MMA Workforce Solutions Regional Meetings

To navigate the gaps between workforce supply and demand, MMA is facilitating regional collaborative solutions to help the Michigan manufacturing industry and our members develop the strongest and most competitive manufacturing workforce in the world.

We’re coming to you in 2023 with Bill Rayl, MMA Executive Director of Workforce Solutions, to facilitate regional connections and share valuable talent information. Click on each date for regional event details.

Pricing & Details

Pricing

Standard Registration

$75/person for MMA Industry & Associate Members
$100/person for MMA Insurance and Future members

Agenda

11:00 a.m.		Registration
11:30 a.m.		Welcome
11:40 a.m.		Keynote from MMA’s Bill Rayl
12:15 p.m.		Networking Lunch
1:00 p.m.		Manufacturing Panel Discussion
1:30 p.m.		Local Partners & Resources
1:45 p.m.		Closing
2:00 p.m.		Networking

Meet Keynote Speaker Bill Rayl

Bill Rayl is widely regarded as one of the most successful creators of talent development programs for manufacturing careers in the nation. He was named MMA’s Executive Director of Workforce Solutions in April 2022 and works to support the full spectrum of manufacturing talent throughout the state. In his 30 years of experience, Bill has developed engaging programs preparing students in the Jackson area and elsewhere from pre-K to STEM pathways, skills certifications and advanced degrees.

Join us at an event near you!

Traverse City • Wednesday, May 3

Thank you

Thank you to our attendees of the Workforce Solutions Regional Meeting in Traverse City.

Manufacturing Panelists

Lindsey Bielby

Human Resources Manager • Star Cutter Company
Lindsey has been a Human Resources Manager for 35 years and has been with Star Cutter Company for 27 years. Star Cutter’s HR Team strives to be the “custodian of the culture and build relationships” and they try to respond quickly to meet the employee needs, individually and/or collectively.

Shelley Hurrell

HR Manager • BorgWarner
Shelley started her career in the accounting department at Kysor plant in Cadillac, progressing from accounting to payroll processing, benefit administration and employee relations. BorgWarner acquired the facility in 1999 and, in 2003, she was promoted to Human Resources Manager. Her team covers all aspects of HR, including supporting many safety activities.

Michele Martel

Human Resource Manager • Holcim
Michele has had a robust career in the manufacturing sector. Specializing in Human Resource management, she has been instrumental in talent development efforts in both recruiting, retaining, finding workplace efficiencies and upskilling employees. Working with companies like Chrysler and now Holcim, she has established herself an innovative and reliable resource for workforce development.

Plymouth • Tuesday, May 23

Thank you

Thank you to our attendees of the Workforce Solutions Regional Meeting in Traverse City.

Manufacturing Panelists

Ashley Kemp-Watkins

Workforce, Training and Economic Development Analyst • Magna International Inc
Ashley focuses on helping Magna evaluate, identify and promote business development, with an emphasis on financial analysis, planning and detailed research and studies. She joined Magna in August 2014, working her way up from production assistance to compliance coordinator to her current position.

Suzanne Morrison

Director of Marketing • Hatch Stamping
Suzanne is responsible for translating business objectives and strategies to strengthen brand, facilitate growth and improve communications internally and externally. She designs, directs, implements and facilitates marketing strategies and execution of Hatch’s marketing plan as well as training and community involvement.

Meg Wallace

Senior Engineer • Toyota Research and Development
Meg focuses on workforce development, leading Toyota’s efforts
to start the first Chapter of FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education) in Michigan as well as K-12 STEM Initiatives. Prior to that, she worked in seat development at Toyota and has a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech.

Grand Rapids • Thursday, June 8

Date and Location

Thursday, June 8, 2023
CityFlatsHotel Grand Rapids
83 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids
Registration beings at 11:00 a.m.

Manufacturing Panelists

Dave Maurer

President and CFO • Humphrey Products
Dave is a passionate advocate for introducing young people to a wide variety of career opportunities and experiences, following his own experience turning a summer job into a lifelong pursuit. He serves on several boards in education and industry that help promote manufacturing careers.

Laura Preuss

Director of Workforce Development • DeWys Manufacturing
Laura was instrumental in creating DeWys University, which allows growth and development for new and existing DeWys Manufacturing team members. She believes in active engagement to help change perspectives, reduce silos and improve educational opportunities and is active in community-building partnerships with K-12, college and community organizations.

Radika Rajachar

Training Manager • NN Inc.
Radika has been a trainer, facilitator, and administrator of training for 20+ years with a passion for learning and development. As a leader, her goal is to connect, empower and educate employees to give them the confidence and the skills they need to be successful. She has developed curriculum and stimulated change and progress in companies she has worked for.

Marquette • Tuesday, September 26

Date and Location

Tuesday, September 26, 2023
The Northern Center at Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle, Marquette
Registration beings at 11:00 a.m.

Bay City • Thursday, October 12

Date and Location

Thursday, October 12, 2023
Courtyard by Marriott Bay City
2 East Main St, Bay City
Registration beings at 11:00 a.m.

2023 Sponsorship

Support manufacturing growth and innovation with sponsorship and engagement opportunities available throughout the year. Develop a comprehensive plan to build your brand, solidify your image and increase your engagement with Michigan manufacturers. Work with MMA’s team to build a package with multiple event sponsorship, thought leadership and advertising opportunities available. Contact MMA’s Ashley Wakefield to build your 2023 strategy.