Representatives from Roll-Kraft and Fredon Corporation recently met with a group of northeast Ohio participants to discuss and evaluate the manufacturing future in the area. Skilled and unskilled workers from nearby counties attended a recent meeting with local business leaders to discuss the future of manufacturing and the skills involved to be competitive in the industry. 

   The meeting featured speakers, Roger Sustar, CEO of Fredon Corporation, and Chuck Summerhill, Vice President of Operations from Roll-Kraft. Both have successful ISO 9001:2000-Certified manufacturing companies in Lake County (Mentor), OH. Each offered a brief introduction and descriptions of the various skill sets needed in all areas of their businesses, such as sales, engineering, and computer-controlled machining.

   The main message presented was that northeastern Ohio manufacturers and American companies, in general, must continue to lower their operational and production costs in order to compete in the global marketplace. Since labor costs, in general, are substantially higher than in many other markets, manufacturers must rely on high-tech solutions and continued process improvements to lower their costs. A spirited question and answer session followed the presentations.

   Northeast Ohio has been struggling in recent years to maintain its manufacturing base and the needed qualified personnel. Some companies have developed educational programs and provided advice in designing curriculum to aid students in the skills needed by local businesses. This partnership has been a continuing benefit to the community.