On March 20, the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition (AOMC) hosted its Spring Quarterly Gathering in Marietta, drawing around 60 attendees from the manufacturing, economic development, and education sectors.
The event began with a tour of AOMC’s state-of-the-art manufacturing support center, a training facility dedicated to advancing workforce development in the region. Afterward, guests gathered at the Broughton Community Building for a networking dinner catered by Da Vinci’s.
Key Speakers Address Regional Growth
AOMC Director Adam Barr welcomed attendees before introducing the evening’s featured speakers:
- Drew Cooper, Director of Government Affairs and External Engagement at JobsOhio
- Matt Abbott, President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE)
Cooper, who leads government outreach and strategic development at JobsOhio, spoke about the state’s economic progress since 2011. He highlighted the importance of energy resources, workforce talent, and available industrial sites in driving new business investments. He also introduced Find Your Ohio, an online platform designed to connect job seekers with Ohio-based employers.
Abbott discussed OhioSE’s mission to support business retention, expansion, and attraction across 25 Southeast Ohio counties. He noted that over 148,000 residents in the region commute elsewhere for work, emphasizing the need to create more local job opportunities. By improving infrastructure and fostering business growth, OhioSE aims to keep talent in the region and enhance economic stability.
AOMC’s Role in Strengthening the Workforce
AOMC is a manufacturer-led coalition that collaborates with education, social services, and community leaders to align workforce training with the needs of local manufacturers. As an Ohio Manufacturers’ Association Endorsed Sector Partner, AOMC plays a crucial role in driving economic development and enhancing the quality of life in Southeast Ohio.
By hosting gatherings like this, AOMC continues to build strong partnerships and support the region’s manufacturing sector, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.
