Leadership

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) marked its 116th anniversary Tuesday with a celebration following its Energy Committee meeting in Columbus. Founded on Nov. 10, 1910, OMA has spent more than a century championing Ohio manufacturing, and this year’s milestone comes amid an especially busy and productive 2026.

Among the year’s highlights, OMA was selected to lead Ohio’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center, launched a statewide Workforce Training Directory and helped more than 4,300 Ohioans secure manufacturing jobs or advance their careers through the Good Jobs Challenge. The association also challenged rising electricity costs and utility spending while expanding member engagement through plant tours, conferences and regional events across Ohio.

“We didn’t spend our 116th year sitting around talking about the good old days,” said Ryan Augsburger, OMA president. “We’ve taken on some tough fights, launched programs that are making a difference and brought manufacturers together from every corner of Ohio. There’s plenty to celebrate, and we’re not slowing down.”

As OMA looks ahead, its work on electricity affordability, workforce development and manufacturing competitiveness continues to gain momentum. With new programs taking shape, stronger industry connections and an engaged membership driving its priorities, the association enters its 117th year with plenty more to accomplish. 11/10/2026

Ohio manufacturers don’t need to build fighter jets or military vehicles to have a place in America’s defense supply chain. Companies producing precision components, specialized materials, electronics and advanced equipment could find new customers in a market where reliability, security and manufacturing expertise are critical.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) will bring those opportunities into focus Wednesday, Nov. 18, when its new Aerospace and Defense Policy Council holds its inaugural meeting from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Boat House at Confluence Park in Columbus. The council aims to help Ohio companies compete for defense business while giving manufacturers a stronger voice in policies affecting military procurement, cybersecurity and supply chain security.

“There’s a difference between being capable of doing defense work and knowing how to win it,” said James Lee, managing director of public policy services for the OMA. “Ohio has companies with the equipment, people and expertise to compete. We want to help them understand where the opportunities are, what’s standing in their way and how to make sure federal policy isn’t putting them at a disadvantage.”

The inaugural meeting will feature Ryan Blackburn of the Defense Innovation Unit’s OnRamp Hub in Ohio and discussions on federal cybersecurity requirements, including CMMC compliance. Attendees will also have an opportunity to connect with industry peers and help shape the council’s priorities. Learn more and register ahead of the Nov. 18 meeting. 11/13/2026

One day after launching its new Aerospace and Defense Policy Council, the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) will turn its attention to the broader Statehouse agenda when its Government Affairs Committee holds its final meeting of 2026 on Thursday, Nov. 19, at The Boat House at Confluence Park in Columbus.

The meeting comes as Ohio lawmakers work through a lame-duck session that could produce consequential policy decisions before Gov.-elect Amy Acton takes office. With legislation advancing and a new administration preparing to take charge, manufacturers have a narrow window to influence decisions that could shape Ohio’s business climate well into 2027.

“Lawmakers aren’t going to stop making decisions just because there’s a new governor coming,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. “What’s happening at the Statehouse right now matters, and we can’t afford to wait until January to start making our case to the next administration. We need to be engaged on both fronts.”

The committee will examine legislation moving through lame duck, assess the gubernatorial transition and help establish OMA’s 2027 advocacy priorities. The meeting runs from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by lunch until 1 p.m., with in-person and virtual participation available. Members are encouraged to participate as OMA works to influence the final decisions of 2026 and the policy direction of the next administration. 11/13/2026

Honda is making a $3 billion bet on Ohio’s manufacturing future, announcing plans Monday for a new automotive assembly plant between Marysville and East Liberty. The investment is expected to create more than 2,000 jobs and strengthen Ohio’s extensive automotive supply chain.

The new plant is expected to begin production in 2029, with annual capacity for 240,000 vehicles and flexibility to manufacture hybrid, gasoline-powered and electric vehicles. Honda cited Ohio’s skilled workforce, established supplier network and nearby research and development operations as key factors in its decision to expand.

“Today’s news is a major win for the Ohio economy. The economic multiplier for an automotive assembly plant will ripple through Ohio’s unrivaled auto supply chain and beyond,” said Ryan Augsburger, president of the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA). “It will be important for Ohio’s elected leaders to continue to address structural costs and burdens to protect manufacturing investment like we are witnessing today.”

The announcement comes less than a week after Ohio elected a new governor, giving the incoming administration a clear reminder of what’s at stake. Ohio’s ability to attract the next multibillion-dollar manufacturing investment will depend on developing a skilled workforce, keeping electricity affordable and providing the regulatory predictability companies need to build and expand. 11/9/2026

Congress returned to Washington this week with a shrinking window to act on legislation affecting manufacturing investment, defense production and advanced technology. Among the priorities are bipartisan permitting reforms, the annual defense authorization bill and proposals to strengthen America’s robotics industry as the 119th Congress approaches its final weeks.

The bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act would streamline federal environmental reviews, including setting one-year deadlines for environmental assessments and two-year deadlines for environmental impact statements. Supporters argue the changes could help manufacturers move forward with plant expansions and major capital projects, although disagreements over environmental protections and other provisions could complicate passage.

“A manufacturer looking to expand a plant doesn’t have two years to sit around waiting for Washington to make up its mind,” said James Lee, managing director of public policy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA). “Every delay adds costs and makes it harder to justify the next investment. Congress has a chance to fix some of that before the year ends. The question is whether lawmakers will actually get it done.”

Other measures include the National Defense Authorization Act, which could strengthen domestic defense production, and the National Commission on Robotics Act, backed by Ohio Rep. Bob Latta, which would examine supply chain risks, workforce needs and U.S. competitiveness in robotics. The proposals carry particular relevance as OMA prepares to launch its Defense and Aerospace Policy Council on Nov. 18. 11/13/2026

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) congratulated Governor-elect Amy Acton and Lieutenant Governor-elect David Pepper following Tuesday’s election, expressing its commitment to building a productive relationship with the incoming administration and strengthening Ohio’s manufacturing economy.

“Ohio has an extraordinary manufacturing economy, and we look forward to working with the new administration to make it even stronger,” said OMA President Ryan Augsburger. “We see tremendous opportunity to build on those strengths, tackle challenges together and ensure Ohio remains a place where businesses and families can thrive.”

Tuesday’s results marked a major political shift in Ohio, with Democrats capturing the governor’s office for the first time in 20 years and Republicans retaining legislative control but losing their veto-proof House majority. OMA’s comprehensive post-election report examines the results, key legislative races and the implications for energy policy, taxes, workforce development and Ohio’s economic competitiveness.

As the new administration prepares to take office, OMA will engage with Governor-elect Acton, her team and legislative leaders to advance policies that support manufacturing investment, job creation and a competitive Ohio economy. 11/4/2026

Tuesday’s election upended the balance of power in Columbus, and Ohio manufacturers are bracing for the consequences. Democrat Amy Acton’s decisive victory in the governor’s race, combined with the collapse of the Republican supermajority in the Ohio House, gives the incoming administration leverage over decisions affecting electricity costs, business taxes, workforce investments and environmental regulations.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) brought together four veteran political strategists Thursday for a special post-election briefing on what drove the Democratic victories and what comes next. To watch the briefing, please enter passcode !OMA110526.

Joe Rettof, Shawn Kasych, Jonathan Varner and Matt Dole examined voter frustration over affordability, Republican campaign missteps and the role of turnout in reshaping Ohio politics. Panelists disagreed on whether the results signal a lasting political realignment, but acknowledged that the next two years will look markedly different at the Statehouse.

The biggest test could come with Ohio’s next two-year budget. Republicans retained their veto-proof majority in the Senate but lost it in the House, leaving Acton with the power to block legislation that previously could have advanced without a governor’s support. Further income tax cuts could face stiff resistance, while new leadership at state regulatory agencies could reshape policies affecting manufacturers. Panelists identified workforce development and economic growth as possible areas of bipartisan cooperation, even as the two parties prepare for difficult negotiations over spending and taxes.

“Republicans still control the legislature, but they no longer get the final word,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. “That’s a big change in Columbus. The next governor will have real leverage over the state budget, energy policy and the agencies that regulate manufacturers. Anyone expecting business as usual is in for a surprise.” 11/5/2026

Ohio’s election results have brought new urgency to the policy discussions shaping the state’s manufacturing future. With Amy Acton elected governor and Republicans retaining control of the General Assembly, manufacturers face a changing political landscape as lawmakers prepare for a final round of votes. The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) will examine what’s ahead during its final Government Affairs Committee meeting of the year on Thursday, Nov. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Members will hear updates on legislation expected to move before year-end, the transition to an Acton administration and what divided government could mean for energy costs, taxes, workforce development and regulatory policy. OMA’s public policy team and the chief counsel at Bricker Graydon Wyatt will also discuss emerging legal issues and the committee’s priorities for 2027.

“We’re hearing from manufacturers who want to know exactly what this election means for their businesses,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. “A new governor and a different balance of power at the Statehouse will change how decisions get made. Energy costs, taxes and regulations are all on the table, and manufacturers need to be part of those conversations.”

Please note the new location. The final meeting of 2026 will take place at The Boat House at Confluence Park, 679 W. Spring St., Columbus, with a networking lunch from noon to 1 p.m. Members may attend in person or virtually via Zoom. 11/6/2026

October was a busy month for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA), and we’ve got the tour dates to prove it. From factory floors in Marysville, Urbana, Canton and Piketon to manufacturing conversations in Cleveland, Bowling Green and Washington, D.C., OMA spent the month connecting with members, policymakers and industry partners across Ohio and beyond.

The itinerary included visits to Honda, Bundy Baking Solutions, Ohio Gratings and Centrus Energy, along with Manufacturing Day celebrations, workforce discussions and policy events across the state. OMA also convened its Annual Forum, launched its Workforce Training Directory at Bowling Green State University and hosted its first Manufacturing Month Member Experience in Canton. It was a packed schedule, with plenty of miles between stops.

But October was about more than logging miles. Plant tours gave OMA a firsthand look at the investments and challenges shaping Ohio manufacturing, while conversations with policymakers and workforce partners tackled everything from rising electricity costs to the need for skilled workers. Each stop offered another opportunity to strengthen relationships, hear directly from members and bring their priorities into discussions shaping Ohio’s economic future.

“At some point, we realized we’d visited enough places to qualify as a touring act,” said Dave O’Neil, director of communications for the OMA. “The T-shirt seemed like the logical next step. We’re still working out the details of our merchandise empire.” 11/6/2026

A busy Manufacturing Month across Ohio wrapped up this past Friday with Ohio Manufacturers’ Association President Ryan Augsburger joining the Union County Chamber of Commerce’s Business Impact Breakfast in Marysville to discuss the industry’s future.

Augsburger highlighted Ohio’s $138 billion manufacturing economy, the challenges of rising electricity costs and the importance of policies that encourage investment and growth. The event also featured a panel with representatives from Parker Hannifin, Plotwork USA and Tolles Career & Technical Center, offering local perspectives on workforce development and manufacturing competitiveness.

“One thing October reminds me every year is just how much manufacturing is happening across Ohio, and how different it looks from one community to the next,” Augsburger said. “We’ve got companies making everything from everyday products to technology most people never see. They’re investing, hiring and solving problems. Our job is to make sure Ohio remains a place where they want to keep doing that.”

The breakfast capped a month of manufacturing celebrations, facility visits and conversations with business leaders across the state. From small, family-owned operations to global industry leaders, October offered a reminder of just how deeply manufacturing is woven into Ohio’s communities and how much the state’s economic future depends on keeping those businesses strong. 10/30/2026

Ohio voters will head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, to make decisions that will shape the state’s economic and policy direction. From electricity costs and tax policy to workforce development and the business climate, the election comes at an important time for Ohio’s manufacturing economy.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) has assembled a comprehensive collection of election resources to help voters prepare. The 2026 Ohio Election Guide covers statewide, congressional, judicial and legislative contests, with candidate information, district maps, political trends and manufacturing economic data. OMA’s Manufacturing Election Services Center also provides access to the OMA Political Action Committee’s endorsements, which reflect candidates’ positions on policies affecting Ohio manufacturing.

“Ohio’s economic future isn’t decided only in boardrooms and factories. It’s also decided at the ballot box,” said Ryan Augsburger, OMA president. “The people we elect will make decisions that affect electricity bills, taxes, jobs and investment across our state. Every Ohioan has a stake in those decisions, and every eligible voter should make their voice heard.”

There’s still time to vote early. Ohio’s final early voting opportunities are Saturday, Oct. 31, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 5 p.m. Election Day polls will be open Tuesday from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. 10/30/2026

The votes will be counted Tuesday. By Thursday, Ohio manufacturers will be looking ahead to what the results mean for electricity costs, tax policy, workforce development and the state’s business climate.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) will host a special virtual Government Affairs Committee briefing Thursday, Nov. 5, from 2 to 3 p.m., bringing together its public policy team and election experts to examine the results and their implications for 2027.

“Election Night tells us who won. What matters next is what those results mean for Ohio manufacturers,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. “From energy affordability to tax policy, the next General Assembly will face decisions that directly affect our competitiveness. We’ll help members understand what’s coming and where OMA intends to engage.”

The briefing will examine changes in Statehouse leadership, emerging legislative priorities and the political dynamics likely to influence Ohio’s next legislative session. Members will also have an opportunity to ask questions directly of OMA’s advocacy team, just two days after voters head to the polls. Register for OMA’s post-election briefing to get an early look at the policy landscape ahead. 10/30/2026

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) is updating its list of Ohio’s largest manufacturing employers, and we want to make sure no company is overlooked. The updated rankings will appear in Manufacturing Counts 2026, scheduled for publication before the end of the year.

Take a look at the 2025 rankings on pages 10-11. Is your company missing? Has your Ohio workforce grown significantly since last year? We want to hear from you.

OMA is reviewing updated employment figures and working with regional economic development partners to verify the rankings. Input from manufacturers will help ensure this year’s report accurately reflects the companies employing Ohioans across the state.

Check the list and help us get it right. If your company belongs among Ohio’s largest manufacturing employers, contact Ken Poland, OMA director of research and documentation, to be considered for inclusion in Manufacturing Counts 2026. 10/27/2026

Ohio manufacturers looking to secure defense contracts will get practical guidance on breaking into the market during the inaugural meeting of the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) Aerospace and Defense Policy Council on Wednesday, Nov. 18.

Ryan Blackburn of the Defense Innovation Unit’s OnRamp Hub in Ohio will discuss military procurement opportunities, while Brad Goodenough, founder of Digit3, will explain cybersecurity certification requirements. Additional sessions will tackle government contracting law, intellectual property protection and financial strategies.

“Ohio has the manufacturing strength to play a much larger role in our nation’s defense industrial base,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. “We want to help companies cut through the complexity, understand the requirements and turn those opportunities into real business.”

The manufacturers-only meeting runs from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at The Boat House at Confluence Park in Columbus, followed by a reception and dinner at Tony’s Italian Ristorante. Register here. 10/28/2026

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) welcomed a delegation of German political and communications professionals to its Columbus headquarters yesterday for a discussion about Ohio manufacturing, economic competitiveness and the public policies affecting industry.

The delegation included representatives of Germany’s Free Democratic Party and professionals involved in political communications and international engagement. The Columbus visit was part of a broader U.S. program that also included Washington, D.C.

OMA representatives, board members and Ohio manufacturers discussed the industry’s priorities, including affordable energy, workforce development and a regulatory environment that supports investment and growth. The exchange also offered insight into how OMA engages policymakers, communicates manufacturing concerns and works with its members to advance policies that strengthen Ohio’s industrial economy.

“Whether you’re manufacturing in Ohio or Germany, the fundamentals don’t change,” said Jacob Sargent, OMA director of public policy services. “Companies need affordable energy, a skilled workforce and a business climate that encourages investment. Those priorities cross borders.” 10/29/2026

Ohio food and beverage manufacturers have an opportunity to engage with agricultural leaders when the Midwestern Association of State Departments of Agriculture (MASDA) holds its 2027 conference June 20–23 in Columbus.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture is seeking industry sponsors for the gathering, which will bring together state agriculture officials and create opportunities for businesses to engage on issues affecting agricultural production, food processing and supply chain reliability.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $1,000 or less to $15,000, with benefits including recognition on conference materials and complimentary registrations at select levels. Gold sponsorships are available for $5,000, while silver sponsorships cost $2,500.

Ohio’s food and beverage manufacturers rely on a competitive agricultural sector and policies that support efficient production, dependable access to raw materials and continued investment in food processing facilities. The conference offers an opportunity to strengthen connections between the industries and policymakers shaping their future. Interested manufacturers can explore sponsorship opportunities through the MASDA Ohio conference webpage. 10/28/2026

Ohio manufacturers have a new resource to connect with education and training providers across the state. Ryan Augsburger, president of the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA), announced the launch of OMA’s Workforce Training Directory Thursday during Bowling Green State University’s Advanced Manufacturing Summit.

The directory launches with 11 education and training partners, including seven Gold Star institutions. Developed by OMA, it will help manufacturers more easily find training programs, connect with educators and build partnerships that meet their workforce needs. The program also recognizes schools making a strong commitment to preparing students for manufacturing careers.

Augsburger also moderated a panel with leaders from Whirlpool, GROB Systems and Owens Corning. The discussion focused on the opportunities and challenges facing manufacturers, including workforce development, industry leadership and adapting to new technologies.

“Ohio has some outstanding education and training programs, and our manufacturers need skilled workers,” Augsburger said. “We’ve worked hard to bring those two groups together. This directory is another way OMA is helping make those connections and strengthening Ohio’s manufacturing workforce.”

Manufacturers can explore the new directory, while education and training providers interested in participating can learn more and express interest. 10/22/2026

A new advertisement in Ohio’s gubernatorial race sparked controversy this week after Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign began airing a commercial featuring Democratic nominee Dr. Amy Acton’s estranged mother, Donna Arthur, who disputes her daughter’s account of her childhood. The ad, backed by a reported $4 million advertising buy, drew criticism over Acton’s history of childhood sexual abuse and estrangement from her mother. Ramaswamy’s campaign defended the commercial, with spokesperson Connie Luck questioning Acton’s credibility and arguing that voters deserve to hear from people familiar with her background.

Gov. Mike DeWine, who has endorsed Ramaswamy, called the advertisement “deeply, deeply troubling” Thursday and urged the campaign to withdraw it while maintaining his endorsement. Former Gov. John Kasich also called for its removal and an apology, while U.S. Sen. Jon Husted and Secretary of State Frank LaRose said they would not have run the ad. Vice President JD Vance defended Ramaswamy on Wednesday, telling Republican critics to “stop whining” and focus on the election.

Ramaswamy’s campaign confirmed Thursday that the commercial will remain on the air. Luck accused critics of applying a double standard, pointing to Acton’s earlier allegations involving Ramaswamy’s mother and a pharmaceutical investment. DeWine also criticized that attack, which was featured in an earlier Acton campaign ad. The controversy comes as both campaigns make their closing arguments ahead of Ohio’s Nov. 3 gubernatorial election. 10/22/2026

Ohio’s manufacturing strength depends on more than attracting new investment. It also depends on keeping energy affordable, strengthening the workforce and ensuring existing manufacturers can continue to grow.

Ohio Manufacturers’ Association President Ryan Augsburger delivered that message Tuesday at the Cambridge-Guernsey County Community Improvement Corporation’s third annual Manufacturing Appreciation Luncheon, joining U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson.

Augsburger highlighted manufacturing’s $138 billion annual contribution to Ohio’s economy and the opportunities ahead in reshoring, advanced technology and industrial growth. He also underscored the growing threat of electricity costs driven by speculative demand forecasts, arguing that new energy demand should not become a financial burden for manufacturers and other existing customers.

“Ohio manufacturers aren’t asking for special treatment. They’re asking for a fair shot to compete,” Augsburger said. “That means affordable, reliable electricity, a skilled workforce and an energy system where those creating new demand pay their own way. We cannot build Ohio’s manufacturing future by making existing businesses foot the bill for someone else’s growth.”

The luncheon celebrated the manufacturers powering Guernsey County’s economy while reinforcing the importance of policies that encourage investment, competition and long-term industrial competitiveness. 10/20/2026

Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) member Bundy Baking Solutions welcomed state Sen. Susan Manchester to its Urbana facility Tuesday, offering a firsthand look at the company’s operations and its role in supporting the commercial baking industry.

Bill and Bob Bundy hosted the visit, joined by OMA public policy team members James Lee and Jacob Sargent. The tour highlighted the company’s manufacturing capabilities and provided an opportunity to discuss how state policies affect manufacturers’ ability to invest, create jobs and remain competitive.

“Manufacturers like Bundy Baking Solutions are making investments and creating opportunities in communities across Ohio,” said Lee, OMA’s managing director of public policy services. “When lawmakers see these operations firsthand and hear directly from the people running them, they gain a much clearer understanding of what’s at stake when decisions are made at the Statehouse. We appreciate Bill and Bob opening their doors and Senator Manchester taking the time to see Ohio manufacturing in action.” 10/20/2026