Leadership

Together with Maribeth Burns, President of the Wayne County Economic Development Council, and her team, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association staff toured the Will-Burt Company on Tues., Oct. 14 in Orrville. “With more than a century of excellence, Will-Burt — now an ESOP, exemplifies the ingenuity and strength of Ohio manufacturing,” said OMA President Ryan Augsburger in commending Wayne Chamberlain, Mike Gibb and Heidi Hostettler for hosting the visit. 10/14/2025

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association team also visited the Quality Castings Company this past Tuesday in Orrville. Quality Castings has been a trusted leader in gray and ductile iron castings for more than 90 years. In thanking Matt Nicholas, Steve Yonto and Jennifer Elsass for hosting the visit, OMA President Ryan Augsburger applauded Quality Castings “for combining high-volume capability with custom solutions, setting the standard for reliability in American manufacturing.” 10/14/2025

As part of manufacturing month, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) President Ryan Augsburger spoke with members of the Wayne County Economic Development Council for their Briefings for Business on Tues., Oct. 14 in Orrville. Augsburger shared insights to challenge popular misconceptions about the state of our supply of electricity and the importance of trusting the free market, not government fiat to supply increased demand. Click here to read the OMA’s primer on electricity policy. 10/14/25

Two members of the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association made big news for Manufacturing Month with major new investments in Ohio. Stellantis plans to invest nearly $400 million into its Toledo Assembly Complex, and bring production of a new midsize pickup truck to the facility. The upgrade will support advanced manufacturing processes and is expected to create up to 900 jobs beginning in 2028 — reinforcing Ohio’s role in automotive innovation.

Whirlpool also announced a $300 million investment across its Clyde and Marion plants to enhance appliance manufacturing capabilities. This modernization effort includes state-of-the-art equipment and automation upgrades, aiming to increase efficiency and production capacity. The expansion will generate between 400 and 600 new jobs, further strengthening Ohio’s position as a national leader in home appliance manufacturing.

These announcements highlight continued confidence in Ohio’s skilled workforce, robust supply chain and pro-manufacturing business climate — making this Manufacturing Month especially meaningful for the Buckeye State. 10/16/25

Gov. Mike DeWine is pursuing a federal waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that would allow Ohio to ban the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for purchasing certain sugary beverages.

In June 2025, DeWine announced the formation of a working group tasked with developing recommendations for the proposed waiver. According to the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services, the group focused on beverages deemed to have “minimal nutritional value and contributing to health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension.” Any such restriction requires USDA approval.

The working group submitted its final report to the governor in late September. Ohio’s official waiver request must be submitted to the USDA no later than Tues., Oct. 28, 2025.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association opposed the ban in the state operating budget and submitted comments to the group that any ban on sugar-sweetened beverages include exemptions for infant formulas, medical foods, and foods for special dietary use — vital for disease management, health maintenance and survival for vulnerable populations.

If approved, Ohio would become the 13th state to implement such a restriction, joining Arkansas; Colorado; Florida; Idaho; Indiana; Iowa; Louisiana; Nebraska; Oklahoma; Texas; Utah; and West Virginia. 10/16/25

Next week, the “Digital Fair Repair Act” is scheduled for a hearing before the House Technology and Innovation Committee. The bill would require manufacturers of digital products to publicly provide information on how to diagnose, maintain and repair their devices — including both hardware and software.

The bill would also prohibit companies from blocking third-party repairs or the use of aftermarket parts and tools. The proposal marks the latest effort in Ohio’s broader “Right to Repair” movement, following the defeat of Senate Bill 73 in the previous General Assembly, which was opposed by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association.

Manufacturers concerned about the legislation and interested in giving testimony should contact James Lee for details on how to engage. 10/16/25

Members of the OMA Government Affairs Committee met Tuesday, Sept. 30 in Columbus to review public policy priorities of interest to manufacturers. More than 100 industry leaders were on hand to gain insights from Gov. Mike DeWine who engaged with members at length. The group also visited with members of the Governor’s cabinet and Speaker of the House Pro Tempore Gayle Manning (R-Avon).

A lively and entertaining debate followed to critique the political environment before the group adjourned for a legislative reception. The Committee will meet one final time in 2025 on Thursday, Dec. 4. “Manufacturing leaders are invited to attend. You won’t want to miss out,” said OMA managing director of public policy James Lee. 10/9/2025

Hundreds of manufacturers convened to kickoff Manufacturing Month together at the Ohio Manufacturers’ Leadership Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 1 in Columbus. The jampacked agenda featured numerous industry leaders and was hosted by OMA Chairman Scott Corbitt, Regional Vice President for Anheuser-Busch (pictured left).

The keynote address was delivered by Fox News personality and program host Laura Ingraham who spoke from personal experience about being from a manufacturing family where she learned to appreciate working class values and the opportunities for one to advance themselves through hard work and determination. 10/9/2025

Longtime OMA board member and past chairman David W. Johnson, of Summitville A Brand of General Shale Brick, was presented the Dan French Legacy Award for exemplary service to the Ohio community of manufacturers at the Ohio Manufacturers’ Leadership Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 1 in Columbus. Additionally, Julianne Kurdila of Cleveland-Cliffs (pictured left) was presented the William Babington, Jr. Award for her years of leadership on the OMA Environment Committee. 10/9/2025

Dave O’Neil has joined the OMA staff as director of communications and marketing. Dave will serve as the primary media contact and lead strategic efforts to amplify member success stories and highlight the vital role manufacturing plays in Ohio’s economy.

A native of Youngstown, he brings more than 16 years of experience in public service and communications from his time at the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and Franklin County Auditor’s Office. Dave also served as Deputy Press Secretary for the 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland. Earlier in his career, he worked as a journalist with reporting roles at the Ashland Times-Gazette, Key West Citizen and Columbus Dispatch. Dave earned his bachelor’s degree in Journalism from The Ohio State University. He lives in Bexley with his wife, Allie, and their four-month-old son, Collins. Dave is an avid runner and spends far too much time worrying about the Cleveland Guardians and Ohio State football. Email Dave to say hello. 10/9/2025

The first Friday of October marks Manufacturing Day! October is Manufacturing Month — a nationwide initiative that shines a spotlight on the incredible contributions of manufacturers across the country. In Ohio, where manufacturing remains the backbone of our economy, this day is more than symbolic — it’s a tribute to the innovation, resilience and craftsmanship that define our state’s industrial spirit.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association is proud to support this movement and encourages all members to participate in local events, share their stories and engage with their communities. Whether through plant tours, career fairs or classroom visits, every interaction helps build awareness and appreciation for the vital role manufacturing plays in our lives.

To explore resources, register events, or find inspiration for celebrating Manufacturing Month, visit the Manufacturing Institute. 10/1/2025

Hundreds of manufacturing leaders gathered in Columbus this week for The Ohio Manufacturers’ Leadership Forum as an industry “kickoff” to Manufacturing Month. Two OMA members were recognized with outstanding servant leadership awards and members heard insights from Fox News host Laura Ingraham at a luncheon forum hosted by OMA Chairman Scott Corbitt, Region Vice President of Anheuser-Busch.

Full coverage of the event, with pictures, will be included in next week’s edition. Click to view the welcome. 10/1/2025

The U.S. Commerce Department announced it will consider new tariffs on imported auto parts, citing national security concerns tied to emerging automotive technologies. According to Reuters, the development follows recent tariff hikes on more than 400 steel and aluminum products, including key EV and bus components. Some national industry groups are urging the administration to halt further expansions, warning of increased costs and uncertainty for manufacturers.

Make sure your business is engaged with national industry associations to stay abreast of federal government policies, including trade and tariffs. 9/25/2025

October is Manufacturing Month! Start planning today to join manufacturers across Ohio in showcasing the exciting careers and innovations in our industry.

Visit MFGDay.com for free toolkits, event-planning guides and promotional materials to help you host impactful events and inspire future talent. 9/25/2025

Centrus Energy announced a $1.58 billion expansion of its uranium enrichment facility in Pike County, creating 300 permanent jobs and up to 1,000 construction positions at peak. The project at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant aims to strengthen U.S. nuclear fuel production, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers including China and Russia. Local property tax and workforce development agreements are part of the plan, with jobs paying at least $50,000 annually.

In a recent statement, OMA President Ryan Augsburger celebrated the announcement, saying, “We welcome the investment of a supplier of fuel resources for nuclear power generation. As part of Ohio’s fair and competitive generation marketplace, it will be a boon to have a source of enriched uranium right here in the Buckeye state.” 9/25/2025

Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel announced late last week that he will not run for governor, clearing the way for businessman Vivek Ramaswamy to emerge as the frontrunner in the Republican primary. Tressel’s decision could also influence the Democratic field, where Tim Ryan and Dr. Amy Acton are weighing or pursuing bids.

Adding to the momentum, Ramaswamy and U.S. Sen. Jon Husted formally endorsed each other this week, cementing GOP alliances at the top of the ticket ahead of Ohio’s high stakes 2026 races for governor and U.S. Senate. 9/25/2025

ODNR has launched a new digital state parks passport challenge to better help Ohioans explore all 76 state parks, earn badges and track their adventures. It’s a fun way to celebrate Ohio’s recent national recognition for park excellence. 9/25/2025

Time is running out to register for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Leadership Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 1, celebrating Manufacturing Month and bringing together industry leaders statewide with special guest Laura Ingraham.

On Tuesday, Sept. 30, the Forum kicks off with the OMA Government Affairs Committee meeting, where Governor Mike DeWine will outline key policy initiatives and Speaker Pro-Tempore Gayle Manning will discuss the legislature’s fall priorities and redistricting.

Don’t miss out on this premier annual gathering for Ohio’s manufacturing leaders. 9/17/2025

The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce this week released the Ohio School Report Cards highlighting student progress in preparing for their futures. Among the bright points, statewide math achievement is rising, and more graduates are earning college credits and industry credentials.

The department attributed the increase in industry credentials to Ohio’s strategic investments in career-technical education and its focus on preparing students for in-demand careers and lifelong success. A multitude of data resources, including building-by-building rankings, are available in the department’s informational press release. 9/16/2025

The National Association of Manufacturers this week expressed concerns with the policy direction of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In its statement, the NAM noted how MAHA guiding principles are out of step with and would undermine the Trump regulatory agenda without improving health and safety.

The NAM has issued a national ad campaign showcasing the vital role manufacturers throughout the food, beverage, pharmaceutical and chemistry supply chains play in strengthening families, building communities and driving the nation forward. 9/10/2025