at http://amskillseventregistration.eventbrite.com/ .

New “I Am a Woman with a Career in Manufacturing” video

(Past member) — Wed, 25 May 2016 18:19:56 GMT

“I Am a Woman with a Career in Manufacturing”
FLATE’s NEW “Women in Manufacturing” Video Explores Gender Equality & Diversity in Manufacturing

FLATE, the Florida-based National Science Foundation Regional Center of Excellence, is announcing the release of its recently produced new video highlighting the role of “Women in Manufacturing.” The video is an extension of FLATE’s role in leading initiatives across Florida that enable and empower women/girls to be excited and engaged in STEM and manufacturing. The “Women in Manufacturing” Video explores a hotly debated, but relevant topic on gender equality and diversity in the manufacturing workforce.

The Video is currently posted on FLATE’s YouTube Channel, and is produced through a collaboration with the Scientific League, a Florida-based multi-media production company that promotes STEM and manufacturing.

The all NEW, Women in Manufacturing Video chronicles the journey of women, from the onset of World War I in 1917, when they entered, or were forced to enter the manufacturing workforce, and transports viewers to the present where women are increasingly a steady part of the manufacturing workforce occupying leadership roles in the global manufacturing marketplace. The Video is a journey in time as it provides a historical perspective on the challenges women have faced, continue to address and/or are beginning to dissipate as more women join the manufacturing workforce changing the status quo and face of the manufacturing industry itself. It even journeys into an imaginary timeline in the future, where in 2050 women could potentially represent 50% of the manufacturing workforce.

The Women in Manufacturing video is a captivating projection of the changing face of the manufacturing workforce. It captures the diverse perspectives of women from a dozen companies across Florida who are currently employed in the manufacturing sector. The video features personal accounts of women, from the factory floor right up to the C suite level, who share their views about their journey/pathway into manufacturing. These women provide first-hand perspectives about their experience not only as engineers, but as technicians and administrators and the richness in the diversity of their individual experiences/successes.

Despite the challenges/set-backs, in the United States, more than three million women have proven that it is possible to face the challenges to become successful in the manufacturing industry. The video showcases how women have succeeded and overcome some of these obstacles through sheer hard-work, competence and perseverance. The Video also highlights the benefits and rewarding aspects of being involved in manufacturing. It sheds light on some of the factors that have motivated women for the last 100 years to be a part of the manufacturing workforce, and how women have found fulfilment in the diversity of skills, knowledge and talent they bring to the workplace.

While women have come a long way, the video drives home a key point that there is still a lot of work to be done in the quest for equality in the workforce. Together we can empower the next generation of young women who represent the “I Am a Woman with a Career in Manufacturing” mantra that could end the gender inequality of women in manufacturing in America. To view the Women in Manufacturing video head on over to FLATE’s YouTube Channel at https://youtu.be/rKW7DslaZAs. Later this summer, stay tuned for the DVD version of the Women in Manufacturing video which will include additional interviews and other goodies. You can also access additional resources on FLATE’s websites www.madeinflorida.org and www.fl-ate.org, or contact Dr. Marilyn Barger at barger@fl-ate.org.

"FLATE is a National Science Foundation Regional Center of Excellence, committed to ensuring Florida has a well prepared workforce for advanced and emerging technologies. Created in 2004, FLATE is one of 42 Advanced Technological Education Centers in the United States funded by the National Science Foundation focused on improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and training to meet the needs of American advanced technology industries. For more information visit www.fl-ate.org.

Free OSHA Silica Training

(Past member) — Wed, 25 May 2016 11:42:42 GMT

In June, through OSHA's cooperative alliances, OSHA and other guest speakers are offering three FREE trainings on the requirements of the new silica standards. The trainings will also cover respiratory protection and instrumentation for monitoring.

June 3, 2016, there will be training on the 1910.1053, the Respirable Crystalline Silica standard for general industry and maritime, at Florida Safety Council in Tampa.

June 10, 2016, there will be training on the 19260.1153, the Respirable Crystalline Silica standard for construction, at the ABC location in Tampa.

June 24, 2016, there will be training on the 1910.1053 and 1926.1153, Respirable Crystalline Silica standards for general industry, and maritime and construction at the United Safety Council in Orlando.

Also, June 27 through July 1, 2016, Region IV is holding their Heat Illness Prevention Stand-down. We ask employers to take some time to talk to their employees to raise their awareness of heat illnesses and their prevention. Through OSHA’s alliance with AGC in Georgia, you may register any event you will be hosting at this link, http://www.agcga.org/web/Safety/2016_Heat_Illness_Safety_Stand_Down.aspx.

As a reminder, June 1, 2016 is the deadline under the revised hazard communication standard for all employers to, as necessary, update any alternative workplace labeling, updated their hazard communication program, and provide any additional employee training for any newly identified physical or health hazards.

Contact: Joan M. Spencer
Compliance Assistance Specialist
U.S. DOL - OSHA
5807 Breckenridge Parkway, Suite A
Tampa, Florida 33619
813-626-1177 x 5185
spencer.joan@dol.gov

Please visit www.osha.gov for additional information or follow us:

Is your facility a "Best Plant"?

(Past member) — Fri, 20 May 2016 13:22:52 GMT

About the IndustryWeek Best Plants Program

Established in 1990, IndustryWeek's annual salute to outstanding North American manufacturing facilities serves two purposes:

To recognize plants that are on the leading edge of efforts to increase competitiveness, enhance customer satisfaction, and create stimulating and rewarding work environments.

To encourage other manufacturing managers and work teams to emulate the honorees by adopting world-class practices, technologies, and improvement strategies.

Read more and complete an application: http://www.industryweek.com/about-industryweek-best-plants-program

HP Unveils 3D Printers Aimed at Shaking Up Manufacturing

(Past member) — Wed, 18 May 2016 14:09:15 GMT

HP Inc., which helped define printing technology for paper, is turning to the industry’s next generation: producing three-dimensional objects.

Click here to read the full Industry Week article.

Nominations are open for MAF Business of the Year

(Past member) — Fri, 06 May 2016 17:55:33 GMT

Nominations are open for MAF Manufacturer/Distributor/Supplier/Logistics Business of the Year Awards for 2016. Anyone or entity can nominate a company in Florida for these awards AND companies may self nominate. Please download these three forms to get more information.

The deadlines are as follows:
• July 29, 2016 is the deadline for nominations
• August 5, 2016 is the deadline for nominated companies to return their company questionnaire (applications)

All nominations, questions and applications should be sent to Jeff Littlejohn, WSource, jml@wsourcegroup.com; 850.363.9644.

There are some new features in the awards program this year.
• The Distributor category has been expanded to suppliers and logistics companies.
• Any company who is, or becomes, an MAF member by July 29, 2016 AND who becomes a finalist in the competition will receive the MAF Seal of Excellence designation. This is a designation the company may use to promote their company and MAF will prominantly display the companies with this designation on the MAF website, along with the Winners of the Year. It is another prestigious designation that will set MAF members who achieve this status apart from other manufacturers in the state. If you have not thought about nominating your company in the past, think about it this year!
• Our new lead judge is Jeff Littlejohn, WSource. His contact information is above.

As always, any RMA member or MAF member is eligible to compete for these awards. This year the awards dinner will be on Wednesday, November 16 in Gainesville, Florida. Finalists are expected to attend. Winners will be announced at the awards dinner and all finalists and judges will be recognized for their achievements.

Scholarships for SkillsUSA students

(Past member) — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 17:42:27 GMT

National Institute for Metalworking Skills and Gene Haas Foundation Announce Scholarships for Young Manufacturing Talent

Program will provide scholarships to high-achieving SkillsUSA students showcasing their skills at the 2016 National Leadership and Skills Conference

NIMS, the precision manufacturing industry’s premier standards and certification body, and the Gene Haas Foundation (GHF), which provides scholarships to schools for students entering technical training programs, are partnering to provide scholarship funds directly to the near-future workforce. The scholarships will be given to select SkillsUSA students, who represent some of the nation’s top young talent in precision machining and metalworking.

The 2016 GHF-NIMS SkillsUSA Scholarship Program will award over $200,000 in scholarship funds to students competing in three manufacturing events at the 52nd annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC) in Louisville, Kentucky June 20-24, 2016. Competitors include high school and college students from all 50 states who have won their state-level competitions in CNC Technician, CNC Milling Specialist and CNC Turning Specialist. Upon their arrival at NLSC, they will be eligible to receive a $1,000 scholarship award recognizing their success. Medalists at each of the three competitions at each level will receive awards in the following amounts: Gold: $4,000; Silver: $3,000; and Bronze: $2,000.

“Recruiting and training a high-quality workforce is critical to sustaining and growing manufacturing in the U.S.,” said Peter Zierhut, vice president, Haas Automation. “Building this workforce begins with providing opportunities for young people to explore careers in manufacturing and gain in-demand, 21st century skills century skills.”

“These students are the future of our industry,” said Jim Wall, executive director, NIMS. “Their skills, experiences, and work ethic will enable our industry to innovate and compete in the global marketplace.”

The GHF-NIMS SkillsUSA Scholarship Program is part of a larger partnership led by GHF and NIMS to help more students prepare for success in precision manufacturing careers by gaining industry-recognized credentials at high schools and colleges. GHF and NIMS have provided more than $1.8 million to schools and students since the program launched in 2014. As a result, more education programs are providing high-quality training and more individuals are gaining the skills and credentials they need for success in the workplace.

About NIMS
NIMS is the developer of quality competency-based skills standards and credentials for jobs in manufacturing and related industries. Through these efforts, NIMS helps build and maintain a globally competitive workforce. www.nimsready.org.

About the Gene Haas Foundation
The Gene Haas Foundation was formed in 1999 to fund the needs of the local community and other deserving charities, at the discretion of its founder, Mr. Gene Haas. On top of the list of priorities of the Gene Haas Foundation is scholarship funding for students to attend colleges that teach machining based skills as well as training for the instructors to teach CNC machining. Additionally GHF supports select manufacturing education programs that inspire and educate young people about careers in manufacturing.

Seven reasons it's great to work in manufacturing

(Past member) — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 16:45:11 GMT

Everyone who works in manufacturing knows that it’s one of the coolest industries to be in right now. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a millennial making an impact, there’s a lot to love about manufacturing. Here are some reasons why.

Contributing To The Economy
The manufacturing industry helps support the global and national economies, as well as individuals and families. In fact, Hytrol reports:
- There are 17.6 million manufacturing jobs across the United States
- For every job held in manufacturing, 2.91 jobs are created in another sector
- Every dollar spent on manufacturing equates to $1.37 contributed to the economy overall
- One in every six jobs in the U.S. is a manufacturing position

Clearly, manufacturing is having a big impact on jobs, livelihoods and the economy. That’s something to be proud of.

Read more of the article by Zachary Smith

Local leaders tout value of investment in manufacturing jobs

(Past member) — Fri, 08 Apr 2016 15:40:23 GMT

TAMPA — The official launch of the Manufacturing Alliance of Hillsborough took place at Tampa Bay Tech High School, one of three high schools that received money last year for new welding equipment. The county commission has appropriated more than $1.3 million over the past two years to furnish industrial equipment for local high schools.

Read more at: www.tbo.com

2016 Robotics summer camps are open for registration

(Past member) — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:53:54 GMT

Five-day hands-on camp with grade-appropriate professional instruction with in-camp support from Florida Advanced Technology Education Center (FLATE)

FLATE's 5-day Summer Robotics Camps use Lego Mindstorm EV3 Robots for high school and middle school students

Web: www.fl-ate.org/projects/camps.html

2016 Summer Camp Information

Dates:
June 20–June 24: Intro EV3 Camp – GIRLS ONLY
June 27–July 1: Intro EV3 Camp – ALL
July 11–July 15: Intermediate* EV3
July 25–July 29: High School Engineering & Tech Camp

Location:
FLATE Robotics Camp
BSSB (Brandon Student Services Bldg 218)
Hillsborough Community College
Brandon Campus
10414 E. Columbus Drive; Tampa, FL 33619

Camp Details:
Monday – Friday / 8:30am – 4pm
Costs: $175 per week for EV3 Camps
$200 per week for High School

For More Information:
Email: camps@fl-ate.org
Phone: (813) 259-6578

Scholarships are available!

For more information go to FLATE website

Training Grants are Available

(Past member) — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 19:47:27 GMT

Come learn about the different training grants available for your organization.

Friday, April 15, 2016
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Let us assist your organization to grow, become more proficient, increase customer satisfaction, streamline processes, improve quality, and become more effective and efficient. We will give you the tools that are necessary to meet the challenges of today’s contemporary workplace!

Workforce Institute, EpiCenter, 13805 58th St. N, Clearwater 33760
Questions? Email: workforce@spcollege.edu

Advanced Solutions Design Software Provides Tampa Bay Area with Business Solutions

(Past member) — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 13:41:05 GMT

Bringing Innovation to Florida
Advanced Solutions, an Autodesk Platinum Partner and Authorized Training Center (ATC), announces regional expansion into the Tampa, Florida market. The expansion will help Advanced Solutions Design Software better serve the needs of its Florida-based customers and support the continued sales and services growth of the company.

Since entering the Florida market in 2012, Advanced Solutions has continued to expand throughout the region. The company has seen continual growth within Florida, contributing to its success and recognition as one of the largest Autodesk Platinum Partners in the world.

Business Development Manager, Sean McAuley will lead Advanced Solutions’ expansion into the Manufacturing industry in Tampa, Florida. Sean is heading up the Advanced Solutions Tampa office, located at 5300 West Cypress Street, Suite 247. He knows companies need the ability to deliver a product faster with less environmental impact, provide interoperability between different design teams, collaborate during the design/production process, and need the accessibility of utilizing the latest technology. By taking the time to understand his client’s manufacturing processes, he will identify issues and challenges specific to their workflows, in order to deliver the optimal business solutions and drive tangible results, achieving more effective products, processes, innovations, and ideas.

For additional information about Advanced Solutions or Tampa-based Business Development Manager, Sean McAuley, visit our website at http://www.AdvancedSolutions.com/design.

About Advanced Solutions Design Software
Advanced Solutions Design Software is an award winning Autodesk Platinum Partner with 2D and 3D design software expertise in architecture, engineering, construction, civil infrastructure and manufacturing. The company has earned Autodesk Specializations in Advanced MEP, Building, Civil Infrastructure, Process & Power, Product Design & Manufacturing, PLM and Simulation, representing its proven ability to consistently deliver advanced customer solutions, consulting, training and support in these areas. In addition to industry focused expertise, Advanced Solutions provides Autodesk authorized value added services such as consulting, product support, training, and certification to its diverse customer base. The company is a member of the Autodesk Developer Network (ADN), bringing further value to customers through certified software customization and business systems integration. Advanced Solutions Design Software helps customers gain a competitive advantage by recommending, implementing and customizing software solutions that lead to increased revenues, reduced operating costs, and improved efficiencies. For additional information about Advanced Solutions Design Software please visit our website at www.AdvancedSolutions.com/design

MANUFACTURERS PRAISE LEGISLATORS FOR PASSAGE OF SALES TAX EXEMPTION

(Past member) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 21:05:18 GMT

The Manufacturers Association of Florida (MAF) applauds the Florida Senate and the House of Representatives on the final passage of the permanent sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment. The measure, which is included in House Bill 7099, was originally sponsored by Senator Dorothy Hukill and Representative MaryLynn Magar.

"The permanent sales tax exemption for manufacturing machinery and equipment will allow business owners to grow their business and enrich Florida's economy," said Nancy Stephens, Executive Director of MAF. "The thousands of dollars in savings from the exemption will be applied to additional equipment, the creation of new jobs, training to upgrade employee skills, or increased benefits for current employees. In 2014, the Florida Legislature passed a temporary sales tax exemption for manufacturing businesses and the results of that effort have proven to make a positive impact on our state. The support of Governor Scott, the Florida Senate and the Florida House of Representatives is a clear message that Florida has great expectations for our manufacturing businesses and their ability to grow Florida's economy."

MAF wishes to thank Governor Scott, President Gardiner, Speaker Crisafulli, President Lee, Speaker Designate Corcoran, Sen. Hukill, Rep. Gaetz, Rep. Ray Rodrigues, and Rep. Magar for the critical roles they all played in passing this cornerstone legislation on manufacturing.

Listing of priority bills and action which took place last week.

(Past member) — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 15:17:06 GMT

Manufacturing Employer Roundtable - Feb. 18

(Past member) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 18:12:18 GMT

CareerEdge Invites you to an Employer Roundtable
Manufacturing and Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
For Manufacturing and Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (TDL) industry employers.

Please join CareerEdge for coffee, refreshments and a robust discussion around what you are experiencing, seeing and most importantly what you need within your organizations and industry.

Thursday, February 18
8:00 – 9:30 AM
St. Petersburg College Epicenter - Collaborative Labs
13805 58th Street N., Clearwater, FL 33760

Join your peers in this opportunity to share your workforce challenges and needs.
Learn about the exciting grants available for your industry:
Eight nationally recognized TDL certifications being offered in partnership with St. Petersburg College.
Funding opportunities to help train your incumbent workers.
Internship program provides up to a $1,500 in reimbursement per intern.

RSVP to Sandy Keeton at skeeton@uwsuncoast.org or 941-328-6974

The State of Manufacturing comes to Tampa

(Past member) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 13:14:06 GMT

National Assoc. of Manufacturing (NAM) comes to Port of Tampa Bay to address the "State of Manufacturing"

Read the article and view speech by NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons

Manufacturing Equipment Sales Tax Exemption

(Past member) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 13:32:56 GMT

HOUSE PROPOSED TAX BILL IS GAME CHANGER FOR MANUFACTURING

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Manufacturers Association of Florida (MAF) applauds the House Finance and Tax Committee for including the permanent sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment, along with a reduction in business rent tax, in the Committee’s proposed tax package.

“The support of the House Finance and Tax Committee on these issues shows Florida’s families and businesses that lawmakers are invested in their success” said Nancy Stephens, Executive Director of MAF. “For the past 12 consecutive months, manufacturing has added 9,200 new jobs in Florida, growing not only the economy, but allowing small businesses to invest back into their community with the creation of new jobs and higher wages. The permanent sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment, along with the reduction in business rent tax, will propel Florida forward to compete for employment, new business creation, and expansion. MAF appreciates the House Finance and Tax Committee for their support of Florida manufacturers, their businesses and their ability to create new jobs.”

The House’s proposed tax package also extends the manufacturing machinery and equipment sales tax exemption to include metal recyclers. “Manufacturing companies use a tremendous amount of metal” added Stephens. “By adding metal recycling machinery to the bill, the Legislature will further reduce manufacturers’ production costs.” The temporary sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment was passed by the Florida Legislature in 2014 and will expire in 2017. We thank Representative Magar for bringing this issue to the attention of the House Committee.

The State of Manufacturing Technology in 2016… and Beyond

(Past member) — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 15:48:54 GMT

As an industry, manufacturing is “hot.” Regions are creating manufacturing initiatives, countries are creating policies to lure manufacturing back and prepare the next generation of talent, maker fairs show entrepreneurs and small-scale artisans how they too can design and manufacture their own products, what manufacturers sell goes well beyond the 100-year-old recipe and the mechanical drawings, and new technologies are changing the economies of scale so that large- and small-scale value chains can be successful.

Article by Kimberly Knickle, research vice president, IDC Manufacturing Insights
Read the article

Apprenticeship USA

(Past member) — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 21:16:05 GMT

The Employment and Training Administration and the Office of Apprenticeship are excited to announce the release of Training and Employment Notice (TEN) 20-15, titled, “ApprenticeshipUSA Information and New Technical Assistance Resources for Starting and Enhancing Registered Apprenticeship Programs”.

This important guidance is a great resource intended to support the expansion of Apprenticeships across the country.

TEN 20-15 / ApprenticeshipUSA Information and New Technical Assistance Resources for Starting and Enhancing Registered Apprenticeship Programs

Within the TEN you’ll find information related to TEN 20-15 / ApprenticeshipUSA Information and New Technical Assistance Resources for Starting and Enhancing Registered Apprenticeship ProgramsThe launch of the ApprenticeshipUSA initiative and the DOL.GOV/Apprenticeship portal at: The release of the ApprenticeshipUSA Toolkit, which can be accessed here: http://www.dol.gov/apprenticeship/toolkit.htm

The release of the Federal Resources Playbook for Registered Apprenticeship, which can be found at: https://www.doleta.gov/oa/federalresources/playbook.pdf

The release of the Pre-Apprenticeship: Pathways for Women into High-Wage Careers, which offers information and resources to help community-based organizations and other workforce intermediaries build and sustain quality pre-apprenticeship programs., and can be accessed here: https://www.doleta.gov/OA/preapp/

Additional resources and outreach materials to support the ApprenticeshipUSA initiative and the American Apprenticeship Grants program.

We encourage you to download TEN 20-15 and share the information widely among your partners. By bringing together many of our recent technical assistance tools into one document, this resource provides a great opportunity to continue informing our partners and stakeholders about the many ways they can help advance Registered Apprenticeship across the U.S. in all industries.

St. Pete College Magazine

(Past member) — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 19:57:18 GMT

This month, SPC launches the first issue of St. Petersburg College Magazine. The purpose of this semi-annual magazine is to assist the college in telling "its story" to internal and external stakeholders. Recipients will include business, educational and community partners; Alumni Association members; FCS presidents; and members of the state legislature, among others.

Each issue will feature updates on college initiatives, as well as feature stories that showcase various areas of SPC, including but not limited to: academic programs, workforce development, active learning, events, special programs and student support services.

Read the SPC Magazine here

SPC Free info sessions this Wednesday, Jan. 6

(Past member) — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 21:30:31 GMT

St. Pete College just announced free info sessions for some courses on this Wednesday, Jan. 6. Feel free to share this info with your staff or attend one yourself. Click Here to Register: http://bit.ly/1Qycgm3

Some of the topics offered:

Introduction to a Manufacturing Career
What is Emotional Intelligence?
Mentorship - How to build a program
Building High Performance Teams
Which collaboration tools work best?
Delivering Effective Presentations
Resume/Linkedin Tips
Office 2016 New Features
Word 2013 Tips and Tricks
Excel 2013 Tips and Tricks
PowerPoint 2013 Tips and Tricks
Adobe Photoshop Tips and Tricks

Manufacturing Day numbers are in!

(Past member) — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 18:20:37 GMT

At the Top of Our Game: Florida Ranks #1 in the Nation for 2015 Manufacturing Day/Month

Official figures for MFG Day/Month for 2015 are out and with that we are tooting our horns. For the third time in a row (past three consecutive years), Florida ranks Number 1 in the NATION for hosting MFG Day tours and events. 2015 was another banner year for Florida, as FLATE and its network of statewide partners worked cohesively to organize and host 238 manufacturing day/month events across Florida. Since the conclusion of 2015 MFG Day/Month, FLATE has been working on compiling statewide data that provides an in-depth snapshot of the tours and events and the impact it had on all participants. Let’s look at some of the impressive stats and figures from 2015 MFG Day/Month which once again placed Florida as the LEADING STATE IN THE NATION to host manufacturing day tours and events.

Read More

New OSHA poster available

(Past member) — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 14:55:46 GMT

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released a new version of the "Job Safety and Health - It's The Law!" poster expanding the lists of employee rights and employer responsibilities, as well as providing additional information about training and injury reporting requirements.

Get the new poster here

The newly designed poster has been updated to include new reporting obligations for employers, who must now report every fatality and every hospitalization, amputation and loss of an eye. It also informs employers of their responsibilities to train all workers in a language and vocabulary they can understand, comply with OSHA standards, and post citations at or near the place of an alleged violation.

The OSHA poster is part of the Complete Compliance Federal poster which combines all SIX mandatory posters from all SIX Federal Agencies in one convenient format, ensuring you are in compliance. All Federal 6-in-1 posters are printed on recycled paper and laminated for extra durability. While previous versions of this notice are still acceptable we strongly recommend that you replace your poster with the most updated version today. All covered employers are required to display the poster in a conspicuous place where workers can see it.

SPC promotes STEM Pathways programs

(Past member) — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 16:27:58 GMT

St. Pete College Announces its 2016 Employers Summit

January 21, 2016
8:30am-10:00am
SPC, Clearwater Campus in room ES-104

Jobs for the Future, www.jff.org, will facilitate the meeting.

MEETING GOALS

Introduce new employer partners to the college’s STEM Pathways programs and to three current students in the pathways
Provide a forum for employers to discuss workforce needs (valued workforce readiness skills, identification of hard to fill positions, hiring trends) to promote stronger employment outcomes
Explore internship opportunities and ways in which employers can strategically engage with the college to produce a more qualified workforce.

Lean Six Sigma courses offered by CareerSource

(Past member) — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 20:45:47 GMT

CareerSource Pinellas and CareerSource Tampa Bay understand the importance for employee training and skill upgrades. Innovation and technological advances are rapidly transforming US manufacturing.

The Lean Six Sigma series of courses are not just “training” your staff but directs them towards projects that provide real measurable returns. Lean and Six Sigma have been utilized in a number of industry including manufacturing, hospitals, financial services, government and the armed services. Staff members using these methods can provide measurable and predictable results.

CareerSource provides the following training classes at locations in St. Petersburg or Tampa and on-site at the employer’s facility (based on a minimum number per course).
• Lean Six Sigma White Belt
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
• Lean Bronze

January Class schedule:
Six Sigma Yellow Belt:Thursday, January 7 and Friday, January 8 (16 hours)
Science Center, St Petersburg
8am-5pm
Price: $750.00 per employee
To facilitate training onsite the class minimum is 5

Six Sigma Green Belt: Monday, January 25 to Tuesday February 2 (56 hours)
Science Center,St Petersburg
8am-5pm
Price: $1995.00 per employee
To facilitate training onsite, the class minimum is 5

Click Here For More Information

Contact: Juditte Dorcy
dorcyj@careersourcetampabay.com, (813) 397-2045
Click Here For a Registration Form

Governor Rick Scott visits Monin in Clearwater

(Past member) — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 20:04:34 GMT

Left to Right: Mike Brewster, Monin; Becky Burton, BAMA; Mike Shaluly, Mastercut Tool; Gov. Rick Scott; Jerry Custin, Upper Tampa Bay Chamber; Dru Wilson, USI Insurance; Rick Concotelli, Lockheed Martin.

Watch a short video of Gov. Scott's visit

Governor Rick Scott made a visit to Monin Gourmet Flavorings on Monday, Nov. 9, to propose $1 billion in tax cuts to grow the manufacturing industry and Florida’s small businesses to further diversify the economy and guard Florida against another economic downturn.

Governor Scott’s $1 billion tax cut package includes:

Permanently Eliminating Income Tax on Manufacturing and Retail Businesses - The elimination of this tax will reduce the cost for businesses in Florida by about $770 million annually, attract more businesses to the state, and diversify Florida’s economy by helping more businesses succeed.
Permanently Eliminating the Tax on Manufacturing Machinery and Equipment - This tax cut is estimated to reduce the tax liability of Florida’s manufacturing businesses by $76.9 million annually beginning in 2017. By permanently eliminating this tax, Florida will be more competitive for manufacturing businesses to start or expand. If no action is taken during the upcoming legislative session, there will be a substantial tax increase on Florida manufacturers.
Cutting the Tax on Commercial Leases - Florida is the only state that has a tax on commercial leases which unfairly targets small businesses. Governor Scott is proposing to reduce the tax on commercial leases by 1 percent in 2017 through the use of both recurring and non-recurring funds. This will save Florida businesses $339 million over the next two fiscal years.
Extending the Sales Tax Exemption on College Textbooks – Governor Scott is proposing to extend the sales tax exemption on the purchase of college textbooks for an additional year. The prices of college textbooks have increased significantly over the years, often exceeding $100 per book. Exempting college textbooks from the state sales tax is expected to save Florida students $46 million.
Saving for Families with Sales Tax Holidays - The budget includes funding for a 10-day back-to-school sales tax holiday and 9-day hurricane preparedness sales tax holiday. These two tax holidays will save Florida families an estimated $72.8 million in the upcoming fiscal year.

Governor Scott said, “By eliminating the tax on business income for Florida manufacturers - big and small, and all Florida retailers, which include many small businesses all across the state, we are putting job creators on the road to success for years to come. I want Florida to be the small business capital of the world. Our state is already home to 500,000 small businesses. The more we can cut taxes – like the one on commercial lease – the more we can grow our small businesses in Florida and further diversify our economy to invest in our future.

“Florida is on a roll. Our businesses have added almost one million new jobs over the last four years, but we have more work to do. We can’t only create jobs when the national economy is good. We must cut taxes and diversify our economy so Florida can grow even when the national economy is bad. Florida must compete with Texas, and diversify our economy to guard against another recession.”

National Apprenticeship Week

(Past member) — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 20:32:52 GMT

National Apprenticeship Week
November 1-7, 2015

National Apprenticeship Week is an opportunity for the national apprenticeship community to tell the story of registered apprenticeships. It is an invitation to businesses and industry, education, career seekers, community-based organizations, students and workers to learn about the real-world advantages of apprenticeships.

The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) as a recipient of a $5 million American Apprenticeship grant. FSCJ is leading the Florida Apprenticeship consortium and will support involvement with St. Petersburg College and Broward College. Together, all colleges will work with businesses and other partners to close the workforce skills gap faced by the Information Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare and Construction/Trades industries across Florida by promoting the growth and expansion of quality and innovative apprenticeship programs over the next five years.

We invite you to visit the website to learn more about the Florida Apprenticeship grant project.

2015 OSHA "It's The Law" poster now Available

(Past member) — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 17:49:19 GMT

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released a new version of the "Job Safety and Health - It's The Law!" poster expanding the lists of employee rights and employer responsibilities, as well as providing additional information about training and injury reporting requirements.

Get the new poster here

The newly designed poster has been updated to include new reporting obligations for employers, who must now report every fatality and every hospitalization, amputation and loss of an eye. It also informs employers of their responsibilities to train all workers in a language and vocabulary they can understand, comply with OSHA standards, and post citations at or near the place of an alleged violation.

The OSHA poster is part of the Complete Compliance Federal poster which combines all SIX mandatory posters from all SIX Federal Agencies in one convenient format, ensuring you are in compliance. All Federal 6-in-1 posters are printed on recycled paper and laminated for extra durability. While previous versions of this notice are still acceptable we strongly recommend that you replace your poster with the most updated version today.

All covered employers are required to display the poster in a conspicuous place where workers can see it.
What Labor Law Posters Are Required by Your State?

2016 Spring Classes To Prepare You For High-Tech Manufacturing Jobs

(Past member) — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 18:35:25 GMT

This series of courses is designed to certify job seekers for jobs in the manufacturing field.

Nationally Recognized Certifications Participants can earn the following:

Certified Production Technician
Manufacturing Technician 1
OSHA 30
NIMS, PMMI, FANUC

Plus earn 15 credit hours towards an AS in Engineering Technology

MSSC-CPT:
Jan. 11 – Feb. 26 (MWR) 5:00p-9:00p
Feb. 1 – Mar. 25 (MWR) 8:00a-12:00p

Manufacturing Technician 1:
Ongoing, online with labs in Clearwater

Mechatronics:
Jan. 11 – Mar. 31 (MWR) TBD

FANUC Robotics:
Feb. 8 – Mar. 4 (TWR) TBD

WHO? Unemployed persons that would like to expand their knowledge while earning nationally recognized certificates and job placement assistance in the manufacturing industry.

www.spcollege.edu/FloridaTrade-SPC
Florida TRADE at St Petersburg College
13805 58th St. N, Clearwater, FL 33760
Contact: Dr. Jill Flansburg, Program Coordinator, Flansburg.Jill@spcollege.edu 727-791-2508

A flyer can be found here

Governor seeks support for continuing sales tax exemption

(Past member) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 16:53:05 GMT

Governor Scott, "Permanently eliminating your tax on equipment will be a top priority for me during the upcoming legislative session. This means this is your last chance to get engaged and tell your Legislators not to raise this tax on the purchase of your equipment." Read his entire letter here.

Looking for manufacturing training/classes?

(Past member) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 18:26:54 GMT

Florida TRADE FREE Information Sessions!
Tue, Oct.27 - 6 p.m.
Tue, Nov.17 - 6 p.m.
Tue, Dec.08 - 6 p.m.
Register now - FLTRADEHCC.com click “Forms”

Find your SPARK

High Tech Training in Advanced Manufacturing
Visit potential employers!!
Upgrade your skills
Increase your marketability
Gain certifications
Earn academic credit

Upcoming courses include:

MSSC - Certified Production Technician
CNC Machining pathway
OSHA 30

Location: Hillsborough Community College, Brandon Campus, BSSB 218, 10414 E. Columbus Drive, Tampa 33619

Florida TRADE @ HCC delivers fast-track training in advanced manufacturing and provides internship & employment placement assistance.

Join us to learn more. Reserve your seat now at www.FLTRADEHCC.com.

Gov. Scott's Quest to Eliminate Florida Manufacturers Business Tax

(Past member) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 16:26:25 GMT

Gov. Rick Scott Discusses 2016 Legislative Priorities at AP Editors Meeting: Eliminate the Business Tax for Florida Manufacturers

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott attended the Associated Press pre-session meeting and announced two major priorities for the upcoming Legislative session. First, a tax cut package that will be larger than the proposed package last year, including the total repeal of the state business tax on every manufacturer in Florida. Second, making major reforms to Florida’s competitive jobs program. Governor Scott’s final, proposed budget will be announced in the coming weeks.

Below are Governor Scott’s remarks as prepared for delivery:
Florida is on a roll – I have to start by bragging. In a little over four years, Florida has created over 940,000 private-sector jobs. With the help and support of my friends in the Legislature: We have cut taxes over 50 times in the last four years and cut $400 million in taxes this year alone. We have invested record amounts for both K-12 and higher education, ensuring that every Florida student has the best opportunity to succeed. We have cut over 3,200 burdensome regulations to make it easier to do business in Florida.

We have been able to make record investments in education, our environment and transportation infrastructure while also maintaining a $1.2 billion surplus…without raising taxes. The average person pays about $1,700 in state taxes in Florida – the lowest in the nation. In the past 12 months, over 100 million people visited our state. We are at a 44-year-low in our crime rate. We are number one for aerospace manufacturing attractiveness. We are the number two state for infrastructure. We are also number two for aerospace and aviation establishments in the U.S. We are indeed on a roll, but we need to keep going to keep growing.

We have to cut taxes to keep growing. I know you all want to hear what we will focus on during the upcoming legislative session, and while we are still working to finalize our budget, I want to highlight two major priorities during my time with you today.

As I mentioned earlier, I am very proud of the work the legislature and my office have done together to turn Florida’s economy around. I am very excited to have heard from President Gardiner and Speaker Crisafulli both of whom share my goal to cut taxes again in the upcoming session. Working together, I know we can give Floridians back more of the hard-earned money they have made by turning our economy around and ensure that Florida continues to out-pace the nation and even take first place in job creation.

First, we will propose a tax cut package that will be larger than the package we proposed last year. One part of our tax package I can discuss today is that we will propose the total repeal of the state business tax on every manufacturer in Florida. This tax cut would be on top of our push to forever end the manufacturing sales tax. If the manufacturing sales tax isn’t repealed this year, there will effectively be a tax increase on manufacturers in our state who are planning to buy multi-million dollar pieces of equipment. Taxing this equipment will kill jobs. It is that simple.

Helping our manufacturing industry succeed is a key way to diversify our economy. Five years ago, our state was in a jobs death spiral. Our economy was in a steep decline and a lot of people talked about how we needed to grow more stable industries to recover. Now it’s time for action. Manufacturing is one of those high-growth industries that are critical to long-term job creation. The more we can cut costs for manufacturers in Florida, the more manufacturing jobs will be created here. It is really that simple. If you don’t want something to grow, tax it. If we want something to grow, we have to cut costs.

I hope 2016 will be the year of the manufacturer in Florida. Working together with the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, I know we can become the most competitive state in the nation for manufacturing companies to invest, expand and succeed.

Finally, we must reform our competitive jobs program. The second priority we will focus on in the 2016 legislative session is making major reforms to our competitive jobs program. The Quick Action Closing Fund that EFI uses to attract competitive projects to Florida over other states is almost bankrupt. It was given very little funding during the last Legislative session and now there is virtually very little money left for Florida counties to use when competing against other places in the country for big job wins.

The current Quick Action Closing fund needs to be reformed, plain and simple. Florida cannot compete with Texas for major headquarters projects if we are running out of cash before the end of every year, or if projects are totally dependent on the scheduling of special committee meetings.

We have listened to concerns that some legislators have about the current system, and consulted with national Site Selectors about what they look for in Florida to advocate for major businesses – like GE – to move to our state. With all of this input, we will propose major reforms to the current Quick Action Closing Fund program before the beginning of the 2016 legislative session.

Those are the two main priorities I wanted to touch on today. I look forward to announcing much more when we roll out our final, proposed budget in a few weeks. ###

Florida TRADE celebrates Manufacturing Month!

(Past member) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 12:54:39 GMT

Florida TRADE at SPC will offer screenings of the Made in Florida movie (27 minutes long) followed by an information session about the short-term manufacturing training available at St. Petersburg College. The Made in Florida movie features manufacturing businesses from all over the state and their modern technical environments! Please plan to attend at one of these locations:
10/21/2015 at 2:00 p.m. / James Weldon Johnson Library (1059 18th Avenue South, St. Pete)
10/27/2015 at 2:00 p.m / Seminole Library (9200 113th Street North, Seminole)

And, please plan to attend the On Your Mark, Get Skills, GO! event to become more familiar with engineering technologies, Florida TRADE, Workforce & Professional Development, LINCS Supply Chain, internship, and employment opportunities.
Monday, Oct. 26
5:30 to 8:00p.m.
ES104, SPC Clearwater campus

St. Petersburg College will participate in another federal Department of Labor grant -- Creating apprenticeships!!
Manufacturing is one of the high tech industries targeted by the Florida Apprenticeship Consortium! The partnerships will combine the efforts of employers, colleges, industry organizations, state and regional Registered Apprenticeship systems, state and regional workforce investment systems, school districts, community nonprofits and state agencies to expand high-quality apprenticeships. Read more about it here!

There are Florida TRADE graduates ready for internships or job openings!
Visit the Employer Portal or contact the Florida TRADE recruiter, Ariel Boone at Boone.Ariel@spcollege.edu or 727 212 9164 for resumes and information
Find out more: Information Sessions - 5pm
Thursday, October 29, 5pm / Midtown, Jamerson 141
Thursday, November 12, 5pm / Seminole, UP176 10am session Tuesday, October 27, 10am / Clearwater, Room ES104

Questions? Contact: Jill Flansburg, Program Coordinator, 727-791-2508
For more Manufacturing Resources, visit the FL-ATE website!

Congressman David Jolly recognizes Manufacturing Month

(Past member) — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 18:54:01 GMT

Manufacturing Day recognized by Hillsborough County

(Past member) — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 22:28:34 GMT

On Wednesday, Oct. 7, several people representing manufacturing, associations, and education came before the Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners and accepted a proclamation declaring October as Manufacturing Month.

Watch the video here

MAF seeks to stop tax increases on mfg machinery and equipment

(Past member) — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 18:24:17 GMT

October 2, 2015
Today, on National Manufacturing Day, the Manufacturers Association of Florida announced they will circulate a pledge to Florida Legislators that is due by December 1, 2015 where members can declare their opposition to raising taxes on Florida manufacturing. In 2013, the Legislature temporarily agreed to eliminate the sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment, from 2014 to 2017. If legislators fail to act to make this exemption permanent, the positive growth seen in manufacturing in the last 15 months could slow significantly. That positive growth is evidence that the “temporary” sales tax exemption is working. Manufacturing generates more economic activity per dollar invested in Florida than any other industry, with a multiplier of $1.43 for every $1 invested.

Nancy Stephens, Executive Director of the Manufacturers Association of Florida said, “Manufacturing jobs are the jobs we need in our state to diversify Florida’s economy. We need to increase exports and produce more goods and that’s exactly what Florida manufacturers do. The more taxes imposed on expensive manufacturing equipment, the harder it is to create jobs. We call on the Florida Legislature to take immediate action to permanently eliminate the sales tax on manufacturing equipment and machinery.”

Florida ranks among the nation’s top 10 states for manufacturing and is home to more than 19,000 manufacturing companies. The state’s 330,000+ manufacturing employees produce a wide variety of goods including communications equipment, aerospace products, batteries, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, boats, food and beverage products and more.

This tax will disproportionately target Florida manufacturers. Most states do not have a sales tax on manufacturing equipment and Florida manufacturers will be put at a competitive disadvantage if this tax is not eliminated permanently.”

For more information on the Manufacturers Association of Florida, visit www.mafmfg.com 1625 Summit Lake Drive, Suite 300, Tallahassee, FL 32317 850.402.2954

Manufacturing Day 2015

(Past member) — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 18:14:06 GMT

See posts and photos from Manufacturing Day student tours here:
www.facebook.com/bamafla

FSCJ Awarded $5 Million Grant by U.S. Department of Labor

(Past member) — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 20:43:33 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) as a recipient of its American Apprenticeship grants program.

FSCJ is leading the Florida Apprenticeship consortium, and will support involvement with St. Petersburg College and Broward College, which will work with businesses and other partners to close the workforce skills gap faced by the Information Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare and Construction/Trades industries across Florida by promoting the growth and expansion of quality and innovative apprenticeship programs over the next five years. A total of 1,000 participants in the state of Florida will be served through this grant program.

“This grant positions FSCJ as a leader in providing proven training opportunities to employers and workers in Florida through the creation of apprenticeship programs,” said Florida State College at Jacksonville President Dr. Cynthia Bioteau. “Aligning apprenticeships to education and job training will promote further learning and career advancement opportunities for our students.” “We are proud to be a partner with Florida State College at Jacksonville, supporting the growth of many in-demand industry sectors, such as information technology, manufacturing and healthcare,” said Broward College President J. David Armstrong, Jr. “With this grant, we will be able to assist in closing the skills gap concerns many of these industries face, while delivering quality education and training so our students are prepared to enter these competitive, well-paying industries.”

“We are honored to partner with Florida State College at Jacksonville and Broward College to expand apprenticeships that will prepare our students for sustainable employment in high demand fields,” said St. Petersburg College President Bill Law. “This collaborative, grassroots initiative also will benefit employers and the economy, by ensuring a deeper pool of highly skilled workers in growing industries.”

Located in strategic areas throughout Florida, the strong and experienced consortium of three state colleges will develop this innovative and lasting public-private partnership involving employers, industry organizations, state and regional Registered Apprenticeship systems, state and regional workforce investment systems, school districts, community nonprofits and state agencies.

Studies have already quantified the long-term financial benefits of this approach to U.S. workers—those who complete an apprenticeship earn an average starting wage of $50,000 and go on to earn an average of $300,000 more over a lifetime than comparable workers. Florida Apprenticeship is a promising model of rewarding and advancing high-performing, entry-level and incumbent employees, including students currently enrolled in related training programs, incumbent workers looking to advance their careers, veterans with related experience, pre-apprentices, unemployed workers and minorities.

The project will also explore articulating apprenticeships as a bridge from associate to bachelor’s degrees. The Department of Labor selected 46 partnerships to receive grant funding, with awards ranging from $2 million to $5 million.

About FSCJ
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) is a public, nonprofit higher education institution that offers more than 150 degree and certificate programs to meet the education and training needs of more than 57,000 students per year.

FLATE Focus - September 2015

(Past member) — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 16:38:43 GMT

Here is the September edition of the FLATE Focus, a publication of FLATE—Florida Advanced Technological Education Center—a National Science Foundation Center of Excellence in manufacturing, supporting high-tech manufacturing/manufacturing-related careers and technical education in Florida.

If you have any questions, comments, and/or suggestions, please email us at news@fl-ate.org, or sound off across our social networking platforms on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter @Made_InFlorida using the official hastag of the month: #MFGday15

In pdf form: FLATE Focus-september2015.pdf

October 2 is Manufacturing Day

(Past member) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 14:22:28 GMT

Friday, October 2 is Manufacturing Day, not only around Florida but around the Nation. Middle and High School students will tour manufacturing facilities during the month of October to learn what careers are possible in manufacturing and to see what is actually made locally. If your plant or facility would like to participate, please email becky@bama-fl.org to find out more!

DOT, Education, and Labor Release Joint Transportation Jobs Report

(Past member) — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 22:11:37 GMT

DOT, Education, and Labor Release Joint Transportation Jobs Report
SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT) AUG 25, 2015

The U.S. Departments of Transportation, Education, and Labor on Aug. 24 released a joint report entitled “Strengthening Skills Training and Career Pathways across the Transportation Industry.” The report details the future growth areas or employment “hot spots” in transportation by industry subsectors, occupations, career areas, and geographic areas. It also identifies good-paying, high-demand transportation jobs and analyzes the patterns in the education and work experience required for entry, including on-the-job training requirements for new entrants to gain full competency.

“Careers in the transportation industry can lift Americans into the middle class or help them stay there, and this report concludes that there will be more job opportunities in the near future,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx. “We want to fill all these new positions, so industry and government must increase recruitment and help young people get the skills, training, and apprenticeships they need to gain entry into these careers.”

The report indicates that employers will need to hire and train a total of 4.6 million new workers – 1.2 times the current transportation workforce – due to expected growth, retirements, and turnover in the transportation industry from 2012 to 2022. Projections suggest that 417,000 of these positions will be created as a direct result to increased demand on our transportation systems. The highest percentage of these jobs will be in transit and ground passenger transportation and these new openings will be concentrated in the West Coast, the Gulf Coast, the upper Mid-Atlantic, several Mountain States, and the Midwest.

Much of the regional transportation job growth is driven by growth in the large metropolitan areas within those regions – the highest number of job openings in transportation will likely be generated in New York City, Dallas, Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago. In addition, these jobs will pay relatively well. Thirteen out of the top 20 highest demand transportation jobs pay above the median wage, sometimes substantially.

"Ensuring that America continues to lead the way in the global economy means not only investing in the physical infrastructure that allows us to move goods and keep up with global demand, but also the skills infrastructure to support this growing workforce,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. “Through smart investments in apprenticeships and other work-based training programs, transportation jobs are helping millions of Americans punch their tickets to the middle class."

While demand for transportation workers will vary by region, subsector, and occupation, these workforce changes will result in increased job opportunities for skilled and semi-skilled workers across the transportation sector. For every future job opening in central services or construction in the transportation industry, there will be an estimated two jobs in maintenance and 21 in operations. The recruitment and training of new and current workers responsible for the operation, maintenance, and construction of America’s transportation infrastructure will be critical to maintaining a system that meets our economic and security needs in the 21st century global economy.

But the report also highlights a significant skills gap in the demand for and supply of high skilled workers; it indicates that projected annual job openings are 68 percent larger than the number of students who are completing related educational programs annually across selected transportation occupational groups. One solution is an increase in Career and Technical Education programs of study. Such programs begin in high school and continue into postsecondary education or apprenticeship and provide the foundational and early occupational skills training needed in skilled occupations. Pre-apprenticeship programs for disadvantaged youth and adults can prepare low-skilled and underrepresented populations for entry into these skilled positions. Furthermore, Career Pathways systems that are aligned with Registered Apprenticeship programs can expand the number of people who can access these high-demand jobs.

“In today’s society, it is important that all of our students are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills to compete in a global economy,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “There are incredible opportunities for Americans in the transportation industry and the Department is fully committed to working with leaders in the industry to promote partnerships between education and workforce institutions in order to support training programs that will help our country succeed.”

What's New in 3D Printing?

(Past member) — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 16:58:11 GMT

3D Pills?

The FDA has previously approved medical devices - including prosthetics - that have been 3D printed. The new drug, dubbed Spritam, was developed by Aprecia Pharmaceuticals to control seizures brought on by epilepsy. The company said that it planned to develop other medications using its 3D platform.
Read more:
FDA Approves First Pill Made by 3D Printing - Web MD

The Hype Behind Printable Pills - Manufacturing Net (video)

FDA’s approval of first 3-D-printed pill opens up endless possibilities for personalized medicine - Washington Post

Trade Mission to Canada

(Past member) — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 14:45:41 GMT

Three key reasons to join the Tampa Bay Export Alliance's Oct. Trade Mission to Canada

If you're considering new international markets for your business, our neighbor to the north warrants a closer look. That's why the Tampa Bay Export Alliance (TBEA) is hosting a trade mission to Toronto, Canada on October 19-22.

Here are three compelling reasons Tampa Bay businesses should consider this opportunity:
1. Canada has been ranked the best country in the G20 for business, and the most tax competitive country in the G7.
2. The U.S.-Canada trade relationship is the largest in the world. Canada is also the #1 export destination for goods and services from Tampa Bay, and the top export sectors include aerospace, information technology, manufacturing, automotive, and film and digital media.
3. TBEA is offering Canada mission participants access to a Gold Key Package designed to save busy executives time and money and maximize business opportunities over the course of a few jam-packed days.

Gold Key appointments are filling fast, and detailed information about the mission can be found at www.tampabayexportalliance.com, or phone Brent Barkway at (727) 464-7411.

County Commission and Hillsborough Community College Partner to Grow Manufacturing Workforce

(Past member) — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 16:31:58 GMT

Hillsborough County, Fla. (July 16, 2015) – In support of the Hillsborough County Manufacturing Academy initiative, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners approved a partnership with Hillsborough Community College (HCC) July 15 to enhance workforce training for manufacturing careers. The County’s $322,000 investment will provide two years of programming enrichment and $80,000 in new and upgraded equipment for functional training.

Under the agreement, HCC will provide training and resources to prepare high school students and graduates, post-secondary school students and graduates, and residents for careers in manufacturing. This includes programs that lead to industry certifications, career-focused summer camps, introducing veterans to manufacturing career opportunities, fast track manufacturing training, outreach activities, aligning curriculum with industry standards to facilitate accelerated degrees, and paid internship opportunities.

Earlier this year, Hillsborough County approved a $325,000 agreement with the Hillsborough County School Board to enhance manufacturing skills training for students participating in specialized programs at Armwood, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Middleton, and Tampa Bay Tech high schools, and Brewster Technical College. The Economic Development Department is collaborating with partners to identify additional ways the County can help increase awareness of production-type jobs, improve the readiness of job candidates, and advance career placement opportunities, with an emphasis on the engagement of women, minorities, and veterans.

About the Hillsborough County Manufacturing Academy Initiative
The Hillsborough County Manufacturing Academy initiative is coordinated by the Hillsborough County Economic Development Department to strengthen the pipeline of local employable manufacturing talent. The initiative uses a hands-on approach to leverage the expertise, network, and resources of several workforce partner agencies, including Hillsborough County Schools, Hillsborough Community College, the University of South Florida, CareerSource Tampa Bay, private sector manufacturers, Upper Tampa Bay Manufacturers Association, Bay Area Manufacturers Association, Florida Medical Manufacturers Consortium, and the National Tool and Machining Association.
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Young women in manufacturing education (video)

(Past member) — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 17:00:59 GMT

View this video about girls succeeding in Machining Technologies program at Atlantic Technical College. ATC supports the growing network of women in Manufacturing.

Grant money available for employee training

(Past member) — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 14:13:07 GMT

There is grant money available to manufacturers, but you must be quick because it goes fast.

OJT - On the Job Training

EWT - Employed Worker Training

Employer Tax Credits

Jabil COO shares (Video)

(Past member) — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 13:51:26 GMT

Video interview with Bill Muir, chief operating officer at Jabil.

Why Manufacturers Need Millennials

(Past member) — Fri, 26 Jun 2015 13:50:29 GMT

There has been a great deal of attention paid to the skills gap facing American manufacturers. The gap needs to be addressed before we can develop the engineers and technicians of the future. A study from The National Defense Industrial Association reported that between 5th and 12th grade, 74 percent of the children do not have access to or interest in STEM the coursework they need to thrive in today’s advanced manufacturing environment.

Read more here:
http://www.inthehopper.org/?navItemNumber=7878&utm_content=16596002&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin

Manufacturing jobs reappear in Tampa Bay region

(Past member) — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 14:00:59 GMT

The increasing number of jobs tell the story: Florida and the Tampa Bay area are experiencing a resurgence in manufacturing jobs. The resurgence, which appears to be mostly concentrated in smaller, high-tech or “niche” companies, is occurring after years of gradual but steady decline in manufacturing, made worse by a crash during the latest recession.

Now with more than 333,000 manufacturing jobs across Florida, more than 61,000 just in the Tampa Bay region and growing companies hiring again, you can actually see the industry's comeback on the high-tech factory floors of local manufacturers.

You can see the comeback at Southern Manufacturing Technologies situated in a small industrial park just off the Veterans Expressway in northwest Hillsborough County. There you’ll see lathes operated by computers and workers using microscopes in fabricating ultra-precise valves, actuators and other parts for jet and rocket engines.

You can also see it at the headquarters of Heat Pipe Technology off Orient Road, a company that was founded in 1983 with a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop an innovation that makes air conditioning systems more efficient and keeps satellites safe from the broiling heat and deep cold of space.

And it’s also in the headquarters of Creative Sign Designs off Racetrack Road, where workers design and fabricate one-of-a-kind exterior and interior signs, including the unique “sign” on the new Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg – actually the artist’s signature recessed into a section of the building’s exterior concrete wall.

Read more: http://www.83degreesmedia.com/features/manufacturing061615.aspx

Trade measure supports Florida manufacturing

(Past member) — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 15:53:12 GMT

If Florida were a country, its $800 billion economy would make it the 19th largest economy in the world. Our state is poised to play a huge role in the global marketplace. In order to grow that economy, businesses need to be able to compete fairly around the world. Manufacturers need the support of U.S. negotiators to secure strong trade agreements in the world's biggest markets. Trade Promotion Authority is necessary to create the environment for such negotiations.

TPA is the key to increasing markets for Florida manufactured goods. It gives our leaders, both the president and Congress, the ability to negotiate trade deals in a timely manner. Contrary to rhetoric that has come from loud factions in both parties lately, TPA will not lead to manufacturing jobs being shipped overseas. It is a legislative mechanism to ensure that we can negotiate and finalize trade deals to increase our exports and even attract new manufacturers to the United States. That means more — not fewer — manufacturing jobs for Floridians.

Florida businesses exported more than $58 billion in goods last year alone. Along with those billions of dollars in exports, international trade supports over 2 million jobs in Florida.

More than 18,000 manufacturers in our state employ more than 317,000 workers. TPA is an essential legislative tool for helping the United States lead in trade negotiations and secure deals that will increase Florida's exports and bring even more manufacturing jobs to the state.

Trade Promotion Authority had strong bipartisan support in the Senate with Sens. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., and Marco Rubio, R-Fla., voting for passage. Our senators should be commended for their bipartisanship in support of Florida manufacturing. Now the U.S. House needs to follow their lead and support Florida manufacturers by voting for TPA.

Nancy Stephens, executive director, Manufacturers Association of Florida, Tallahassee

International Town Hall

(Past member) — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 15:56:10 GMT

The Tampa Bay Export Alliance recently hosted the second annual International Town Hall at the Hilton Carillon in St. Petersburg. More than 300 business representatives and partners attended the conference designed to increase the Tampa Bay region's understanding of how to engage in international trade.

A partnership between Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation and Pinellas County Economic Development, the Alliance's synergy stems from the cooperative efforts to promote the region as a whole.

For more information visit http://tampabayexportalliance.com

Recruiting Girls for STEM Pathways Webinar

(Past member) — Tue, 19 May 2015 17:46:17 GMT

Recruiting Girls for STEM Pathways Webinar 05/27/2015
There are numerous strategy resources and success stories which work for recruiting girls to STEM programs, yet overall recruitment numbers for girls in STEM subjects and careers still lag behind the interest and enrollment boys show for STEM programs.

This webinar looks at “what works” from the unique perspective of teachers in the field at progressive levels of education: Elementary, Middle, High School, and College programs and outcomes.

Register online here!
For more information contact: boyette@fl-ate.org

BAMA Newsletter

(Past member) — Wed, 13 May 2015 14:24:55 GMT

Here is the latest newsletter, BAMA Briefing

Evening CNC Classes

(Past member) — Wed, 13 May 2015 14:06:28 GMT

Pinellas Technical College in Clearwater has announced that they now have an evening CNC Basic Class beginning June 1. This training can take a machinist with little or no knowledge of running a CNC Machine and educate them to not only run the machines but program them, as well. They start by teaching students the basic language of G and M codes; students then take the basic code and learn how to put it into lines of information to form a program. From there, they learn to write programs for the CNC mills and CNC lathes.

For more experienced individuals, Pinellas Technical College offers classes in Master Cam that are self-tutorial so a student can move at their own pace.

The CNC Basic Classes are Monday and Wednesdays from 5-9 PM.
First term runs June 1 - July 27; Second term runs Sept. 2 - Oct. 28.

For more information, contact Richard McConnaughey at 727-538-7161 x2062 (Mon or Wed from 6-9PM) or email McConnaugheyR@pcsb.org.

CHEERS to Monin Gourmet Flavorings

(Past member) — Tue, 12 May 2015 14:30:30 GMT

Marnie Schmidt LLC recently partnered with Monin Gourmet Flavorings and would like to recognize them as their newest “Waste Warrior”. A multinational company, Monin identified “information sharing” as key to the success of their business, as well as their superior quality system, which is SQF (Safe Quality Foods) certified. According to SQFI (Safe Quality Foods Institute), “SQF certification assures buyers and customers that food has been produced, processed and handled according to the highest standards.”

To read more...

http://marnieschmidt.com/cheers-to-monin-gourmet-flavorings/

An invitation from FLATE

(Past member) — Mon, 11 May 2015 16:32:33 GMT

The Florida Advanced Technological Education Center (FLATE), a National Science Foundation Center of Excellence in high-technology manufacturing, has extended an invitation to any manufacturer who would like to have lunch with a group of educators during their Advanced Manufacturing Careers Institute. The lunch is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, at Hillsborough Community College, BSSB 206-208; 10414 E Columbus Dr., Tampa 33619.

Please contact Dr. Marilyn Barger at mbarger@hccfl.edu if you would like to attend.

Tampa Bay's Top 100 Workplaces

(Past member) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 12:54:06 GMT

Congratulations to several member companies listed in the Tampa Bay Times list of Tampa Bay's Top 100 Workplaces Those that made it in the small company list:
13. Monin Gourmet Flavorings
17. Bouchard Insurance
23. Gregory, Sharer & Stuart
27. DITEK Corp
37. Tampa Bay Steel Corp.
48. CBIZ

America’s Advanced Industries

(Past member) — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 19:56:49 GMT

Brookings Advanced Industries Project
What They Are, Where They Are and Why They Matter

Read the full report here.

At a critical moment, this report asserts the special importance to America’s future of what the paper calls America’s “advanced industries” sector. the need for economic renewal in the United States remains urgent. years of disappointing job growth and stagnant incomes for the majority of workers have left the nation shaken and frustrated. at the same time, astonishing new technologies—ranging from advanced robotics and “3-D printing” to the “digitization of everything” are provoking genuine excitement even as they make it hard to see where things are going.

Characterized by its deep involvement with technology research and development (r&d) and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) workers, the sector encompasses 50 industries ranging from manufacturing industries such as auto making and aerospace to energy industries such as oil and gas extraction to high-tech services such as computer software and computer system design, including for health applications.

These industries encompass the nation’s “tech” sector at its broadest and most consequential. their dynamism is going to be a central component of any future revitalized U.S. economy. as such, these industries encompass the country’s best shot at supporting innovative, inclusive, and sustainable growth. For that reason, this report provides a wide-angle overview of the advanced industry sector that reviews its role in American prosperity, assesses key trends, and maps its metropolitan and global competitive standing before outlining high-level strategies to enhance that.

Middleton High School Receives National STEM Certification

(Past member) — Mon, 30 Mar 2015 15:20:09 GMT

Middleton High School has been honored with the distinction of being named the first public high school in Florida and one of just nine schools in the nation to be certified as a STEM school.

The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Certification is an endorsement of the commitment by faculty and staff at Middleton High School to STEM education through things like; problem-based learning, research and development of products, and students taking ownership of their education.

This is the pilot year of the AdvancED STEM Certifications and is only offered to highly effective institutions that prioritize STEM education as a path to success. Staff at Middleton High School exceeded the requirements to be considered a strong STEM model for the rest of the nation.

Parents can be confident that students in Middleton High School’s STEM program are getting a cutting-edge education in some of the fastest growing fields and preparing students with relevant skills to succeed in the real world.

Through strong community partners, students at Middleton High School maintain a connection to the workforce whether they are planning on going to college or straight to a career after high school.

Why should you hire a Florida TRADE student?

(Past member) — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 12:19:07 GMT

Finding productive and well trained employees can be a challenge. Find out why hiring a Florida TRADE student is The Smart Choice! The Florida TRADE program has students with the skills you need and the training that applies directly to the jobs that you have available. Are you ready to enhance your current workforce and have insider access to the state's best trained future employees? Contact Florida TRADE today!

Watch a video on why you should hire a Florida TRADE graduate!

www.FLTRADE.org

Manufacturing Trends to Watch in 2015

(Past member) — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:03:14 GMT

Manufacturing Leadership Council offers its predictions for the year ahead.
Click here to read the article.

LessonsSkills and innovation strategies to strengthen manufacturing: Lessons from Germany

(Past member) — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 14:08:14 GMT

Faced with stagnating wages for most Americans, business, civic, and political leaders across the United States are rediscovering manufacturing as a source of good jobs and lasting economic growth.

In an era of unrivaled global competition, however, revitalizing the U.S. manufacturing sector will require a renewed commitment to public-private-civic partnerships that deliver on the key driver of industrial competitiveness: a highly trained workforce that can use technology to translate basic and applied research and development (R&D) to large-scale commercial innovations.

Read the full report here.

Florida Manufacturing News

(Past member) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 14:44:53 GMT

Florida Legislative Session Begins on March 3
The Florida Legislature will convene on Tuesday, March 3 officially and the Legislative Session will end on May 1, 2015. To date, MAF has 159 bills on its Watch List. Looking ahead, in 2016 the Florida Legislative Session will begin in January (for your planning purposes).

Legislative Manufacturing Summit Held Last Week State Senator Latvala (Clearwater) and Rep. Peters (St. Petersburg) hosted a manufacturing summit at St. Petersburg College on February 25 to inform manufacturers about upcoming legislative issues and solicit their feedback on any issues of concern to them. Nancy Stephens (MAF) moderated the event and the St. Petersburg Collaborative Labs directed the discussion.

Thank you to so many of you who went out of your way to participate in this important event: Mosaic, AECOM, MRMA, BAMA, UTBMA, HeatPipe, Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Metal Essence, Pharmaworks, MSCA, FloridaMakes, S4J Manufacturing, QTM, ConMed Linvatec, Florida TRADE Consortium members, CareerSource Florida and everyone else I missed! Thanks also to Dick Peck, QTM, for speaking at the event on the manufacturing sales tax exemption for machinery and equipment.

The complete results of the event will be available very soon, but in the interim the topics that got the most attention were: a) permanent sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment; b) eliminating the sales tax on commercial leases and rents; and c) apprenticeships. As a result of the meeting, we have a sponsor for the FloridaMakes funding in the House, Senator Latvala is filing a bill to start the conversation on the commercial leases and rents, and he will support apprenticeship appropriations. Also, on March 20 the Tampa Bay Business Journal will be printing proceeds from the meeting in their Manufacturing section, as they had a transcriber there.

Manufacturing Skills Gaps
The Manufacturing Institute, in cooperation with Deloitte, has released two new parallel studies: The skills gap in U.S. manufacturing: 2015 and beyond (http://tinyurl.com/k5fqy7c) and Overwhelming Support: U.S. public opinions on the manufacturing industry (http://tinyurl.com/mmf23ac).

This research says that over the next decade nearly 3.5 million manufacturing jobs will need to be filled in the U.S. As a result of the skills gap, 2 million of those jobs will go unfilled. The big picture has not changed: gaps are being created by baby-boomer retirements and a negative perception of the industry among younger generations that do not see manufacturing as a career destination.

At the same time an overwhelming majority of Americans surveyed believe manufacturing is crucial to the country’s economic prosperity, standard of living and national security. Manufacturers reported that six of every 10 skilled production openings they have are unfilled today due to the talent shortage. Manufacturers can no longer afford to wait for an educated and trained next-generation workforce; they need to do more to develop their talent pool.

We are proud to report that MAF and the MAF Center are taking this matter into their own hands. It is slow going but we are making progress on many fronts. Thank you for your support for these organizations and their work!

TRADE College Activities
• To view students with manufacturing skills available for jobs or internships now, visit http://www.fltrade.org/student-internships.
• March 5, 7:30 – 8:30 a.m., manufacturing employers are invited to attend a breakfast meeting to learn more about Florida TRADE at St. Pete College. This event for manufacturers is designed to share stories of successes working with students on manufacturing careers. Contact BAMA or register at http://www.bama-fl.org/event-1852145.
• April 3 is the last day for TRADE RMAs to submit TRADE quarterly reports online to DropBox. Questions? Contact nancy@nstephens.com.
• April 22 is the official day for the Florida Manufacturing Career Fair to place TRADE students and others in manufacturing jobs. Employers should contact their regional CareerSource board to register for the event.

2015 STEP Ahead Award Honorees and Emerging Leaders
The Manufacturing Institute in Washington, D.C. will be honoring 130 women in manufacturing who have had great success and are proven leaders in the industry on March 26. Women represent 50% of the U.S. workforce, however they represent only 25% of the manufacturing workforce. To see the awardees, visit http://tinyurl.com/my5wnob.

Shout Out
We want to thank PCS Phosphate and Duke Energy for their generous contributions to the MAF Center student scholarship award program. Schools will be competing for recognition of their manufacturing or STEM program best practices and wining schools will be announced on June 4 at the Florida STEM TRADE Manufacturing Summit in Orlando. The winning schools will earn scholarships for students in, or going into, manufacturing programs. The student recipients from 2014 had some great testimonies on how much it meant to them. If you would like to make a contribution to the student scholarship fund, contact becky@nstephens.com.

Short Notes
• Bill Johnson, formerly with the Port of Miami, officially takes the helm at Enterprise Florida from Gray Swoope on March 2. His email is billjohnson@eflorida.com. Gray Swoope has opened an economic development business, Vision First Advisors in Tallahassee, FL and his new contact information is gray.swoope@VisionFirstAdvisors.com, 850. 558.6910, He is President and CEO of the company.
• According to the National Association of Manufacturers, complying with the more conservative end of the EPA’s proposed ozone standard would cost $1.1 trillion. MAF is writing a comment letter to EPA to meet the March 17 deadline.
• Chemical manufacturers are using advanced analytics to improve their operations and cross-unit collaboration. In one example of data modeling, a chemical firm found ways to increase earnings by 55%. The company identified 600 factors and developed a mathematical model to reduce problems at the plant (American Chemistry Council).
• The U.S. Department of Commerce reports that exports from Florida reached $58.6 billion last year, helping set a record in the U.S. with $2.35 trillion in goods and services exports. Florida’s exports helped support about 275,000 jobs. Computer and electronic products led Florida’s exports with $14 billion, followed by transportation equipment with $8.7 billion and chemicals with $7.2 billion.
• Florida is #3 among the top 10 states with the most telecommuting jobs, with 5.1 percent of the state's population working from home, according to a new analysis by FlexJobs. Arizona is the top state with home workers, with other states being Texas, New York, Illinois, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Georgia, California, New Jersey and Arizona.
• The state has released the 2015 Tax Handbook that shows all the sources of taxes for Florida. Visit http://tinyurl.com/mt582um.

NIST Announces New Center to Support Florida Manufacturers

(Past member) — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 18:48:25 GMT

The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), will fund a new center in Florida dedicated to helping the state’s small and medium-size manufacturers innovate and grow.

The Manufacturers Association of Florida Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence (CAME) will operate the new center, called FloridaMakes, to offer manufacturers services that will help them develop new products and customers, expand into new markets, adopt new technologies and more. The center will join MEP’s national network of 60 centers and more than 1,200 technical experts who help manufacturers solve their challenges and identify opportunities for growth.

MAF News

(Past member) — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 17:32:45 GMT

Manufacturing Association of Florida News
Articles of Interest:
MAF Center Awarded $3.5 Million for Manufacturing Training Programs
MAF Summit in South Florida This Year
Florida Manufacturing Career Fair
MAF Invited to Join Southern Regional Manufacturing Consortium
Investing in Manufacturing Communities Grant Opportunity
STEM School Competition
Governor’s Proposed 2015-2016 Budget ($76.98 billion)

Why Manufacturing Still Counts in the USA

(Past member) — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 15:26:17 GMT

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employers in manufacturing, mind and construction pay an average of $36.37 an hour in wages and benefits, compared with $31.46 paid by stores, restaurants and other service companies.

Read more in these two articles from the Wall Street Journal.
Why Manufacturing Still Counts in the US Economy
Companies Tiptoe Back to 'Made in the USA'

Friendly Robots: The Future Of Advanced Manufacturing

(Past member) — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 12:53:02 GMT

“Rethink Robotics is paving the way for a new era of manufacturing in which robots work safely with humans and help companies to improve their production."
Read the article from Manufacturing News

Looking for an intern?

(Past member) — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 18:16:16 GMT

There are Florida TRADE graduates ready for internships or job openings!

Visit the Employer Portal or contact the Florida TRADE recruiter, Ariel Boone at 727 212 9164 for resumes and information

Manufacturing Days at the Capitol

(Past member) — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 17:49:43 GMT

February 3-4, 2015 are the dates in Tallahassee! Come to town prepared to learn about the hot topics for manufacturers for 2015, mix and mingle with state policymakers, and visit legislators at the Capitol with us. Registration is now open at www.mafmfg.com. Hotels fill up fast so make your hotel reservations at the hotel of your choice! Our room block at the aloft Hotel closed on January 11.

FLATE Focus newsletter

(Past member) — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 16:31:12 GMT

FLATE Focus for 2015, a publication of FLATE—Florida Advanced Technological Education Center—a National Science Foundation Center of Excellence in manufacturing, supporting high-tech manufacturing/manufacturing-related careers and technical education in Florida.

Click here to read the newsletter.

Partnership puts at-risk teens to work in manufacturing

(Past member) — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 17:38:18 GMT

Innovative programs, such as this one in a Georgia high school, blend class work and job skills for at-risk students by employing them -- with pay -- at the warehouse of Southwire, a local company. WXIA-TV, Atlanta

Scholarship application is now online

(Past member) — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 16:17:51 GMT

The BAMA Scholarship for students pursing a career in manufacturing can be found on BAMA website on the Scholarship page. Information is also available on the scholarships given through the Pinellas and Hillsborough Education Foundations. We welcome students to apply! The flyer on our scholarships can be found here.

Tampa Bay turns out huge support for Manufacturing Day 2014

(Past member) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 14:58:13 GMT

Manufacturing Month 2014

Here is a link to BAMA photos and proclamations

Operation Success program for US Veterans begins at HCC

(Past member) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 12:26:00 GMT

Hillsborough Community College begins a new program, Operation Success, in January targeted to veterans and military in transition.

In less time than it takes to get a job, people can earn the Engineering Technology Support Specialist Certificate; Nationally recognized Certified Production Technician credential from Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC); OSHA 30 General Industry certification; and an Auto CAD certification.

If you are interested in hiring military, this program can supply you with dedicated and knowledgeable veterans to help your business grow. Need more information? Contact Miguel Garcia, Florida Trade Grant, Hillsborough Community College at (813)259-6560 or mgarcia147@hccfl.edu.

You can find more information on Operation Success here.

Middleton High School selected for SME Manufacturing Education Program

(Past member) — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 11:58:38 GMT

SME Education Foundation PRIME Initiative selects six new high schools for its Manufacturing Education Program

The SME Education Foundation’s Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education (PRIME) initiative is pleased to announce it has selected six new high schools to participate in its program. PRIME creates connections between manufacturing high school students, educators and the industry to grow and train the next-generation workforce — all while driving interest and awareness in manufacturing.

One of those high schools selected is Middleton High School in Tampa.
To read more, please follow this link.

Converting Non-Recycled Plastics into Oil

(Past member) — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 14:54:22 GMT

On October 8 the American Chemistry Council released a report that wide-scale deployment of emerging technology that converts used, non-recycled plastics into oil could generate up to $9 billion in annual U.S. economic output and create upwards of 40,000 domestic jobs. The report, Economic Impact of Plastics-to-Oil Facilities in the United States, assessed the rapidly developing pyrolysis technology and found that the U.S. could support as many as 600 of these facilities nationwide which could yield $2.1 billion in annual payroll and create up to $6.6 billion in capital investment.

Earlier this year in a separate study at Columbia University, engineers found that converting non-recycled plastics into oil could generate 6 billion gallons of gasoline, enough to fuel nearly 9 million cars per year.

To view the report, go to: http://plastics.americanchemistry.com/Stand-Alone-Content/Economic-Impact-of-Plastics-to-Oil-Facilities.pdf.

Florida Leads the Nation in Number of Industry Tours for National Manufacturing Day

(Past member) — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:44:26 GMT

2014 National Manufacturing Day in Florida has kicked off to a great start. This year, as in last, FLATE in conjunction with regional manufacturers associations, industry and educational partners across Florida took Manufacturing Day in Florida by storm. FLATE’s Manufacturing Day outreach strategy, before, during and after the event, enabled statewide participation. This strategy not only helped build in-roads for communities across Florida to create sustainable partnerships and outreach between Regional Manufacturers Associations, School Districts and manufacturers, but enabled regional manufacturing teams to independently organize tours, proclamations, and sponsorship for official manufacturing day t-shirts.

Read the rest of the story: http://flate-mif.blogspot.com/

Hillsborough County issues Florida Manufacturing Day Proclamation

(Past member) — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 15:56:19 GMT

Hillsborough County Commissioners issued a Manufacturing Day Proclamation on Oct. 2, 2014.

City of Clearwater issues Manufacturing Day Proclamation

(Past member) — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 15:36:24 GMT

Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos presents BAMA Director, Becky Burton, with a Florida Manufacturing Day proclamation at the City Commission meeting, Oct. 2, 2014.

CNBC Interview on National Manufacturing Day

(Past member) — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 13:19:47 GMT

Jay Timmons, National Assoc. of Manufacturers; and Doug Oberhelman from Catepillar discuss the economy on CNBC.

Pinellas County Proclamation of Oct. 3 as Manufacturing Day!

(Past member) — Fri, 26 Sep 2014 17:36:00 GMT

Pinellas County Board of Commissioners Proclaims Friday, Oct. 3, 2014,
as Manufacturing Day in Pinellas County!

In attendance for the Proclamation on Sept. 23 were (left to right) Jill Flansburg, Dennis Stotts,
Dave Stailey, Commissioner Karen Seel, Ann Paxton, Becky Burton and Danielly Orozco.

How It’s Made

(Past member) — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 14:41:44 GMT

Starting Monday, September 29, The Science Channel will air more than 200 favorite episodes of "How It’s Made" and “How It’s Made: Dream Cars,” culminating in new episodes of the series at 10 PM ET/PT on Friday, October 3 — Manufacturing Day!

Governor Scott issues Manufacturing Month Proclamation

(Past member) — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 12:25:32 GMT

Governor Scott recently issued a proclamation whereas the month of October 2014 is recognized as Manufacturing Month in the state of Florida.
Read the proclamation here.

The Future of Manufacturing - white paper

(Past member) — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 16:53:38 GMT

Manufacturing is back. Governments, media and manufacturers themselves are changing their minds about the industry, with a renewed awareness of the role it can play in achieving a strong economy. With a better business outlook expected in 2014, the manufacturing industry is undergoing a renaissance. To harness the momentum created by the manufacturing renaissance, manufacturers will need to transform today's challenges in to opportunities. It won't be an easy task, and manufacturers will need to completely rethink their business model, organizational structure and IT landscape.

Read the entire white paper here.

Free OSHA online training for BAMA manufaturing members

(Past member) — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 13:17:19 GMT

Florida TRADE at SPC is now offering the OSHA 30 online training at no charge for manufacturing association members.
The OSHA 30-hour General Industry Training course is a comprehensive safety program designed for anyone involved in general industry. Specifically devised for safety directors, foremen and field supervisors; the program provides complete information on OSHA compliance issues.
Find out more information!

Friday, October 3 is National Manufacturing Day

(Past member) — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 14:44:36 GMT

As in the past, the Pinellas County Board of Commissioners will be issuing a proclamation declaring October 3 as Manufacturing Day. This year, we have the opportunity to be given the proclamation by the Board of Commissioners at one of their board meetings on September 23rd at 2 PM.

In conjunction with National Manufacturing Day, manufacturers across Pinellas and Hillsborough counties will be conducting tours with local middle and high schools to educate them on the types of careers available in manufacturing. The tours give the students the opportunity to see that not all manufacturing jobs are blue collar and that STEM education is vital to economic development in manufacturing in the United States. Approximately, 20 or more schools and plants will participate. Manufacturing provides jobs for approximately 30,317 citizens in 1,297 manufacturing facilities in Pinellas County; 24,651 jobs in 1,114 facilities in Hillsborough County; and 4,694 jobs in 423 facilities in Pasco and Hernando counties.

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association supports manufacturers and promotes economic development through manufacturing in the Tampa Bay Region. BAMA provides an environment that allows our members an opportunity to reach out into the community. BAMA provides a forum to exchange ideas or share “best practice” information; network with colleagues; learn about manufacturing related topics through our educational programs and tours; and supports Scholarship and STEM programs.

Survey says, STEM degrees pay more!

(Past member) — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 20:43:28 GMT

When it comes to income after college, earning a STEM degree benefits more than the college you attended. This finding, according to a survey of graduates in 2008, states that those graduates from private universities earn about the same as those from public colleges. What did matter was the degree.

Read more here

107,500-square-foot facility one of the largest North American manufacturing facilities in the water and wastewater industries

(Past member) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 15:07:52 GMT

Hydro-Dyne® Engineering, Inc., one of the world’s leading manufacturers of custom-engineered screening and grit removal equipment for water and wastewater facilities, is pleased to announce that it has completed its closing on the purchase of a more than 100,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. Located in the Tampa Bay area, the new facility will dramatically expand Hydro-Dyne’s manufacturing, service, research and design capacity.

"We are thrilled and excited to have Hydro-Dyne expand their business in Pinellas Park. Pinellas is a business-friendly county and our community is very supportive of a dedicated workforce that will insure their growth and success," said Sandra Bradbury, Mayor of Pinellas Park.

The impressive 107,500-square-foot facility is the second largest industrial real estate transaction in Pinellas County year-to-date and is centrally located in the Tampa Bay area to take advantage of the region’s strong workforce and access to a broad intermodal logistics network. Hydro-Dyne’s global markets include customers in North America, Europe, Australia, South America, Africa and Asia.

“We have been fortunate to outpace industry growth year-over-year for more than a decade, which is a testament to the quality of both our people and our products” said Jay Conroy, President of Hydro-Dyne Engineering. “When fully built-out, our new facility will reflect the quality of our company and will meet and exceed operational capacity to keep us perfectly-positioned well into the future.”

As part of the company’s long-term managed growth, the purchase of the new facility is the latest move in the company’s investment in people, technology, equipment and capability. Hydro-Dyne has increased its employee base by more than 70 percent during the past 12 months and plans to hire a number of new employees company-wide in the next 12 to 24 months in departments including engineering, production, sales, marketing and information technology, among others. Capital investments totaling more than $1 million will also be made in manufacturing equipment, computer systems and building renovations.

“Though we’ve grown exponentially during the past several years, we have been very deliberate in the management of that growth,” said Christy Walsh, Vice President of Hydro-Dyne Engineering. “Sustainability is a factor considered at every turn. Our investments in people, plant and technology will maintain and improve our global market position of providing the highest quality equipment to the water and wastewater industries.”

Working with Pinellas County Economic Development, Hydro-Dyne will utilize an Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB) to finance a portion of the property acquisition. The company plans to use the remaining proceeds from the sale of the Bond to finance renovations to the facility to meet growing demand for Hydro-Dyne’s products and services.

“We’re very pleased that Hydro-Dyne chose Pinellas County for this significant corporate expansion,” said Mike Meidel, Director of Pinellas County Economic Development. “Helping our existing companies to grow and create new jobs is part of our core mission, and the Industrial Revenue Bond financing program can provide tax-exempt financing to eligible industrial projects. Combined with Pinellas’ strong workforce, it makes our community the ideal climate for manufacturing.”

Hydro-Dyne has built its reputation on providing the highest quality products for the water and wastewater industries, which drive value for the customer through lower lifecycle costs and superior service. This new facility will continue to improve the company’s industry standing by providing a markedly larger, world-class facility for all of its services under one roof, including research, engineering, design, manufacturing, testing, sales and service.

Hydro-Dyne will begin building renovations immediately and anticipates relocation of operations by Q3 2014 while maintaining uninterrupted service to its customers.

About Hydro-Dyne Engineering, Inc.
Hydro-Dyne® Engineering, Inc. is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of custom-engineered screening and grit removal equipment for municipal and industrial water and wastewater facilities. Hydro-Dyne’s continuous product innovation, commitment to quality, excellence in engineering, customer service and product value are at the center of the company’s core values. Hydro-Dyne’s all stainless steel equipment is well suited for the protection of water and wastewater treatment plants with individual machine flow capacity ranging from 100 gallons-per-minute to more than 150 million gallons-per-day.

TRADE and LOGISTICS Challenge Grant Training Program

(Past member) — Mon, 28 Jul 2014 21:02:34 GMT

If your business activities are directly or indirectly related to exports, Challenge Grant funds are available. Most companies involved in the manufacturing, distribution or transportation of exported goods or services, or related supply chains, are eligible to participate.
You'll find more information here

BAMA Member Awards

(Past member) — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 18:27:18 GMT

This year, at the Annual Awards Dinner on June 19, BAMA recognized some of its own; those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to contribute to BAMA success.

Those honored were:
- Rick Concotelli, Lockheed Martin-Aeronautics / BAMA Distinguished Service Award
- Grant Peterson, Ogletree Deakins, P.A. / Honorary Life Member
- Jabil Circuit / BAMA Member of the Year
- Andrea Pagliuca, Constellation Technology Corp / Emerging Leader
- Janell Weaver, Kelly Services / Associate of the Year

Honorable mentions were presented to: Chris Donnelly, Beth Ross, Dennis Stotts, Kathryn Forbes, Marilyn Barger and Becky Burton.

Annual Meeting Wrap Up

(Past member) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 15:03:44 GMT

If you missed our annual event, you missed a lot.
Here's a recap

We were honored to have Jesse Panuccio, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity in attendance. Director Panuccio spoke about the growing Florida economy and commended BAMA on its work with STEM education. Director Panuccio said, "BAMA's focus on supporting students who are interested in the STEM industries will encourage Florida's future workforce to succeed in these high-demand, high-paying sectors. It was an honor to join local manufacturing business leaders, parents, and students at the Annual STEM Scholarship Presentation. I was impressed with the skill set and talent the students displayed and am thankful for BAMA's support of this great program."

STEM Fair winners were honored and their projects were highlighted at the event. Winners were:
Pinellas County
- Samantha Eck / Project: How Could You Improve a Piezoelectric Device
- Sydney Opyrchal / Flight or Light

Hillsborough County
- Colton Copple, Carrollwood Elementary / Troubled Water
- Kevin Avaiya, Lincoln Elementary / Working Together to Make Water Better
- Anabela Ebsworth, Nativity Catholic / Measuring If Refurbished and Ink Cartridges Print the Same Amount of Paper
- Huzefa Johar, Williams High School / Solarized
- Vignesh Bhethanabotla, King High School / Synthesis of Silver Nanocubes for Biosenor and Photocatalytic Applications
- Sophie Wright, Progress Village / "Catching Fire" Does the Price of a Roofing Shingle Affect the Temperature at Which it will Burn?

Reelection of BAMA Board of Directors was voted on and new Board members announced: Dennis Stotts, Jim Long and Dennis Piotrowski. Stotts is an Environmental Attorney with Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A. and will serve as the new STEM chairman. Long is the Vice President of Operations at Sypris Electronics and will be setting up a series of round-table discussions centering on manufacturing. Piotrowski is the Vice President of Quality at BELAC, LLC. Cliff Csulik was reelected as President and Rick Concotelli was elected as Vice President.

This year, BAMA recognized some of its own; those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to contribute to BAMA success. Those honored were:
- Rick Concotelli, Lockheed Martin-Aeronautics / BAMA Distinguished Service Award
- Grant Peterson, Ogletree Deakins, P.A. / Honorary Life Member
- Jabil Circuit / BAMA Member of the Year
- Andrea Pagliuca, Constellation Technology Corp / Emerging Leader
- Janell Weaver, Kelly Services / Associate of the Year

Honorable mentions were presented to: Chris Donnelly, Beth Ross, Dennis Stotts, Kathryn Forbes, Marilyn Barger and Becky Burton.

Tampa’s Middleton High School robotics also offered a demonstration at the event. BAMA financially supports robotic camps and robotic clubs in the community.

A video highlighting the event and a BAMA year-end recap can be found on the BAMA website at www.bama-fl.org.

BAMA has progressed and grown a lot this past year.
Some of the highlights of the 2013-14 Fiscal Year:
s Recognized and awarded students who won STEM fairs in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties
s Awarded scholarships through Pinellas and Hillsborough Education Foundations
s Updated our BAMA logo
s Hosted a successful job fair with pTEC
s Implemented a new member shadow program to welcome new members to BAMA
s Developed new banners and backdrops for trade shows and events
s Implemented an Ethics Hotline to support member concerns, 844-tel-BAMA
s Distributed new membership plaques
s Hosted BAMA Family Night with the Rays at Tropicana Field
s Video Recorded Major BAMA Events
s Offered more networking, workshops, tours and joint meetings
s Offered additional memberships to allow educators and unemployed
s Began a new member awards program
s Promoted advanced manufacturing education by implementing the Florida TRADE program

View a copy of our July 2014 newsletter

Hydro-Dyne is Growing

(Past member) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 12:32:46 GMT

HYDRO-DYNE ENGINEERING ANNOUNCES EXPANSION

NEW FACILITY IN PINELLAS PARK

Pinellas Park, Florida, July 14, 2014 - Hydro-Dyne® Engineering, Inc. has announced its purchase of a more than 100,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Pinellas County, Florida. The new facility will dramatically expand Hydro-Dyne's manufacturing, service, research and design capacity, and will allow the company to take advantage of the Tampa Bay region's strong workforce and broad intermodal logistics network. The company has increased its employee base by 70 percent during the past 12 months and plans to hire a number of new employees company-wide in the next 12 to 24 months. Capital investments totaling more than $1 million will be made in manufacturing equipment, computer systems and building renovations.

"We have been fortunate to outpace industry growth year-over-year for more than a decade, which is a testament to the quality of both our people and our products," said Jay Conroy, President of Hydro-Dyne Engineering. "When fully built-out, our new facility will reflect the quality of our company and will meet and exceed operational capacity to keep us perfectly positioned well into the future."

"We are thrilled and excited to have Hydro-Dyne expand their business in Pinellas Park. Pinellas is a business-friendly county and our community is very supportive of a dedicated workforce that will insure their growth and success," said Sandra Bradbury, Mayor of Pinellas Park.

Hydro-Dyne, one of the world's leading manufacturers of custom-engineered screening and grit removal equipment for water and wastewater facilities, worked with Pinellas County Economic Development (PCED) to identify tools and programs to help the company grow.

With PCED's assistance, Hydro-Dyne utilized an Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB) to finance a portion of its new facility, and the company plans to use the remaining proceeds from the bond sale to finance renovations to the building. IRB's are issued by local governments on behalf of qualified manufacturers and 501 (c) 3 non-profit organizations and offer tax-free, below-market-rate, long term financing of land, buildings and equipment.

"We're very pleased that Hydro-Dyne chose Pinellas County for this significant corporate expansion," said Mike Meidel, Director of Pinellas County Economic Development. "Helping our existing companies to grow and create new jobs is part of our core mission, and the Industrial Revenue Bond financing program can provide tax-exempt financing to eligible industrial projects. Combined with Pinellas' strong workforce, it makes our community the ideal climate for manufacturing."

PCED staff provided expansion services and information about Florida's Sales Tax Exemption incentives, and facilitated a meeting with representatives from the U.S. Department of Commerce and Enterprise Florida to discuss export programs, including Target Sector Trade Grants available to Florida businesses.

Working with PCED also connected Hydro-Dyne with Duke Energy, Florida, whose support and partnership in the process helped Hydro-Dyne's expansion decision. The company provided energy-efficiency and operational expertise, along with information about programs that will help Hydro-Dyne maximize its energy usage in the new facility, particularly in the manufacturing process.

"Hydro-Dyne's decision to significantly expand their business in Pinellas County is the result of a true collaborative effort," said Alex Glenn, Duke Energy, state president - Florida. "Along with our partners, we brought the expertise and programs to the table early in the process, while helping to assure Hydro-Dyne that they would achieve their expansion goals on schedule."

The real estate transaction, valued at more than $5 million, is one of the larger industrial real estate transactions year-to-date in Pinellas. Thanks to the efforts of the company, Pinellas County staff, and County bond counsel Bryant Miller Olive, Hydro-Dyne's IRB was approved and closed within six weeks of receipt of its application. PCED will continue working with the company to provide information and assistance as Hydro-Dyne manages its future growth.

"Though we've grown exponentially during the past several years, we have been very deliberate in the management of that growth," said Christy Walsh, Vice President of Hydro-Dyne Engineering. "Sustainability is a factor considered at every turn. Our investments in people, plant and technology will maintain and improve our global market position of providing the highest quality equipment to the water and wastewater industries."

STEM jobs fill up faster in Tampa Bay than national average

(Past member) — Tue, 08 Jul 2014 20:23:21 GMT

There are more positions requiring skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, then there are people with the skills to fill those positions, a new Brookings report indicates. But Tampa Bay seems to fill those positions faster.

Read the article in the Tampa Bay Business Journal

CareerSource Offers Assistance with New Hires

(Past member) — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 16:21:02 GMT

CareerSource Tampa Bay and CareerSource Pinellas are offering a unique and exciting Paid Work Experience (PWE) program. The program provides funding assistance to employers who hire long-term unemployed workers looking for paid work experience leading to permanent, full-time employment.
CareerSource will pay 100 percent of the participant’s wages up to $20/hr. for ten weeks.

Find out more at an open house, July 10 from 8am - Noon at EEI Training Center, 700 Pinellas Street, Clearwater, FL 33756

Florida's Director of Economic Opportunity to speak at BAMA Dinner

(Past member) — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 17:40:27 GMT

The Bay Area Manufacturing Association is excited to announce that Jesse Panuccio, the State of Florida’s Director of the Department of Economic Opportunity, will speak at its Annual Meeting and Scholarship Awards Dinner on June 19.

Jesse Panuccio joined the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) as Executive Director on January 8, 2013. The mission of the Dept. of Economic Opportunity is to assist the Governor in advancing Florida’s economy by championing the state’s economic development vision and by administering state and federal programs and initiatives to help visitors, citizens, businesses, and communities.

Dr. Marilyn Barger Honored by SME

(Past member) — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 13:07:04 GMT

2014 SME International Honor Award Recipients

Six Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) International Honor Awardees were recognized for their significant contributions to manufacturing in the areas of manufacturing technologies, processes, technical writing, education, research and management. Among those was our own, Dr. Marilyn Barger.

Marilyn Barger, PhD, PE, is the Principal Investigator and Executive Director of FLATE - Florida Advanced Technical Education Center. FLATE website Dr. Barger is recognized with the SME Education Award for the development of manufacturing-related curricula for the entire state of Florida, being a leader in manufacturing education both nationally and internationally, and for inspiring students to enter the profession of manufacturing. She is the principal investigator and executive director of FLATE (Florida Regional Center of Excellence for Advanced Technological Education), funded by the National Science Foundation, since 2004. FLATE works closely with manufacturers across Florida serving manufacturing technical education programs statewide.

Dr. Barger earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Agnes Scott College, and both a bachelor’s degree in engineering science and a doctorate in civil engineering (environmental) from the University of South Florida where her research focused on membrane separations for water purification. She has more than 20 years of experience in developing curricula for engineering and engineering technology for elementary, middle, high school and postsecondary institutions, including engineering colleges. She serves on a number of national panels and advisory boards for technical programs, curriculum and workforce initiatives, including the National Association of Manufacturers Educators Council. She is a fellow of the American Society of Engineering Education, and a member of Tau Beta Pi and Epsilon Pi Tau honor societies. She is also a charter member of both the National Academy and the University of South Florida‘s Academy of Inventors. She holds a licensed patent and is a licensed professional engineer in Florida.
SME Website

Manufacturing Day is October 3, 2014

(Past member) — Thu, 22 May 2014 14:24:03 GMT

Add this date to your calendar and plan for activities the first week in October. If you would like to host a tour for students or get involved, please email the BAMA office at admin@bama-fl.org.

New report calls U.S. a 'rising star' of global manufacturing

(Past member) — Mon, 19 May 2014 20:12:28 GMT

A new ranking of the competitiveness of the world's top 25 exporting countries says the United States is once again a "rising star" of global manufacturing thanks to falling domestic natural gas prices, rising worker productivity and a lack of upward wage pressure.

The report, released on Friday by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG,) found that while China remains the world's No. 1 country in terms of manufacturing competitiveness, its position is "under pressure" as a result of rising labor and transportation costs and lagging productivity growth.

The United States, meanwhile, which has lost nearly 7.5 million industrial jobs since employment in the sector peaked in 1979 as manufacturers shipped production to low-cost countries, is now No. 2 in terms of overall competitiveness, BCG said.

Read the article.

Understanding Material, Labor, and Overhead for Profitability

(Past member) — Wed, 07 May 2014 13:41:27 GMT

Free FL MEP Webinar on May 28

"Understanding Material, Labor, and Overhead for Profitability"

If you own a manufacturing company or work on its management team, you know that pricing products correctly is critical. Small variances in prices can mean the difference between making money and losing money.

This is why the Florida MEP, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping Florida's manufacturers, is holding a free webinar on Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at 3pm: "Understanding Material, Labor, and Overhead for Profitability". This live 60-minute webinar is funded by the State of Florida's Department of Economic Opportunity, as part of a larger effort to boost Florida's manufacturing industry.

This free live webinar will help you:
* Pinpoint Your Materials Costs
* Calculate Labor with Great Precision
* Uncover Overhead Costs
* Price ALL of your Products for Profitability

Plus, all attendees will be provided with 2 electronic tools that can be used to help customize pricing in YOUR manufacturing business.

To register, please visit: http://SecorStrategies.com/webinar1

About FLMEP
The Florida MEP (FLMEP) is a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance to manufacturers to help them identify and implement advanced manufacturing and management technologies to enable them to grow and compete in the global market.

FLMEP assists manufacturers by providing access to technology for improved productivity, offering workforce training in Lean manufacturing, ISO / ITAR compliance, exporting logistics and supply chain integration. Through FLMEP programs, many funded by grants, companies learn tactics to innovate, save money, implement more efficient management strategies and lean methodologies, resulting in immediate bottom-line impact.

If you have questions or would like more information about FLMEP programs and services, please call Phyllis Morese at 772-349-2459, visit us at www.floridamep.org and be sure to follow us on Twitter @FloridaMEP.

Manufacturing Sales Tax Holiday Goes Into Effect

(Past member) — Tue, 29 Apr 2014 14:57:56 GMT

In an effort to create a more competitive environment for manufacturers in his state, Florida Gov. Rick Scott has signed legislation to eliminate sales tax on purchases of industrial machinery and equipment.

Effective April 30, 2014, House Bill 7007 provides a sales and use tax exemption for industrial machinery and equipment purchased by manufacturing businesses to be used at a fixed location within the state. To be eligible for this exemption, business and equipment must meet the following criteria:
   - The business’s primary activity must be defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 31, 32 or 33 at the specific location where the industrial machinery and equipment are installed.
   - Industrial machinery and equipment must be used as an integral part of manufacturing, processing or production.
   - Tangible personal property must have a depreciable life of three years or more.

Parts and accessories purchased prior to the in-service date of the machinery and equipment also are eligible for the exemption. Buildings, structural components and heating and air conditioning equipment are excluded from the definition of machinery and equipment.

Manufacturers can take advantage of this exemption until April 30, 2017, when the legislation expires.

Economic development is a priority as Florida seeks to increase business growth within its state. The manufacturer’s sales tax exemption is one of many economic development initiatives outlined in House Bill 7007 and Senate Bill 406. SB 406 includes amendments to corporate tax credits, expansion of sales and use tax exemptions and the creation of a three-day sales tax holiday. Updated corporate income tax credits include the following:
   - Removal of the lifetime limit received by an individual for the Qualified Target Industry and Qualified Defense and Space Contractor tax refunds.
   - Expansion of eligible locations in enterprise zones in which caps per entity were imposed.
   - A $15 million increase ($3 million annually) in the total amount of tax credits that can be awarded under the New Markets Development Program.

Watch the feature by Grayson Kamm on Channel 10 news on the Manufacturing Equipment Sales Tax Holiday!

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY

(Past member) — Tue, 22 Apr 2014 18:32:16 GMT

State College of Florida
Training for APICS CPIM Designation

Increase your functional knowledge of production and inventory management
• Maximize ROI on the systems and technologies within your organization
• Master the tools you need to effectively manage global supply chain activities
• Gain knowledge to apply principles of ERP software to cover various critical functions within your organization
• Earn customer satisfaction by delivering Lean/Just-in-Time products and services
• Enhance your credibility within your organization
• Create consistency and foster collaboration through best practices, common terminology, and corporate-wide communication.

The cost is $1,700 per person, which includes tuition and materials for the three days. Training grant dollars are available, which cover 50% of the cost of training and materials.

State College of Florida, Lakewood Ranch
May 2, 9 and 16
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Contact Lee Kotwicki at kotwickl@scf.edu or 941-363-7218

FLATE Robotics and Engineering Summer Camps

(Past member) — Fri, 18 Apr 2014 15:55:54 GMT

Do you have children or grandchildren in Middle or High School who are interested in Science and Technology? If yes, consider registering them in a FLATE Robotics and Engineering Summer Camp.

FLATE’s Robotics Camps Offer a STEM-ultimate Experience for future engineers! Middle and high school students attending FLATE’s robotics camp get a full serving of robotics and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) to whet their appetite.

Camp Dates:
June 16–20: Intro EV3 Camp (Girls Only) *Scholarship info
June 23–27: Intro EV3 Camp
July 7–11: Intro EV3 Camp
July 14–18: Intermediate EV3 (Session A)
July 21–25: Intermediate EV3 (Session B)
July 28–Aug 1: High School Robotics & Engineering Camp

Camp Location:
Hillsborough Community College (Brandon Campus) 10414 E. Columbus Drive, Tampa FL 33619.

Want more information? You can find it here. Or you can contact Desh Bagley, outreach manager at camps@fl-ate.org, and Dr. Marilyn Barger, executive director at barger@fl-ate.org.

Women in Manufacturing Month

(Past member) — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 19:18:48 GMT

In 2012, The Manufacturing Institute launched the Science, Technology, Engineering and Production (STEP) Ahead initiative to honor and promote the role of women in the manufacturing industry through recognition, research, and leadership. The STEP Ahead initiative will not only celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding current leadership in manufacturing again with our annual Awards Dinner, but also to inspire the next generation of female leaders.
Watch the video here

What does Manufacturing mean to you?

(Past member) — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 18:14:21 GMT

The NAM has produced a video to show young people across America that there is a future in manufacturing.

iDatix Wins Innovator of the Year Award

(Past member) — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 16:02:44 GMT

Bright House Regional Business Awards took place on Feb. 27 and BAMA member iDatix received the most prestigious award of the evening “Innovator of the Year.”
Read more about Bright House Networks Regional Business Awards.

Manufacturers Association of Florida 2014 Legislative Agenda

(Past member) — Thu, 20 Feb 2014 19:46:58 GMT

Topics include:

Advanced Manufacturing Research Matching Grants
Export Assistance
Tax on Commercial Leases/Rentals
STEM Workforce Training
Capital Investment Incentive Tax Credit
Quick Response Training Funds
Industry Certification Funding

The entire report can be found here.

Manufacturing Days at the Capital on February 4-5 in Tallahassee

(Past member) — Tue, 21 Jan 2014 15:55:07 GMT

Join us for Manufacturing Days at the Capital on February 4-5, 2014 in Tallahassee, FL. We have a great event planned - legislative briefing, legislative reception and pre-set appointments with key legislators.

Speaking at the briefing on February 4 are: Education Commissioner Pam Stewart, DEP Secretary Herschel Vinyard, Enterprise Florida President Gray Swoope, Workforce Florida's April Money, Florida Chamber, AIF, Florida Ports Council, Career & Technical Educators, and more. For the reception on February 4, all the legislators have been invited. We have a full morning of appointments at the Capitol on February 5 for participants to talk with legislators about the MAF legislative priorities.

Our host hotel is the aloft Tallahassee Downtown Hotel - phone 850.513.0313. Please call the hotel directly for room reservations in the Manufacturers Association of Florida room block. Rooms are going fast!

You may register for the event online at www.mafmfg.com. You may also sign up to sponsor the event online. The registration form to attend or sponsor and the preliminary agenda may be downloaded from the MAF registration page. Contact becky@nstephens.com or 850.402.2954 with questions. We look forward to seeing you at this popular event for manufacturers in Florida!

Contact: Nancy D. Stephens, CAE, IOM, DPL
Executive Director
Manufacturers Association of Florida
850.402.2954 Phone
nancy@nstephens.com

Florida TRADE Grant

(Past member) — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 20:49:38 GMT

As part of the Florida TRADE grant, we are looking for manufacturers that would like to offer internships, tours for students, offer job development services, and be part of a committee to offer help with this grant.

If you would like to offer help, please contact Becky at BAMA, 727-536-5809.

Manufacturing Skills Gap Analysis

(Past member) — Tue, 17 Dec 2013 17:19:17 GMT

On Nov. 21, Clay Gambetti, Manager of Research & Analysis, Workforce Projects at Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance spoke on the Hillsborough-Pinellas Manufacturing Skills Gap Analysis.

More information on the Manufacturing Skills Gap Analysis can be found here.

Available Grants and more Florida Manufacturing News

(Past member) — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 14:04:46 GMT

At the Enterprise Florida quarterly Board and Stakeholders Meetings in Coral Gables last week, Enterprise Florida adopted a legislative agenda, including a research proposal. This research agenda item has developed into a proposal that would allow the very successful High Tech Corridor Research Matching Grants Program to spread to the rest of the state.

This allows Florida manufacturers, no matter where they are in FL, to have their money matched by the state universities for manufacturing-directed research projects.

If you would like to read more, you can find it.

Exports: Did You Know?

(Past member) — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 12:38:54 GMT

The Florida Chamber has provided us with some interesting news bytes about the importance of growing Florida’s role in international trade:

Bloomberg: Mexico’s growth will slow, and Brazil’s growth will increase at a slower rate than predicted
Miami Herald: Florida real estate transactions by foreign nationals increased 3.8%, with Canada leading the pack, and China entering the group.
Global Trade Magazine: Export values from the 174 Free Trade Zones (FTZ) operating in the U.S. increased 147.9% from 2009 to 2012.
The Economist:“The pace of global growth increased during the second quarter of 2013 – only the third quarterly acceleration in three years. But the world is dangerously dependent on China, which continues to grow at a clip. Since the beginning of 2010 it alone has contributed over one-third of global GDP growth, with another 40 percent coming from the rest of the emerging world.”

Florida: Made For Trade

(Past member) — Fri, 25 Oct 2013 18:37:45 GMT

The newly released Florida Trade and Logistics Study 2.0, identifies the potential to create 150,000 new trade and logistics jobs over the next 5 years. This study, commissioned by the Florida Chamber Foundation, recommends developing a trade, logistics and manufacturing talent pipeline, creating Centers of Excellence and the Southeast’s first merchant marine training institute. MAF partnered with the Florida Chamber Foundation on the report by providing review and editing time.

To see the entire report visit: http://www.flchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/MadeForTrade-FINAL-Single-1.pdf

Hear more about the content of the study at the 10th Annual Manufacturers Summit.

Commissioner Putnam Calls for Tax Cuts

(Past member) — Fri, 25 Oct 2013 17:47:52 GMT

Last week, Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam opened the Florida Energy Summit by outlining a series of legislative proposals to reduce the energy tax burden on Florida businesses and consumers and support innovation in energy research and development.
He is recommending:
- Cutting the commercial business energy sales tax in half for 2014 – saving businesses $250 million a year (manufacturing facilities already enjoy an electricity sales tax exemption, but it may not extend to their entire facility). The remainder of the tax paid would be redirected to public capital outlay for schools.

- A proposal for a forecast of natural gas supplies and future prices, infrastructure and opportunities for storage and use in transportation.

To read his presentation and vision for Florida’s energy policy, visit http://www.floridaenergysummit.com/index.html

2013 Governor’s Innovators in Business Awards

(Past member) — Mon, 14 Oct 2013 12:41:27 GMT

Florida companies in select industries that have influenced the state's economic growth and diversification are asked to submit nominations to Enterprise Florida. Awards will be given in three categories for activity in 2012:

Expansion: for companies that expanded their operations in 2012, investing capital and creating jobs in Florida.
Newcomer: For new-to-Florida companies that began business operations in 2012.
Export Excellence: For companies with new or significant increases in documented export sales.
Innovation/Entrepreneurship: For start-up companies or innovative companies that have set a standard for entrepreneurship and creativity in the past three years.

Nominations Due October 24th
For more information about the awards and to submit a nomination, follow this link.

Middleton High School helps celebrate National Manufacturing Day

(Past member) — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 12:39:41 GMT

Throughout Florida, National Manufacturing Day was observed at more than 200 middle and high schools. At Middleton High School in Tampa, Hillsborough County officials issued a proclamation declaring Oct. 4 as Florida Manufacturing Day. Members of BAMA were on hand to show their support.

Left to right: Kim Moore, Middleton High School; Steve Meitzen, BAMA; Hillsborough County Commissioner Mark Sharp; Mike Ramsey, Hillsborough County Schools; Marilyn Barger, FLATE; Larry Plank, Hillsborough County schools; Shannon Sweatman, Southern Manufacturing Technologies; James Moore, Cardio Command; Middleton HS Principal Owen Young; Ken Jurgensmeyer, Heat Pipe Technologies

National Manufacturing Day 2013

(Past member) — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 12:30:23 GMT

Students from Meadownlawn Middle School in St. Petersburg toured Jabil Circuit in
observation of National Manufacturing Day, October 4, 2013.

BAMA and UTBMA Join Forces on Dream It Do It Initiative

(Past member) — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 01:01:38 GMT

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) and Upper Tampa Bay Manufacturers Association (UTBMA) are joining forces for the Dream It Do It initiative. Partnering with Hillsborough County Public Schools and Pinellas County Schools on the Adopt-A-School program, the manufacturing associations are working together to make the program a reality. Cliff Csulik, President of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association and Jerry Custin, Secretary/Treasurer of the Upper Tampa Bay Manufacturers Association, have announced an agreement to join association forces.

Csulik explains, “Adopt-A-School is a program managed by the Manufacturers Association of Florida to engage manufacturers as mentors in area high schools. The goal is to expose students and parents to the rewarding and challenging opportunities of a career path in advanced manufacturing. The program involves mentorship with area school clubs and engineering programs, plant tours and possible internships and scholarship opportunities. We need to get that word out and what better way than to engage our area manufacturers directly in the process.”

Custin continued, “Folks generally also do not realize the strength of manufacturing in our region and the level of education in some of our area schools. Nearly 25% of Florida’s 17,000 manufacturers are in the Tampa / Clearwater / St. Petersburg area employing over 57,000 workers at an average pay up to 20% greater than service industries. Our schools are focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) at some level and numerous have Engineering Academies that are well equipped. We have established working relationships with the Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas school districts to get our manufacturers involved in the development of these programs and to engage students in the exciting world of advanced manufacturing.”

The Adopt-A-School program will establish a countywide model with four schools; Gaither and Middleton high schools in Hillsborough County and Eastlake and Gibbs high schools in Pinellas County. These schools use state of the art equipment including 3-D printers and miniature wind tunnels that are providing their students with advantages. Whether their near term goal is higher education or the start of a solid career that will involve continuous learning. Many in our community do not realize that high school students can gain basic certifications in various disciplines including cyber-security, Solid Works and others that could land them positions in advanced manufacturing with a high school diploma.

“Joining forces between BAMA and UTBMA will allow us to leverage the membership and community connections needed to make an impact as well as develop a cohesive regional model for building a sustainable world class workforce right in our own community”, Csulik concluded, “ this is a win-win-win for everyone especially for our students looking for a great career.”

If you’d like to make a difference contact BAMA at 727.536.5809 or the UTBMA at 813.855.4233.

What Manufacturers Need to Do About Data Recovery After a Disaster

(Past member) — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 16:54:03 GMT

Michael Keating is doing a brief write up for ThomasNet's Industry Market Trends, an e-newsletter that goes to 375,000 manufacturing executives, on how manufacturers can work together after a disaster to keep production humming. Are there any Florida success stories he can mention? He hopes to include at least a few sentences from our group.
Contact: Michael Keating, 770-618-0193, www.mikekeat.net

Here is a link to his first in a series of disaster planning items.
What Manufacturers Need to Do About Data Recovery After a Disaster

October 4 is National Manufacturing Day

(Past member) — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 21:14:21 GMT

At a recent visit to the Pinellas Board of County Commissioners, Pinellas County Commissioner Karen Seals presented a Proclamation to BAMA Board members proclaiming October 4, 2013 as National Manufacturing Day. Working together with several other organizations, BAMA was able to receive the proclamation recognizing the 75,471 jobs that are provided by the manufacturing industry in Pinellas County.

From left: BAMA President Cliff Csulik, BAMA Board Member Steve Meitzen, Pinellas County Commissioner Karen Seals, BAMA Board Treasurer Ann Paxton and FLATE Curriculum Coordinator Danielly Orozco-Cole.

BAMA Member writes Authentic "Best Sellers"

(Past member) — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 13:14:46 GMT

Richard and Claire Knowles, currently of St. Petersburg FL and Youngstown NY, have made distinct literary news. Richard is the author of “The Leadership Dance”, a Classic in Transformational Leadership, which became an Amazon #1 Best Seller on August 8, 2013. Claire is the author of “Lights On! A Reflective Journey” which provides positive motivation for women to move forward in their personal and professional lives. Lights On! became an Amazon Best Seller in December, 2012.

Each has penned another book as well. Claire’s newest, “Can You See Them Now? (Elephants in Our Midst)” is a business relationship book, valued by Human Resource Managers, Supervisors and Team-Leaders. It will be available on Amazon September 1^st. Dick’s second book, “Partnering for Safety and Business Excellence” is already available on Amazon, and is intended for Plant Managers, Supervisors and Leaders in industrial safety.

Claire and Dick Knowles both are highly credentialed and experienced in the fields in which they write. Dick was a DuPont Plant Manager at several locations, including the Niagara Falls NY Plant and Belle WV plant; he currently consults worldwide in Safety and Leadership. Claire retired from DuPont’s Buffalo Plant as Human Resources and Labor Relations Manager in 2000 and now speaks and consults on Leadership and Success.

Contacts: Claire Knowles 716-622-7753; Richard Knowles 716-622-6467

Email: Cefk1@aol.com or RNKnowles@aol.com

Websites: www.LightsOnBook.com

www.LightsOnLeadershipSuccess4Women.com

www.SafetyExcellenceForBusiness.com

MAF- 2 opportunities for BAMA

(Past member) — Tue, 13 Aug 2013 18:40:20 GMT

Dear Regional Manufacturing Associations:

We wish to remind you of one opportunity that has been presented to you and tell you about another one.

First, a few weeks ago we hosted a teleconference with Debbie McMullian, Worfkorce Florida, Inc., on each region putting together a Quick Response Training Consortium. As you might recall some $2 million has been set aside just for manufacturers and $2 milliion set aside for logistics and distribution companies. This was a priority for MAF during the 2013 legislative session and we were successful in getting $12 million appropriated overall by the Legislature. It is a priority for MAF again for 2014, but if we don’t use the funds that have been appropriated it makes no sense to ask for them again. To date only the South Florida Manufacturers Association has contacted Ms. McMullian about setting up a consortium. Please, contact her and get the ball rolling! Her contact info is below.

Debbie McMullian, QRT Program Director, at dmcmullian@workforceflorida.com or 850-922-8647.

Second, the Governorś Office has asked us to put together a calendar of manufacturing events for the remainder of the year. We have already given him October 4 for a plant tour yet to be determined by your scheduled plant tours and his location on that day and December 5 or 6 during the Manufacturers Summit. We would like to add your special events – annual meetings, plant tours or other major events in the hopes that he could attend. Please send me your calendar of events for the remainder of the year at your earliest convenience and I will forward them to the Governorś Office.

Thank you for your attention in these matters.

Best wishes,

Nancy D. Stephens, CAE
Executive Director

Manufacturers Association of Florida

1625 Summit Lake Drive, Suite 300

Tallahassee, FL 32317

nancy@mafmfg.com

O (850) 402-2954

F (850) 402-0139

C (850) 445-1607

"Made in Florida" TV show- BAMA Members tell your story on TV!!!

(Past member) — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 15:22:59 GMT

Click here for brochure

What we are looking for:

1. Companies that are headquartered in Florida.

2. If a company is not headquartered in the state, they should be doing major operations here and/or doing something unique in the state

3. Companies that have either an interesting history of pioneering entrepreneurship, long history in the state, huge economic impact, cool unique Florida products, products that are sold worldwide or impacting the world in a positive way, high technology, any company that would make a very visual story…or any combination of the above!

We will produce 13 shows as part of the series.Each 30-minute program will air at least once in every market in Florida and be posted on the show's website. It will have three company /product stories- two 7-minute versions and a 5-minute one, and a sponsored 1-minute "tip" segment. As the model stands now, the production will be free…sponsors and advertisers will help pay the cost of production. If a company wants to use their segment separately from the show, there would be a small licensing fee involved for us to provide them a digital copy of just their segment and the rights to use it wherever they want.

I've spoken with Enterprise Florida and they've also expressed and interest in being part of the show. We are starting production soon and expect to have the show on in summer or fall of 2014. As producers, we are excited to be working on this program...and look forward to telling the great stories about business in Florida!

Contact Mark Greenwald [mark@crawfordentertainment.tv]

MAF Manufacturer of the year Award Nominations due August 30th!

(Past member) — Wed, 24 Jul 2013 16:14:13 GMT

2013 Manufacturer of the Year Award

Nominations are due August 30^th for MAF’s Manufacturer of the Year Award. Eligible manufacturers are those who are MAF members, or members of regional manufacturers associations that are MAF members. Nomination is simple: just send the company name, contact person and contact information to Phil Centonze. Nominate your own company! If you have already been nominated please submit your questionnaire as early as possible to ensure you are scheduled for your opportunity to compete for the award. Contact Phil Centonze, lead Judge, at Phil.Centonze@Pos-IMPACT.com with your questions and nominations.

Make Plans to Use State Quick Response Training Funds

MAF members were invited on July 18 to participate in a teleconference with Debbie McMullian, Workforce Florida, on the topic of how to access the Quick Response Training (QRT) Funds for training new hires and existing employees. Attached is a fact sheet about the program. As you may know, Workforce Florida set aside $2 million of the QRT funds solely for manufacturers, $2 million solely for logistics and distribution companies and the remaining $8 million for any company that qualifies.

MAF is serving as the facilitator for the Regional Manufacturing Associations to apply for consortium QRT grants that will allow them to aggregate manufacturers into a consortium to access this funding. Large companies have the ability to qualify alone if they are creating 10 new jobs, but small companies might only create 1 new job and still qualify as part of the consortium. By small companies joining together in a region and grouping their applications with others, they will qualify to access this training money. Also, if new jobs are created, existing employees may also be trained. We encourage all of our Regional Manufacturing Associations (RMA) and the manufacturers in those regions (whether RMA members or not) to join together and apply for this money. Each company may design its own training package. After you have reviewed the attached fact sheet, call Debbie McMullian, QRT Program Director at dmcmullian@workforceflorida.com or 850.922.8647 if you have more questions. Let’s get started!!!

Made in Florida: Put Your Company on TV!

Made in Florida is a weekly, syndicated television series that showcases companies and products made in Florida. Crawford Entertainment will produce thirteen shows, each one focusing on three manufacturers and production will be free to your company. Here’s what they are looking for:

1. Companies that are headquartered in Florida.

2. If a company is not headquartered in the state, they should be doing major operations here and/or doing something unique in the state.

If you are interested in having your company highlighted, contact Nancy Stephens at nancy@mafmfg.com or contact Mark Greenwald, Producer at 407-32-3460 or mark@crawfordentertainment.tv

This is a great opportunity to showcase our interesting and successful manufacturers!

Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB) Legislation, H.R. 2708

On July 18, MAF signed a letter to U.S. Representative Southerland requesting support of the passage of this bill. Manufacturers of all sizes use the vital tariff suspensions contained in the MTB to obtain raw materials, inputs and other products that are not available domestically. Without the now-expired MTB, manufacturing production costs are higher. Failure to act on the MTB will result in a $748 million tax on manufacturing in the United States, and economic losses amounting to $1.857 billion over the next three years. If you are interested in signing on individually, see http://manufacturingworks.nam.org/composeletters.aspx?client=NAMProd&AlertID=58&UserID=648063

Florida Rankings

The Florida Chamber Foundation publishes a Weekly Scorecard Report, the latest one indicating that if Florida expands its exports, manufacturing could become a critical driver of Florida’s economy. The graph below shows Florida manufacturing coming back to life after four straight years of contraction, but still with much room for improvement. www.thefloridascorcard.com

Florida Manufacturing Growth Rate 2002-2012. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

The 2013 Manufacturing and National Logistics Report shows how Florida ranks among other states in areas key to manufacturing and logistics success. The report, using an A-F scale, gives Florida a D in manufacturing industry health, a C+ in logistics, and an A in tax climate. http://conexus.cberdata.org/state/FL

CNBC’s annual state ranking placed Florida at a low of 30 out of 50 states. States were measured on 51 metrics, with input from the Council of Competitiveness and NAM. Those metrics were grouped into categories, which were then weighted by how the states used them to market themselves. Florida achieved a 4 in workforce and an 11 in technology and innovation; a 40 in the cost of doing business and 38 in the economy. http://www.cnbc.com/id/100824779

Florida is 30% more entrepreneurial than the Nation as a whole. Babson College’s 2012 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor U.S. Report says that on the positive side, this means that Florida is more globally focused than the rest of the nation, while on the negative side, most of Florida’s entrepreneurs say they’re in it out of necessity, rather than for opportunity. Find the GEM Report at www.babson.edu

In the way of a commentary from MAF, this shows that the work MAF has done on manufacturing tax climate has made a big difference, but it also shows that we have a lot more work to do to help improve Florida’s manufacturing sector as a whole.

NAM’s July 2013 Manufacturing Economic Update: “Good But Not Great”

MAF participated in NAM’s Webinar hosted by Chad Moutray, NAM’s Chief Economist last week. In summary, NAM reports that currently, both U.S. and global manufacturers are experiencing very slow growth. For the U.S.:

· Manufactured goods exports were only up a disappointing 1% in the first 5 months of this year.

· Manufacturing hiring lost sector jobs in the last 4 months.

· Industrial production rose 1.8%, but much below its potential.

However, U.S. manufacturers are cautiously optimistic for the next 6 months:

72% of manufacturers expect sales to increase 2.7% in the next year.

According to Moutray, challenges for manufacturers for the next six months include:

· Higher interest rates in the housing market and high petroleum prices will dampen consumer confidence.

· China’s economy has slowed, which has affected our export market.

· Uncertainty over the costs of premiums under The Affordable Care Act.

· Fiscal situation.

The presentation is attached.

Florida Legislature Recommends Immediate Withdrawal from PARCC

Senate President Gaetz and House Speaker Weatherford signed a letter to Education Commissioner Bennett last week recommending that Florida no longer implement the student assessments proposed by the national academic consortium, Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC). They outlined their concerns about the national standards, and the impact they could have on students’, schools’ and Florida’s competitiveness. Gaetz and Weatherford recommend a Florida plan for reliable testing of student performance, including assessments for the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards. For the full text of the letter: http://gallery.mailchimp.com/9744bb4b520d67976590bee0e/files/7_17_13_Commissioner_Bennett_FL_Plan.pdf

Notes from NAM

Expanded Trade. NAM’s primary Growth agenda goal is to help manufacturers reach 95% of non-U.S. customers. NAM supports the renewal of the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) that expired in 2007, which would create a congressional framework for complex trade agreements. The priorities include eliminating tariff and non-tariff barriers and protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights. NAM is also working to address Indian trade practices that discriminate against U.S. exports and to promote positive solutions.

Tax Treaties. The Senate has not approved any new treaties or updates since 2010 and NAM has recommended immediate action via a letter sent to members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Tax treaties promote U.S. bilateral trade and investment while protecting U.S. businesses from double taxation on income from selling goods and services in foreign markets. Agreements pending or in the pipeline include those with Chile, Hungary, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Spain, Poland, Japan, Norway and Britain. NAM has set up an ad hoc, tax-treaty working group to address the issue.

Mid-Market Manufacturers Can Drive the Economy. Middle-market manufacturers are defined as those with revenues between $10 million and $1 billion, and comprise 33,000 manufacturers. According to a new report issued by the NAM and the Center for the Middle Market, 47% of mid-market manufacturers using advanced manufacturing techniques experienced a 20% profitability increase over the past five years. However, these advanced manufacturing techniques have exposed a widespread workforce skills gap in STEM. http://www.middlemarketcenter.org/advanced-manufacturing-techniques-drive-growth

Gas Prices. The NAM advocates for increased supply, a more reliable permitting process, and streamlined regulations as methods for easing the barriers to reduced gas prices. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on July 16 held a hearing to “explore the effects of ongoing changes in domestic oil production, refining and distribution on U.S. gasoline and fuel prices.” Read NAM’s Member Focus interview with House Energy and Power Subcommittee Chair Ed Whitfield here: http://memberfocus.nam.org/publication/?i=165565&p=12

Matching Grant Program

The University of West Florida, Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, is soliciting proposals from institutions of higher education and other qualified organizations to serve as a regional Florida SBDC host partner for Southeast Florida. The Florida SBDC Network is sponsored and funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Defense Logistics Agency, State of Florida and regional private and public partners. This is a competitive match grant contract program. All interested parties must submit a proposal by October 4, 2013. www.FloridaSBDC.org/RFP

GE’s Ideas Lab: Recommended Summer Reading List

The Ideas Lab brings together experts and thought leaders to address some of today’s most important issues from manufacturing to technology to jobs. They’ve suggested eight texts to help you stay current with critical issues making an impact locally and globally. The list includes the book “Producing Prosperity: Why America Needs a Manufacturing Renaissance,” and a report from the McKinsey Global Research Institute that highlights 12 key technologies that could “drive truly massive economic transformations and disruptions in the coming years.” For the full list and a short description of each one, visit: http://www.ideaslaboratory.com/2013/07/05/ideas-labs-recommended-summer-reading-list/

Florida Chamber Events

· The Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will host a manufacturers’ focus group on Tuesday July 30 in Oldsmar. Tony Carvajal, Executive Vice President, Florida Chamber Foundation, will be accompanied by a transportation and logistics expert and will explore the options and opportunities to increase Florida’s exports and grow the manufacturing sector by opening new markets http://www.utbchamber.com

· Florida Chamber of Commerce will host a talent caucus. The 2013 Solutions Summit will focus on the issues of talent supply on September 26, 2013 in Orlando. http://www.flchamber.com/event/florida-chamber-foundations-solutions-summit

Senate Forms Indian River Lagoon Panel

Indian River Lagoon extends 156 miles along the Atlantic Coast inshore from Titusville to Stuart, and is one of the most biologically diverse estuaries. The area has noted significant die-offs in manatees, pelicans, dolphins, and sea grasses. Two months ago, Governor Scott vetoed the $2 million request to purchase advance water monitoring equipment. The Senate has now formed a panel to study the die-offs in the area. “The purpose of this select committee is to determine what progress has been made and what changes in policy, if any, should be recommended to the Legislature and the Congress,” said Senate President Gaetz.

Short Notes

· The MAF Center and St. Pete College are now working on a contract to implement the TRADE grant to provide manufacturing education at twelve colleges in Florida and to identify internships for industry certified students. We are hopeful that negotiations can be completed by mid-August. We have been waiting for 10 months to get to this point! Stay tuned!

· Workforce Florida Inc. and the MAF Center are negotiating a contract that will allow the MAF Center to distribute the MSSC CPT curriculum to high schools in Florida. We should be able to complete this contract just in time for the new school year.

· Metropolitan Environmental Training Alliance (METRA) is s a not for profit environmental partnership whose objective is to provide little or no cost, professional environmental education to the central Florida small business community and local government agencies. They are now offering $1,000 scholarships to juniors and seniors majoring in Environmental Studies or Sciences. Applications are due August 31. http://www.metra.org

· South Carolina among the Best in the East. Industry Today writes that in a recent federal report, South Carolina’s economy was listed as the 12^th fastest growing in the U.S, and its Real GDP growth rate of 2.7% is above the southeastern regional average of 2.1%. It also mentioned that SC has the fasted growing manufacturing GDP on the East Coast.

· Game changers for US growth. New McKinsey research indicates five catalysts in energy, trade, technology, infrastructure and talent development that would quickly and substantially boost GDP by 2020. Check out: http://www.mckinsey.com/insights/americas/us_game_changers?cid=game_changers-eml-alt-mgi-mck-oth-1307

· Interested in adopting a school through the MAF Center’s Dream It Do It Program? Want a Quick Start guide? Contact your regional manufacturing association or June Wolfe at june.wolfe@comcast.net. For more information about Dream It Do It, visit www.mafcenter.org.

· Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.

· The Florida Administrative Register report for the week is attached.

Upcoming Events - 2013

August 5 MAF Center Research Council Meeting in Orlando, FL

August 15 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2p.m. – 3p.m. E.T. Dial in number is: 712.775.7000; PIN 317371#.

August 30 Last Day to Nominate Manufacturer of the Year!

October 4 Manufacturing Day. Plan your celebration!

December 4-6 10^th Annual Manufacturers Summit, Vinoy Renaissance Hotel, St. Petersburg, Florida. Registration is open! Visit www.mafmfg.com

December 5 MAF President’s Manufacturer of the Year Awards Ceremony and Dinner, 10^th Annual Manufacturers Summit, Vinoy Renaissance Hotel, Ste. Petersburg Florida

# # #

Engineering Capstone Presentation

(Past member) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 21:03:00 GMT

Take advantage of your BAMA education partnership

(Past member) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:42:50 GMT

Take advantage of your BAMA education partnership

BAMA selected a University of Phoenix partnership because it provides BAMA members quality educational and training programs and events with high take away value and forums for information exchange. The Bay Area Manufacturers Association is constantly working to add value to your membership, and our partnership with University of Phoenix is an example of how we are focusing on quality educational and training resourcesundefinedresources that can help your business succeed and help your workforce advance in their manufacturing careers.

This knowledge-based partnership will provide value to your employees by creating learning experiences and helping you stay up-to-date with industry innovations. This partnership will also help you find the right candidates to fill your open positions by providing you access to post openings to exclusive University of Phoenix career communities.

BAMA has made this partnership with University of Phoenix to bring value to your BAMA membership. BAMA members can also become University of Phoenix corporate partners through your own company, bringing even more benefits to your employees.

Visit phoenix.edu/workforcesolutionsor talk to a WFS advisor at 800.433.8380 to learn more.

US Manufacturing Forecast Brightens: MAPI

(Past member) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:20:38 GMT

http://www.industryweek.com/global-economy/us-manufacturing-forecast-brightens-mapi

Matrix Project 68 - TIP 13B06-01 Gross Receipt Tax Index Prices for July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014

(Past member) — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:34:10 GMT

Good afternoon,

The attached Tax Information Publication (TIP) was mailed to 126 active, required-to-file gross receipts tax accounts on May 21, 2013. It will also be mailed or emailed the Florida Natural Gas Association, the Florida Gas Transmission Company, Gulfstream Natural Gas System, Florida Municipal Electric Association, Gulf South Pipeline Company, Southern Natural Gas, Florida Minerals and Chemistry Council, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, the Natural Gas Supply Association, Enterprise Florida, Bay Area Manufacturer's Association, Brevard Manufacturing and Technology Association, First Coast Manufacturer's Association, South Florida Manufacturer's Association, Volusia Manufacturer's Association, Associated Industries of Florida, the Florida Bar and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA).

The TIP will be posted to the Internet and the Revenue Law Library, as well.

Gross Receipts Tax Index Prices for the Period July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014

Nicole Harvell
Resource Management
General Tax Administration
Florida Department of Revenue
850-717-6821
harvelln@dor.state.fl.us

SPCC Women's Leadership Press Release

(Past member) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:50:54 GMT

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

For more information contact one of the following:

Jan Russell, Sr. Vice President, Synovus Bank at 727-568-6544

Claire Knowles, Owner, Lights On Leadership Success 4 Women at 716-622-7753

Ivory Blackwood, Programs Coord., St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce at 727-388-291

Website Info (and to download flyer):

Emotional Intelligence is the Other Kind of Smart!

If there is one spring event every woman leader wants to attend, it is the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Leadership Council’s INSPIRE Event. This year’s INSPIRE! Series kicks off with A Leadership Kaleidoscope: Connections, Collisions and Collaborations. It is being held April 9, 2013 from 5 to 7 pm, at the prestigious Poynter Institute. Reservations can be made through the Chamber’s website at www.stpete.com or by calling the Chamber office at 727-821-4069.

CEO John Mackey of Whole Foods, in a recent video link[1], shared that Emotional Intelligenceundefinedbeing attuned to what is happening in you and around youundefinedis equal in importance to Leadership Savvy as Intellectual Prowess or Systems Knowledge (seeing the whole/anticipating the future) and to Spiritual Understanding of values, ethics, and having a sense of purpose. This special INSPIRE! Event explores Emotional Intelligence, with decades of research pointing to it being the critical factor that sets star performers apart from the rest of the pack.

Jill Geisler, Author of “Work Happy: What Great Bosses Know” and Kathy Potts, Founder of Destination Breakthru will headline this event. Each registered participant will be provided with an Emotional Intelligence Assessment form. Knowing where you stand, and where you need to improve is important for your Leadership Success in this multigenerational, multicultural work world. This INSPIRE event is geared to executive women, women in middle-management leadership roles, and those women aspiring to key leadership positions.

[1]http://www.inc.com/lewis-schiff/john-mackey-emotional-intelligence-in-great-leaders.html

Appointment of Honary Chairman to STEM goes to work committee

(Past member) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:45:48 GMT

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association Board announced today that Willy Schweikert (Director of Advanced Programs Engineering for Raytheon) has been appointed Honorary Chair of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association STEM Goes to Work initiative.

“I speak for all of the officers and directors of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association Board in wholeheartedly welcoming Mr. Schweikert to this important roll “I’ve known Willy personally and professionally for many years, and his energy, integrity and keen vision will bring an increased strength to our STEM mission and programs.” Steven Meitzen Past-President said

In recognition of the significant role of teachers in shaping their students’ STEM experiences, the Bay Area Manufacturers Association Board are partnering with manufacturers and schools to present the STEM students tours of locale manufacturers. Open to current 7^th to 12^th grade students.

“Contributing to the great work of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association will be an honor and privilege. Engineering plays a vital role in everything we do.”, said Willy, “I look forward to helping STEM students and their teachers realize the importance of Engineering and maximize their capability to provide the best and brightest workforce of the future. It’s truly exciting to join the BAMA STEM mission and help accelerate the momentum of student tours of manufacturers and other STEM initiatives which will recognize one of America’s greatest treasures: STEM students and their teachers.”

For More information contact : Steven C. Meitzen, Clairson Plastics, 813.786.1125

International Trade Networking Reception- March 27th from 6-8 pm at Wyndham Tampa Westshore Hotel

(Past member) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:16:03 GMT

Please contact your legislators regarding the Sales Tax Exemption on Manufacturing Machinery and Equipment

(Past member) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:13:18 GMT

Dear MAF Members:

Thank you for what you have done to advocate for the manufacturing sales tax exemption to date and what you will be asked to do over the next eight weeks!

The Governor’s Office has asked for your help, each one of you, MAF member companies, regional manufacturing associations and their members, in impressing on all of our state legislators just how important it is to remove the last remnants of the sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment. Some feel that manufacturers are apathetic about this exemption. Because it means a loss of $140 million to the state budget, it is a big deal! “It doesn’t matter to me” is not an acceptable response from any manufacturer in Florida!

I know that the paperwork burden of showing 5% productivity in order to get a sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment may be more or less burdensome depending on your situation, but for the good of the whole, we need everyone’s help in writing a letter or making a phone call to their legislator. We must let the Legislature know that if they allocate $140 million to the manufacturing sales tax exemption that your savings will propel the economy forward in many ways.

MAF is striving to make Florida the #1 manufacturing business destination. In order to compete with surrounding states, this sales tax exemption is very important.

Attached are sample letters you can customize with company information and personal stories to send to your Senators and Representatives in Florida. Also attached are Excel spread sheets with their contact information. Lastly, we have attached a number of informative pieces written lately, the first color piece is from the Governor’s Office, the Naples News article ran earlier this week, and MANUFACTS is a document that we continue to update and add to, but might have a few gems in it for your letters.

Please don’t delay. Lets make a big splash while its on everyone’s mind!

Lastly, I would love to get a copy of your letter and know what feedback you got, good or bad.

Best wishes and many thanks!

Nancy D. Stephens, CAE
Executive Director

Sample Letter for Manufacturers to Send to House Members

Sample Letter for Manufacturers to Send to Senators

Legislator Emails.xlsx

NEWS RELEASE-Governor Emphasizes Manufacturing and Education Priorities

(Past member) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 17:50:01 GMT

Governor Emphasizes Manufacturing and Education Priorities

Tallahassee --- Today, the opening day of the 2013 Florida Legislative Session,

during his address to the Florida House and Senate in a Joint Session, and with

manufacturers in the audience, Governor Rick Scott announced his top two

priorities for the 2013 Legislative Session. One is removing the sales tax on

manufacturing machinery and equipment and the other is giving a pay raise to

teachers.

The Manufacturers Association of Florida applauds Governor Scott for

his recognition of the ever increasing important role advanced manufacturing

will play in diversifying Florida’s economy, providing well-paying jobs, and

securing Florida’s position as a hub for international trade. At the same time,

his education priority will serve to support the manufacturing industry by

rewarding teachers for performing at the highest levels and inspiring their

students to excel.

“Florida is poised to be the #1 manufacturing state in the nation. With

a little more help from the Florida Legislature on manufacturing tax policy,

Florida can become competitive with other manufacturing destination states

like Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Texas. We want

people to come for the sun and stay for the manufacturing business”, said Al

Stimac, President, Manufacturers Association of Florida and President, Metal

Essence.

More than 60% of Florida manufacturers are small businesses. While

this allows them to be more flexible in responding to changing market

demands and conditions, it also means that they are adversely affected by tax

red tape and un-level playing fields. “It is time to recognize that

manufacturing tax reform converts to capital investment, community

investment and employee investment,” said Nancy Stephens, Executive

Director, Manufacturers Association of Florida.

There are 18,107 manufacturers in Florida employing 314,800

individuals paying an average annual salary of $52,378, which is $10,000 more

than the average annual wage in Florida.

Through the MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence

manufacturers are doing their part to invest in students. Through the Dream

It! Do It! program, whereby manufacturers adopt high schools to engage

students in the manufacturing world, and develop partnerships with colleges

to design educational programs that prepare students for manufacturing

careers, Florida manufacturers are helping prepare their future workforce.

Governor Scott has it right – with a little help, manufacturers and

teachers can help lead this state to economic prosperity.

The Manufacturers Association of Florida (MAF) was formed in 2006 to

improve the business climate for manufacturers in Florida. The top

manufacturing sectors in Florida include computers and electronics, food

products, medical equipment, aerospace parts, nonmetallic mineral products,

fabricated metal products, machinery, chemicals, paper products, and printed

products. Visit www.mafmfg.com.

The MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence (MAF Center) is in its

first year of operation. It was organized to promote an environment in Florida

that produces an educated, skilled, trained and certified advanced

manufacturing workforce for world class manufacturers. Visit

www.mafcenter.org.

press Release: BAMA member: Florida Business Observer February 1, 2013 By: Denise Kalette

(Past member) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 14:26:46 GMT

Turning Point

Florida Business Observer
February 1, 2013
By: Denise Kalette
[NTMA Featured]

When a Navy pilot roars from a combat ship off the coast of Afghanistan, bound for a strafing run on an enemy firing at U.S. forces, there is a good chance that tucked away in the pilot’s equipment are essential parts from Tampa Bay that could save his life.

Those parts are built into his parachute undefined sturdy metal housings and mechanical components. If the pilot is forced to bail out over the ocean and lands, unconscious, in the water, a sensor detects the fluid and blows his parachute away so it doesn’t drag him under. In rapid sequence, his head is lifted from the water and his life jacket inflates, while a second sensor triggers a flare so rescuers can find the pilot.

The metal parts that house the sensors are manufactured at a little-known Tampa company that occupies a 20,000-square-foot building where the lights burn 24/7. At Southern Manufacturing Technologies (SMT), a private company celebrating its 30th year in business, workers churn out 20,000 highly precise components per month, for the aircraft, aerospace, and defense industries. Although the plant’s products have been used in high-profile places undefined the Mars rover, air-to-air missiles, communications and military satellites, and commercial aircraft undefined SMT President Roy Sweatman has been content to fly under the radar of public notice. But now, as his company reaches a critical turning point, the low profile is working against him.

After growing his company for three decades, Sweatman, 66, is facing the inevitable need to hand over the reins to a new chief, within five to eight years. At the same time, he anticipates receiving a major contract in 2015 to manufacture parts for a new generation of fuel-efficient aircraft engines for Boeing 737s and the Airbus A320. Sweatman and his top managers are reconfiguring space at the plant to shoehorn in the new operations. They will need to hire machinists at a time when many young people seldomly consider manufacturing or skilled trades as a career. What makes it even harder to attract talented applicants is that despite SMT’s achievements and high standing in the aerospace world, many Tampa families and even business leaders have never heard of it.

“Nobody knows we exist,” says Sweatman. “It’s partially because we don’t make the airplane, we just make some of the components.” Many Americans have the impression that most U.S. manufacturing has shifted to China, so kids see no future in it, and parents steer them toward universities, he says. “Everybody’s supposed to go to college.”

Sweatman has a lot at stake. The plant owner, who grew up on a Pennsylvania dairy farm, has taken his machine shop from five employees when he bought it in 1983, to 110 skilled workers, and from $360,000 in revenue the first year, to $13.3 million in 2012. And even without the aircraft contract, the company is still growing, and searching for workers.

With Tampa Bay’s unemployment rate dropping to 8% in December, one might conclude that plenty of willing workers could don a uniform at SMT. But along the Gulf Coast, many small and mid-size manufacturers share Sweatman’s dilemma of a shortage of workers with sufficient technical backgrounds.

“It’s not uncommon,” says Cliff Csulik, president of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association. Companies are having a hard time finding technicians, welders, and machinists who can operate the computer numerical control (CNC) machines programmed to make precision parts for the defense, aerospace or medical industries.

Small and mid-sized manufacturers of 25 to 100 employees supply essential parts to behemoths such as St. Petersburg-based circuit maker Jabil, which operates 60 plants in 25 countries; Raytheon, the aerospace and electronics giant; or Lockheed Martin, which builds military aircraft and defense systems.

But as young people increasingly choose more lucrative or prestigious careers, small manufacturers struggle to keep up with the demand for products. “It’s not the glory type of job that some of these younger generations may want, but they’re still needed,” says Csulik. “That’s what made America’s backbone, these middle-class type of jobs.”

Florida’s 18,099 manufacturers employ 317,690 people, according to the Manufacturers Association of Florida. Based on the number of facilities, the state ranks fourth in the nation in manufacturing. Plant managers are opening their doors to student tours, and hiring promising young candidates. They work with schools and training centers to strengthen STEM curricula undefined science, technology, engineering and math. But even as they reach out to educators to bolster their work force, manufacturers also are advancing in another directionundefinedtoward the brave new world of automation.

Robots: more than a game

As he pencils in plant changes in anticipation of the potential 2015 growth spurt, Sweatman knows that not only will a new generation of skilled employees help his plant carry on after he retires, so will the next generation of automated machines, including robots. Already, smart machines can select tools and mill metal parts with mathematical precision. They can move multiple pallets along the plant floor, shuttling along a metal rail.

SMT uses about 20 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, and it employs a few basic robots. The Mars rover, after all, is a robot, and robotics are integrated not just in end-user military or space products, but also in the manufacturing process.

Sweatman and his daughter Shannon, SMT’s systems administrator, work with local schools and colleges to encourage robotics programs, which make math and science fun. The students compete in robot tournaments in which their machines fight competitors.

Girls enjoy bots as much as boys. “Down in the Miami area, there’s Catholic high schools with all-girl teams. In these competitions when they fight and the bots get damaged, [the girls] are back in the pits helping each other out” with pit-stop repairs, says Sweatman, laughing.

Some Tampa kids come to the plant to perfect their bots, and occasionally, get hired part-time. New workers with no training generally earn $10 an hour, while those with some training get $14 an hour and skilled workers, $20 to $25 per hour, says Sweatman. “One-third of Southern Manufacturing’s workers earn more than $50,000 per year.”

As he searches for workers who are precise yet innovative, Sweatman has raised his profile, taking lead roles in professional groups and serving on the U.S. Commerce Department’s Manufacturing Council, which advises the Secretary of Commerce on manufacturing issues. “Now I prefer not to be under the radar, so that people know there are good jobs and good opportunities and things other than going to college.”

Racing the clock

To see how far he has come as he nears the close of his stewardship, Sweatman has only to look into the glass case in his lobby, where metal parts undefined bronze, titanium, and steel undefined gleam like trophies. Each one tells a story.

It wasn’t easy to become a key player in the complex world of satellite and aircraft production. At 17, he apprenticed at General Electric in Erie, Pa. and stayed to hone his skills before becoming general manager at a machine shop. In 1982, he brought his life savings to Tampa and bought the small machine shop. The owner provided financing, and Sweatman paid it off in two years.

The shop made parts for locomotives and medical devices as well as aircraft, but soon settled into an aerospace and defense niche. Sweatman convinced customers his shop could make the parts they needed. He developed a pivotal relationship with Conax Florida Corp. in St. Petersburg, now a subsidiary of Cobham PLC. Conax explosives technology is used with the parachutes for which Sweatman’s firm provides housings.

In 1988, just five years after Sweatman bought the machine shop, it made the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing companies. As it grew, he reinvested in SMT to improve efficiency. The latest investment, a $750,000 machining center, holds 180 tools, and boasts six pallets. To pay its cost, it runs 24 hours a day, contributing to SMT’s $17,000 monthly electric bill.

The machine’s robotic arm plucks a tool from the new array, as a pallet shuttles along an enclosed rail. Amid the plant’s whine and hum of machines, workers study calculations or plunge their hands into a cleansing water spout. Shiny valves wait on flat surfaces for the next step, as a faintly acrid odor of treated metals wafts through the plant.

In his office, Sweatman rolls off the names of missile defense systems to which SMT has contributed, including the Harpoon, Tomahawk and Javelin. As he hurries to meet the new deadline undefined the expected aircraft parts contract less than two years from now, with its influx of people, equipment, and production timetables undefined Sweatman is also planning for the longer term. He hopes his daughter, who has a master’s in management information systems, will take a leadership role at the company. And he has groomed a management team. But he remains firmly in charge.

And highly competitive. His daughter recently gave him the gift of a Mario Andretti Racing Experience, a chance to race an Indy 500-style car around a Miami track. He sped at 154 miles per hour. Of all the day’s riders, Sweatman’s was the fastest lap of the day.

MAF Weekly Report-February 2, 2013

(Past member) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 20:29:13 GMT

MAF Weekly Report-February 2, 2013

New Economic Development Tool from Florida Power & Light

During the January 30-31 Enterprise Florida quarterly Board meetings Florida Power and Light rolled out a tremendous tool for economic developers. It is a resource website called Powering Florida (www.poweringflorida.com) and is intended to provide all the information economic developers need to know about helping businesses pick a location for their next business site in Florida. Thank you Florida Power & Light for providing this tool to our economic developers.

Lots of Excitement for Manufacturing Days - February 4-5, 2013

More than 60 people have registered for Manufacturing Days at the Capitol – a record for MAF. Joining us for our briefing at Manufacturing Days this year on February 4 is: Enterprise FL, Workforce FL, Associated Industries of FL, Florida Chamber of Commerce, TaxWatch, Sen. Hukill, and Representatives Ray, Magar, and Patronis.

On February 5 participants have appointments with more than 20 legislators and the Governor. The group visit with the Governor will be a press event on the Governor’s manufacturing initiative. Two local manufacturing companies will be bringing equipment in for a backdrop, participants will be invited to put their signatures on a sign for the event, we have buttons for participants to wear: “Let Manufacturers Lead,” we have a recognition spot planned for a legislative committee meeting and we will be interviewing willing participants on two questions:

Why it is important to belong to the Manufacturers Association of Florida and what has it meant to you and your company?
Why is it important to completely eliminate the sales tax exemption for manufacturing machinery and equipment in Florida?

We hope you will participate in the interviews. One video will be turned into a membership promotional video and the other an advocacy video for our website and for use at the Capitol. If you didn’t have time to register, just show up on Monday!

Enterprise Florida to Market Florida as a Business Destination

At the January 30 Enterprise Florida Stakeholder meeting Melissa Medley unveiled Enterprise Florida’s business marketing plan – to market Florida as a business destination in addition to a tourist destination; however, they will tie the two together. Using sand castles of business people as a backdrop in promotional events, the campaign will replace the “I” in Florida with a business tie. The slogan is “Florida is the Perfect Climate for Business.” The campaign needs angel investors, investing anywhere from $100,000 to $1,000 to reach the goal of $3 million for the marketing plan. If you would like to invest, let us know and we will connect you with Melissa Medley.

Internship Agreements

The MAF Center is collecting internship agreements from various sources to develop a model internship agreement for our manufacturers. If you have any materials for internship programs at your company that you would be willing to share, please send them to nancy@nstephens.com. Feel free to take your name off the materials before sending.

Manufacturing Task Force Endorses Welcome Mat for Manufacturers

The Manufacturers Task Force of Enterprise Florida, co-chaired by MAF Executive Director Nancy Stephens, had a lively meeting on January 30 in Tallahassee. EFI staff gave a briefing on status of the Governor’s proposal on the manufacturing sales tax elimination, Workforce Florida briefed the group on Quick Response Training Fund uses and the proposal to double that funding, Nancy Stephens presented manufacturing facts so everyone would be on the same page in their advocacy, the group talked about what each of them could do to help pass the Sales Tax Elimination and the QRT Funding this year, and lastly the group decided to implement a program called the Manufacturing Welcome Mat.

In the Welcome Mater program Enterprise Florida will issue a quarterly report to MAF on the manufacturing companies that have been recruited/retained/expanded in Florida via the Enterprise Florida recruitment programs. MAF will set up meetings with those manufacturing companies and invite the regional manufacturing association, the local economic development partner, and Enterprise Florida to brief the company on resources and connections available to them in Florida. MAF sees this as another tool in our tool box to build membership for MAF and for the regional manufacturing associations, while providing a service to new manufacturers and the state.

Our first Welcome Mat event will be in conjunction with the March 6-7 Southern Advanced Manufacturing Tradeshow at the Orange County Civic Center in Orlando. MAF and MACF will host a booth there and a Welcome Reception for participants to drop by and network with Florida manufacturers. We hope you will attend. More details to come, but registration is open for the entire show for free using the code MZ at http://registration3.experientevent.com/showubm131/default.aspx?flowcode=ATT2.

MAF Participates in Press Event with Governor

On January 31 MAF President Al Stimac and Executive Director Nancy Stephens attended a luncheon and participated in a press announcement with Governor Scott. At the luncheon the group of business leaders and educators heard from Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll, Governor Scott’s Chief of Staff Adam Hollingsworth, the Governor’s Budget Director Jerry Daniels, and Governor Scott. After an overview of the proposed 2012-2013 state budget proposal, Governor Scott answered questions from the audience.

Following the lunch, the group moved to the Cabinet Room for a press conference on the budget. Governor Scott announced his $74.2 billion budget and his two priorities – complete elimination of the sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment and $2,500 pay raises for teachers. In questions and answers between the press and the Governor there was not one question about the sales tax exemption! Thank you Governor Scott!

Short Notes

· Tom Kennedy has left the South Florida Manufacturers Association for new opportunities. June Wolfe will be assisting SFMA during the interim. Thank you to Tom for his service to MAF as Secretary-Treasurer since MAF formed. Tom’s last official MAF duties will end with the February 4 Board meeting in Tallahassee. Best of luck to Tom!

· Making It Happen: How Career Academies Can Build College and Career Exploration Program was released in January by the MDRC, a Ford Foundation non-profit organization. It looks at Florida, Georgia and California Career Academies. The link to the report: http://www.mdrc.org/making-it-happen.

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.
The Florida Administrative Register report for the week is attached.

Upcoming Events - 2013

February 4 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. MAF Board of Directors Meeting, Governors Club, 202 ½ South Adams Street, Tallahassee, Florida

February 4-5 Florida Manufacturing Days at the Capitol, Governors Club, 202 ½ South Adams Street, Tallahassee, FL and the Capitol, Tallahassee, FL. Book a room at the aloft Hotel (850.513.0313)

February 18 DOT Florida Mobility & Trade Plan Review Webinar, 9:30-11:30 am, Save the Date!

March 6-7 Southern Advanced Manufacturing Tradeshow, Orange County Civic Center, cosponsored by MAF and MACF. For more info call 310.445.4200. MAF member regional manufacturers’ association members will receive free tradeshow admission by using registration code: MZ. Mark your calendars now! Register at:

http://registration3.experientevent.com/showubm131/default.aspx?flowcode=ATT2.

May 29 MAF Board of Directors Meeting, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, Orlando, FL. Time TBA. Mark your calendars!

March 28 FDOT Florida Mobility & Trade Plan, Business Forum III Plan Review, 8:30-5:00, Orlando, FL. Save the Date!

May 28-31 Florida Sterling Council Annual Conference, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, register at www.floridasterling.com.

May 30 Mark your calendar for a manufacturing education forum, particularly relevant for manufacturing human relations professionals and educators, to be held in conjunction with the Florida Sterling Conference in Orlando

MAF Weekly Report-January 20, 2013

(Past member) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 13:00:34 GMT

MAF Weekly Report-January 20, 2013

First New Member for 2013

MAF wishes to welcome Custom Manufacturing & Engineering, Inc. of Pinellas Park, Florida to MAF membership. Dr. Nancy Crews is the President/CEO of the company. The company manufactures military power supplies, power distribution units, special cable harnesses, custom factory/field testers, integrated sensors, and other electronic modules for military and industry markets. Welcome!

Help Us Promote Sales Tax Exemption Legislation – Contest Announced

Never before has the manufacturing industry gotten so much support from a Florida Governor as we have from Governor Rick Scott. Now for the second year in a row he is proposing to help us on taxes. Please help us spread the word on what passing a complete removal of sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment will mean to manufacturing in Florida. Here are just a few of the benefits below. We challenge you to think of more and share them with us and your manufacturing colleagues. It will take all of us working together to be rid of this burden once and for all.

If Governor Scott’s proposal passes:

If you buy machinery and equipment in the future and you are an existing business you would not have to go through paperwork and calculation exercises in order to get the tax back that you pay on the machinery and equipment (new and space businesses are already exempt);
This puts Florida on a level playing field with other competitor states on manufacturing tax climate;
If you are a new business that locates here and gets the tax break for your initial purchases, you will continue to get the tax break when you become an “existing” business;
Manufacturing capital investment will be incentivized, which will support exporting and the expansion of the port system in Florida, in which the state is investing millions of dollars;
Manufacturers will have more money to contribute directly to their communities and schools as they see fit, hire more employees, buy even more capital, and be less burdened by government red tape;
It will make more money available for employers to hire employees with above average wages, thereby increasing the wealth of Florida citizens;
Local governments should realize an increase in the amount of tangible personal property tax paid as an offset to loss of the 1% sales tax revenue.
Site selectors recruiting business to Florida will no longer be able to cite Florida’s tax environment as an impediment to doing manufacturing business here.

Please send us your best reasons why removing the sales tax completely from manufacturing machinery and equipment is the right thing to do for Florida. We will enter your statement in a contest and the best statement will win that contributor a free registration to Manufacturing Days at the Capitol ($150 value) on February 4-5, 2013 in Tallahassee, FL. (You may enter more than one statement.) Please send your statements to nancy@nstephens.com no later than January 27, 2013 to be eligible for the contest. If you wish your name to remain anonymous when the statement is used for advocacy after the contest, please let us know.

Manufacturing Days Approaching – February 4-5, 2013

It will be a busy time for participants of Manufacturing Days at the Capitol. Last week we emailed and also hand delivered 250 invitations to stated elected officials and state leaders for our Legislative Reception. We hope you will be there to welcome our guests!

For February 4 we have confirmed Senator Hukill, Rep. Ray, Associated Industries of Florida, and Florida Chamber of Commerce as speakers; on February 5 we have confirmed appointments with Governor Scott, Senators Abruzzo, Bean, Hays, Margolis, Simpson, Stargel, Brandes, and Clemens. Now that the legislative schedules have been released for that week we will be confirming more speakers and appointments daily. It is very important that every region of the state is represented. Don’t miss it!

MAF Teams Up with UBM-Canon on Manufacturing Tradeshow

On March 6-7, 2013, UBM-Canon will hold their Southern Advanced Manufacturing Tradeshow at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Members of the Manufacturers Association of Florida, MACF members and other MAF member regional manufacturers’ association members will receive free tradeshow admission by using registration code: MZ. Mark your calendars now! Register at:

http://registration3.experientevent.com/showubm131/default.aspx?flowcode=ATT2. For more information you may call 310.445.4200.

Legislative Issues Raised Last Week

Legislators were in Tallahassee the week of January 14 to become educated on state issues and begin hearing proposed legislation and budget issues. Following is news from the week:

Single Sales Factor - Remember the taxing mechanism called Single Sales Factor? We are hearing that around the Capitol again, after not much buzz for the last few years. Rep. David Santiago is a proponent and hopes to generate interest in it. The last time we polled our members, several years ago, they were divided on their support/opposition of it. If the issue starts getting traction, we will poll you again!

FDEP Overview – FDEP Deputy Secretary Jeff Littlejohn and various FDEP Division Directors were on hand to give updates to the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee on the statewide uniform Environmental Resource Permitting (ERP) rules for Florida, the status of the state nutrient criteria program, consistency in consumptive use permitting, hazardous substance emergency response, air regulation, environmental assessment and restoration related to water quality, and water policy.

The House Economic Development & Tourism Committee heard from Space Florida, Enterprise Florida and Workforce Florida on their economic development and workforce progress, legislative priorities, and results of the Competitiveness Report.

Space Florida legislative priorities include setting minimum annual spaceport funding levels and removing the per company cap on incentive funds from QTI and QDSC state incentive funds and funding. Since their report, MAF has been able to persuade them to add the manufacturing machinery and equipment sales tax exemption to their agenda. Space Florida currently has 80 projects in the pipeline that they are recruiting for Florida.

Workforce Florida presented the facts on Quick Response Training (QRT) funds. Between 2000-2012, QRT has been used to help Florida companies train more than 99,000 new and existing employees. QRT trainees’ wages increased more than 47% within a year of completing training. QRT has been cited #1 with the largest impact on Florida economic developers’ ability to win multi-state competitive projects by the 2012 Florida Target Industry Competitiveness Report.

Enterprise Florida presented its legislative agenda and results from the Economic Development Competitiveness Study. Manufacturing is considered a key industry in Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina and Texas. Key issues for Florida to compete in manufacturing are incentives (capital vs expense) and workforce training. As you know Enterprise Florida is also recommending elimination of the sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment and recognized MAF’s work on this issue at the Committee meeting.

The Next Chapter of NNC

The Numeric Nutrient Criteria rulemaking has now moved into Phase II as Florida deals with EPA’s decision to propose additional federal criteria for Florida’s coastal waters, some estuaries, and South Florida flowing waters and the decision to engage in filling the gaps in Florida’s freshwater criteria rules. MAF has joined other regulated interests in sending a letter to EPA stating that we believe a further review of DEP’s new nutrient rules will demonstrate that there is no environmental policy objective served by overlaying additional federal criteria.

Coalition Growing to Support Governor’s Manufacturing Agenda

This week we got confirmation that the printers, medical device manufacturers, the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Space Florida will join our loose coalition to help the Governor pass his sales tax exemption on manufacturing machinery and equipment. They join MAF and Enterprise Florida in the effort. MAF is taking the lead role on organizing the support from other groups. We would like the same commitment from each of the regional manufacturing associations and economic development organizations!

Shippers Reach Agreement

The American Chemistry Council informs us that, working with the Chlorine Institute and railroad associations, they have finalized an agreement on an extension of the Toxic Inhalation Hazard (TIH) tank car agreement. Without the extension, the shippers would have been required to begin the process of switching their existing fleets to the interim TIH tank cars that are already required for new construction by the Department of Transportation. TIH materials, such as chlorine, ethylene oxide, and hydrogen fluoride are essential for dozens of industries including health care, agriculture, water treatment and telecommunications. The agreement helps ensure the timely, safe and reliable shipping of these products.

FDEP Chapter 62-780 Rulemaking

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is in the process of responding to comments on their Chapter 62-780 rulemaking from the Florida Joint Administrative Procedure Committee (JAPC). (Comments are attached.) These latest JAPC comments seem to acknowledge statutory authority for the concept of de minimis discharge cleanup in petroleum and non-petroleum incidences, but are now focused on notice/reporting requirements upon initiation of cleanup. FDEP has identified potential responses:

Exclusion from reporting requirements for de minimis discharge cleanups are authorized.
FDEP could develop a simple reporting form after initiation of de minimis discharge cleanups.
DEP could inform JAPC that the agency is unwilling to make any changes to the de minimis discharge cleanup provisions.
FDEP could ask JAPC to withdraw its informal objections to the rule, let FDEP complete this rulemaking, and then FDEP would begin rulemaking on the de minimis issue only.

The rulemaking cannot be finalized until there is resolution to JAPC concerns.

Short Notes

· JAXPORT Funding – Last week the Governor announced a commitment of $38 million in state and local funding to complete Phase II of the TRACPAC Container Terminal Project at JAXPORT. This will allow navigation problems for container ships to be fixed now without waiting for federal funding and support 3,500 port related jobs. Thank you Governor Scott!

· New Department of Education contact – Ted Norman has replaced Eric Owens at the Florida Department of Education as the State Supervisor, Manufacturing/Transportation, Distribution and Logistics, Division of Career and Adult Education. His phone is 850.245.9015 and email is Richard.norman@fldoe.org. MAF will be meeting with him later this month.

· Unemployment Rate - The Florida unemployment rate is now 8%, the lowest since November 2008. The number of available online job openings in STEM related fields in Florida has sharply increased since last year, up 16.5% for a total of 61,271 postings in December 2012.

· Florida Growth Fund - As of September 30, 2012, the Florida Growth Fund had committed to invest $255 million in 19 technology and growth companies and 15 private equity funds. As of June 30, 2012, the fund had a net internal rate of return of 21.03% since its inception. Companies that received Florida Growth Fund investments reported creating 4,164 jobs as of September 30, 2012. This included 2,110 jobs created by technology and growth companies and 2,054 jobs created by companies in which private equity funds were invested. The companies also reported paying an average annual salary of approximately $58,000. Salaries ranged from $23,500 to $110,000 per year

· NAM Status – MAF is considered a Regional Ally for the National Association of Manufacturers, for those of you who were wondering!

· A memo is attached from Hopping Green & Sams on Chapter 62-40 Water Resource Implementation Rule which is guidance to water management districts on Consumptive Use Permitting Consistency (CUPCON).

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.
The Florida Administrative Register report for the week is attached.

Upcoming Events - 2013

January 30-31 Enterprise Florida Board, Committee, Manufacturing Task Force and Stakeholder meetings, DoubleTree Hotel, 101 South Adams Street, Tallahassee, FL

February 4 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. MAF Board of Directors Meeting, Governors Club, 202 ½ South Adams Street, Tallahassee, Florida

February 4-5 Florida Manufacturing Days at the Capitol, Governors Club, 202 ½ South Adams Street, Tallahassee, FL and the Capitol, Tallahassee, FL. Book a room at the aloft Hotel (850.513.0313)

http://registration3.experientevent.com/showubm131/default.aspx?flowcode=ATT2.

May 29 MAF Board of Directors Meeting, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, Orlando, FL. Time TBA. Mark your calendars!

May 28-31 Florida Sterling Council Annual Conference, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, register at www.floridasterling.com.

MAF Weekly Report-January 6, 2013

(Past member) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 18:41:32 GMT

MAF Weekly Report-January 6, 2013

What Does the Reduction in Amount of Productivity You Have to Show Mean to You?

On January 1, 2013 the sales tax exemption for manufacturing machinery and equipment for expanding businesses changed again. Now instead of showing that you are at least 10% more productive in order to get the sales tax exemption, you only have to show that you are 5% more productive. We are working on press statements with the Governor’s Office and would LOVE to have a quote or two from our members or regional manufacturing members on what this change will mean to them in 2013. We need them “yesterday” so please send your quote by return email to nancy@nstephens.com. If you want to read the law, it is posted on our home page at www.mafmfg.com.

DEO Issues Annual Report

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) issued its 2012 annual report on December 14. The report covers Florida’s business climate and economic development activities, the strategic plan for economic development, the agency overview, performance of Florida’s economic development public private partnerships, and the Florida Innovation Incentive Fund Program. It ends with the 2012-2012 goals and objectives for the Department. The vision for DEO is that Florida will have the nation’s top performing economy and be recognized as the world’s best place to live, learn, play, work and do business. The report is attached for your convenience and is full of useful facts and figures.

Register for Manufacturing Days

Manufacturing Days at the Capital is scheduled for February 4-5, 2013 in Tallahassee, beginning the afternoon of February 4. It will be preceded by an MAF Board of Directors meeting on the morning of February 4. There will be briefings the afternoon of February 4 and a legislative reception that evening. On February 5 participants we break into teams to visit legislators in their offices. Event registration fee is $150/members and $200/non-members. Register for the meeting at www.mafmfg.com.

We have reserved a small group of hotel rooms at the aloft Hotel for $139/night in downtown Tallahassee (four blocks from the capitol). First come first served. Reservations at the aloft Hotel must be made by January 14, 2013 by calling 850.513.0313. The room block is under MAF or Manufacturers Association of Florida.

Federal Fiscal Cliff Package

The American Chemistry Council has reviewed the federal fiscal cliff tax package signed by President Obama on January 2. Of note are a few things you have heard about and others you might not have!

Preserves income tax rates for most Americans as they were at the end of 2012, but individuals earning more than $400,000 and households earning over $450,000 will now pay a tax rate of 39.6%
The top tax rate for capital gains and dividends will remain at 15% for those individuals earning less than $400,000 and households earning under $450,000, but will go up to 20% for those with higher annual incomes
Long term unemployment benefits are extended for another year
Sequestration is delayed for two months
Extends through the end of 2013 the R&D tax credit and a modification of the rules for calculating the credit when the business, or a portion of it, changes hands
Extends and modifies the Production Tax Credits for wind power, including the modification that allows renewable energy facilities (such as geothermal, hydropower, biomass and waste to energy) that begin construction before the end of 2013 to claim the 10 year credit

Proposed Federal Rules on Numeric Nutrient Criteria

EPA recently approved the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s revised numeric nutrient criteria rules for statewide springs, lakes, streams and some estuaries. However, in accordance with a 2009 consent decree with the Florida Wildlife Federation andundefinedbecause the state’s rules do not cover some coastal waters, many estuaries and a subset of flowing watersundefinedEPA has proposed two federal rules that address these waters.

EPA’s Inland Remand Rule serves to clarify some provisions in the rule EPA promulgated in 2010 establishing numeric nutrient limits in Florida's streams and rivers. These provisions were sent back to EPA for further action by the U.S. District Court. The rule is posted online at: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-12-18/pdf/2012-30114.pdf, and more information can be found at: http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/florida_inland.cfm

EPA has proposed to postpone the applicability of this rule to November 15, 2013. The stay will allow time to gain clarity on the implementation of Florida’s rules.

EPA’s Coastal Rule proposes numeric nutrient limits for those estuaries not covered by the State rule, coastal waters and flowing waters in South Florida. The rule is posted online at: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-12-18/pdf/2012-30117.pdf, and more information can be found at: http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/florida_coastal.cfm

EPA will hold three webinars to provide opportunities for the public to learn more about its proposed rules and submit both written and oral comments. The webinars will be held on the following dates and times:

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 from 10 am to Noon;
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 from 6 to 8 pm; and
Thursday, January 24, 2013 from 2 to 4 pm.

Webinar registration is available at: http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/florida_index.cfm.

EPA will also hold information sessions for the public to learn more about its proposed rules and submit written comments. While verbal comments will not be taken/recorded, EPA representatives will be available to help attendees submit their written comments electronically. The sessions will have an “open house” format, and will be held in Tampa at the Hotel Tampa (formerly the Hyatt Regency Tampa), at 211 North Tampa Street, on the following dates and times:

Thursday, January 17, 2013 from 1 to 7 pm; and
Friday, January 18, 2013 from 9 am to 1 pm.

If you are unable to participate in any of the information sessions or webinars, or prefer to submit your comments in writing, you are asked to use one of the four methods identified below:

www.regulations.gov: Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments.
Email: ow-docket@epa.gov
Mail to: Water Docket, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Mail code: 2822T, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20460.
Hand Delivery: EPA Docket Center, EPA West Room 3334, 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004. Such deliveries are only accepted during the Docket’s normal hours of operation, and special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information.

When submitting written comments, you must be sure to identify which rule your comments pertain to:

Inland Remand Rule Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2009-0596; or
Coastal Rule Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2010-0222

Both rules were published in the Federal Register on December 18, 2012. Comments on the Inland Remand Rule must be received on or before February 1, 2013; while comments on the Coastal Rule must be received on or before February 19, 2013.

EPA must finalize the Inland Remand Rule by August 31, 2013 and the Coastal Rule by September 30, 2013. However, the Agency is prepared to either not move forward withundefinedor withdrawundefinedfederal rules for any waters that become covered by state law that meets the requirements of the Clean Water Act.

Short Notes

· Hopping Green & Sams has forwarded a memo from EPA and documents regarding institutional controls for cleaning up contaminated sites. All three documents are attached.

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.
The Florida Administrative Register report for the week is attached.

Upcoming Events - 2013

January 30-31 Enterprise Florida Board, Committee, Manufacturing Task Force and Stakeholder meetings, DoubleTree Hotel, 101 South Adams Street, Tallahassee, FL

February 4 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. MAF Board of Directors Meeting, Governors Club, 202 ½ South Adams Street, Tallahassee, Florida

February 4-5 Florida Manufacturing Days at the Capitol, Governors Club, 202 ½ South Adams Street, Tallahassee, FL and the Capitol, Tallahassee, FL. Guest room blocks reserved at aloft Hotel (850.513.0313)

May 29 MAF Board of Directors Meeting, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, Orlando, FL. Time TBA. Mark your calendars!

May 28-31 Florida Sterling Council Annual Conference, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, register at www.floridasterling.com

Gov. Scott: We are Building Up Florida Manufacturing Jobs

(Past member) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 18:43:34 GMT

Dear Friend,

This morning I visited Johnson and Johnson Vision Care in Jacksonville to announce my commitment to Building Up Florida Manufacturing Jobs during the upcoming legislative session. Manufacturing is a vital part of Florida’s economy, and companies just like Johnson and Johnson play a vital role in our economy. For families to succeed, Florida manufacturers must succeed.

In order to build up Florida manufacturing jobs, we must get rid of the barriers on manufacturing investment in our state. To do this, we will to fully eliminate the taxes on the purchase of equipment to encourage manufacturing companies to grow in Florida and strengthen our economy. By making it easier for Florida’s manufacturers to do business in our state, we can create more opportunities for our economy and our families.

Today, there are 17,500 manufacturing companies in Florida that employ over 300,000 Florida families. Yet, Florida’s current policy puts our state at a competitive disadvantage because most states do not force manufacturers to pay taxes on the purchase of equipment or require them to adhere to regulations for tax exemptions. In order to build up our manufacturing jobs in Florida, we will remove these barriers to investment.

We know that when manufacturers purchase equipment in our state, they are investing in Florida workers for years to come. We want more manufacturers to move to Florida and our existing manufacturing companies to buy the equipment they need to grow and create more jobs to support Florida families.

Building up Florida manufacturing is about building up Florida jobs all across our state. My proposal will also benefit our ports and the many small businesses that support manufacturers.

Manufacturing accounts for almost 90 percent of Florida's exports. With Florida’s recent investments in our ports, Florida manufacturers and exporters are a powerful combination for the state’s economy.

Small businesses are also key in Florida’s manufacturing and exporting. They make up nearly 96 percent of the state’s exporting firms and are responsible for producing 67 percent of the state’s total exports. My proposal will ensure Florida’s small manufacturing businesses and start-ups can succeed.

If you would like to continue to receive updates and information about Building Up Florida Manufacturing Jobs, please let me know by emailing me at Rick.Scott@eog.myflorida.com.

Thank you for interest in keeping Florida moving in the right direction.

Rick Scott
Governor

Governor Proposes Complete Elimination of M&E Sales Tax

(Past member) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 15:40:52 GMT

Today MAF had the pleasure of assisting the Governor with a press announcement at Vistakon – Johnson and Johnson in Jacksonville, one of MAF’s Manufacturers of the Year for 2012, to announce an exciting MAF initiative for the 2013 Legislative Session, endorsed and proposed by the Govenor. Rep. Lake Ray, President, First Coast Manufacturers Association, Debbie Warren, Vice President, First Coast Manufacturers Association, Ron Avery, The Ronco Group and MAF Government Affairs Chairman, John Otterson, International Flavors and Fragrances, Trish Bowles, Georgia-Pacific, Mike Bell, Rayonier, Edward Barlow, Swisher, Kate Barry, Medtronic and Nancy Stephens, MAF were all on hand for the announcement.

As you know, MAF has been chipping away at the sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment for years, making incremental progress in a difficult political environment. Last year Governor Scott joined our crusade with another improvement which took effect on January 1, 2013. We are delighted to announce that today Governor Scott made the final commitment on this tax – he is proposing complete elimination of the manufacturing machinery and equipment sales tax. This is music to our ears!

And that is not the only thing he is proposing – he would like to double the state funding for Quick Response Training from $6 million/year to $12 million/year. Manufacturers are major recipients of these training funds. This was another MAF initiative on our 2013 legislative agenda.

Now we all must press Florida legislators to make these proposals law in the 2013 Session. We hope you will join us at Manufacturing Days at the Capital to help spread the word. The Governor’s announcement is below. Thank you to Vistakon – Johson and Johnson for hosting the Governor’s Press Conference. Feel free to share this with your employees!

Gov. Scott: We are Building Up Florida Manufacturing Jobs

Dear Friend,

This morning I visited Johnson and Johnson Vision Care in Jacksonville to announce my commitment to Building Up Florida Manufacturing Jobsduring the upcoming legislative session. Manufacturing is a vital part of Florida’s economy, and companies just like Johnson and Johnson play a vital role in our economy. For families to succeed, Florida manufacturers must succeed.

In order to build up Florida manufacturing jobs, we must get rid of the barriers on manufacturing investment in our state. To do this, we will fully eliminate the taxes on the purchase of equipment to encourage manufacturing companies to grow in Florida and strengthen our economy. By making it easier for Florida’s manufacturers to do business in our state, we can create more opportunities for our economy and our families.

Building up Florida manufacturing is about building up Florida jobs all across our state. My proposal will also benefit our ports and the many small businesses that support manufacturers.

Rick Scott
Governor

Press Release on Manufacturer of the year Finalists and Winners

(Past member) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:31:19 GMT

Dear MAF Manufacturer of the Year Finalists and Winners:

Congratulations on your success in 2012! Thank you for participation in the MAF Awards process and to all of you who attended the MAF Summit last week, thank you for being there. As a reminder I wanted you to know that we offer a service to our award finalists. To help you with continuous improvement, our lead judge, Phil Centonze, POS-Impact, LLC, will visit your facility again free of charge, sometime in the next 9 months at your convenience, to talk about ways your company could improve on our areas of emphasis: leadership; strategic planning; customer and market focus; measurement, analysis and knowledge management; workforce focus; and process managmeent. If that is something of interest to you, please email him with your request at phil.centonze@pos-impact.com.

We have a finalist wall plaque for each of you. We sincerely regret that the shipping delay prevented us from presenting the plaque to you at the Awards Dinner but they will ship out to you this week. Be on the lookout for them.

Looking ahead to next year for our finalists, think about entering the competition again! For our award winners, you will be asked to make a presentation on your best practices at next year’s Summit and announce the 2013 winners! We will be in touch as soon as we have the Summit date for 2013 so you can mark your calendars.

Lastly, the names of our winners will be displayed on the MAF website, www.mafmfg.com, for the next 12 months. We we also will be sending this press release to the Governor’s Office, Florida Trend, the Capital Press Corps, your regional manufacturers association, and Enterprise Florida, to let them know of your success this year. Feel free to send the press release to your local media.

My best wishes for a prosperous 2013!

Press Release on Finalists and Winners for 2012.pdf

MAF Weekly Report-December 16, 2012

(Past member) — Sun, 16 Dec 2012 15:28:19 GMT

Book Your Hotel Room for Manufacturing Days

This is an annual event to educate legislators about Florida manufacturing and share our legislative agenda with them. The event begins at the Governor’s Club in Tallahassee, FL on February 4 after lunch with briefing sessions on all the hot topics of interest to manufacturers, followed by a legislative reception to which all the legislators will be invited. On February 5 the group will break up into teams, each with a team leader, and will visit legislators with pre-arranged appointments until mid-afternoon.

We have reserved a small group of hotel rooms at the Aloft Hotel for $139/night in downtown Tallahassee (four blocks from the capitol) and at the Governor’s Inn for $159/night (across from the meeting location and the Capitol). First come first served. Reservations at the Governor’s Inn must be made by December 21 by calling 850.681.6855. Reservations at the aloft Hotel must be made by January 14, 2013 by calling 850.513.0313. The room block is under MAF or Manufacturers Association of Florida. You might want to do this before you leave on holiday this month! At the same time don’t forget to register for the meeting at www.mafmfg.com. Event registration fee is $150/members and $200/non-members.

We are still accepting sponsors for the event. Join PCS Phosphate and CF Industries as our event sponsors for 2013. Please contact nancy@mafmfg.com with questions.

Follow Up from Manufacturers Summit

All of the presentations from the Manufacturers Summit have been posted to our website under Events in case you missed something. The Governor will be sending a letter of congratulations to all of the 2013 Manufacturers of the Year. Thank you again for everyone who helped make it such a great event. In 2013 we will be moving the location to provide opportunities for additional manufacturers to easily attend.

MAF Center Charts a Path for Your Workforce

For the past three years MAF has been preparing to help you develop the workforce you need. Now we are prepared and are in “action” mode. At this year’s Summit the early session was entitled Your Workforce: How to Make It the Greatest – Use Florida Resources. It focused on developing a skilled and certified manufacturing workforce and was designed to help manufacturers obtain, train and retain the best workforce for maximum productivity by using resources available throughout the State of Florida.

The two-hour Session was divided into three segments - recruitment, talent development and education - with Q&A after each segment. Topics included: www.EmployFlorida.com, Made-in-Florida, Dream It Do It – Adopt-a-School, apprenticeships, training grants, and public and private education opportunities. Each speaker talked about the opportunities available to manufacturers to get involved in creating their own customized workforce. Manufacturers spoke out on how they have benefited by using these resources.

After all three segments, the Workforce Session ended with a call to action for the manufacturing community – how they can/must get involved in creating their future workforce. Manufacturers can serve on curriculum councils, recognize manufacturing certifications and hire accordingly, adopt-a-school, hire interns and more. MAF and the MAF Center will be there to help along the way.

Engaging our Manufacturers in Workforce Development

It wasn’t so long ago that employers sat on the sidelines while educators taught students what they thought employers wanted. That is changing. Now employers are engaging with educators to prepare students for their jobs. The MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence (MAF Center) is in the thick of it. With the roll out of Dream It Do It in 2012, we now have 34 manufacturers signed up to adopt a high school under the Dream It Do It program in Florida. In 2013 we want to grow that to 100 adopters. That is where you come in. June Wolfe, Project Manager, is willing to work with you individually or through your regional manufacturing association to help you adopt a school. We have produced a handy Quick Start guide to help you understand how to engage with the schools. Each of the regional manufacturing associations associated with MAF have been asked to engage in the program. Once you decide you would like to adopt a school, let your regional manufacturing association or June Wolfe know, june.wolfe@comcast.net. There is a simple commitment form to sign and you are off and running. Help us reach our goal for 2013 and help yourself at the same time!

But that isn’t all we will be doing in 2013. We are also engaged with twelve community colleges in a U.S. Department of Labor Trade Grant to provide manufacturing education and industry certification training to those interested in a manufacturing career through twelve Florida colleges. The MAF and MAF Center’s role is to serve as a liaison between educators and manufacturers, help review courses and curriculum to make sure the colleges are teaching the right things, connect manufacturers to colleges, identify 1,000 manufacturing internships over the next four years with manufacturers in Florida and place students in 500 permanent manufacturing jobs. We will need your help on this too!

The MAF Center will be working with the regional manufacturing associations and others to meet the goals and provide trained, educated and certified students for you. If you would like to serve on our curriculum review committee, drop an email to nancy@nstephens.com. If you would like to adopt a college or offer an internship in 2013, please contact us. Look for us to be in touch with all of you on your level of engagement in this commitment.

Report on Water Minimum Flows and Levels

Section 373.042, Florida Statutes, requires all of the water management districts to adopt rules setting forth minimum flows and levels (MFLs) below which significant harm may occur from water withdrawals. Pursuant to this directive, the SWFWMD staff had been working for over a year on rules setting minimum flows for the Chassahowitzka River and the Homosassa River located in Hernando and Citrus Counties. After much work, the SWFWMD staff recommended a minimum flow for the Chassahowitzka River of 91% of the river’s natural flow, meaning that consumptive uses could reduce the flow by 9% before the regulation would prohibit any further reduction. The SWFWMD staff recommended a minimum flow for the Homossassa River of 97% of the natural flow, which would allow for a 3% reduction from consumptive uses.

These rule recommendations were presented to the SWFWMD’s Governing Board at the Board’s October 30, 2012, meeting. A large crowd of citizens attended the meeting and objected to the staff’s recommendation and instead asked the Governing Board to set the minimum flow of both rivers at 99% of natural flow, allowing only a 1% reduction due to consumptive uses. The staff explained the legal and technical problems with the public’s request.

After hearing a lengthy debate, the SWFWMD Governing Board voted to set the rule so that the minimum flow for the Chassahowitzka River was 97% of natural flow (rejecting the staff recommendation of 91% of natural flow) and the minimum flow for the Homosassa River was also 97% of natural flow. While no one currently withdraws water from these rivers, several farms in this area withdraw groundwater which can affect the springflow that feeds these rivers. As a result, the SWFWMD Governing Board directed the staff to develop the framework for establishing a Water Use Caution Area in Hernando and Citrus Counties and bring a recommendation on such Water Use Caution Area back to the June 2013 SWFWMD Governing Board meeting. A Water Use Caution Area designation will make it more difficult to obtain consumptive use permits in this area.

This should be of concern to any entity operating in Hernando and Citrus Counties and potentially the surrounding counties who uses groundwater as part of its operation. (Submitted by Eric Olsen, Hopping Green & Sams)

Business Identity Theft in Florida is a Real Threat

Last week three employees from the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, visited the MAF office to talk about a serious and growing problem in Florida and nationwide – business identify theft. As it stands today anyone can log into the Division of Corporations and change your business information – it is not password protected. The good news is they are working on the password issue and many more steps they need to take to protect Florida businesses. Below is information they asked us to share with our members.

Business Identity Theft, is essentially the same as personal identity theft except, the identity stolen is that of a company or other business entity and the damage is usually much more severe. Criminals have identified creative methods for exploiting this form of identity theft. Most businesses are not aware of the crime or how they can protect themselves from it. With business identity theft the average loss is $5000. And in many instances, perpetrating business identity theft is much easier than personal identity theft.

Small business owners are particularly vulnerable. Thieves are after small businesses because they do not possess strong IT departments or multiple finance staff members with the resources to manage and check corporate filings, bank accounts, or credit ratings. A small business is vulnerable because it typically has two distinctions that make it a great target; a small and very busy staff, and readily available credit.

Business identity theft is perpetrated in a number of ways. In many instances thieves simply use information gathered from the Department of State’s records. Additionally, they fraudulently alter those same records, and then use the altered records to purchase easily fenced products. In other cases, they use the altered information to get contracts and collect cash for work performed leaving the original entity with the tax burden. Regardless of the method, the original business entity is left fighting for its life in the aftermath of the crime, and statistics indicate that as many as 60% will close their doors within one year.

Florida’s Department of State is working on a multi-pronged plan of attack with the goal of protecting the state’s business owners from identity theft. As soon as these strategies are in place, they will be announced to the public.

In the meantime, there are multiple steps you should do to protect your business. To begin with, learn about business identity theft. The National Association of Secretaries of State has an excellent website with a great deal of information on the subject. You can find out more at by going to www.nass.org and clicking on the business identity theft link. Second, go to the Department of State’s business filings portal, www.sunbiz.org and check your entity, even if you have dissolved it, for errors or problems. If you see records that are incorrect, contact the Division of Corporations. While you are on our website, make sure the email address on file is correct and one you check regularly. Finally, contact your business creditors, to make sure there is nothing suspicious going on with your accounts. Most creditors have the ability for you to put a hold on your credit, preventing someone from opening a new account without your authorization, so ask your creditor(s) to turn on this feature.

Short Notes

· On December 13, 2012 Deloitte Consulting LLP published a report entitled Manufacturing Skills Gap: Economic Implication and Strategies for Narrowing It. It is posted on the MAF web site under Resources.

· Florida has chosen Tony Bennett from Indiana as the new Florida Commissioner of Education. His background in education: teacher, superintendent and coach.

· Selected solid waste facilities will be permitted in Tallahassee beginning in 2013. See memo from Hopping Green & Sams attached.

· Hopping Green & Sams has prepared a memo on the results of the DEP Solid Waste Webinar of 12/11/12. It is attached.

· For the purpose of benchmarking or determining what you would have to pay in wages if receiving economic incentives from the state, Enterprise Florida has prepared a report on average annual wages by county and by metropolitan service area. That information has been posted to our website under Resources.

· Florida Commerce Secretary Swoop announced 160 economic incentive business deals signed this year, a 23% increase over last year with pledge capital investment of $1.7 billion, an increase of 32% over last year. These deals are expected to net 25,144 jobs for Florida.

· The Florida Revenue Estimating Conference has revised the forecast for total state general revenue in FY 2013-14 and is now expecting growth of nearly $1.2 billion (or 4.7%) over the revised FY 2012-13 estimate. The 2013 Legislature is now forecast to have $28.3 billion available for the next budget. This is $3.7 billion (15%) more than the recurring general revenue appropriations in the current budget.

· Governor Rick Scott announced this week that more than 27,000 Florida veterans have found jobs with the help of the state’s workforce system.

· Florida has increased the number of STEM job openings this year with more than 65,825 job openings posted in November 2012. That is a 14% increase over 2011.

· Interested in adopting a school through the MAF Center’s Dream It Do It Program? Contact your regional manufacturing association or June Wolfe at june.wolfe@comcast.net. For more information about Dream It Do It, visit www.mafcenter.org.

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.
The Florida Administrative Register report for the week is attached.

Upcoming Events - 2013

January 30-31 Enterprise Florida Board, Committee, Manufacturing Task Force and Stakeholder meetings, DoubleTree Hotel, 101 South Adams Street, Tallahassee, FL

February 4-5 Florida Manufacturing Days at the Capital, Governors Club and the Capital, Tallahassee, FL. Guest room blocks reserved at aloft Hotel (850.513.0313) and Governor’s Inn (850.681.6855.

May 28-31 Florida Sterling Council Annual Conference, JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, register at www.floridasterling.com

MAF Weekly Report-November 25, 2012

(Past member) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 19:36:22 GMT

SAVE THE DATE!

Manufacturing Days at the Capital is scheduled for February 4-5, 2013 in Tallahassee. This is an annual event for MAF members. Sponsorships are now being accepted. More details forthcoming. Please contact nancy@mafmfg.com.

Closing in on the Manufacturers Summit

This is the last week to register for the upcoming Manufacturers Summit and it is not too late to sign up for an exhibit or a sponsorship. There are nearly 40 speakers at the Summit this year and 25 exhibitors. Thank you to our wonderful sponsors for making the Summit possible. Regarding the Manufacturer of the Year Awards Banquet at the Summit, we have 17 finalists this year vying for the winning position in four categories. Thank you to everyone who participated in this awards process and to Phil Centonze, POS-Impact for managing it! You may register for the Summit at www.mafmfg.com. An updated agenda is also posted there for your convenience.

DEP Solid Waste Webinar

On December 4, 2012 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. DEP will hold a solid waste webinar. The purpose is to discuss 1) the changing of District boundaries; 2) the centralization of some solid waste permitting in Tallahassee; 3) updates on plans for Chapter 62-701 rulemaking and 4) time for questions. In order to participate you must register at:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/303989418. You can also find more information on the first two discussion items from the DEP solid waste webpage at: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/solid_waste/default.htm.

Florida Legislative Organizational Session

On November 19 Nancy Stephens, nancy d. Stephens & Associates, cosponsored a legislative reception for freshman legislators, sponsored by the Florida Association of Professional Lobbyists. It was great to see the freshman legislators and their staff.

On November 20 the Florida Legislature held their organizational session for the 2012-2014 Legislature. Some of the highlights follow:

· Senator Don Gaetz was named President of the Florida Senate; Rep. Will Weatherford was named Speaker of the Florida House.

· President Gaetz announced new ethics rules for the Senate; combined the K-12 and Higher Education Policy Committees and respective appropriations committees; announced a Select Committee on Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare); and announced a panel on gambling.

· The Democratic Minority Leaders for the House and Senate were chosen, both from Broward County. They are Rep. Thurston and Senator Smith.

· Sen. Garrett Richter, Naples, was chosen as Senate President Pro-Tempore; Sen. Maria Sachs, Boca Raton, was elected as the Senate Democratic leader Pro-Tempore.

· Senate Democrats also chose Sen. Braynon, Miami Gardens, as the Democratic whip, Sen. Soto, Orlando, as the Deputy Whip, and Sen. Montford, Tallahassee, as the policy chair.

· House Democrats chose Rep. Jones, Jacksonville, as House Leader Pro-Tempore; Rep. Waldman, Coconut Creek, Minority Floor Leader; Rep. Pafford, West Palm Beach, as the policy chair; Rep. Rouson, Tampa, as policy advisor; and Rep. Williams, Tallahassee, as Minority Whip.

Legislative Delegation Meetings

Legislative delegation meetings are held in the local community and are a great way to get the attention of local legislators on your issues. They are always held prior to the upcoming legislative session. You can contact your local legislator to find out who is responsible for setting the agenda and ask if you can have 3 minutes on that agenda to present your 2013 legislative issues. If you would like to do that, MAF can help you with your remarks related to the MAF legislative agenda. This makes the next contact on the issue much easier! Contact nancy@mafmfg.com.

November 27

Miami-Dade County Legislative Delegation Miami 9:30 am

Broward Legislative Delegation Ft. Lauderdale 4:00 pm

December 7

Manatee Legislative Delegation Bradenton 8:30 am

December 10

Polk County Delegation Bartow 8:30 am

December 11

Hardee County Delegation Wauchula 10:00 am

December 12

Brevard County Delegation Viera 2:00 pm

December 13

Central Florida Delegation Daytona Beach 1:30 pm

Palm Beach Delegation Jupiter 2:00 pm

December 17

St. Lucie County Delegation Fort Pierce 2:00 pm

December 18

Broward County Delegation Pembroke

Pines 4:00 pm

December 19

Indian River County Delegation Vero Beach 9:00 am

December 20

Seminole County Delegation Sanford 9:00 am

Broward County Delegation Ft. Lauderdale 4:00 pm

Workforce Florida Announces Statewide Branding Initiative

As you have noticed, each of the 24 local Workforce Boards call themselves something unique, which is a bit confusing for the public. As a result of this and state law that calls for a single, consolidated workforce brand that is customer-focused and delivers consistency across all regions, Workforce Florida has selected IDEAS of Orlando to lead the branding initiative. The campaign will be launched in 2013.

Florida MEP Releases Its Summary of Economic Impacts on Florida Economy

The Florida Manufacturing Extension Partnership (FMEP) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the U.S. Department of Commerce and the State of Florida. Its purpose is to help small and medium size manufacturers identify and implement advanced manufacturing and management technologies. Through an independent survey of 1,000 FMEP client companies they have documented the impact of their programs from October 2007 through August 2012 as follows:

· Created 2,823 jobs that otherwise would not have existed
· Retained 5,156 jobs that otherwise would not have existed
· Increased and retained $693.8 million in sales
· Spent $176.6 million on new investment
· Experienced $149.2 million in cost savings

The sum of the direct, indirect, and induced effects spurred by these small- and medium-size manufacturing companies that increased or retained jobs or sales and/or increased investments with assistance from the Florida MEP are responsible for:
· Creating or retaining 28,359 jobs that paid a total of $1.42 billion in employee wages and benefits
· Increasing or retaining economic output worth $6.5 billion
· Contributing or retaining $2.46 billion of gross state product
· Generating or retaining $547.5 million in additional tax and non-tax revenues at the Federal, state, and local government levels, including $176.5 million at the state and local level.

Great job FMEP!

Activity Picks Up on Restoring Springs

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is expanding its efforts to restore Silver Springs. In the past two years DEP has directed $11.5 million to restoring Florida springs, more than double the spending in the previous three years. DEP research and monitoring led to designating Silver Springs and the Upper Silver River as impaired for nitrates. With finalization of the Total Maximum Daily Load for the springs at .35 milligrams per liter, Florida protection will be identical to that of the EPA protection for the springs. A total management plan to reduce nitrate inputs to meet the daily load is yet to be developed with local involvement. As a part of the solution DEP announced $1 million in wastewater projects last summer in the Marion County area. The projects include redirecting discharge from the Silver Springs Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Silver Springs Shores Wastewater Treatment Plant, connecting a series of small wastewater treatment plants to the central facility eliminating more than two tons of nitrates that are going into the Silver Springs system. Another $400,000 will be invested by DEP to take Silver River State Park off septic tanks and hook it to central sewer, reducing another 1,370 pounds of nitrates that are going into the Silver Springs system.

Across the state to the Gulf Coast, DEP is committing $1.1 million to a reuse project for the City of Crystal River which will send 750,000 gallons of reclaimed water from the Crystal River wastewater treatment plant to the Progress Energy Citrus County Power Complex, reducing wastewater nutrient loading to the local springshed by 16% and increasing spring flow in Kings Bay by reducing the need for groundwater pumping at the power complex.

Next the DEP will establish nutrient reduction requirements for the Rainbow, Jackson Blue and Weeki Wachee spring systems. DEP has already adopted a water quality restoration plan for the spring fed Santa Fe River and will adopt a similar plan for the Wekiva Basin. Restoration plan initiation for Wakulla Springs and Suwannee River springs are expected yet this year. The objective is to speed up the pace of restoration and develop plans with local stakeholders to solve long term goals.

Short Notes

· Facts About Manufacturing, 2012, is now available at www.themanufacturinginstitute.org. This is a compilation of 65 charts and analysis presenting a wide array of data for the manufacturing sector and highlighting its importance to the U.S. and global economy. It is the first comprehensive update since 2009 and is the product of the Manufacturing Institute, the Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity and Innovation and the National Association of Manufacturers.

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.

Upcoming Events

December 5 MAF Executive Committee Lunch Meeting, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 5 MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., (Center Board of Trustees and invited guests), Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 5 Joint Reception for MAF Board Members and MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence Board of Trustees, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 6 MAF Board of Directors Breakfast Meeting, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. (MAF Board Members and invited guests), Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 6-7 MAF Manufacturing Summit and Marketplace and Manufacturers of the Year Awards Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL. Now accepting sponsors and exhibitors. Go to www.mafmfg.com for more details or contact nancy@nstephens.com.

December 13 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T. Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

December 13 Volusia Manufacturers Association 32^nd Annual Awards Banquet at the Speedway Daytona 500 Club. Register at www.VMAonline.com.

2013

February 4-5 Florida Manufacturing Days at the Capital, Governors Club and the Capital, Tallahassee, FL. More info coming soon.

MAF Weekly Report-November 16, 2012

(Past member) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 19:32:03 GMT

Best News of the Week – Repair Parts Sale Tax Rule Revision Suspended!

The Florida Department of Revenue informed us last week that because the Legislature will be introducing more business tax exemptions for 2013 (rather than less), work on the Manufacturing Machinery and Equipment Repair Parts Sales Tax Rule Revision has been suspended in order not to waste valuable time on a rule that would soon become obsolete! MAF is delighted that our lobbying work on this has paid off. If the proposed rule had been approved, many of the repair parts for your machinery and equipment would have become taxable costing you thousands of dollars. This is a huge win for manufacturers in Florida! MAF led the charge on this issue and we thank Enterprise Florida, the Florida Pulp and Paper Association, the Governor’s Office and the Florida Senate for their help with this issue and the Department of Revenue for their decision.

Closing in on the Manufacturers Summit

The deadline for making hotel reservations at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel in Orlando for the MAF Manufacturers Summit and Marketplace has passed. We hope you made your room reservations! Now it is time to turn in your meeting registration form. You may register at www.mafmfg.com. An updated agenda is also posted there for your convenience.

Chemical Industry Focus for Upcoming Year

Nancy Stephens, MAF Executive Director, attended the American Chemistry Council (ACC) annual meeting of state chemical and manufacturing association directors and chemical company state government lobbyists in Orlando on November 14-15. Topics of discussion were nationwide election results, environmental justice, risk perception communication, product attacks, chemical regulation, and energy development. ACC is a member of MAF. Thank you to ACC for the invitation!

60 Minutes Highlights the Manufacturing Skills Gap

On November 11, 60 Minutes ran a story featuring two NAM member companies – ClickBond and Alcoa – on the manufacturing skills gap. The piece highlighted that despite high unemployment rates, hundreds of thousands of manufacturing jobs remain unfilled because employers like Click Bond can’t find the workers to fill open positions. In addition, companies like Alcoa find it hard to train their current employees to keep up with advances in technology. The skills gap can make it difficult for manufacturers to innovate their products and grow their businesses. It is concerns such as those highlighted on 60 Minutes that drove the Manufacturing Institute to establish programs like Dream It. Do It., Right Skills Now and the Manufacturing Skills Certification System, which attract, qualify and develop world-class manufacturing talent. The story sparked calls to MAF from the press in Florida and we expect to see an upcoming story in Southwest Florida and Orlando

DEP Recycling Recognition Program

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is expanding its Recycling Recognition Program to encourage businesses, schools, public groups and citizens to increase recycling in order to reach the Florida recycling goal of 75% by 2020. Florida’s 75 percent recycling goal was set by the state Legislature and focuses on municipal solid waste and does not include industrial solid waste. Some common types of municipal solid waste include newspapers, office paper, glass and plastic bottles and food waste. The most recent data shows the residential sector has about a 42 percent recycling rate, while the commercial sector is at roughly 44 percent and overall, Florida recycles at about a 43 percent rate. In order for Florida to meet the 75 percent goal, it is critical for both the private commercial sector and residential sector to increase recycling rates.

The Department is hopeful that the expanded recognition program will encourage the commercial sector to not only recycle more, but increase their reporting. DEP has an easy tool for companies to track and compare recycling efforts to that of other businesses – the Florida DEP Business Recycling Tracking Tool. This can all be done online through the website. After you complete the free registration online, you can track different types of recycling efforts and produce reports on how those efforts are helping to shrink your carbon footprint. The tracking will help the Department determine which companies should receive recognition. DEP is seeking candidates for statewide recognition and needs help in spreading the word. To nominate a business contact Ron Henricks at Ron_Henricks@dep.state.fl.us or 850.245.8717 or visit the webpage https://my.re-trac.com/floridadep.

Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Awards

The Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Awards are the nation’s highest Presidential honor for performance excellence through innovation, improvement and visionary leadership. This year’s manufacturing award winner is Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control in Grand Prairie, Texas. Congratulations to Lockheed Martin.

ERC Approves Numeric Nutrient Criteria in Panhandle

The Florida Environmental Regulation Commission has approved numeric nutrient criteria for Florida’s six major Panhandle estuaries, further building on the already comprehensive nutrient standards set for Florida last year. With this latest approval Florida has set rigorous nutrient criteria for more than 3,100 of the state’s 4,290 coastal miles of estuaries or 72% coverage.

These are the numeric nutrient standards for the Panhandle estuaries, which includes Perdido Bay, Pensacola Bay (including Escambia Bay), Choctawhatchee Bay, St. Andrew Bay, St. Joseph Bay and Apalachicola Bay. The nutrient water quality standards adopted in 2011 included a schedule for the development of estuary specific numeric nutrient criteria for the Panhandle estuaries by June 30, 2013, and the Department has developed nutrient standards for total phosphorus, total nitrogen and chlorophyll a for individual estuary segments in each of the estuaries.

The numeric nutrient standards come nearly seven months before the Department's own deadline and 10 months before the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's schedule for setting standards. They come five months after the Department's overall numeric nutrient standards set last year were upheld by an Administrative Law judge in their entirety and submitted to EPA for review. EPA confirmed last year that the Department's rules are accurate and will serve to protect and improve Florida's water quality. For more information visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/wqssp/nutrients

Short Notes

United Technologies Corp. announced last week that Pratt & Whitney will expand its manufacturing capabilities at its West Palm Beach facility, which will entail a $63 million capital investment and result in 230 new jobs. The expansion involves Pratt & Whitney’s most advanced commercial and military engines and builds upon the great work already being done in Florida.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has appointed Susan Grandin as Director of State Lands. Susan formerly served as President of The Preservation Law Group, Inc., a group specializing in the preservation and protection of military installations and civilian airfields. Prior to that she was with The Trust for Public Land.

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.

Florida Administrative Register

The Florida Administrative Register report for November 12-16, 2012 is attached.

Upcoming Events

December 5 MAF Executive Committee Lunch Meeting, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 5 MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., (Center Board of Trustees and invited guests), Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 5 Joint Reception for MAF Board Members and MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence Board of Trustees, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL

December 6 MAF Board of Directors Breakfast Meeting, 7:00 – 9:30 a.m. (MAF Board Members, MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence Board Members and invited guests), Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL NOTE BEGINNING TIME CHANGE!!!

December 13 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T. Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

December 13 Volusia Manufacturers Association 32^nd Annual Awards Banquet at the Speedway Daytona 500 Club. Register at www.VMAonline.com.

2013

February 4-5 Florida Manufacturing Days at the Capital, Governors Club and the Capital, Tallahassee, FL. More info coming soon.

Great news for Manufacturers

(Past member) — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 19:34:48 GMT

Dear MAF Members:

We have great news for you! The Florida Department of Revenue has SUSPENDED its rulemaking on the Manufacturing Machinery and Equipment Repair Parts Rule, saving our manufacturers many thousands of dollars in sales tax. The proposed rule would have defined consumables that we consider integral to making a product taxable… and more. MAF attended the rulemaking workshop in August and submitted formal comments at that time. Some of you provided input for those comments – thank you!

Since that time we have been working hard to derail the proposed rule. Today we heard from the Department of Revenue that because they expect business tax exemptions to be expanded by the Florida Legislature, they would be wasting their time by promulgating a rule that trends in the opposite direction.

Another example of how MAF works for you every day!

MAF Weekly Report-October 26, 2012

(Past member) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 15:00:51 GMT

MAF Weekly Report-October 26, 2012

November Ballot Initiatives – Vote Yes on 10!!!

On November 6 you will see 11 initiatives to change Florida’s constitution when you cast your vote at the ballot box. (They are numbered 1-12, but number 7 was removed from the ballot by the Florida Supreme Court.)

MAF encourages you to vote YES on Proposed Amendment No. 10 – Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption. This amendment will grant a tangible personal property (TPP) exemption for those with TPP greater than $25,000 but less than $50,000. (You will recall we currently have in place a TPP exemption for values less than $25,000.) The new exemption would take effect on January 1, 2013. While many of you would still not be able to take advantage of this, it will help very small businesses. The bigger issue for manufacturers is the other part of the amendment that authorizes a county or municipality to provide tangible personal property tax exemptions by ordinance. This would be in addition to any statewide TPP tax exemptions. The importance of this is that those counties wishing to stimulate their local economy could offer additional TPP relief to business. This is the first time in decades that Florida has had an opportunity to change TPP law in the constitution. MAF and its political arm, Manufacturers Making a Difference, have monetarily supported the campaign to pass this amendment and MAF lobbied for this to be on the ballot. For more information visit www.yesonten.com. VOTE YES ON 10!

On a related note if any of your counties have local issues on the ballot that would allow them to reduce tangible personal property tax, please vote for them!

Regarding the other constitutional amendments, the Florida Chamber of Commerce is encouraging a YES vote on the following:

Amendment #1 –Health Care Services (Prohibits laws or rules compelling anyone to purchase health care coverage.)

Amendment #3-State Government Revenue Limitation (Changes the existing state revenue limitation from being based on Florida personal income growth to being based on inflation and population changes.)

Amendment #4 – Property Tax Limitations (Reduces from 10% to 5% the limitation on annual changes in assessments of non-homestead real property.)

Amendment #5 – State Courts (Requires the Florida Senate to confirm Supreme Court justices.)

Amendment #8 – Religious Freedom (Provides that no one can be denied governmental benefits on the basis of religion and allowing public monies to be used in the aid of religious institutions.)

Amendment #10 – Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption (Allows local governments to provide tangible personal property tax relief in addition to state tax relief.)

To review all the details of the amendments to make an informed decision, visit http://www.flchamber.com/political/2012-election-center/amendments/.

Collecting Items for Summit Silent Auction

During the Manufacturers Summit in Orlando on December 6-7 we will hold a silent auction benefit for the MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence. Nancy Loehr, Progress Energy, and Jayne Fifer, Volusia Manufacturers Association, will be collecting items for the auction. This is a fun way to do your Christmas shopping and contribute to the MAF Center for their manufacturing workforce education projects at the same time. Be creative with your donations! For more information or to donate, contact nancy.loehr@pgnmail.com or jayne.fifer@vmaonline.com. Thank you for Nancy and Jayne for their work on this year’s auction!

Reports Released/Highlighted This Week

Florida Target Industry Competitiveness Report, September 13, 2012 by McCallum Sweeney Consulting and Avalanch Consulting for Enterprise Florida. Key findings are that:

a) site selectors are noticing the impressive improvements to our incentive approval process in FL. However, the study pointed out that the state’s Closing Fund is underfunded and the state has a distinct disadvantage in this area;

b) Florida has a large talented workforce noting the multilingual nature of the population. Given the strengths in this area Florida needs to better market current talent assets.

c) We should continue to modernize the tax structure and streamline the permitting processes.

d) There is a need for the development and promotion of a strong Florida business brand and a need to align marketing activities to target industries.

Specifically related to manufacturing, the study says “cost continues to be a key factor in site selection, meaning labor cost and tax policy play a dominant role in a state’s ability to attract substantial projects. Manufacturing is usually capital intensive, so land, site preparation, and infrastructure costs are critical. Capital oriented incentives are important – property tax reductions and full exemption of sales tax on machinery and equipment are two areas for improvement. In addition, training incentives need to be expanded to better meet what is being offered by competitor states.” A copy of the report is attached for your convenience.

Florida TaxWatch Center for Competitive Florida Economic Commentary, September 2012. The report summarizes the investments that Florida has made over the years in seaports and more importantly the drastic increase in funding over the past 2 years. To learn more about Florida’s port projects and read this report visit www.floridataxwatch.org.

2012 Report Card for Florida’s Infrastructure, American Society of Civil Engineers September 2012. This report ranks Florida’s infrastructure as follows:

B Bridges

B – Aviation

C Highways

C Ports

C Stormwater

C Transit

C Water and Sewer

D+ Flood Control

D- Coastal Areas

D- Energy

To read the entire report visit www.fla-asce.org.

College and Career 1^st, Governor Rick Scott, State of Florida, October 25, 2012. This report is partially the result of Governor Scott’s Education Listening Tour where he listened to teachers, parents and students. The report brings forth the best ideas for educating and training students to compete in the 21^st century economy. Following are the goals:

#1 Maintain accountability while focusing on the successful transition to more rigorous Common Core State Standards and assessments, which better measure readiness for college and careers.

#2 Support teachers and equip them with the tools they need to improve their practice as professionals and to help students realize better educational outcomes.

#3 Allow choices and flexibility in districts, schools and classrooms that recognize the unique needs of students and teachers and support efforts to achieve improved results. To read more, go to www.rickscottforflorida.com.

Legislative Leadership Making Appointments

Will Weatherford, Incoming Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, has appointed the following to House leadership positions:

Rep. Robert Schenck, Rules Chairman

Rep. Marti Coley, Speaker Pro-Tempore

Rep. Chris Dorworth, House Majority Leader

More appointments will be made during the November organizational Session, November 20.

Short Notes

· Progress Energy Executive Roundtable – On October 17 Al Stimac, MAF President and Nancy Stephens, MAF Executive Director, participated in an Executive Roundtable with Progress Energy outgoing CEO Vinny Dolan, incoming CEO Alex Glenn, and Nancy Loehr, Progress Energy’s representative to the MAF Board. We were updated on Progress Energy/Duke Power plans and challenges for the future. Thank you to Progress Energy for the invitation!

Hopping Green & Sams informs us that the Joint Administrative Procedures Committee (JAPC) was not convinced by FDEP’s response to JAPC’s comments regarding the underlying statutory authority for de minimis discharge cleanup in proposed Rule 62-780. FDEP staff and counsel will be discussing internally JAPC’s most recent comments on de minimis discharge cleanup as well as the other JAPC comments over the next several days to develop next steps, which will likely include additional discussions with JAPC.
The Southwest District Office of FDEP continues to undergo significant reorganization. New appointments in that office follow. Water Facilities: Cindy Zhang-Torres; Waste Management: Yanisa Angulo and Erin Rasnake; Compliance and Enforcement: Joe Squitieri, Ilia Balcom, Brian Brown, Erin DiBacco, Susan Pelz, Michelle Duggan and Sean McGinnis; Administration: Charley O’Neal.

· At a meeting of the Florida Cabinet this week, the Division of Bond Finance reported that Florida has reduced its outstanding debt by $2 billion over the last two years.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Office of Freight, Logistics and Passenger Operations (FLP) is actively seeking input from the freight community as they work to create a statewide Freight Mobility and Trade Plan. Their next round of meetings is for scenario planning, using the information they have gathered to date. This is a series of three meetings. The first is November 8, 8:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Florida Hotel and Conference Center, 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL. The next two will be in December and March. The invitation is attached if you would like to attend.
For quick facts about Florida, visit a new Enterprise Florida website location, www.eflorida.com/newsroom.

· Interested in adopting a school through the MAF Center’s Dream It Do It Program? Contact your regional manufacturing association or June Wolfe at june.wolfe@comcast.net. We already have some 32 manufacturers committed to the program. For more information about Dream It Do It, visit www.mafame.org.

Know someone who should be a member of MAF? Contact nancy@mafmfg.com to provide the contact information.

Upcoming Events

December 13 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T. Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

Florida Administrative Register (FAR)

The Florida Administrative Weekly changed its name on October 1 to the Florida Administrative Register. Instead of publishing the information once a week, it now comes out once a day. Therefore you will see this section of our report formatted differently to accommodate the new FAR format.

FAR –October 22, 2012

Suwannee River Water Management District RULE NO.: 40B-2.331

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of the proposed rule is to provide an incentive for water use permittees to voluntarily implement the District’s water use monitoring requirements prior to expiration of their current permit. The effect of the proposed rule is to extend the duration of a water use permit if the permittee voluntarily implements the required water use monitoring program. Voluntarily implementing monitoring before a permit expires will provide needed data in a timelier manner.
SUMMARY: The proposed rule will allow existing water use permittees to voluntarily implement monitoring requirements prior to such monitoring requirements becoming mandatory. The proposed rule language will be located within rule 40B-2.331, Florida Administrative Code and within the SRWMD Water Use Permitting Guide, which is incorporated by reference in rule 40B-2.301, Florida Administrative Code.
IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE SCHEDULED AND ANNOUNCED IN THE FAR.
THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: Robin Lamm, Business Resource Specialist II, SRWMD, 9225 C.R. 49, Live Oak, Florida, 32060, (386)362-1001 or (800)226-1066 (FL only)

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

RULE NO.: 62-302.532
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The proposed rules establish numeric nutrient criteria for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll a in individual estuary segments for the following Panhandle estuaries: Perdido Bay, Pensacola Bay (including Escambia Bay), Choctawhatchee Bay, St. Andrew Bay, St. Joseph Bay, and Apalachicola Bay.
SUMMARY: The Department is amending Rule 62-302.532, F.A.C., to establish numeric nutrient criteria for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll a in individual estuary segments for the following Panhandle estuaries: Perdido Bay, Pensacola Bay (including Escambia Bay), Choctawhatchee Bay, St. Andrew Bay, St. Joseph Bay, and Apalachicola Bay. Subsection 62-302.532(3), F.A.C., requires that the Department establish by rule or final order estuary specific numeric interpretations of the narrative nutrient criteria for TN and TP for Perdido Bay, Pensacola Bay (including Escambia Bay), St. Andrew Bay, Choctawhatchee Bay, and Apalachicola Bay by June 30, 2013.

EFFECT ON THOSE OTHER RULES: The proposed amendments are not expected to have significant effects on other rules. The proposed amendments establish estuary specific numeric nutrient criteria that maintain existing conditions.

A HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW:
DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, November 13, 2012, 9:00 a.m.
PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Marjory Stoneman Douglas Building, Conference Room A, 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, Tallahassee, Florida
THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: Eric Shaw, Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support, MS 6511, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400, (850)245-8429 or e-mail: eric.shaw@dep.state.fl.us.

FAR- October 23, 2012

The Department of Environmental Protection announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: November 1, 2012, 6:00 p.m.
PLACE: Suwannee River Water Management District, 9225 CR 49, Live Oak, FL 32060
GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a technical meeting to discuss issues related to the Suwannee River Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP). The primary topic of discussion during this meeting will be the Suwannee River BMAP development process. The BMAP is the means for implementation of the adopted Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs).
A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Terry Hansen, Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3565, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

FAR - October 24, 2012

The North Florida- Southeast Georgia (NFSEG) regional groundwater flow model Steering and Technical Teams are made up of area stakeholders, the St. Johns River Water Management District staff and the Suwannee River Water Management District staff, to work collectively on the development of the next generation regional-scale groundwater flow model for North Florida. The Technical Team announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, November 7, 2012, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
PLACE: St. Johns River Water Management District Headquarters, 4049 Reid Street, Palatka, Florida 32177.
GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a meeting of the Technical Team described above. The purpose of the meeting is to continue the discussion of the conceptual model to be used in the development of the NFSEG regional groundwater flow model. An opportunity for public comment will be provided near the end of the meeting.
NOTE: One or more members of the Governing Board from each of the water management districts named above may attend the meeting.
A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: St. Johns River Water Management District, Attention: Kristi Cushman, 4049 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177, (386) 329-4308, email: kcushman@sjrwmd.com or by visiting the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership website at www.northfloridawater.com.).

The Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support, announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: Thursday, November 1, 2012, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
PLACE: Webinar: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/986139050.
GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a meeting of the Florida Water Resources Monitoring Council Monitoring Catalog Workgroup to discuss the metadata elements to be included in the monitoring catalog.
A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Ms. Stephanie Sunderman, Watershed Monitoring Section, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS #3525, Tallahassee, Florida 32399, e-mail: Stephanie.Sunderman@dep.state.fl.us.

The Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support, announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, November 7, 2012, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
PLACE: Webinar: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/250147482.
GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a meeting of the Florida Water Resources Monitoring Council Salinity Network Workgroup to discuss development of indices for groundwater levels and groundwater quality.
A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Ms. Stephanie Sunderman, Watershed Monitoring Section, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS #3525, Tallahassee, Florida 32399, e-mail: Stephanie.Sunderman@dep.state.fl.us.

FAR - October 25, 2012
Nothing to report.

FAR - October 26, 2012

The Water Resource Advisory Committee (WRAC) announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: November 8, 2012, 10:00 a.m.
PLACE: City of St. Cloud Marina (2nd floor), 1104 Lakeshore Blvd., St. Cloud, FL 34769.
Water Resource Advisory Committee (WRAC) - Monthly Meeting
GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: A Public Meeting of the Water Resources Advisory Commission (WRAC) regarding water resources protection, water supply and flood protection issues. The public is advised that it is possible that one or more members of the Governing Board of the South Florida Water Management District may attend and participate in this meeting.
A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Paul Millar at: (561) 682 6335 or pmillar@sfwmd .gov; or at our website: http://my.sfwmd.gov/wrac.gov.

Clairson announces Steven Meitzen as new Director of Sales and Marketing

(Past member) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 14:57:56 GMT

Ocala, FL – Clairson Plastics, a leader in high-performance Injection Molding technology, is pleased to announce Steve Meitzen as the new Director of Sales and Marketing.

“Steve brings over thirty years of distinguished experience in business development, program management, and customer is King Attitude to the Clairson Plastics Team,” says David Donihue, CEO of Clairson Plastics. “He has extensive experience in initiating start-up sales activities, developing strategies, and executing capture plans for successful business development efforts. Combine this with his practical business experience. Steve provides Clairson Plastics an edge in the custom injection molding market place.”

“I’m honored to be part of the Clairson Plastics organization and playing a leadership role on the Custom Injection Molding team,” says Steve Meitzen. “I look forward to bringing innovative solutions to the market. Clairson has assembled a very impressive new leadership team and I am honored to have join them.”

As Director of Sales and Marketing for Clairson Plastics, Steve will be responsible for developing and executing Clairson Plastics’ market development, sales, and new business plans. From Clairson Plastics’ Florida office, he will supervise the US sales and marketing teams to identify market opportunities and fulfill market needs, ensure delivery of quality solutions, and meet short- and long-term business goals.

Steve holds a Bachelor’s degree from University of Nebraska, Past President of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association. He is a tireless supporter of the Aerospace Industry Association work to stop the sequestration movement. He is chairman of the BAMA STEM education committee. Steve lives with his family in Lutz, Florida.

About Clairson Plastics
Clairson Plastics, an international company headquartered in Ocala, Florida, provides Injection Molding services for Medical, Defense and Electronics custom molding markets. Clairson Plastics designs and manages secondary operations such as pad printing, packaging and other services needed by their customers.

For more information, please contact

David Donihue
CEO
Clairson Plastics

2811 NE 14^th Street

Ocala, FL 34470

Telephone 262.424.4253
ddonihue@Clairson.com

Hillsborough Community Job Fair_ October 25th

(Past member) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Please click on attached document for more information:

Ybor Job Fair Registration FA12 Oct 2012.pdf.

Ring Power Board of Directors Elects New Executive Vice President

(Past member) — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:17:54 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ring Power Board of Directors Elects New Executive Vice President
Two Vice Presidents Also Appointed

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – Sept. 27, 2012 – Ring Power Corporation Chairman and President Randal L. Ringhaver and the Board of Directors recently announced the election of David Alban as Executive Vice President – Sales and Corporate Secretary. The board also appointed new officers Alex Posson as Vice President – Director of Human Resources and Steve Gambill as Vice President – Power Systems Product Support.

In his new role as Executive Vice President - Sales, Alban will have responsibility for several Ring Power divisions including: New and Used Heavy Equipment, Cat^® equipment rentals, International, Crane and Lift Trucks. In an effort to efficiently grow our business and enhance our customers’ satisfaction in all areas, Alban will work closely with the senior-vice presidents of these divisions on a daily basis.

In 2001, Alban began his Ring Power career in the Sales Training Program, spending time working in the service shops, learning firsthand what happens day-to-day. Alban also worked in the Heavy Equipment Rental department before moving into Sales.

He earned his first managerial role in 2002, leading the newly launched Agricultural Equipment division.

In 2004, when the Six Sigma initiative began, Alban was selected as a project leader. Alban was then promoted to General Service Manager of Heavy Equipment for the northern half of Ring Power’s Cat territory. Since 2009 Alban had served as Vice President and Corporate Secretary. In 2011,
Alban took on additional responsibility, serving as Vice President of Power Systems Product Support.

Newly appointed Vice President – Director of Human Resources Alex Posson joined Ring Power in March as human resources manager. Prior to joining Ring Power, she served as the employee relations specialist at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Fla. Posson is a graduate of the University of Florida and Florida Coastal School of Law.

Taking over for David Alban as Vice President – Power Systems Product Support, Steve Gambill joined Ring Power in 1994 as a marine field service technician and worked his way up to assistant Power Systems service manager, Jacksonville branch Power Systems service manager and, most recently, marine services operations manager. Gambill brings 27 years of experience to Power Systems’ service operations along with the insight he has gained as a “green belt” on numerous Six Sigma projects.

# # #

Ring Power Corporation, North and Central Florida's Caterpillar^® dealer, is headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida. Ring Power is comprised of eight divisions and has more than 50 years of experience servicing and supporting Cat products and allied equipment. For more information on Ring Power Corporation, visit www.ringpower.com

MAF Weekly Report- September 24, 2012

(Past member) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 16:16:02 GMT

MAF Weekly Report- September 24, 2012

Enterprise Florida Wishes to Speak to Regional Manufacturing Associations

Joel Gunter and Tim Johns are the “go to guys” at Enterprise Florida (EFI) for recruitment and retention of general manufacturing projects for Enterprise Florida, including clean energy projects. Other project managers cover the gamut of aviation, aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and more. Our Enterprise Florida manufacturing managers would like to participate or attend some of the regional manufacturing association meetings as part of their outreach efforts. They could do a short power point presentation, answer questions about EFI, say a few words or just introduce themselves and stick around afterwards for one-on-one conversations ...whatever fits into the typical program for your regional meetings. To arrange such a meeting, contact Joel Gunter at jgunter@eflorida.com.

Medicine Abuse Project Initiated

Because manufacturers lose great employees and job applicants to failed drug tests, we thought you would like to know about a project that Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi has endorsed. In her weekly news report of September 21 she writes that medicine abuse is a growing problem among teens in the United States. One in six teens has abused medicine, and medicine is the most commonly abused drug among 12- to 13-year-olds. General Bondi has joined The Partnership at DrugFree.org on The Medicine Abuse Project, a national awareness campaign to prevent medicine abuse in teens. The project launched on September 23 and aims to prevent half a million teens from abusing medicine within five years. The Project encourages communities to educate people about the dangers of abusing medicine, monitor prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, safeguard and properly dispose of unused medication, and eliminate improper prescribing and dispensing practices. To learn more visit medicineabuseproject.org.

Atwater Calls Together Small Businesses

Candy Munz, MAF, joined small business owners from across the state at the Westin Harbour Island Hotel in Tampa for a two-day 2012 Small Business Leadership Forum earlier this month aimed at strategically helping small businesses have long-term prosperity and increasing their bottom lines.

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater and The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship in Florida State University’s College of Business partnered for the forum, bringing together industry experts and university leaders to share best practices, resources and opportunities for growth as the state recovers from the economic downturn.

Forum topics and panel discussions, targeted specifically to small business owners, included short- and long-term forecasts and trends of Florida’s economy, creating an environment for investment and improving access to capital, and leveraging resources available through our public universities and small business development centers. Breakout sessions covered best practices for selling products and services, managing and protecting your brand, dealing with employees and legal issues, and the fundamentals of supply chain management.

There were three manufacturers on the first panel of speakers so the forum provided a direct line of communication with CFO Atwater. The manufacturers addressed the gap in skilled workers, the machinery and equipment sales tax exemption and other issues that would make Florida a more business-friendly state.

Sponsor or Exhibit at the MAF Annual Summit

It’s not too early to sign up as a sponsor or exhibitor for the 9^th Annual Manufacturers Summit on December 6-7, 2012 in Orlando. Please tell your suppliers too so they can showcase their abilities to serve the manufacturing sector. For more information check www.mafmfg.com.

Short Notes

On September 20 the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led by Congressman Gibbs from Ohio, began discussion on why more states had not assumed delegation of the Clean Water Act dredge and fill (wetlands) program (Section 404) and how more delegations could be accomplished.
Florida’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) has released its latest revenue projections for the next fiscal year. Florida’s economists predict a $71.3 million surplus next year over and above the $1 billion Florida has in reserves. These projections are the best our state has seen since the recession hit Florida in 2006, creating the first budget surplus in five years.
According to CFO Jeff Atwater, Florida has an AAA credit rating – one of only nine AAA-rated states in the nation. Furthermore, last year Florida was able to reduce its debt by $500 million.

News from NAM

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is working on several things of interest to Florida manufacturers:

NAM is urging the House to support the Stop the War on Coal Act (HR 3409). The bill will halt costly regulations from EPA and requires EPA to perform a comprehensive review of the Utility MACT and Boiler MACT regulations. Manufacturers consume one-third of the energy produced in the U.S. and need continued access to all energy sources.
NAM is showing strong support for the STEM Jobs Act of 2012 (HR 6429) which creates two new employment-based visa categories for masters and PH.D. graduates from qualified universities in science, technology, engineering and math fields. The STEM Jobs Act streamlines the green card process and expands U.S. manufacturers’ access to global talent without increasing the total number of visas. This legislation will help to reform the employment-based visa system and give manufacturers access to the talent needed for researching, developing and manufacturing new and innovative products that will ensure manufacturers remain competitive in the global marketplace.
NAM and the Manufacturing Institute have declared October 5 as Manufacturing Day. They encourage you to showcase manufacturing in your own way on October 5. The event is aimed at students, parents, educators, media, customers, suppliers and the community at large. Visit www.mfgday.com.
NAM continues to press Congress for a budget that does not adversely affect our defense manufacturers.

Upcoming Events

October 18 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T., Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

December 6-7 MAF Manufacturing Summit and Manufacturers of the Year Awards Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL. Now accepting sponsors and exhibitors. Go to www.mafmfg.com for more details or contact becky@nstephens.com.

Florida Administrative Weekly – September 21, 2012

Southwest Florida Water Management District

RULE 40D-2.091

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: As required by Section 373.250(3)(c) and (d), F.S., this rulemaking will amend Rule 40D-2.091, F.A.C., and Section 3.1 of the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Water Use Permitting Basis of Review to implement new requirements for water use permit applicants and reuse utilities to aid in the determination of the feasibility of using reclaimed water in lieu of other sources. Subsections 373.250(3)(c) and (d), F.S. direct the water management districts to adopt rules to require certain permit applicants to provide written documentation from a reuse utility addressing the availability of and costs associated with the connection and use of reclaimed water to facilitate the permit applicant’s reclaimed water feasibility evaluation.

SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Amendments to Chapter 40D-2, F.A.C., to implement mandates in Section 373.250(3) (c) and (d), Florida Statutes to address certain reuse feasibility requirements for water use permit applicants and reuse utilities.

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT, IF AVAILABLE, IS: Sonya White, Southwest Florida Water Management District, Office of General Counsel, 7601 Highway 301 North, Tampa, FL 33637-6759, (813)985-7481 (4660) (OGC #2011030)

Southwest Florida Water Management District
RULE 40D-3.041

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this rulemaking is to amend Rule 40D-3.041, F.A.C., to incorporate the statutory exemptions established in Section 373.326, F.S., by Chapter 2012-205, Laws of Florida. The effect of the rulemaking will be that the District will require permits for only those wells identified as Class V, Group 1, pursuant to paragraph 62-528.600(2)(a), F.A.C.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Modification of District Rules Requiring Well Construction Permits.

Southwest Florida Water Management District

RULE 40D-3.037

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this rulemaking is to amend Rule 40D-3.037, F.A.C., to incorporate Chapters 62-528 (Underground Injection Control) and 62-532 (Water Well Permitting and Construction), F.A.C., which were recently amended by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (Department). The rulemaking will also amend Rules 40D-3.507, and 40D-3.517, F.A.C., to reference those sections of Chapters 62-528 and 62-532, F.A.C., that were renumbered as a result of the amendments undertaken by the Department. The rulemaking will ensure consistency between the rules of the District and the Department governing well construction.

SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Modification of District Rules Requiring Well Construction Permits

Southwest Florida Water Management District

RULE 40D-3.341

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of this rulemaking is to amend Rule 40D-3.341, F.A.C., to allow a property owner or party in legal control of a property to request that the District administratively cancel a well construction permit, provided that no activity has taken place under the

permit.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Modification of District Rules governing Suspension, Revocation or Cancellation of Well Construction Permits

THE PRELIMINARY TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT IS AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE FROM THE CONTACT PERSON LISTED ABOVE.

Southwest Florida Water Management District
RULE 40D-4.091

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of this rulemaking is to incorporate a proposed Environmental Resource Permit Applicant’s Handbook Volume II which, together with an Applicant’s Handbook Volume I that will be adopted by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), will provide guidance to applicants seeking environmental resource permits (ERPs) following DEP’s adoption of proposed new statewide ERP rules mandated by Section 373.4131, F.S. DEP is currently undertaking rulemaking to amend Chapter 62-330, F.A.C., which will become the statewide ERP rules. Each water management district is expected to adopt an Applicant’s Handbook Volume II that will contain the District-specific design and performance criteria relating to water quality, water quantity and any special basin criteria or other statutory requirements. Upon District adoption of the Applicant’s Handbook Volume II, it will be incorporated by reference into DEP’s statewide

ERP rules.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Environmental Resource Permitting.

THE PRELIMINARY TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT IS NOT AVAILABLE.

Southwest Florida Water Management District

RULE 40D-8.624
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of this rulemaking is to amend Rule 40D-8.624, F.A.C., to establish minimum and guidance levels for one of the District’s listed priority waters, Lake Hooker in Hillsborough County, FL pursuant to Section 373.042, Florida Statutes.

SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Establishment of minimum and guidance levels for Lake Hooker in Hillsborough County, Florida. A minimum level is the level of surface water at which further water withdrawals would be significantly harmful to the water resources of the area.

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT, IF AVAILABLE, IS: Christina Uranowski, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 2379 Broad Street, Brooksville, FL 34604-6899, (352)796-7211, extension 4271. (OGC File No. 2012013).

Department of Environmental Protection
RULE 62-17.680
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: This is a rulemaking effort to allow electronic submittal of data by removing requirements that data in support of modifications under the Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Acts be submitted on paper.

SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: The Department is undertaking an effort to reduce the amount of paper that is used and filed for official business. As part of that effort the Department is amending these rules regarding modifications under the Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Acts to allow the submission of electronic data.

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT, IF AVAILABLE, IS: Susana Garcia at (850)245-2005 or susana.garcia@dep.state.fl.us

THE PRELIMINARY TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT IS AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE FROM THE CONTACT PERSON LISTED ABOVE.

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE 62-113.100
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this rulemaking is to incorporate the Operating Agreement Concerning Regulation Under Part IV, Chapter 373, F.S., Between Northwest Florida Water Management District and Department of Environmental Protection into Rule 62-113.100, F.A.C. Rule 62-346, F.A.C., currently incorporates the agreement, but will be affected by the Department’s Statewide Environmental Resource Permitting rulemaking, including potential repeal, and Rule 62-113, F.A.C., is the Department’s rule for listing all similar agreements.

SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Incorporation of interagency agreements.

IF REQUESTED IN WRITING AND NOT DEEMED UNNECESSARY BY THE AGENCY HEAD, A RULE DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP WILL BE NOTICED IN THE NEXT AVAILABLE FLORIDA ADMINISTRATIVE WEEKLY.
THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT IS: Hillary Powell, 3900 Commonwealth Blvd., MS 35, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850)245-2248, hillary.powell@dep.state.fl.us. (OGC #12-141

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE 62-343.070 Procedures to Obtain a Permit

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of the proposed rule amendment will be to allow the submission of electronic applications and supporting material for environmental resource permits.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: The Department of Environmental Protection is undertaking an effort to reduce the amount of paper that is used and filed for official business. As part of that effort, the Department is amending its permitting rules to allow the submission of electronic permit applications and specifying the electronic format for supporting material.

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT IS: Mary VanTassel, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Submerged Lands and Environmental Resources, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 2500, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400, telephone (850)245-8486, e-mail: Mary.VanTassel@dep. state.fl.us or facsimile (850)245-8499. (OGC No. 12-1445)

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE 62-344.400

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of the proposed rule amendment will be to allow the submission of electronic permit applications and supporting material for petitions to request delegation of part or all of a permit program.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: The Department of Environmental Protection is undertaking an effort to reduce the amount of paper that is used and filed for official business. As part of that effort, the Department is amending its permitting rules to allow the submission of electronic permit applications.

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT IS: Mary VanTassel, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Submerged Lands and Environmental Resources, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 2500, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400, telephone (850)245-8486 e-mail: Mary.VanTassel@dep. state.fl.us or facsimile (850)245-8499. (OGC No. 12-1446)

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE 62-346

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of the proposed rule amendment will be to allow the submission of electronic applications and supporting material for permits, water quality certification, Coastal Zone Consistency Concurrence, to Request Verification of Qualification for an Exemption, and Permits and Petitions for Formal Determinations to Department and NWFWMD Offices.

SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: The Department of Environmental Protection is undertaking an effort to reduce the amount of paper that is used and filed for official business. As part of that effort, the Department is amending its permitting rules to allow the submission of electronic permit applications.

IF REQUESTED IN WRITING AND NOT DEEMED UNNECESSARY BY THE AGENCY HEAD, A RULE DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP WILL BE NOTICED IN THE NEXT AVAILABLE FLORIDA ADMINISTRATIVE WEEKLY.

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE 62-673.320
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of the proposed rule amendment will be to allow the submission of electronic applications and supporting material for

phosphogypsum stack systems.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: The Department of Environmental Protection is undertaking an effort to reduce the amount of paper that is used and filed for official business. As part of that effort, the Department is amending its permitting rules to allow the submission of electronic permit applications.

The St. Johns River Water Management District, Projects and Land Committee announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIMES: Monday, October 8, 2012, 9:30 a.m., Site Visit; 12:30 p.m., Keystone Community lunch hosted by Save Our Lakes Organization; 3:30 p.m., Business Meeting. PLACE: 9:30 a.m. Site Visit starting location: Camp Immokalee 6765 Immokalee Road, Keystone Heights, Florida 12:30 p.m. Community Lunch: Camp Immokalee 6765 Immokalee Road, Keystone Heights, Florida 3:30 p.m. Business Meeting: District Headquarters 4049 Reid Street (Hwy. 100 West) Palatka, FL 32177

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: Etonia Chain of Lakes minimum flows and levels, prevention and recovery strategies. The location of the site visit may be changed due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Notice of such change will be available by contacting: St. Johns River Water Management District, Attention: Heather Barnes, 4049 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177, via email: hbarnes@sjrwmd.com or by phone: (386)329-4347 or (386)937-9717. The Projects and Land Committee Business meeting will discuss agenda items, followed by committee recommendations to be approved by the full Governing Board.

NOTE: In the event a quorum of the Committee is not available for the business meeting at the date, time and place set forth above, the Committee shall meet on Tuesday, October 9, 2012, 8:00 a.m. at District Headquarters, 4049 Reid Street (Hwy 100 West), Palatka, FL 32177. One or more Governing Board members may attend and participate in the meetings by means of communications media technology.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Heather Barnes, 4049 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177, via email: hbarnes@sjrwmd.com, by phone: (386)329-4347, by visiting the District’s website: www.floridaswater.com.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, he/she will need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceeding is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence from which the appeal is to be issued.

For more information, you may contact: St. Johns River Water Management District, Attention: Heather Barnes, 4049 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177, via email: hbarnes@sjrwmd.com, by phone: (386)329-4347, by visiting the District’s website: www.floridaswater.com or via The District Clerk, (386)329-4500.

The Water Resource Advisory Committee (WRAC)Monthly Meeting announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: October 4, 2012, 9:00 a.m.

PLACE: SFWMD, Building B-1, Auditorium, 3301 Gun Club Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33406
GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: A Public Meeting of the Water Resources Advisory Commission (WRAC) regarding water resources protection, water supply and flood protection issues. The public is advised that it is possible that one or more members of the Governing Board of the South Florida Water Management District may attend and participate in this meeting.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Paul Millar, (561)682-6335 or pmillar@sfwmd.gov or at our website: http://my.sfwmd.gov/wrac.gov.

The Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support announces a telephone conference call to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, October 3, 2012, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PLACE: Conference Call: 1(888)670-3525, Conference Code: 7593387652#
Webinar: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/421462626

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a meeting of the Florida Water Resources Monitoring Council Monitoring Catalog Workgroup to discuss the next steps for the monitoring catalog effort.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Ms. Stephanie Sunderman, Watershed Monitoring Section, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS #3525, Tallahassee, Florida 32399, e-mail: Stephanie.Sunderman@dep.state.fl.us.

The Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.
DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, October 9, 2012, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

PLACE: South Florida Water Management District, Headquarters, Storch Conference Room, 3301 Gun Club Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33406; The meeting can also be accessed via Conference Call: 1(888)670-3525; Code: 7593387652#; Webinar: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/477962850

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a meeting of the Statewide Florida Water Resources Monitoring Council (FWRMC) to discuss the workgroups’ tasks: coordinate a groundwater salinity network, develop a statewide catalog of existing monitoring efforts, develop a coastal monitoring network, and coordinate Regional Councils to increase opportunities for local monitoring entities’ to participate in the FWRMC.

MAF Weekly Report- September 3, 2012

(Past member) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 19:09:14 GMT

MAF Weekly Report- September 3, 2012

As Fall Approaches Attention Turns to MAF Annual Summit

VMA Raises the Bar

In late August the Volusia Manufacturers Association papered the halls of the Volusia County Advanced Technology College with magnificent posters from area manufacturing companies. There were thirty posters on the wall the day of the event and more will be added in the future. Manufacturers paid for their own posters, as large as 10’ wide. Students were seen busily writing down information shown on the posters. After the poster unveiling, some 100 manufacturers and educators gathered for remarks, conversation and a barbecue dinner. June Wolfe, MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence, was on hand to talk about Dream It Do It, which was very well received. Our hats off to Mark Madore, VMA Chairman and Jayne Fifer, VMA President/CEO for leading this innovative education project!

New Grant to Support Manufacturing Education in the Capital Region

Tallahassee Community College and its grant partners have received a $200,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to support manufacturing education. With the grant, a seamless pathway for Engineering Technology with degrees and programs that support the manufacturing industries in the greater Tallahassee region will be developed. The new project held its first advisory committee meeting last week at TCC's Advanced Manufacturing Training Center (AMTC) with over 15 partners from high schools, industry, FLATE and the regional EDC. The group set an aggressive timeline for implementation of the new high school and college programs. A number of recruiting events and open houses will be hosted at the participating high schools this fall and the next advisory committee will meet in November. Industry partners were excited to be bringing this hands-on technical degree program to TCC, stating that it is critical for students to get a good mix of theory and practice. If you are interested in participating, or want more information, please contact Bruce Batton (BATTONB@tcc.fl.edu) or Marilyn Barger (barger@fl-ate.org).

Short Notes

Statistics from Workforce Florida over the past year:
- Florida's workforce system assisted more than 43,700 employers with an array of business-focused services;
- Quick Response Training and Incumbent Worker Training programs trained nearly 5,000 employees in 27 new and existing companies, helping provide new jobs and keep existing companies growing in Florida; and
- Every month more than 29,000 Floridians find jobs after receiving assistance through the Workforce Florida job placement system.
Hopping Green & Sams informed us that FDEP conducted a workshop on August 22, 2012, to discuss technical corrections to the used oil management regulations in Chapter 62-710, F.A.C. and the hazardous waste regulations in Chapter 62-730, F.A.C. Written comments to FDEP regarding the draft rule changes are due by September 12, 2012, not September 21.
The August 29, 2012 Environmental Update from Hopping Green & Sams is attached.
The Society of Maintenance and Reliability Professionals Annual Conference will be held in Orlando during the week of October 17^th. Some 1,000 people will be in attendance. There will also be a job fair associated with the conference. Of note, this is a great place to get information on products and services in the maintenance and reliability engineering field. Go to www.smrp.org for more information.

Florida Administrative Weekly – August 31, 2012

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE NO.: 62-304.335

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of the rule is to adopt a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), and its allocations, for fecal coliform in the Perdido Bay Basin.

SUMMARY: The TMDL addresses a fecal coliform impairment in the Perdido Bay Basin. Specifically, the TMDL rule being proposed for adoption is for Brushy Creek. This water body was verified as impaired using the methodology established in Chapter 62-303, F.A.C., Identification of Impaired Surface Waters. The methodology used to develop the TMDL was the percent reduction method.

IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW (IF NOT REQUESTED, THIS HEARING WILL NOT BE HELD):

DATE AND TIME: September 27, 2012, 1:30 p.m.

PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bob Martinez Center, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Room 609, Tallahassee, FL

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: Jan Mandrup-Poulsen, Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration, Bureau of Watershed Restoration, Mail Station 3555, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400, telephone (850)245-8448

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE NO.: 62-304.435

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of the rule is to adopt a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), and its allocations, for fecal coliform in the Upper East Coast Basin.

SUMMARY: The TMDL addresses a fecal coliform impairment in the Upper East Coast Basin. Specifically, the TMDL rule being proposed for adoption is for Pellicer Creek. This water body was verified as impaired using the methodology established in Chapter 62-303, F.A.C., Identification of Impaired Surface Waters. The methodology used to develop the

IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW (IF NOT REQUESTED, THIS HEARING WILL NOT BE HELD):

DATE AND TIME: September 27, 2012, 1:30 p.m.

PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bob Martinez Center, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Room 609, Tallahassee, FL

Department of Environmental Protection

RULE NO.: 62-304.645

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of the rule is to adopt Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), and their allocations, for fecal coliform in the Springs Coast Basin.

SUMMARY: These TMDLs address fecal coliform impairments in the Springs Coast Basin. Specifically, the TMDL rules being proposed for adoption are for the 34^th Street Basin, Clam Bayou Drain, Clam Bayou (East Drainage), Clam Bayou Drain (Tidal), Cedar Creek (Tidal), Cedar Creek, Curlew Creek Freshwater Segment, McKay Creek Tidal, McKay Creek, and Pinellas Park Ditch No. 1 (Tidal Segment). These water bodies were verified as impaired using the methodology established in Chapter 62-303, F.A.C., Identification of Impaired Surface Waters. The methodology used to develop these TMDLs was the percent reduction method.

Any person who wishes to provide information regarding a statement of estimated regulatory costs, or provide a proposal for a lower cost regulatory alternative must do so in writing within 21 days of this notice.

IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW (IF NOT REQUESTED, THIS HEARING WILL NOT BE HELD):

DATE AND TIME: September 27, 2012, 1:30 p.m.

PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bob Martinez Center, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Room 609, Tallahassee, FL

The St. Johns River Water Management District announces a workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: September 14, 2012, 9:30 a.m. (EDT)

PLACE: St. Johns River Water Management District, District Headquarters, Governing Board, 4049 Reid Street, Palatka, Florida 32177.

Persons can attend the workshop in person or register to attend by webinar. Webinar registration information is available on the District’s website: http://www.floridaswater.com or can be obtained from Wendy Gaylord, Legal Administrative Assistant, (386)326-3026 or email: wgaylord@sjrwmd.com.

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: Section 373.4131, Florida Statutes, became effective on July 1, 2012, and requires the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in coordination with the five water management districts (WMDs) to develop statewide environmental resource permitting (ERP) rules. These rules are to rely primarily upon existing rules of the DEP and WMDs, but may be revised as necessary to achieve a more consistent, effective, and streamlined approach in the State’s ERP program. As part of its rulemaking, DEP also intends to incorporate by reference an applicant’s handbook. At least two volumes of the applicant’s handbook will apply in each WMD: (1) one volume that will include general and environmental procedures and forms that will apply statewide, and (2) a second volume specific to, and adopted by, the WMD that will set forth design and performance standards for stormwater quality and quantity and include basin designations and basin-specific rules within the WMD. These volumes will replace and/or amend the SJRWMD’s current applicant’s handbooks. Comments will be solicited regarding amendments to Chapters 40C-1, 40C-4, 40C-41, 40C-42 and 40C-44, F.A.C., and a document to be known as “Environmental Resource Permit Applicant’s Handbook, Volume II: For Use within the Geographic Limits of the St. Johns River Water Management District,” which is based on existing provisions contained in the SJRWMD’s current applicant’s handbooks.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Wendy Gaylord, Legal Administrative Assistant, (386)326-3026 or wgaylord@sjrwmd.com.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: Monday, September 10, 2012, 2:00 p.m.

PLACE: Lecanto Government Building, 3600 West Sovereign Path, Room 280, Lecanto, Florida 34461

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: Discussion of task force business for the Citrus County Task Force of the Citrus/Hernando Waterways Restoration Council.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Southwest Florida Water Management District, 2379 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida 34604, (352)796-7211 or 1(800)423-1476 (Florida Only), extension 4378 or online at www.watermatters.org/waterways.

The Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Water Resource Management announces a workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: September 20, 2012, 10:00 a.m. (EDT)

PLACE: This workshop will be broadcast via webinar. Parties can register to attend the webinar via their personal computers with audio by telephone (regular long distance telephone charges will apply) or by speakers connected to their computer (no telephone charges will apply). Webinar registration is via https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/249668090.

Alternatively, persons may view the webinar at the following location where staff also will be available to accept comments. Department of Environmental Protection, Bob Martinez Bldg., Rm. 609, 2600 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399.

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: In accordance with Section 373.4131, Florida Statutes, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in coordination with the five Water Management Districts (WMDs), is developing statewide environmental resource permitting (ERP) rules governing the construction, alteration, operation, maintenance, repair, abandonment, and removal of storm water management systems, dams, impoundments, reservoirs, appurtenant works, or works, or combinations thereof, to implement Part IV of Chapter 373, F.S. This rulemaking will rely primarily upon existing rules of DEP and WMDs, revised as necessary to achieve a more consistent, effective, and streamlined approach to implement the ERP program. This is the fourth workshop to solicit comments on the proposed Chapter 62-330, F.A.C., including forms, fees, and Applicant’s Handbook Volumes I and II that will be incorporated by reference. A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Mary VanTassel, Department of Environmental Protection by 2600 Blair Stone Rd., MS #2500, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400, (850)245-8486 or e-mail: Mary.VanTassel@dep.state.fl.us. The agenda and workshop information will be posted on the DEP Public Notice Calendar: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/public_notices/default.htm (OGC #12-1058).

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 18 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T., Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

MAF Weekly Report – August 20, 2012

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:51:05 GMT

View the MAF Weekly Report, August 20, 2012

View the Florida Economic Overview, August 16, 2012

MAF Weekly Report – July 30, 2012

(Past member) — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 13:31:45 GMT

Comments Needed on DOR Repair Parts Proposed Rule

On August 8 the Florida Department of Revenue will conduct a public workshop on proposed changes to
their rules on the sales tax exemption for manufacturing repair parts. MAF will be in attendance but we
need your input so we know what comments you would like to make. We also encourage you to attend
if this is important to you.

In talking to Jeff Soff, DOR, the reason for the rule change is to curb the abuse of the exemption. In
DOR’s opinion, manufacturers have been claiming the exemption for repair parts when they were really
using consumables. DOR would like to now make the distinction between parts and consumables.
Further, they are establishing an exemption certificate by rule for the first time for this exemption. By
using the certificate you can show it to the seller and not have to pay the tax up front. This was practice
but not backed up by law. Also, they have surveyed the other states and can share what other states are
doing regarding this exemption. Finally, DOR wants your input because if they have classified certain
parts as consumables and they are really repair parts they want you to let them know that.

The public workshop is at DOR on August 8, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 1220, Building One, 2450
Shumard Oak Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL. MAF would like your comments by Friday, August 3. DOR will
take comments after the hearing as well. The hearing will be a great opportunity to discuss the matter
and make sure that parts are parts and consumables are consumables!!! If anyone would like to
volunteer to attend or help us draft comments, we would appreciate it!! All the materials were sent to
MAF members on July 27.

Accepting Sponsors and Exhibitors for MAF Summit
We are now accepting sponsors and exhibitors for the MAF Summit and Marketplace, December 6-7,
2012 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel. Forms for both are attached or you may sign up
online at www.mafmfg.com. We encourage you to invite your suppliers to exhibit. We want to make
this the premier networking opportunity for Florida manufacturers. Feel free to forward the forms to
your suppliers.

Grant Awarded UF for Starting Technology Companies
The University of Florida has received a federal five-year grant to promote the formation of technology
startup companies based on university research discoveries. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s
Economic Development Administration awarded $645,000, matched by the university over the next five
years, to UF Tech Connect which assists in commercializing university research discoveries by helping
create startup companies. During the last fiscal year, UF Tech Connect client companies created 230
new jobs and generated $180 million in private investment. The grant will allow the program to
continue this work. In the past UF Tech Connect has helped launch more than 140 startup companies,
garnering more than $800 million in private investment and creating more than 1,200 jobs.

MAF News Report- July 6th

(Past member) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 17:05:45 GMT

Now Accepting Sponsors and Exhibitors for Annual Manufacturers Summit

MAF is gearing up for the MAF 9^th Annual Manufacturers Summit and Marketplace on December 6-7, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, Orlando, FL. We are now accepting sponsors and exhibitors for the event. Sponsorships are available for $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000. Premium exhibit space is available for $1,500 and other exhibit space for $999. The earlier you sign up, the longer your name or logo will be on the MAF web page as we post our exhibitors and sponsors as soon as they sign up. This is added value advertising for these companies. Attached are all the materials you need to sign up. If you have questions, contact becky@nstephens.com.

Nominate Educators and Industry Colleagues

It’s the time of year to recognize your peers and partners who contribute to the positive promotion of advanced manufacturing in Florida, preparing and supporting Florida’s ready-to-workforce. The award represents FLATE’s commitment to recognizing education and industry colleagues who make significant contributions to technology education, outreach, and training of today’s advanced manufacturing workforce. There are three categories:

· Manufacturing Secondary Educator of the Year
· Manufacturing Post-Secondary Educator of the Year
· FLATE Industry Distinguished Service Award

Awards are presented during the December MAF Annual Manufacturers Summit Awards Banquet in Orlando, Florida on December 6, 2012. Additional criteria and a fast and easy form is ready to use at www.fl-ate.org/awards. For additional information, please contact Dr. Marilyn Barger at barger@fl-ate.org

Florida Emergency Bridge Loan Program Provides Immediate Financial Help to Small Businesses Impacted by TS Debby

Florida small business owners who have been impacted by Tropical Storm Debby can now apply for an expedited interest-free, short-term loan through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. Under the program, small business owners (from 2 to 100 employees) are eligible for up to $25,000 in interest-free financial help with 90 or 180 day terms based on individual business circumstances.

The emergency short-term loans help bridge the critical gap between when a small business makes application for and secures other permanent financial recovery resources, including sufficient profits from a revived business, receipt of payments on insurance claims or federal disaster assistance.

Governor Rick Scott has allocated $10 million from the General Revenue fund for the emergency bridge loan program. The appropriation is made through a budget amendment pursuant to the Governor's emergency declaration. The following Florida counties are currently approved for the emergency bridge loan program: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Franklin, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor, Union and Wakulla.

To be eligible, small businesses must have been established in Florida prior to June 25, 2012, and demonstrate physical damage as a result of Tropical Storm Debby. The need for the loan and use of proceeds must be directly related to the physical damages caused by Tropical Storm Debby. Applications may be downloaded at www.floridadisasterloan.org. Once completed, applicants should contact the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network at (850) 473-7800 or toll-free at (866) 737-7232 for submission instructions. Website: www.floridasbdc.org. Applicants may also contact the SBDC Network for free help with completing the application.

Progress Energy and Duke Energy Have Merged
This week Progress Energy and Duke Energy announced the completion of their merger. Combining the two companies creates the largest utility company in the United States and gives them the financial strength to meet the region’s energy needs in a reliable, affordable and environmentally sound manner. The company will continue to provide outstanding operational performance and strong customer service that customers can rely on. For now, they are still known as Progress Energy in the Florida service territory. Vinny Dolan will continue to be the state president.

Short Notes

· MAF members should review TMDL lists to see if their receiving water is back on the list. Please see attached memo from Hopping Green & Sams.
· The FDEP Estuary and Coastal Numeric Nutrient Criteria Development Meetings for northwest Florida have been rescheduled for July 24, 2012, 9am CDT, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Northwest District Office, 160 W. Governmental Street, Suite 308, Room 402, Pensacola, FL and July 25, 2012, 9am CDT, Gulf Coast State College, Gibson Lecture Hall, 5230 West U.S. Highway 98, Panama City, FL.

Florida Administrative Weekly – July 6, 2012

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: July 19, 2012, 1:30 p.m.

PLACE: Sylvan Lake Park, Conference Room, 845 Lake Markham Rd., Sanford, Florida 32771

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a Public meeting to discuss issues related to the Lake Jesup Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP). The BMAP is the means for implementation of the Lake Jesup Nutrient Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs). The primary topic of discussion during this meeting will be the BMAP annual update. A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Samantha Fillmore, Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS #3565, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400, (850)245-8418.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announces a public workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: July 23, 2012, 1:00 p.m. (CDT)

PLACE: Camp Helen State Park, The Lodge, 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, Florida 32413

DATE AND TIME: July 24, 2012, 1:30 p.m. (EDT)

PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Carr Building, Room 170 (M&L) Training Room, 3800 Commonwealth Boulevard, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000

DATE AND TIME: July 25, 2012, 1:30 p.m. (EDT)

PLACE: Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 E. Magnolia Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114

DATE AND TIME: July 26, 2012, 1:30 p.m. (EDT)

PLACE: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Garden Center, 3109 E. Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

DATE AND TIME: July 27, 2012, 1:00 p.m. (EDT)

PLACE: Southwest Florida Water Management District, Sarasota Service Office, Governing Board Room, 6750 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34240-9711

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: These public workshops are for the Department to present the draft statewide total maximum daily load (TMDL) of mercury to the public and obtain feedback from interested stakeholders. A revised draft TMDL document (including the main report and appendices) will be placed on the Department’s TMDL website: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/tmdl/ by Friday, July 6, 2012, and will be provided upon request to interested parties by mail or via email distribution. The Department will accept written comments on the TMDL through August 27th, 2012. Written comments should be directed to: Jan Mandrup- Poulsen, Environmental Administrator, Watershed Evaluation and TMDL Section, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Mail Station #3555, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400 or email: jan.mandrup-poulsen@dep.state.fl.us

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support, announces a workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, July 24, 2012, 9:00 a.m. (CDT)

PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Northwest District Office, 160 W. Governmental Street, Suite 308, Room 502, Pensacola, Florida

DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, July 25, 2012, 9:00 a.m. (CDT)

PLACE: Gulf Coast State College, Gibson Lecture Hall, 5230 West US Highway 98, Panama City, Florida

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: Rule development will address estuary-specific numeric nutrient standards for total nitrogen and total phosphorus for the following Panhandle estuaries: Perdido Bay, Pensacola Bay (including Escambia Bay), Choctawhatchee Bay, St. Andrews Bay, St. Joseph’s Bay, and Apalachicola Bay. The Pensacola workshop will cover the Perdido Bay, Pensacola Bay (including Escambia Bay) and Choctawhatchee Bay estuaries. The Panama City workshop will cover the St. Andrews Bay, St. Joseph’s Bay, and Apalachicola Bay estuaries. These public workshops were previously scheduled for June 26 and 27, 2012, but were postponed due to Tropical Storm Debby. A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Eric Shaw, Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support, MS #6511, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400, (850)245-8429 or email: eric.shaw@dep.state.fl.us..

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Water Resource Management announces a workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: July 26, 2012, 10:00 a.m. (ET)

PLACE: This is the first of three workshops that will be broadcast via webinars. Parties can register to attend the webinar via their personal computers with audio by telephone (regular long distance telephone charges will apply) or by speakers connected to their computer (no telephone charges will apply). Webinar registration is via https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/853186642.

DATE AND TIME: August 7, 2012, 10:00 a.m. (ET)

PLACE: This is the second of three workshops that will be broadcast via webinars.

Webinar registration is via https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/678645322.

DATE AND TIME: August 16, 2012, 10:00 a.m. (ET)

PLACE: This is the third of three workshops that will be broadcast via webinars. Webinar registration is via: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/952961026.

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: Pursuant to Section 373.4131, Florida Statutes (F.S.), as created by Chapter 2012-94, Laws of Florida (House Bill 7003), effective July 1, 2012, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in coordination with the five Water Management Districts (WMDs), is required to develop statewide environmental resource permitting (ERP) rules governing the construction, alteration, operation, maintenance, repair, abandonment, and removal of stormwater management systems, dams, impoundments, reservoirs, appurtenant works or works, or combinations thereof, to implement Part IV of Chapter 373, F.S. This rulemaking will rely primarily upon existing rules of DEP and WMDs, revised as necessary to achieve a more consistent, effective, and streamlined approach to implement the ERP program. Comments will be solicited to amend Chapter 62-330, F.A.C., an existing rule of DEP that currently incorporates by reference the rules of the WMDs used by DEP to implement its responsibilities under the ERP program. The chapter will be substantially revised to become the statewide environmental resource permitting rules.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Mary VanTassel, Department of Environmental Protection, at 2600 Blair Stone Rd., MS #2500, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400, (850)245-8486 or e-mail: Mary.VanTassel@dep.state.fl.us. The agenda and workshop information also are on the DEP Public Notice Calendar: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/public_notices/default.htm. (OGC #12-1058).

For questions about the webinars: Jennifer Butler, (850)245-8485. DEP has established an Internet site:

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/wetlands/swerp/index.htm to provide information about the rulemaking, including a link to a forum page to accept comments from the public. A link to that site also exists on the draft rules site at

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/rules_dr.htm#erp.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announces a workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: July 27, 2012, 9:30 a.m.

PLACE: Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Room 609, Tallahassee, Florida

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a rule development workshop to discuss proposed changes to Chapters 62-716 and 62-722, F.A.C., in order to implement the 75% recycling goal created in Chapter 2010-143, Laws of Florida. The public may attend this meeting in person or via webinar. To join the webinar, register: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/964527570. After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. A draft of the proposed rule will be available at: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/solid_waste/pages/rulemaking_62-716.htm.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Suzanne Boroff, Department of Environmental Protection, MS #4555, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400, (850)245-8718 or email: Suzanne.Boroff@dep.state.fl.us.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support announces a workshop to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, July 31, 2012, 9:00 a.m.

PLACE: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bob Martinez Center, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Room 609, Tallahassee, Florida

DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, August 1, 2012, 9:00 a.m.

PLACE: City of Leesburg Community Center, 109 E. Dixie Avenue, Leesburg, Florida

DATE AND TIME: Thursday, August 2, 2012, 9:00 a.m.

PLACE: South Florida Water Management District, Lower West Coast Service Center, Conference Room, 2301 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: To present information and receive public comments on proposed revisions to Chapters 62-302, 62-303, and 62-4, F.A.C., under the Triennial Review of state surface water quality standards. These public workshops are a follow up to public workshops held on May 15-17, 2012. A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Eric Shaw, Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support, MS #6511, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400, (850)245-8429 or email: eric.shaw@dep.state.fl.us. Additional information about the rulemaking may be obtained from the Department’s web site: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/wqssp/index.htm.

UPCOMING EVENTS

July 9 MAF Summit Planning Teleconference, 2:00 pm ET. Dial in number is 712.775.7000; PIN 317371#. Open to those interested in helping! (This is a rescheduled teleconference)

July 18 MAF Workforce and Education Partners Council Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T. Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

August 16 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T., Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#.

October 18 MAF Environmental Teleconference, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. E.T., Dial in number is (712) 775.7000; PIN 317371#

NTMA MEMBER ROY SWEATMAN APPOINTED TO U.S. COMMERCE DEPARTMENT MANUFACTURING COUNCIL

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 07:16:57 GMT

April 12, 2012

NTMA MEMBER ROY SWEATMAN APPOINTED TO U.S. COMMERCE DEPARTMENT MANUFACTURING COUNCIL

Sweatman to Provide Voice for Small and Medium-Sized Manufacturers

Washington, DC – Roy Sweatman, President of Southern Manufacturing Technologies (SMT) in Tampa, FL, was appointed today to serve on the Manufacturing Council. Sweatman, a member and former Chairman of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA), joins 24 other U.S. manufacturing leaders as Council members. The Council provides advice to U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson on issues related to manufacturing sector competitiveness, as well as government policies and programs that affect the industry. Sweatman will help emphasize the necessity of designing policies that help small and medium U.S. manufacturing companies, which play a critical role in the industry.

"Small and medium manufacturers are this country’s job creators and the backbone of our communities," said Sweatman. "As a Council member, my goal is to support policies that help small manufacturing businesses to flourish in the United States. Policymakers and business leaders must work together on issues ranging from the shortage of skilled manufacturing workers to tax reform to ensure that small businesses are able to continue to invest in the new technologies and hire the workers that allow us to stay competitive with businesses overseas."

Roy’s company, SMT, founded in 1983, specializes in precision machined components and assemblies primarily for the aircraft, aerospace, defense industries. SMT was honored as the Tampa Small Business of the Year and in 2009 won the Business Excellence Award from the Tampa Bay Workforce Alliance.

“NTMA congratulates Roy for this tremendous honor,” said NTMA Chairman Roger Atkins. “Roy has been a leader in NTMA and in our industry for years. We have benefited from his leadership, ideas and commitment to strengthening manufacturing in America, qualities that he will now be able to share with policymakers in Washington, DC.”

About NTMA: NTMA’s over 1,300 member companies design and manufacture special tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, gages, special machines and precision-machined parts. Some firms specialize in experimental research and development work as well as rapid prototyping. Many NTMA members are privately owned small businesses, yet the industry generates sales in excess of $40 billion a year. NTMA’s mission is to help members of the U.S. precision custom manufacturing industry achieve business success in a global economy through advocacy, advice, networking, information, programs and services.

NTMA and the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) formed the "One Voice" partnership to advocate for the interests of small and medium manufacturers throughout the U.S. Visit www.metalworkingadvocate.org for additional information on PMA and NTMA.

Bay Area Manufacturers Association Manufacturing News

The Business Show Miami

Tampa Bay 3D printing entrepreneur beats the odds with moxie, fortitude

The first obstacle: Discouragement

The second obstacle: Untenable growth

The third obstacle: Tariffs

MANUFACTURING RISING - Workforce Reshoring

MADE IN TAMPA BAY EXPO & JOB FAIR RETURNS APRIL 9, 2025!

Connect with Local Manufacturers & Discover Exciting Career Opportunities

Event Highlights:

Event Details:

About BAMA:

2025 Florida Manufacturing Days Advocating for a Stronger Manufacturing Future

Tampa, FL – Last week, the Florida Manufacturing & Supply Chain Advocacy Council celebrated 2025 Florida Manufacturing Days in the state capitol, bringing together nearly 50 manufacturing stakeholders to advocate for policies that strengthen Florida’s manufacturing sector.

1. Support “An Act Relating to Manufacturing” (Senate Bills 600 & 602; House Bills 561 & 563)Sponsored by Representative Nan Cobb and Senator Keith Truenow, this bill aims to enhance Florida’s manufacturing ecosystem through strategic initiatives, including:

· Institutionalizing the Chief Manufacturing Officer (CMO) position within FloridaCommerce to provide dedicated leadership and coordination for manufacturing initiatives statewide.

· Launching the "Made in Florida" Program to establish a statewide designation and marketing campaign, promoting locally manufactured products and increasing awareness of Florida’s manufacturing capabilities.

· Authorizing a Biennial State of Florida Manufacturing Report through FloridaCommerce in collaboration with the state’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership to provide comprehensive data and insights into the industry’s economic impact, helping drive policy and investment decisions.

· Creating a Technical Support Program for Florida Manufacturers to provide grants or low-interest loans for small and medium-sized manufacturers to adopt advanced technologies, improve cybersecurity, and enhance workforce training programs.

2. Encourage Growth Through Strategic InvestmentsTo ensure a competitive business climate for manufacturers, the Council advocates for policies that drive high-wage job growth and capital investment:

· Expanding the Capital Investment Tax Credit (CITC): Broaden eligibility to all manufacturing subsectors (NAICS codes 31, 32, 33) and reduce investment and job creation thresholds, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized manufacturers in rural communities.

### About BAMA:

The Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) represents and promotes the interests of manufacturers throughout the Tampa Bay region, fostering growth and innovation in the manufacturing sector through advocacy, workforce development, and industry collaboration.

Press Release

2023 Florida Manufacturing Report

BAMA Welcomes New Board of Directors

Jacob Solar and the Hidden Talent Pipeline of People with Disabilities: A Manufacturing Success Story

Association gets focused on Tampa Bay manufacturers’ needs

FloridaMakes Works with Industry to Sponsor the First Statewide Online Manufacturing Apprentice Program

AIF in Partnership with Space Florida and FloridaMakes Accelerates Critical Connections Between Florida Manufacturers & Businesses During COVID 19 Pandemic

OVER $1 BILLION IN IMPACT REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS WORKING WITH THE FLORIDAMAKES NETWORK

Tariff Update

Business Advisor Joins BAMA

MILLIONS IN IMPACT REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS WORKING WITH FLORIDAMAKES

Manufactures: Join BAMA's Instructor Incubator Committee

Summer Job Connections

RCRA Hazardous Waste Training

DOT Hazardous Materials Training

Manufacturing makes a comeback in Bay Area

Made in Tampa Bay: Seaway Plastics

PLCs Certification Training at SPC

Mettler Toledo opens new facility

Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Community Conversation

USF Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Small Business Conference

PLC Training

St. Pete College manufacturing courses

2018 Florida Invention Convention & Entrepreneurship Expo

M-PACT: Meetings That Educate, Inform and Connect Our Manufacturers

PLC Certification Course from St. Pete College

Composite Manufacturing Training Program

TechHire program

Manufacturing in the U.S. Just Accelerated to Its Best Year Since 2004

Free Webinar on Exporting

National Conference on Industry Sector Growth Strategies

Manufacturers needed to take a survey on curriculum

Business Opportunities in Costa Rica

UAS Remote Pilot Certificate Prep Course begins Nov. 7

Next UAS Remote Pilot Certificate Prep Course Begins on Tuesday, November 7th

FREE Webinar on Flexible Hybrid Electronics

Hydro-Dyne named Florida Company to Watch

Operational Excellence: How to Make It Stick

Manufacturing Talk Radio

Internship Hiring Event

PLC Training

Jabil honored for hiring people with disabilities

How one Tampa manufacturer slowed the revolving door of staff turnover

SBA Opens Business Recovery Centers in Florida

AmSkills Roundtable

2017 Hillsborough Ready Business workshop

July 2017 Veteran Employment Update

Project Management classes begin

ICCC Tampa Bay

Mfg of the Year nominations are open

Nominations are now open for the 2017 MAF Manufacturer/Distributor/Supplier/Logistics Business of the Year Awards

USF Continuing Education

3D Tech Open House

MacDill Career Fair - July 21

MacDill AFB Career Fair

Follow-Up Report to 2013 Skills Gap Analysis

1. Support “An Act Relating to Manufacturing” (Senate Bills 600 & 602; House Bills 561 & 563)
Sponsored by Representative Nan Cobb and Senator Keith Truenow, this bill aims to enhance Florida’s manufacturing ecosystem through strategic initiatives, including:

2. Encourage Growth Through Strategic Investments
To ensure a competitive business climate for manufacturers, the Council advocates for policies that drive high-wage job growth and capital investment:

###

About BAMA:

Nominations are now open for the 2017 MAF Manufacturer/Distributor/Supplier/Logistics
Business of the Year Awards