[ecko_quote source=”Dorothy Rothrock, President of the CMTA”]This event brings together everyone who cares about manufacturing in the region. There is no better place to learn what local manufacturers think about state policies and regulations. [/ecko_quote]
Ontario, California – The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) confirmed the date for their annual Summit today at their Summit Support Committee meeting held at the InTech Center in Fontana. Debbie Smith, Chairman of the Summit announced that the event will be Friday, February 3, 2017, from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Summit will be held again at the Ontario Convention Center, in Ontario, California.
The Manufacturers’ Summit is considered one of the largest gatherings of manufacturers and suppliers in the southern California region and typically hosts between 500 and 700 people.
Dorothy Rothrock, President of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) says, “This event brings together everyone who cares about manufacturing in the region. There is no better place to learn what local manufacturers think about state policies and regulations. It helps me do a better job in Sacramento to improve the business climate. This program has gotten better every year, which is saying something because it was good from the start! It is a “must attend” for me and my team each year.”
The Summit will feature Garry Ridge, President of WD-40 Company as keynote speaker. Ridge is responsible for developing and implementing high-level strategies, all operations, and the oversight of all relationships and partnerships for the Company. Headquartered in San Diego, WD-40 Company recorded net sales of $378 million in fiscal year 2015 and its products are currently available in more than 176 countries and territories worldwide. WD-40 Company is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select market under the ticker symbol “WDFC.”
“One of the most interesting and popular exhibits, the “Make in the Inland Empire” displays, will again be presented,” stated Smith. “Last year we had about 30 manufacturers who brought in locally made products to show them off.” Manufacturers who attended and displayed included Microdyne Plastics, Garner Holt Productions, Cott Beverages, Phenix Technology and Safariland.
Attendees will also be treated to the Manufacturers’ Innovation Awards, where three, top manufactures will discuss innovations within their companies. Last year, Celestica, located in Ontario, won in the category of “Innovation in Resource Efficiency.” The 2016 winner of Innovation in Workforce Development was Newport Cottages, a minority-owned, family run business that specializes in creating children’s furniture, located in Riverside California.
The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire, a 501(c) 3 non-profit, supports and provides education to manufacturers, their employees, students looking for jobs in manufacturing and the community at large. The annual Summits are designed to provide informational take-aways on business trends and issues in the region and state. It brings together manufacturers, supporting businesses, regional colleges and universities and agencies.
The February 3rd event will also provide a panel discussion on Regulation Hurdles in Manufacturing led by Dorothy Rothrock, President of CMTA and featuring real issues and solutions for dealing with conflicting agencies.
Micro-burst presentations will replace past breakout sessions with short, hot topics that everyone would like to learn about. “We are trying out a new format because people wanted to attend multiple presentations last year that were scheduled at the same time,’ stated Smith. “ Now these Micro-burst presentations will be on the main stage, allowing everyone to hear them.” Each presentation will be short and to the point. To dig in deeper, those same topics will be presented, in detail at regular, monthly meetings of the MCIE. Topics slated include Cyber-Security Risks to Businesses, Robotics and Their Impact on Manufacturing, and the Graying of the Workforce.
Popular with everyone will be the large exhibit area, with opportunities to talk with a variety of vendors who support manufacturing. Larger manufacturers also present in the exhibit area. Past exhibitors have included: Brithinee Electric, the largest electrical motor rewinding plant in the southwest, and manufacturer of electric motor controls; Cott Beverages, an international manufacturer and one of the largest beverage producers; California Steel Industries, an international producer located in Fontana; Safariland, producer of high-quality accessories for law enforcement and personal defense; and Vista Metals.
For more information about membership in the MCIE, or to attend the Summit, visit www.mfgcouncilie.com/