The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) brought together manufacturing and Industry Sector Partnership leaders in Canton for its first Manufacturing Month Member Experience this week. The two-day event introduced a new model for regional member engagement, combining unique experiences, relationship-building, and discussions on priorities shaping Ohio’s manufacturing workforce.

The experience kicked off with a special tour of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, celebrating Ohio’s rich football tradition while providing a unique setting for manufacturers and regional partners to connect. An evening reception highlighted workforce accomplishments and regional successes, offering an opportunity to reflect on the progress made across Ohio’s manufacturing network over the past year. Participants also toured Ohio Gratings, where they were welcomed by Shaun Eller, COO of Ohio Gratings and member of OMA’s Workforce Leadership Committee, for an opportunity to experience regional manufacturing firsthand and strengthen relationships with industry peers.

The experience concluded with OMA’s Workforce Leadership Committee meeting, where manufacturer leaders helped shape the direction of Ohio’s manufacturing workforce strategy. As the governing body of the Ohio Manufacturing Workforce Blueprint, the Committee plays a critical role in ensuring statewide priorities remain grounded in employer needs. Discussions focused on how emerging technologies, evolving workforce demands, and OMA’s expanding initiatives can build on the Blueprint’s foundation to advance Ohio’s manufacturing workforce. 10/29/2026