Delaware Business Magazine - September/October 2023

Message from the President

DELAWARE BUSINESS

EDITORIAL STAFF

Marie Holliday, CPA Chair Michael J. Quaranta President Kelly Basile Editor Christina Jones Graphic Design

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIR

Marie Holliday, CPA Cover & Rossiter

VICE CHAIR

John C. Gooden

M. Davis & Sons, Inc.

J. Quaranta

When two large automakers left Delaware for good, many thought manufacturing in our state was kaput. Some people still hold that belief, but nothing could be further from the truth. While the manufacturing industry accounts for a small percentage of our business community, it is a very healthy and growing sector of our states’ economy. Today’s manufacturing jobs are in high demand, and oftentimes require skills like team building, familiarity with technology, and more.

The old vision of manufacturing is one that included dimly lit workplaces that were dirty and unsafe. Even that was not universally true back in the day. Manufacturing today takes place at sites that are very clean, bright, safe, and well managed. Employees working at manufacturing sites report making very good wages, find the work enjoyable, the camaraderie and “family-like” atmosphere pleasant, and relish the challenge of making things faster, better, and more cost efficient.

Each spring our Delaware Manufacturing Association hosts the Spring Manufacturing & Policy Conference. We have some exciting updates planned for this event, including a competition that will determine “The Coolest Thing Made in Delaware”! We look forward to using this online, March Madness-like bracket contest as a method of promoting the importance of the manufacturing industry—its significant contribution to our economy and the many amazing career paths offered. A public nomination process will open in early 2024, which will determine the manufacturers who make it into the Sweet 16 portion of the bracket. From there, each week will eliminate participants until we have a Final 4. The winner will be announced at our conference in March.

There are many vital and innovative products manufactured in the First State—many that even lifelong Delawareans don’t know about. So, plan on nominating your product or one you know, voting for favorites, and learning what is the coolest thing made in Delaware!

Steve Chambliss Brookfield Properties

Andrew Cottone, Ph.D. ADESIS

Jason D. Gonzalez DuPont

Natalie Keefer Bank of America

Rodger Levenson WSFS Bank

Barbara McCullough

AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP

Catherine M. Bassett Mountaire Farms

Dr. LaVerne T. Harmon Wilmington University

Tom Horne

JPMorgan Chase

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Tony Allen, Ph.D.

Delaware State University

Pierre Anderson

Artesian Water Company, Inc.

Steve Baccino

Chesapeake Utilities

Chris Baker

George & Lynch, Inc, Greg Ballance

Diamond Technologies

Mike B. Berardi Wohlsen Construction Co.

Robert A. Book II

Delaware Electric Cooperative

Julian H. “Pete” Booker

Delaware Public Media

Jennifer Gimler Brady

Potter Anderson & Corroon

LLP

Dr. Mark T. Brainard

Delaware Technical Community College

Beth G. Brand University of Delaware

Kevin C. Broadhurst Comcast

Robert L. Byrd

ByrdGomes

Patrick Callihan Tech Impact

Stuart Comstock-Gay Delaware Community Foundation

Charlie Copeland Associates International, Inc.

Pam Cornforth

Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, Inc.

Barry Crozier

Belfint, Lyons & Shuman, ret.

Joseph Cruise

GT USA Wilmington

Jason Danner

Kelly Benefits Strategies

Rick Deadwyler

Corteva Agriscience™

Marta DeLisi

Beasley Media Group

Ernest Dianastasis The Precisionists, Inc.

STAFF

Michael J. Quaranta President

Kelly Basile Vice President, Strategic Communications

Brian DiSabatino EDiS Company

Walter Donaldson Freeh Sporkin & Sullivan, LLP

Lisa M. Donlon, PE VanDemark & Lynch

Thère du Pont Longwood Foundation

Jerry Esposito Espo Enterprises, LLC

G. Kevin Fasic, Esq.

Offit Kurman

Don Fulton

Weiner Benefits Group

Martha S. Gilman

Cornell Property Management Corp.

Joseph A. Giordano*

Whisman Giordano & Associates, LLC

A. Richard Heffron

Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, ret.

Kirsten Higgins

Tidewater Utilities, Inc.

Michael Houghton Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell, LLP

Tim Houseal

Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP

Jessica Hunt

Siemens-Healthineers

Mark Hutton M&T Bank

Mona Jantzi

Barclays US Consumer Bank

LeVar Johnson

Novo Nordisk

Christopher L. Kenny ShopRites of Delaware

Nick Lambrow M&T Bank

Matthew Lantagne

TD Bank

Richard H. LaPenta

CBM Insurance

Stephan Lehm

VanDemark & Lynch, ret.

Alan Levin

SoDel Concepts

Melissa Brayman Office Administrator

Regina Donato Manager, Program & Communications

Ken Evans

Account Executive

Michael A. Meoli

The Meoli Group

Nicholas A. Moriello, RHU Highmark BCBS Delaware

Janice Nevin, M.D., MPH ChristianaCare

Andy Lubin

Delaware Financial Group

Mac Macleod

Carvertise

Scott Malfitano

CSC

William E. Manning

Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr

Guy Marcozzi Verdantas

Paul M. McConnell

McConnell Development, Inc.

Katie McEvoy

AT&T

Gregory Miraglia

PNC Bank

Jeff Mitchell

Siegfried Advisory

W. Douglas Mokoid

Delmarva Power

Jonathan D. Moll, CPA

Belfint, Lyons & Shuman

Chad Moore

Beacon Hospitality

LaKresha R. Moultrie,

Esq.

Delaware State University

Mark Mumford

Nemours Children’s Health System

Terry Murphy

Bayhealth Medical Center

Chris O’Neill

PSCI

Jed Patterson LabWare

Chris Perdue

Perdue Farms

Robert W. Perkins

Brandywine Public Strategies

Colleen Perry Keith, Ph.D.

Goldey-Beacom College

Theodore J. Prushinski

Citizens Bank

Michael Ratchford

W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

Robert (Rob) Rider, Jr.

O.A. Newton

Tyler Micik

Director, Public Policy & Government Relations

Fred Miller Advertising/Retention

Helana Rodriguez Director, The Partnership

Bettina Tweardy Riveros

ChristianaCare

Salvatore J. “Chip” Rossi Bank of America

James J. Roszkowski

Discover Bank

Rhett Ruggerio Ruggerio Willson & Watson

Dennis M. Salter

Edinburgh Capital Management LLC

Greg Sawka

Bancroft Construction Company

Chris Schell

Schell Brothers

Fred C. Sears II

Delaware Community Foundation, ret.

Greg Smith

The Chemours Company

Michael Smith

Navient

Robert S. Smith

Santora CPA Group

Mark Stellini

Assurance Media

David Tam, M.D.

Beebe Healthcare

Jim Taylor

Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr

James Tevebaugh

Tevebaugh Architecture

Jana Tidwell

AAA Club Alliance

Michael S. Uffner

AutoTeam Delaware

Mike Vanderslice

Environmental Alliance, Inc.

Rebecca Veeneman, Ph.D.

Agilent Technologies

Ann B. Wayne, BSN, RN

SUN Behavioral Delaware

Robert W. Whetzel

Richards, Layton & Finger

Katie K. Wilkinson

Fulton Bank

Robert Wirth

DuPont Country Club

Kevin M. Wolfgang

Evergreen Apartment Group

*Treasurer

Amanda Schimmel Manager, Marketing & Accounting

Kerri Welcher Events Manager

Michael

PHOTO BY DICK DUBROFF/FINAL FOCUS

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY Members Connecting with Members

BY TYLER MICIK

SOME OF YOU HAVE likely come across photos or videos of an elected official touring a warehouse, office space, or local businesses and wondered why they were doing so. Why would an elected official want to tour a business? How does a business benefit from having an elected official tour their facility?

The answer is quite simple—relationships. Like customer relationships, relationships with elected officials matter. Your first point of contact with an elected official should not be a call on a policy issue. You want to get to know them before issues arise, and you should get to know policymakers in and outside of your district. There are sixty-two members of the General Assembly who can be your advocate. Don’t limit yourself to a relationship with only one or two members.

I’ve had the opportunity to partake on company tours with elected officials. I’ve seen firsthand the benefits these meetings can have for both parties—the company and the elected official.

Site visits are a unique opportunity for a business to share their story, showcase their employees, explain the work they do for their customers and community, and offer their successes and challenges. For an elected official, there’s no better way to understand what a company is all about than getting a behind-the-scenes look and

In addition to any new legislation that could be introduced, there’s numerous bills that didn’t pass this year which will be carried over to next year:

• HB248: Pre-Permit Community Outreach in Underserved Communities

• HB220: Green Amendment

• HB246: Buffer Areas

• HB128: Change in Personal Income Tax Brackets

• SB147: Computer-Related Crimes

seeing how the business operates. It’s a chance for both parties to explain and understand how policy decisions in Dover impact Delaware companies and their employees.

Throughout the fall the State Chamber will be scheduling these meetings through our Member-to-Member program and we hope our members will take advantage of this opportunity. You are your most effective storyteller, and the perfect time to share your story is while the General Assembly is on break.

Now is the time to build relationships with elected officials and have conversations around issues such as the ones mentioned above that would impact your business. The State Chamber will help guide you in scheduling and planning the meeting from start to finish and provide you with materials to help your visit run smoothly. If you’re interested in hosting a meeting at your company, please contact me at tmicik@dscc.com.

Tyler Micik is the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s director of public policy and government relations.

There are sixty-two members of the General Assembly who can be your advocate. Don’t limit yourself to a relationship with only one or two members.

news&Notes

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Social Ink LLC

››Writing is something that when harnessed correctly, can be a powerful tool for growing a business or nonprofit. Many are not aware of the potential funds they could have access to, made available by grants. Grant writing is the process of creating a written proposal to request funding or financial support from organizations, institutions, or government agencies, with the goal to convince the potential funder that a particular project or program is worthy of financial investment. Grant writers are skilled at researching and understanding the requirements of grant opportunities and then crafting a compelling proposal that outlines the project or program’s goals, objectives, budget, and expected outcomes.

Social Ink, founded in 2010 by Rebecca Hunter Tam, is a trailblazing small business committed to using grant writing to promote social good. Through strategic partnerships and alliances, Social Ink’s work has made a significant impact on municipalities, universities, nonprofits, and school districts in Delaware and beyond, having secured over $490 million in funds since the business’ inception. Social Ink started as a “side-gig” for Tam, but once she saw how much she enjoyed the work, she took to grant writing full-time. She moved to Delaware with her husband and two children in 2020 and has been committed to working here ever since.

Grant writing is a competitive process,

BY REGINA DONATO

as many organizations vie for limited funds. Therefore, a well-written grant proposal is essential to stand out from other applicants and increase the chances of securing the funding needed for the proposed project. “I love writing and am happy doing it, day in and day out,” explains Tam. “I take pride in instilling big-vision projects down to activities, objectives, and deliverables, while also thinking about the larger picture and how projects can intersect and leverage one another.”

The grant writing process can be a lengthy one, depending on the project, grant amount, and situation. Social Ink works with your business throughout the entirety of the process, both the pre-award period of finding, writing, and applying, and the post-award period of following up and reporting on what the received funds were used for. This also may involve helping organizations with corresponding press releases and marketing materials to promote the reception of the grant.

To secure funding for clients in Delaware, Tam has strategically applied to a wide range of public and private sources for funds, including HUD, USDA, COVID Relief funds, Delaware Office of Highway Safety, Highmark, The Longwood Foundation, Delaware EDGE Grants, Bank of America, Citizens Bank, Discover, PNC Bank, WSFS Bank, and Perdue, to name only a few. Her experience with federal grants is also

quite attractive to her clients.

Tam’s passion for the craft shines through in her dedication to producing high-quality work for her clients. Social Ink worked closely with Tri-State Community Partners in securing funding for the groundbreaking Nylon Shopping Center in Seaford. “The best grant writers are the ones who care about the subject,” says Will Horrocks, president of Tri-State. “She fully embraced her move to Delaware and wanted to impact the community that she’s in and around. Her ability to masterfully weave together a data-based story is remarkable. We will absolutely be working together again in the future.”

Social Ink’s goal for the future is to continue creating social good for the state and its neighboring communities. “I’ve learned that Delaware is a state of neighbors,” remarks Tam. “Everybody knows each other, and everybody knows somebody who knows them. I’ve found that people here aren’t applying for grants, but I’m hoping that word will soon spread about the positivity applying for grants can create for businesses and the Delaware community as a whole.”

Want to discuss a project?

Contact

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

BY REGINA DONATO

››September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month. Approximately every three minutes, one person in the United States is diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. Blood cancers account for nearly 10% of new cancer diagnoses every year. Because of the prevalence of these types of cancers, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) exists to encourage and fund research, educate and support patients and family members, and advocate for policy changes

to accelerate cancer treatments and research. The organization’s 27 regions stand firm by the following pillars of their mission as they work to finally find a cure.

FUELING RESEARCH

“The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the largest nonprofit funder of research for every type of blood cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other rare types of blood cancers,” explains Lauren Iannucci,

executive director of the Eastern Pennsylvania – Delaware region of LLS. LLS has helped advance 70% of the blood cancer treatment options approved by the FDA since 2017.

Their research pillar has several always-moving subsections, including research focusing on care and service to veterans, expanding research for lesserknown or studied forms of blood cancer, and children’s cancer through their Dare to Dream Project.

The Dare to Dream Project is a big focus of the organization currently. “We recognize that kids are different, and their blood cancers need to be treated differently, so we are daring to change the paradigm of treatment and care of pediatric blood cancers,” says Iannucci. “This project is powering innovative research, new and safer treatments, support services, and advocacy… for kids.”

PROVIDING EDUCATION AND SUPPORT

At the core of LLS’s mission lies their unwavering dedication to supporting patients and their families and friends throughout their journey. From the moment of diagnosis, LLS offers a wide range of personalized services

and resources, ensuring that no one faces blood cancer alone. Ranging from classes and support groups held at local partner’s facilities or virtually, to peer-topeer support and guidance, LLS provides services for anyone who is affected.

A free service that introduces patients and their loved ones to a trained peer volunteer who has gone through a similar experience in the past, The First Connection program matches people based on diagnosis, age, gender, and other factors that might create a stronger bond. “The program gives people the ability to share their thoughts with someone who has ‘been through it,’ and get valuable information about the other resources available to them,” says Iannucci.

ADVOCATING FOR CHANGE

A big part of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission is ensuring policy changes being made will help alleviate some of the burdens of cancer treatment. Advocates on behalf of LLS’s 27 regions work to ensure that treatments are affordable to all, public health is always improving, research is accelerated, and that patients and survivors are advocated for at both state and nationwide levels. Through initiatives like the Light the Night Walk and their advocacy network, LLS raises awareness and mobilizes communities to support legislation that benefits patients and their families. Going through a cancer journey is a difficult one, to say the least. It’s important for those going through it to have a hardfast support system. “We are present in every city and market across the country,” remarks Iannucci. “That’s what truly sets us apart from other organizations. It’s so important to us that people know that we are always there as a resource to help them fight when they need it most.”

To learn more about the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s lifesaving mission, to make a donation, or to look at their list of upcoming events, visit www.lls.org/epa-de.

DIVERSE SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT: Osprey Health

››For years, providing a barebone medical, dental, and vision plan for employees was the baseline insurance package that many companies utilized. While still popular today, this traditional coverage lacks the power to mold itself for smaller businesses and those with unique circumstances. With an increasing need for personalized group benefits, Osprey Health charged the field with an out-of-the-box approach to customizable packages that excel in satisfying each client’s needs.

Founded in 2010, President Meg McGinn formed Osprey Health after realizing that small business owners were not privy to the same care and attention as larger corporations. With an extensive background in the employee benefit industry, McGinn recognized a gap that needed to be bridged. She explains, “I wanted to cater towards this whole sector of the marketplace that was not receiving the same white-glove service as those around it. We were finding that you would have an employee base that didn’t necessarily need dental and vision, but still wanted the disability or mental health coverage, and these larger insurance carriers were not able to accommodate them.”

Composed of a deeply passionate team of professionals, Osprey Health’s strength lies in their ability to listen to and advocate for their clients. McGinn remarks, “The cornerstone of my agency is our commitment to taking care of the clients. If there is one thing I can say about my team, they are experienced and knowledgeable, but they also care a

lot about the individuals calling in.”

BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL

The organization also provides significant support to the LGBTQ+ community. When an individual chooses to transition, substantial red tape from insurance carriers is almost inevitable and it takes somebody who is especially knowledgeable—like Osprey Health is—to help guide the individual through this maze.

Further diversification lies within Osprey Health’s Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) accreditation, from which 25% of Osprey Health’s client portfolio comes directly. “By going through this accreditation process—which actually takes about six months and must be renewed every year—it allows us to reach out and connect with larger companies that have committed to partnering with WBENC certified companies,” says McGinn. In order to become WBENC certified, the organization must be a for-profit business located in the United States; 51% owned by a woman, or a group of women who

are verified owners and U.S. citizens or legal residents; and have a woman top executive officer with technical expertise.

As for the future of Osprey Health, it could not look any brighter. Having grown over 400% within the past five years and boasting a 98% client retention rate, they are on a trajectory to continue growing at 100% revenue for at least the next several years. McGinn perfectly summarizes the core essence of Osprey Health when she explains, “We are not just processing paperwork, we are here to help the mother at the pharmacy whose I.D. card is not going through; we are here for the senior who got billed for a procedure that should have been covered; and we are here for the small business owner whose budget was just slashed in half, yet still wants to give back to the employees.”

Osprey Health President Meg McGinn

Committed to Conservation and Community

DRPI LANDFILL IS MORE THAN WHAT MEETS THE EYE

BY CARLOS DIPRES RAMIREZ

››Nestled within the Minquedele community, Waste Management’s (WM) Delaware Recyclable Products Inc. landfill (DRPI) in New Castle provides a critical environmental service to Delaware and communities in the Delaware Valley. As a permitted industrial waste landfill, we provide safe and affordable disposal for construction and demolition (C&D) debris, waste from commercial/ industrial processes, and other Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) approved waste streams. Our primary customer base includes C&D recycling facilities and general contractors working on development and re-development projects in the community.

DRPI operates on 205 acres that includes the landfill’s 145-acre disposal area and 38 additional acres, much of which is wooded buffer area. DRPI is permitted to accept up to 2,400 tons of waste of day and employs about a dozen professionals dedicated to safe operations and environmental protection. The facility utilizes state-of-the-art technology in the design and construction of the liner and landfill gas collection system and implements best management practices in the collection of stormwater, ensuring that the environment is not impacted by operations.

WM has a long history of supporting its communities and environmental stewardship through collaboration, community

engagement, and environmental impact. The team at DRPI takes great pride in having an employee base that gives back to communities through volunteerism. In 2022, WM introduced a new social impact target—to positively impact 10 million people in our communities by 2030. Last year, WM employees documented nearly 625 volunteer hours during paid working hours.

Whenever possible, WM engages with local stakeholders to understand how to support specific community needs. The company gives back to communities through financial contributions, in-kind giving, participation on organization boards, and by sharing their expertise.

In Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware, dedicated employees and volunteers work together to protect more than 7,000 acres of wildlife habitat. Four landfill facilities are Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) certified habitats; the

WHC is a nonprofit that promotes and certifies habitat conservation and management of working lands through partnerships and education. The Wildlife Habitat Council has honored WM’s achievement in conservation with the Corporate Leadership Award, signifying an exemplary level of corporate commitment to biodiversity. Through this partnership of more than 20 years, WM has transformed land across the country—primarily closed landfills and smaller buffer zones at transfer stations, recycling facilities and other facilities—into certified wildlife habitats. WM promotes sustainability, wildlife preservation, biodiversity, and environmental education at 73 WHC certified sites across North America. In partnership with the Brandywine Zoo and other local conservation partners, DPRI became Wildlife Habitat Council certified in 2021. By developing projects at the site and working with local community partners from the area, DRPI is actively working to support sustainability and environmental stewardship initiatives in New Castle County.

The DRPI facility is always looking for more partnerships to advance environmental education. Residents can learn more about DRPI by visiting wm.com/us/en/delawarerecyclable. For a group tour, contact Carlos Dipres at cdipres@wm.com.

Agilent Expands in Delaware

INVESTS $22 MILLION IN MANUFACTURING SITE TO MEET GROWING DEMAND FOR BIOPHARMA CONSUMABLES

››Agilent Technologies Inc., a global leader in analytical instrumentation development and manufacturing and one of Delaware’s largest private-sector employers, has chosen to modernize and expand its Newport, Delaware, manufacturing facility to meet growing global demand for its biopharma consumables.

Agilent plans to invest nearly $22 million to increase the capacity of its labbased manufacturing site, leasing 12,000 square feet adjacent to its existing facility and fitting out 9,900 square feet as lab space with new infrastructure, equipment, and instrumentation. Over

CONTRIBUTED

BY THE DELAWARE PROSPERITY PARTNERSHIP

half of the remaining square footage will become a warehouse, storage and shipping/receiving area, and the balance will be used for offices.

This latest expansion follows another investment by Agilent last year to its Wilmington-area Little Falls R&D labs. Agilent employs 18,000 people worldwide, including more than 950 in Delaware. The Newport site employs 110 workers, and the expansion is expected to create additional new jobs over the next 10 years.

“Delaware has a strong manufacturing history, and this latest investment by Agilent Technologies confirms the

company’s commitment to innovating in the First State,” said Governor John Carney. “We are pleased Agilent will be expanding and bringing more goodpaying jobs to the state’s strong science, technology, and biopharmaceutical sectors.”

The Newport facility, one of several Agilent manufacturing sites across the United States, produces liquid chromatography columns used for chemical and biochemical analysis, drug discovery, environmental control, and analytical chemistry. Growing worldwide demand for these analytical consumables led the company to review

its U.S. facilities to determine the best opportunity to grow production capacity. Agilent’s decision to invest in its Newport site in New Castle County reflects confidence in Delaware’s dynamic business environment and the large pool of regional talent.

“Agilent’s latest expansion is proof that New Castle County is a great place to create and grow your business,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “It’s become well known that we have the resources and the talent to continue to be a leader in the chemical and biopharma industry.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) has been engaged with Agilent as the company explored growth possibilities in Delaware. Today, DPP supported Agilent’s request to the Council on Development Finance (CDF) for a Delaware Graduated Lab Space Grant of up to $693,000 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of grants from the Delaware Strategic Fund are dependent on the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved Agilent’s request.

“Agilent has been operating in Delaware for more than 20 years, and we are pleased to continue investing in our manufacturing and R&D facilities in the First State,” said Henrik AncherJensen, Agilent’s order fulfillment and supply chain president. “We are honored to be part of this dynamic community that supports innovation and growth and attracts top talent.”

COMMITTEE SPOTLIGHT: Joint Military Affairs

››The Joint Military Affairs Committee (JMAC) brings the business community and the Delaware National Guard together to connect and support our service members and their families through events like the annual Francis D. Vavala National Guard Youth Golf Tournament and State of the Guard Address.

In late July, the JMAC held their Warrior Friendly Business Awards plaque unveiling at the Governor’s office in Wilmington. The award is presented to a small (less than 50 employees) and large business (50 or more employees) each February during the JMAC’s annual State of the Guard event. The plaque ceremony is unveiled in July and hangs in the Governor’s office year-round.

The award recognizes companies that do extraordinary work to support our military members and their families.

BY TYLER MICIK

Financial Group and Bloom Energy. On behalf of the State Chamber, congratulations to both organizations and all the previous award recipients for your outstanding support of our veterans!

During the ceremony, the Governor also signed a proclamation in observance of Hire a Veteran Day. On July 25, employers are encouraged to hire veterans because the experience, leadership qualities, and soft skills acquired through their military training are positive, in-demand qualities sought by employers.

If your business prioritizes hiring veterans, members of our military community, and supporting them and their families we hope you’ll join the JMAC and apply for the 2024 Warrior Friendly Business Award. To find out more about the JMAC, the award, and events please contact me at tmicik@

Left: Agilent’s Newport facility produces HPLC columns and accessories for liquid chromatography, and substrates for DNA microarrays.

Photo courtesy of the Office of the Governor

Small Businesses Can Receive an “EDGE”

THE DELAWARE DIVISION OF SMALL BUSINESS OFFERS GRANTS

THROUGH FUNDING COMPETITION

››Access to funding is one of the things that most startup and early-stage small businesses say is one of the hardest things to come by, and one of their most critical needs. The Delaware Division of Small Business (DSB) is helping many overcome this hurdle through its Encouraging Development, Growth and Expansion (EDGE) Program.

EDGE is a competitive selection process for grant funding. Five STEMbased companies can each receive up to $100,000 for eligible expenses while five entrepreneur class (non-STEM) businesses can each receive up to $50,000.

The EDGE competition allows DSB to support small business owners in Delaware who are creating unique products, making significant scientific advancements, and helping strengthen their local communities. Through this program the agency is fostering innovation through the investment of capital necessary to help individuals start or expand their small business. Since the program launch in 2019, DSB has awarded $5 million to 80 small businesses.

To be eligible to apply for the EDGE competition, your small business must have been in operation for less than seven years and have 10 or fewer employees including part-time and contract employees.

Small business owners can apply for funding to support expenses that help

BY REGINA MITCHELL

improve the company’s long-term chances of success and sustainability, such as purchasing needed equipment that can increase production capacity, improving building infrastructure, or contracting for website design or a marketing campaign to help acquire more customers. DSB matches a winning business’s investment on a three-to-one basis.

Awardees in the latest round of the competition include a drone company in need of an indoor facility; a company developing a new product for next generation silicon solar cells; and owners looking to bring a printing and artist co-working space to Kent County. For future rounds, DSB is particularly focused on increasing the number of STEM applicants, particularly those from Kent and Sussex Counties.

DSB operates the EDGE competition

twice each year—once in the spring and once in the fall. The fall 2023 round opened September 1, and applications will be accepted through September 30 at 4:30 p.m. Finalists will pitch their grant proposals to a panel of expert judges later in the fall and winners will be announced by the end of the year.

Businesses should visit the Division of Small Business website for eligibility requirements, to download the grant application, and to connect with one of DSB’s regional business managers for application assistance.

Regina Mitchell is director of the Delaware Division of Small Business.

STEM and Entrepreneur category winners from the Spring 2023 EDGE Competition.

Drug Policies Up in Smoke

WHAT LEGALIZATION MEANS FOR DELAWARE BUSINESSES

BY MOLLY DIBIANCA

››On April 23, 2023, Delaware became the 22nd state in the country to legalize marijuana for recreational use. With the passage of HB1, Delaware employers face new challenges and questions. This article is intended to offer some answers.

THE LAW

HB 1 removes all penalties for use or possession of a “personal use quantity” (1 ounce or less of leaf marijuana or equivalent amounts in other forms) of marijuana and marijuana accessories. It also provides that adults 21 years of age and older may share a “personal use quantity” of marijuana and may possess, use, display, purchase, or transport it without penalty.

HB 1 prohibits the sale of marijuana, regardless of the quantity. Marijuana in any quantity may not be gifted contemporaneously with another transaction—meaning a business could not offer free marijuana with the purchase of goods or services. Consumption in a moving vehicle or in an area accessible by the public remains unlawful, as does the growing, manufacturing, and cultivation of marijuana.

WEED AT WORK

Just because recreational marijuana is legal does not mean it’s allowed in the workplace. HB1 does not prohibit or impede the implementation or enforcement of a drug-free workplace policy. Just as you can decline to hire smokers,

employers in Delaware may legally exclude individuals who use marijuana recreationally. This can be done with the standard pre-employment drug screen. Of course, just because it can be done does not mean that it’s a good choice for every employer. Some Delaware employers elect not to screen for cannabinoids for a variety of reasons, including that they simply cannot find enough staff and do not want to exclude any viable candidate.

Employees have no legal right to consume or possess marijuana during working time. Just as employers can prohibit its workforce from smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol during the workday, they can prohibit employees from possessing or consuming marijuana products during working time.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA

When considering how to address recreational marijuana in the workplace, Delaware employers should be mindful of the prohibition against discrimination based on the use of or licensure for medical marijuana. In Delaware, employers may not discriminate against an applicant or employee because the employee has a medical-marijuana card. Unlike candidates who use marijuana recreationally, medical-marijuana cardholders may not be precluded from employment based on their status as cardholders or because they use medical marijuana. Thus, an applicant with a medical-marijuana card who tests positive for cannabinoids may not be excluded

from consideration unless the employer would lose a monetary or licensingrelated benefit under federal law or federal regulations by hiring the candidate.

NEXT STEPS

There are several steps employers can take now to address the potential impacts of legalization:

• Communication is key. Employers may want to consider a communication to employees that possession, consumption, and impairment are prohibited.

• Policy amendments. Employers also may want to consider updating or amending their drug-free workplace policy to specifically address the use of recreational marijuana.

• Adjust practices. Employers may want to evaluate whether they want to continue to screen for marijuana in the initial, pre-employment drug screen. This can be done annually to determine whether the employer is losing candidates as a result of legal marijuana use.

Molly DiBianca is the member in charge of the Delaware office of Clark Hill, PLC, where she mediates and litigates commercial and employment disputes.

WELCOME New Members

CLARK HILL

www.ClarkHill.com

(302) 250-4750

824 N. Market St.

Suite 710

Wilmington, DE 19801

Clark Hill is an international team of legal advisors focused on delivering exceptional growth for your business. With locations spanning across the United States, Ireland, and Mexico, Clark Hill works in agile, collaborative teams, partnering with clients to help them reach and exceed their business goals.

CUSTOM BOXES 360, A PROJECT 6BY7, LLC

www.customboxes360.com

(302) 339-0082

402 Rolling Green Ave. New Castle, DE 19720

Custom Boxes 360 specializes in creating custom packaging solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of clients. Their team of experts are dedicated to providing the best possible service, from the initial design process to the final delivery of your custom packaging.

GOGLASS, LLC

www.mrgoglass.com

(302) 645-9340

17701 Dartmouth Dr., #3

Lewes, DE 19958

Specializing in a wide variety of glass services, GoGlass has a team of experts who can assist your needs for “Everything Glass— Friendly and Fast”. GoGlass has locations in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.

GOLO, LLC

www.golo.com

(302) 781-4265

700 Prides Crossing, Suite 304

Newark, DE 19713

GOLO’s mission is to provide individuals with the knowledge of health and wellness, and the power to take back control of their weight and their lives.

INSPERITY

www.insperity.com

(302) 545-6373

1201 N. Market St. Suite 1402

Wilmington, DE 19801

Insperity has a long history of improving the success equation of small and midsize businesses across the country—because when businesses succeed, communities prosper. And in today’s changing business environment, it’s Insperity’s privilege to take care of an organization’s most valuable asset: its people.

LIMEN RECOVERY + WELLNESS

www.limende.org

(302) 655-1153

PO Box 1306

Wilmington, DE 19899

Founded in 1969, Limen Recovery + Wellness’ mission is to improve lives and communities by offering comprehensive recovery and mental wellness services within a continuum of care.

NORTH AMERICAN MILLWRIGHT, INC.

www.namillwright.com

(410) 388-9870

4480 North Point Blvd.

Sparrows Point, MD 21219

North American Millwrights provides industrial maintenance, rigging, millwright talent, master electrician and plumbers, certified welders, and certified riggers with over 30 years of experience.

OPTXCO LLC

optxco.com

(302) 510-2038

112 S. French St., Suite 606

Wilmington, DE 19801

At OPTXCO, their mission is to foster positive relationships between people and systems in regulated industries. OPTXCO focuses on continuous improvement, trust, teamwork, and integrity which drives them to deliver exceptional solutions that empower individuals and organizations to achieve their goals.

TRANSFORMATIONS CENTER FOR WEIGHT LOSS

www.tcwlmd.com

(443) 356-0007

1000 Smyrna Clayton Blvd. Unit #5

Smyrna, DE 19977

Transformations Center for Weight Loss’ professional and dedicated doctor-led team can help you refresh your lifestyle and learn how to love your body. Through customized and comprehensive treatment plans, you can maximize your weight loss results and optimize your wellness outcomes.

CHAMBER SCENE

Delaware Young Professionals Network (DYPN) took a bus trip to

3. Our June Board of Governors meeting was held at Hockessin Colored School 107, featuring remarks from Governor Carney, David Wilk and James (Sonny) Knott, a former student of HCS 107.

4. Carvertise celebrated the grand opening of their new headquarters on the Wilmington Riverfront.

5. The DYPN hosted Young Professionals Night at Constitution Yards, featuring axe throwing!

6. Our June networking breakfast was held at Wilmington University’s Brandywine Campus.

7. Dr. Neil Jasani gave remarks at our July networking breakfast at ChristianaCare.

8. Desa Burton shared her journey from the U.S. Navy to leading Zip Code Wilmington at our August Chamber Leadership Breakfast.

2. Ryan Harrington, Logan Herring Cathy Kanefsky, Dan Cruce, and Scott Kammerer (left to right) participated in an Intern Delaware “Meet the Execs” panel.

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Providing for Multi-generational Health Needs

BY NICK MORIELLO

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HISTORY, we’re seeing five distinct generations in the workplace, all needing and desiring different support from their employers. This also means a variety of health philosophies and health concerns. A big part of being able to work well and enjoy any phase of life is having health insurance coverage that aligns with your personal goals, helps you stay healthy, and provides peace of mind if you are sick or injured.

We’re heading into open enrollment season, so now is a good time to

assess the needs of the members of your workforce, both individually and holistically. It may make sense to explore if there are more cost effective or better fitting options available.

There several types of coverage: Fully insured, where employers pay a premium for an insurance company to handle medical bills, minus any deductibles or cost sharing the covered person would pay; Self-funded, where employers pay medical claims and use a third party to administer the plan; Level-funded programs: a combination of the previous two;

Association plans, which are administered through an association on behalf of members and can be any one of the first three categories; and Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (IHCRAs), where employers provide a defined contribution to employees, who then purchase individual plans.

Fully insured programs for small employers in Delaware have experienced very low, single-digit premium changes year over year 2019 through 2023. Individual insurance policies available on the healthcare. gov Marketplace have seen rate decreases in recent years, and the market has become more competitive with additional insurers participating in Delaware in 2023. No matter what you choose, insurance brokers and consultants, including many who are State Chamber members, will be able

also qualify. There are also Medicare Supplemental plans, which compliment Medicare Parts A and B; Medicare Advantage plans, or Part C, which are offered by private health insurers; and Part D for prescription coverage.

Employers should consider whether to offer benefits to those who retire from their company, as well as what resources they might be able to offer those who are delaying retirement in determining the best coverage options. Factors include, but are not limited to, the size of the employer, the individual’s preference for Medicare versus companysponsored plans, and whether the individual has access to coverage through a spouse.

Having a solid benefits package continues to be an advantage in recruiting and retention. While this new multi-generational workplace

A Healthier Delaware

Walkable, bikeable communities connect to healthier communities

BY LORI SPEED

MEASURING THE IMPACT of employees practicing a healthier lifestyle versus those who don’t is no simple thing. Researchers indicate that exercise can have a positive impact on employees and the success of businesses.

What those researchers can’t agree on is how to define the impact. Some say employees who are physically active demonstrate better moods. Others conclude that fit employees may show an increase in productivity. But let’s not forget about possible lower stress levels, a feeling of overall health and wellbeing, a possible reduction in health care costs, and reduced downtime. The list of things to study just keeps growing. But those who study health and wellness can’t seem to find a way to quantify the impact.

While Bike Delaware is not in the business of studying or implementing health and wellness programs, we are happy that the impact of the work done by a very small nonprofit in a small state has the potential for a big impact on Delaware, it’s businesses and workers. But what has that work included and how has it evolved?

Over the past 12 years, Bike Delaware has been working with community members, local and state officials, outside engineers, other states, and bicycle advocacy groups to create bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure throughout the state. From trails for recreation to pathways linking communities, we’ve steadily made headway towards a walkable, bikeable Delaware for everyone.

We’ve engaged, studied, and listened with a focus on three topics. The first is developing opportunities to create walkable, bikeable, transit-dense,

complete communities where cars are not needed. The second area of focus is on creating lower stress bicycle networks that address a variety of cyclist types and their goals. Thirdly, the Everyone Gets Home movement brings people together to find solutions to our growing traffic death problem in the state.

The “glamour side” has been the very visible success of trail development. The trails are mostly known by those who enjoy and use them for the recreational side of cycling and walking, and we think that’s great! The dual June 2023 announcements of a combined $44 million in grant funding is all about the “nitty gritty” of the work and we think that might be even better. The funds allocated to expand the Jack Markell Trail from Wilmington to Newport in New Castle County and Lewes to Georgetown in Sussex County will have the additional benefit of finally providing safe transit between communities for people who are looking for a practical, low-cost way to get from point A to point B, and back again.

In the end, whether it’s for fun or practicality, safer pathways for recreational and commuting cyclists and pedestrians have the potential to help support a healthier Delaware. n

Lori Speed is the marketing and communications director at Bike Delaware, a nonprofit that advocates for safe, convenient and fun bicycling and walking for everyone.

But not if you can help it.

Today in Delaware, more than 100,000 of our neighbors will go without a nutritious meal. While right around the corner, tons of good, fresh foods are going to waste.

You can rescue this food with the help of the 302 Food Rescue app. Or you can encourage your employer to donate food to be rescued and donated to feed those in need.

Find out how at 302FoodRescue.org or scan this code to download the app today.

302FoodRescue.org

Every day in Delaware, food that could go here goes here instead.

Trust Your Gut Prevent colon cancer

CONTRIBUTED BY BAYHEALTH

COLORECTAL CANCER is the second most diagnosed cancer in men and women in the U.S. combined. Bayhealth Colorectal and General Surgeon Assar Rather, MD, FACS, FASCRS, says that “prevention is better than a cure.” Knowing the signs and symptoms means early detection and less invasive treatment options.

In recent years, the recommended age for regular screenings has lowered from age 50 to 45 for those at average risk of colorectal cancer. Screenings may be done earlier if a person has a family medical history of cancer.

Dr. Rather says the most common symptoms of colorectal cancer he sees in his patients are unexplained weight loss, change in bowel habits, and persistent abdominal discomfort. “These are just a few among the many symptoms that could be a sign of something more serious,” he said.

There are many screening options, but the gold standard in colorectal cancer screenings is a colonoscopy. “Anyone with symptoms or a family history should have a colonoscopy,” said Dr. Rather. At Bayhealth, colonoscopies can be done by general surgeons, colorectal surgeons, or gastroenterologists.

Other screening options for those at lower risk include stool DNA, blood

tests, and Cologuard® which reveals blood in the stool and changes in cells.

Another preventive option Bayhealth offers is genetic testing and genetic counseling. Dr. Rather says that 5-10% of Bayhealth patients who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a family history. “We have a comprehensive evaluation to rule out familial disposition to colorectal cancer, including genetic counseling and genetic testing.”

“You don’t need to push off your screenings because you are worried it may be painful or uncomfortable,” explained Dr. Rather. “There have been changes in methods and preparation for colonoscopies in recent years. But sometimes you must deal with discomfort to prevent something much worse from happening.” n

Good News for Patients

American College of Physicians point to chiropractic for back pain

BY DR. SCOTT E. ROSENTHAL

IT’S NO SECRET that Doctors of Chiropractic and Doctors of Medicine have not always seen eye to eye. Go back several decades and the relationship may have been better characterized as hostile. Times have changed and chiropractic is gaining greater popularity as the medical community begins to see the same value in chiropractic care that patients have been enjoying for over a century. This has never been as evident as with the publication of the American College of Physicians (ACP) clinical practice guideline for treating low back pain in the prestigious Annals of Internal Medicine.

Back pain is one of the most common reasons for doctor visits and a leading cause of disability and lost time from work. It is also a condition for which patients frequently receive prescription medication—even those that are highly addictive. Back pain also accounts for thousands of surgeries each year. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, low back and neck pain topped the list of the most expensive health conditions with an estimated $134.5 billion in yearly spending.

The American College of Physicians (ACP) is the medical society for internal medicine specialists and the largest medical-specialty society in

the world with 154,000 members. The ACP recommendations encourage physicians and patients to seek non-drug care such as that found commonly in chiropractic offices (spinal manipulation, massage, etc.). According to the ACP president (at the time of publication), Nitin S. Damle, MD, “Physicians should avoid prescribing unnecessary tests and costly and potentially harmful drugs, especially narcotics, for these patients.”

Chiropractic care focuses on the causes of back pain. Correct the underlying issue and the pain, inflammation, and spasms cease to exist once normal functions and balance is restored. Chiropractic has not only been shown to be successful but costs less and reduces recurring back pain episodes down the road. Best of all, chiropractic care is drug-free, may prevent the need for surgery, and is among the safest forms of health care available.

Despite years of friction between the chiropractic and medical professions, the ACP guidelines are beginning to show that old tensions are softening. This is good news for patients, health care budget experts, premium-paying employers, and a society concerned about the harm and addictions associated with prescription medications.

I think I can speak on behalf of the chiropractic profession and state that we are more excited than ever to see other doctors appreciating and recognizing the value of the services we provide. We are particularly happy that our natural approach to healing will continue to grow and help all people live a more productive and pain-free life! n

Dr. Scott E. Rosenthal is a secondgeneration Doctor of Chiropractic and past president of the Delaware Chiropractic Society. Dr. Rosenthal co-owns and operates the Delaware Chiropractic Services Network (DCSN). He also enjoys seeing patients in his Wilmington practice.

Following an unexpected prostate cancer diagnosis, 59-year-old retired Washington D.C. police officer and current Bethany area resident Robert Arrington trusted board certified and fellowship trained urologist Dr. Gregory Spana to perform robotic assisted surgery to remove his cancer and get him home and on a path to speedy recovery the same day.

Scan to learn more about Robert's story is

“ That stood out ... that I could have a major surgery and be home less than 8 hours later. “

Robert Arrington Robotic Assisted Surgery Patient

Retaining Talent, One Intern at a Time

How Intern Delaware can elevate your company’s internship program

BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL

USUALLY TAKEN ON IN THE SUMMER, internships

offer an excellent opportunity to test out an industry or profession and determine a desire to pursue a future career in that area of work. Whether the internship includes experiencing the day-to-day workload as an assistant buyer, scheduling social media posts for an up-and-coming research organization, or working through the numbers for an accounting firm, they all provide an enriching and unique experience. So, what if there was a way to make this already-amazing experience even better?

The answer is Intern Delaware—an “add-on” to enhance your company’s internship program where summer interns receive access to professional development programming and networking opportunities designed to help them understand the unique aspects of Delaware’s economy and culture. The experience not only elevates the participant’s skills and knowledge as a professional, but it also acts as a pipeline for growing and retaining Delaware’s future workforce.

This year’s 10-week-long program was comprised of nearly 200 interns from 28 corporate partners. Participants attended 16 engaging events and heard from

more than 40 speakers. Starting off with an informational session and a kickoff barbeque in early June, the 2023 cohort gathered for some outdoor fun and a chance to mingle with their peers prior to the first official event. At the Senior Executive Roundtable panel discussion later that same week, the interns met and interacted with some of the state’s top executives, learning the inside scoop on what it means to be in a top role. And that was just the beginning!

With two to three events per week, the interns are privy to a variety of captivating content. For example, the Opportunity in Delaware webinar discussed how young professionals can leave a lasting impression and truly be someone in Delaware. During this event, themes of advocacy, entrepreneurship, and innovation were raised by Senator Sarah McBride,

Left: Interns, along with members of the Delaware Young Professionals Network, learned more about state government by touring Legislative Hall and meeting with elected officials. Above: Interns participated in a facilitated conversation around the arts’ impact in Delaware’s economy at OperaDelaware.

Delaware fellows—encompassed topics such as how to find the right professional mentor, when to reach out to a connection, and how to build relationships with professionals.

The program’s Coffee and Conversations allowed for more informal networking and broaching compelling topics. From learning how to address difficult conversations in the workplace and touring the Chemours Discovery Hub to exploring the intersection of opera and the modern performing arts, these events also exposed interns to Delaware’s vibrant and diverse industries.

In summary, the 2023 Intern Delaware experience was one for the books! Thank you to all the sponsors and speakers who helped make this year’s program unforgettable. We look forward to welcoming our next cohort in the summer of 2024! n

Where are our interns from?

these programs? Contact Helana Rodriguez at hrodriguez@ dscc.com or visit DSCC.com/ThePartnership.

SPONSORS

Founding CSC

Pathway

Adesis, Inc.

M&T Bank

Opportunity

Chemours

FMC Corporation

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware

Potter Anderson & Corroon LLP

University of Delaware Career Center

WSFS Bank

“The exposure and opportunities offered by Intern Delaware gave our cohort the resources to not only grow in our career, but how to grow as a person… From meeting the Governor and professional development to giving back to the community; I’m grateful for all the valuable experiences!” —Timia Boyd, Bank of America

“I entered the Intern Delaware program knowing only the basics about my state.

Now I can say with confidence that I have fallen in love with Delaware. The program has been an invaluable resource in growing my professional network and helping me forge connections with leaders in my state.” – Adam Barto, Zip Code Wilmington

Development

Bancroft Construction

Bank of America

Belfint, Lyons & Shuman, CPAs

Delaware Department of Transportation

Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Fulton Bank

Morris Nichols Arsht & Tunnell

Nemours Children’s Health

Other participating partners:

BDO USA LLP

Diamond Technologies, Inc.

Farmers of Salem

ILC Dover

Kelly Benefits

Rockland Sports, LLC

University of Delaware Athletics

Wilmington Friends School

Zip Code Wilmington

Coming Up Short Accounting firms in Delaware tackle a hiring crisis

BY ANDREW SHARP

HERE’S THE PITCH: The pay starts out solid, and gets better. Companies will basically throw jobs at you even before you get out of college. You won’t have to worry about recessions.

“Nah, no thanks,” increasing numbers of young people are saying.

More than 100,000 candidates sat for the CPA exam in 2016, according to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. In 2022, fewer than 67,000 did.

That’s the state of the accounting profession in a nutshell right now. Delaware CPA firms are sounding a warning about the challenges they’re facing, which include trouble finding staff and tough choices about taking on new clients.

“It’s a real battle, and I don’t think it’s going to get any better quickly,” says Marie Holliday, managing director of Cover and Rossiter in Wilmington.

What’s going on? Local business leaders point to a host of patterns combining to create the drought. Those include not just declining interest from young scholars, but a slew of accountants leaving the industry as the Baby Boomer generation ages, and the difficulty and expense of CPA exams.

A national agreement to require 150 credit hours to become a certified professional accountant—about 30 hours more than many other degrees— also gets a lot of blame.

That increased requirement stemmed from a desire to create an accounting degree that would satisfy requirements across state lines,

becoming more portable, Holliday says. But she and others agree, it’s created a problem.

Once students earn that degree, the perception is that the hours are too demanding and that being an accountant isn’t an attractive career.

“I was thinking to myself, ‘It’s a nerdy pocket protector kind of person,’” Holliday said of her early impression of the profession. Now that she’s tried it, she says, “I really think accounting is cool … I’ve made a great career out of it.”

The shortage of accountants isn’t just a headache for recruiters at accounting firms. “Without accounting, and without financial reporting, and without trust in the financial information system, there’s just a breakdown,” Carolyn Levine, chair of the accounting department at the University of Delaware’s Lerner College of Business, says.

Businesses need CPAs for a host of reasons.

“We’re seeing increased demand, across the board. Businesses, nonprofit organizations, governments, they’re being faced with complex decisions, complex regulatory issues, and they’re constantly reaching out to us for guidance,” says Jonathon Moll, an executive director with Belfint, Lyons and Shuman, CPAs (BLS), a large local firm with offices in Delaware and the Philadelphia area.

But with limited ability to hire, accounting firms face tough calls. “We have made the decision that there’s some work that we just don’t take on, and we’re very selective about our clients,” says Linda Pappajohn, a principal with Santora CPA Group in Newark.

To help with recruitment and retention, Belfint, Lyons & Shuman (BLS) offers a variety of professional and social experiences to their interns, including having them participate in the Delaware State Chamber’s Intern Delaware program. Pictured are BLS summer interns at the firm’s 100th Anniversary Employee Outing at Top Golf.

Nonprofits are among the victims of the shortage. Holliday observes that to get grant money, these organizations are required to have an audit, a service many accounting companies in Delaware are cutting back on.

Another issue is that as firms also try to hire more fairly and bring in people from different races and backgrounds, the extra expense of additional college requirements works against that. “It is diversity killing,” Levine says.

As local firms see their supply of job candidates dry up, they’ve taken aggressive measures, including ramping up recruitment. BLS is reaching out to high school students and younger and posting ads promoting CPA careers where young people and their parents can see them. Jenni Jones, marketer and recruiter with the company, has begun building connections with high school guidance counselors. “We were doing presentations in elementary schools last year. I’ll be at the delivery room soon,” she jokes.

Delaware companies also say they are adding perks like flexible hours, remote work when possible, and even craft beer in the fridge for happy hour after work.

Santora also has been offering a signing bonus of $10,000 or more for experienced CPAs, and employees get a large referral bonus for finding these candidates, according to Pappajohn.

If all this is making you rethink your career choice, it’s not too late. Firms say they’ll hire good candidates from a variety of backgrounds and degrees, and help them earn the certifications and extra credits they need.

They are also keen to reframe impressions of the career.

“That long-term opportunity once you get your CPA is incredible,” Jones says.

The stereotype, Moll notes, is that a CPA “sits behind a desk and pushes numbers. And it’s just not cool. But accountants are increasingly serving as business advisors and consultants.

“We solve problems every day that people bring to us,” Moll says. “I’ve been here 23 years, I’ve never had the same day twice … there’s a surprise every single day.” n

The Jobs of Tomorrow Are Already Here

Schools must embrace technological innovations and guide students in their use

BY THOMAS S. FERTAL

IT IS MORE IMPORTANT than ever for schools to embrace technological innovations and to guide students in their use.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the job market is constantly adapting to new technologies and industries. The traditional notion of “jobs of the future” is shifting, as many roles that were once considered futuristic are already present and in high demand. While still centered and grounded on the core elements of reading, writing, and arithmetic, schools need to be proactive in preparing students for an ever-changing, high-tech world— not one that they will be entering, but one that they are already in. Some of the fields that are quite appropriate for education curriculum include robotics, esports, and artificial intelligence.

The integration of robotics in education provides a multidimensional approach to learning. Robotics fosters not only students’ technical skills but also nurtures their creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative abilities. Through robotics curriculum or competition, students learn to visualize complex concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Furthermore, robotics education develops coding, design, engineering and problem-solving skills, all applicable skills for the technological workforce.

Esports in education holds invaluable potential for fostering teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital literacy. While mirroring traditional sports in promoting camaraderie and leadership, it uniquely appeals to digitally native students, making education more engaging and relevant. Moreover, esports offers viable career paths in a rapidly growing, $300 million global gaming industry. From professional gaming to game design and coding to “shoutcasting” (the term used for play-by-play announcers at gaming events), careers are numerous and varied. Additionally, gaming methodology extends to other fields such as the military, pharmaceutical research, and healthcare. Coupled with emerging technologies in both virtual and augmented reality, the applications are truly limitless. Esports is a viable and innovative way for a school to bridge the gap between leisure and learning.

In our digital age, the importance of teaching artificial intelligence (AI) cannot be overstated. AI already forms the backbone of many industries, underpinning innovations in healthcare, finance, and engineering, to name a few. Incorporating AI into the curriculum not only enriches learning but

also equips students with vital skills for the future. The exploration and use of AI in education fosters computational thinking, problem-solving skills, and digital literacy. Again, these are all essential skills in today’s workforce. Proficiency in the use of AI can lead to employment in a number of fields, and expertise can be quite lucrative. Most people have never heard of a prompt engineer. Prompt engineers are individuals who specialize in asking the right questions of AI in order to extract the desired output. Commonly referred to as “AI Whisperers”, careers in this field can pay well into the sixfigure range—even without a college diploma.

The jobs of tomorrow are no longer distant dreams but present-day realities. As technology continues to advance and new employment opportunities continue to emerge, it is crucial for schools to recognize this and prepare students by offering the exploration of, and exposure to, these emerging fields. They need to be integrated into the curriculum where applicable and presented as dedicated learning opportunities when possible. n

Thomas S. Fertal is president of Saint Mark’s High School.

What Happens After the School Bell Rings Matters

BY JARRETT ROYSTER

WHEN THE FINAL SCHOOL BELL rings to dismiss children for the day, their learning journey continues beyond the classroom. Many can apply what they’ve learned in real-world situations and spend time enhancing their knowledge through enriching activities and games, but not all kids have the same opportunities.

It is widely recognized that education is not solely the responsibility of schools and teachers. Learning takes place at home, on the playground, in camps, after-school programs, and on the ball field. It takes a village to raise a child, and this village forms a vital ecosystem of learning, where each component holds equal value. A child’s family, friends, coaches, mentors, and other caring adults all play a significant role.

At the YMCA of Delaware, we deeply understand the critical role we play within the educational ecosystem for children—that’s why we offer a range of programs, including high-quality early education, after-school initiatives, camps, and college and career readiness programs. Our commitment is to ensure that every child we serve is on a pathway to success.

However, this is not an easy task today. Current social issues like too much screen time, adverse childhood trauma, lack of quality time with adults, and food insecurity are constraining our children’s potential and negatively impacting social emotional wellbeing and root causes of behaviors we did not see just five years ago.

The news is that today the science of how to raise a child and provide them with the supports they need is rich. Every year research is improving and informing us of the critical milestones and experiences children need to stay and remain on track.

The real question is are we willing to follow the research and invest in the programs and practices that will help all our children to grow, learn, and thrive.

I am calling upon parents, educators, community organizations, businesses, and policymakers to join hands to take action.

Let’s recognize the importance of holistic education. Learning doesn’t stop at the school gates; it encompasses all aspects of a child’s life. This requires collaboration among families, schools, and community

organizations to provide accessible and high-quality programs that promote holistic development.

Let’s address those issues that harm our children like the negative impact of social media on our youth. It is crucial to educate young people about responsible internet usage, online safety, and critical thinking skills. Parents and caregivers should engage in open and honest conversations with their children, fostering healthy digital habits and promoting positive self-esteem.

Tackling the issues of income inequality and poverty that hinder the opportunities available to many children requires collective efforts to advocate for policies that lead to affordable and quality child care options, access to nutritious food, and resources that support families in need. Investing in initiatives that provide educational support, mentorship, and tutoring for children from disadvantaged backgrounds is vital in bridging the achievement gap.

Join us at the YMCA of Delaware and be a part of this transformative journey. Together, let’s build a stronger educational ecosystem for our children and pave the way for their lifelong success. n

Jarrett Royster is the chief executive officer of the YMCA of Delaware.

Connecting Your Business to High Schools

How Delaware traditional high schools are committed to job readiness

BY BRIAN M. ERSKINE, ED.D.

IN RESPONSE to Delaware’s need for qualified workers in an everchanging global market, traditional high schools have gone through some recent changes. Schools are no longer only focused on reading, writing and mathematics, but have added a career readiness component to their curriculum. Delaware high schools are finding new ways to enhance their school’s vocational pathways by introducing work-based learning opportunities.

In many school districts, career readiness begins at the middle school level. In a collaboration with Rodel and Education First, many middle schools are piloting a career readiness course in the 2023 – 2024 school year. For example, the Colonial School District will create a program that will allow students to explore self-awareness, occupational identity, career options, and employability skills. By the time students complete the program, they will have strengthened their high school readiness and be able to best select one of the 24 different degree programs offered at William Penn High School.

At the high school level, students complete the necessary academic and technical courses that prepare students for post-secondary education or workforce training that is aligned with their career aspirations. Many high school career and technical education programs are aligned with the Delaware Pathways program and directly connected to the many different career clusters.

Despite high school’s hybrid approach to state vocational schools, local businesses are still looking for skilled employees. They often ask if schools are doing enough. At William Penn High School, the answer lies in their Work-Based Learning (WBL) program that connects students to dual enrollment college courses and work experiences with industry partners, all connected to their program of study.

Anna Morgan, the school’s WBL coordinator, spends her days working directly with students on their employability skills and finding them experiences with local businesses. A perfect example is the school’s relationship with Croda at Atlas Point. Located within the Colonial School District,

William Penn students sign their letter of intent for an internship

sustainable practices that are climate positive for the local community. The company has opened its doors to allow William Penn High School STEM students to tour their facility and speak directly to engineers and scientists. Croda often attends district events and provides financial support for student programs. For example, Croda funds select eleventh graders to attend the Bucknell University summer engineering program.

This WBL immersion experience allows students to apply academic, technical, and employability skills to real-world job experiences. According to Maryann Carroll, Croda’s regional community engagement manager, this partnership has been so successful that Croda hired two recent William

Penn graduates and will assist them with college while working for the company.

Many schools are beginning to offer these WBL opportunities. Mike Trego, supervisor in the Appoquinimink School District, agrees that their high school students have benefited from working directly with industry professionals. But there is still more to do. Many schools have a WBL coordinator who can connect students, based on their pathway, with local businesses. Schools no longer want to work in isolation, but rather in collaboration with industry partners, asking them to dedicate financial and human resources. There are many ways in which business partners can connect with schools: mentoring, field trips, classroom visits, job shadowing, job training, career fairs, and internships.

When local businesses partner with local schools, the result is a stronger pipeline of workers and a stronger economy for the state of Delaware. n

Brian Erskine is a supervisor of college and career readiness for the Colonial School District.

William Penn students and Croda recognized for their participation in Bucknell University Engineering Summer Camp

Education & Workforce Development

Building a Workforce for the Future

BY JENNIFER STEELE AND JACQUELINE HAWKES

FOR DECADES, we as a nation have placed great emphasis on the attainment of a college degree and less value on individuals entering the skilled trades, which has created a critical gap in our skilled labor workforce. Trade labor is essential for the development, maintenance, and improvement of infrastructure in our country. Trade labor also provides vital services to our citizens and is crucial to our economic growth.

To yield a thriving economy, a healthy workforce must be balanced between college educated and skilled trade workers. The decline of trade labor in the U.S. has been gradual and, as a result, it has been overlooked for quite some time. Until recently, the majority of young people favored attending college, and many did not even consider entering the trades. Today, however, more and more individuals—both young and old—are aware of the need for a qualified skilled labor workforce and the many benefits that come with choosing an occupation in the trade industry, some of which are listed below.

The pursuit of a career in the skilled trades can be less time consuming than a four-year degree and can result in significantly less debt upon completion.

There is an abundance of skilled trade employment opportunities nationwide, and the shortage of workers has increased job security and driven wages to a level that, at one time, could only be achieved with a college degree.

The recognition of these benefits is causing a shift in thinking, and the genuine merit in technical education is being acknowledged.

The State of Delaware has been focusing on workforce development since 1963 when the Delaware Skills Center was established immediately following President John F. Kennedy’s 1962 Manpower Training and Development Act. The programs at the Delaware Skills Center are designed for adults, young and old, and are specifically intended to serve Delaware residents who are unemployed or underemployed.

Programs are implemented based on data that identifies employment sectors that are experiencing the greatest demand for skilled workers. These high-demand occupations are characterized as showing a substantial growth in job openings while facing a rapidly declining number of applicants.

In addition to delivering vocational skills and valuable work knowledge,

the Delaware Skills Center is committed to providing job placement assistance for students which, in turn, contributes to the State’s overall economic health by lowering the dependence on unemployment benefits and by growing the pool of qualified workers. Delaware Skills Center training programs also help in the development of a well-rounded workforce that generates increased state tax revenue.

As the need for skilled workers continues to grow, we must refocus by placing greater value on skilled trade programs nationwide. Awareness and accessibility to training programs for all individuals is fundamental in bridging the gap and beginning to fill the deficiency in trade labor. Successful and personally rewarding careers can be found in the trades, and placing greater emphasis on restoring our trade labor workforce is essential in preparing our country for a bright future. n

Jennifer Steele is financial secretary and Jacqueline Hawkes is supervisor of Delaware Skills Center.

THANK YOU SPONSORS:

Gold:

Continental Finance

Delaware Office of Work-Based Learning

Ferris Home Improvements

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses at Community College of Philadelphia Hopkins & Sons, Inc.

Wilmington University

Your Part-Time Contoller

Silver:

Children & Families First

Delaware Business Times

DE Division of Small Business Delaware Today

Novo Nordisk

PCS

Weiner Benefits Group, LLC

Exhibit Bags: Goldey-Beacom College

Bronze: BrandSwan

Delmarva Power

FideliTrade, Incorporated

Fulton Bank

Gunnip & Company

Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Homes & Crematory

Wilmington Economic Development Corporation

Patron: Lyons Companies

LOCAL BUSINESS PREPARES FOR THE NEXT HUNDRED YEARS

Local Business Prepares for the Next Hundred Years

By Kate Bailey

Afamily-owned manufacturing business that has operated in New Castle for nearly 120 years recently learned it was leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the floor every year. Literally.

Thanks to help from the Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership (DEMEP), Wilmington Fibre saved $80,000 in a year by not wasting overruns that could be kept, catalogued, and sold to customers, saving the company money in labor and job setup.

“We have had eight continuous months of profit,” said David Celli, vice president of operations. “You want to talk about return. It’s fantastic.”

Celli describes Wilmington Fibre as a “non-metallic fabricator of custom specialties,” which means the company makes everything from gas seals, washers and bearings to Fender guitar picks and nylon nozzles for the fountains at Longwood Gardens. The company has even made custom guitar picks for famous musicians like the Rolling Stones and the Australian band, AC/DC, among others.

Pete Ciamaricone, DEMEP Business Advisor with Dave Celli, Vice President of Operations, Wilmington Fibre stand in front of a new air compressor.

“We got to deliver backstage to The Who,” Celli said.

Stacked bins of Fender guitar picks line shelves in the manufacturing warehouse waiting to be shipped around the world. Those bins are now neat and tidy as a result of DEMEP’s help to get the manufacturing warehouse more organized.

“We’ve been working our way through the shop,” said Peter Ciamaricone, DEMEP field agent.

DEMEP helped Wilmington Fibre implement a 5S program so the company could operate more efficiently and plan for the future. The five S’s stand for sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain. This work has entailed everything from replacing cardboard boxes of product with clear plastic bins to show what’s inside to succession planning, so the company is prepared for upcoming retirements of seasoned and talented leadership and staff.

Learning a different way of doing things after many years can be challenging, Celli said, but well worth it.

“We’ve been here 120 years,” Celli said. “Complacency is our biggest enemy.”

The company had fallen into a bit of a rut with some of its operating procedures before connecting with DEMEP, which operates as a recipient through Delaware Technical Community College in partnership with the United States Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Delaware Division of Small Business, and the Delaware State and local Chambers of Commerce. Through these partnerships, DEMEP draws its resources from local and national universities, community colleges, research institutions, private consultants, and a network of 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. With these unique relationships, the Delaware MEP can provide its clients confidential access to their industries’ best practices, processes, and business improvement methodologies.

“It’s like coaching, if you get the team to buy into it, you’ve got a winning product.”

- David Celli, Vice President of Operations, Wilmington Fibre

~ David Celli, Vice President of Operations Wilmington Fibre

As part of its efforts to improve energy efficiency, the company also developed a method of expelling heat produced by its manufacturing machinery out of the building in the summer and pulling it into the building during the winter. This improved the comfort level for employees while saving energy at the same time. And the simple act of rearranging and organizing shelves and storage items uncovered more savings through the discovery of lost inventory that had gotten covered up by boxes and other items¸ Ciamaricone said.

In addition, Wilmington Fibre has received help from DEMEP with standard operating procedures and succession planning.

“We lost a whole generation of craftsmanship where we were no longer training people to be machinists, tool and die makers, set-up people,” Celli said. “I’m looking for a new generation to do this work and it’s slim pickings.”

Wilmington Fibre operates in an old textile factory that dates back to the 1800s. Current CEO B. Scott Morris’s great-grandfather bought the property from DuPont, and much of the company’s manufacturing equipment has been around a long time.

“The great thing is, everything is paid for,” Celli said.

The downside is that the aging equipment requires plenty of maintenance. The oldest machine, a shear, dates back to 1919, and when it breaks, company workers make the parts to fix it. Sometimes though, equipment needs to be replaced, as was the case with an old air compressor. Utilizing resource partners at the University of Delaware, DEMEP provided an energy audit that determined the compressor was using far more energy than necessary, and that a new one would result in significant energy savings.

“We’ve seen noticeable changes in our energy bill every month since we installed it,” Celli said.

As Celli nears retirement himself, he has appreciated working with DEMEP to bring in younger people for training, such as a student from Hodgson Vo-Tech who was paired up with a more experienced employee to learn how to perform equipment maintenance and other needed skills.

Wilmington Fibre’s 23 employees will continue working with DEMEP’s help to make the changes needed to ensure the company’s success into the future.

“It’s like coaching,” Celli said. “If you get the team to buy into it, you’ve got a winning product.

“We have had eight continuous months of profit. You want to talk about return. It’s fantastic.”

Anna Melendez loads product for printing artwork.

Manufacturing Opportunity, Growth, and Giving

DELAWARE CITY REFINING COMPANY, one of the largest employers in the state, offers career-focused individuals job opportunities with total compensation packages featuring aboveaverage earnings and exceptional benefits. To help the refinery run safely, reliably, and environmentally responsibly, more than 525 employees work in a variety of roles, including safety, engineering, operations, maintenance, and administration.

The refinery opened its doors in 1956, operating as Getty Oil, and has had a series of owners since then. PBF Energy Inc. (PBF), headquartered in Parsippany, N.J. purchased the refinery in 2010 in a shutdown state, investing more than $750 million to restore and restart the plant in 2011 after rehiring the workforce.

PBF owns five additional refineries throughout the United States. The company’s mission is to operate our refining and logistics facilities safely, reliably and in an environmentally responsible manner, and to provide employees with safe and rewarding workplaces. Forbes magazine ranked PBF 37th amongst the “Best Mid-Sized Companies to Work for in 2023” and the company rose 38 spots to number 92 on Fortune Magazine’s Fortune 500 list in 2023.

As the alternative energy market advances, PBF Energy is exploring potential growth opportunities for Delaware City Refinery to expand its

product line. For example, PBF recently joined dozens of other companies in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and southern New Jersey to establish the MidAtlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub (MACH2TM), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit coalition group focused on developing a regional clean hydrogen hub to connect producers and consumers in the region. Hydrogen has zero carbon emissions when used as a transportation fuel, and low to zero emitting energy is used to produce clean hydrogen.

FUN FACT: The Delaware City Refinery fuels Delaware’s economy and mobility by producing approximately 70% of the gasoline consumed in Delaware.

In the spring of 2023, MACH2TM submitted a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub Grant Application to the U.S. Department of Energy. If selected, the refinery will play a crucial role as a hydrogen producer, creating hundreds of new jobs and developing a foundation for a new industry that could result in a more diverse energy future for Delawareans.

Michael Capone, refinery manager of Delaware City Refining Company, explains, “The oil industry is always evolving. Every day we apply modifications to make our products better, more efficient, environmentally friendly, and affordable. Our success is shared with the communities we serve through the volunteer activities of our employees and the company’s financial giving, which this year has benefited more than 30 nonprofits in Delaware.” n

FUN FACT: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than 6,000 products we rely on to make modern life possible are produced from petroleum and natural gas, from adhesives to yarn. Other every day products include clothing, furniture, automobiles, toiletries, aspirin, vitamins, nail polish, hair dye, dishes, contact lenses, eyeglasses, toys, bandages, medical supplies, sports equipment, cleaning supplies, fertilizer, appliances, and computers—even solar and wind energy production, and electric vehicles require petroleum-based energy, parts, and lubricants.

CONTRIBUTED BY DELAWARE CITY REFINING COMPANY

Investing in Innovation

DuPont’s Kalrez® and Vespel® businesses invest in manufacturing, workforce, and innovation for high-performance parts in Delaware

BY ARNOLD WONG

DUPONT HAS A RICH AND STORIED HISTORY of manufacturing innovative products and technologies in Delaware. Today, two of its key businesses, DuPont™ Kalrez® and Vespel® have been manufacturing high performance, high reliability parts for the aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, and semiconductor industries at state-ofthe-art production facilities located in Newark. Over the past few years, Kalrez® and Vespel® customers have grown and the company is making investments in DuPont manufacturing sites to meet increased customer demand.

DUPONT™ KALREZ® PERFLUOROELASTOMER PARTS

DuPont™ Kalrez® has been manufacturing O-rings and custommade specialty sealants in mission-critical applications for more than 40 years. From chemical processing to semiconductor chip manufacturing, DuPont™ Kalrez® elastomers are engineered to provide more stability, resistance, and effective sealing. As global customer demand grows, DuPont has invested in the Tralee Park Annex as part of the

Tralee Park manufacturing site. The Tralee Park Annex will open in the fourth quarter of 2023. Nathan Whitmoyer, Tralee Park plant manager, has hired more than 70 new employees to cover a variety of roles, including operations, maintenance, engineering, and continuous improvement—all critical to the safe operation of Kalrez® manufacturing.

The site is active in the community through the Community Action Panel (CAP) where they support local schools and other critical community partners through philanthropy and volunteerism. The site also remains committed to STEM initiatives bringing in interns, co-ops, and early career professionals through the DuPont Field Engineering program.

DUPONT™ VESPEL® PARTS AND SHAPES

DuPont™ Vespel® specializes in high temperature wear and friction materials for more than 55 years, serving customers in the aerospace, automotive, and energy industries where performance and reliability are paramount.

Nathaniel Hines (front), Vespel® Pencader Unit Manager, and the Pencader operation leadership team.

Nathaniel Hines, unit manager of Vespel® Pencader, leads a team focused on producing high quality precision parts at the Pencader location. Since January 2023, Hines has hired 40 new full-time DuPont operators to bolster manufacturing of finished parts— such as bushings and wear pads—and to support the increased demand for Vespel® Shapes, which are larger blocks intended for downstream machining. Adding positions has also coincided with facility expansion and investment to increase production capacity with state-of-the-art equipment and modern digital tools to improve manufacturing efficiency.

To support increased manufacturing capacity and efficiency, DuPont’s Manufacturing Technology function expanded by hiring six interns this year for continuous improvement programs. The internship program hires students from local universities, such as the University of Delaware, and provides them the opportunity to gain industrial work experience while receiving mentorship from senior engineers. Some interns joined DuPont as full-time employees after graduation. The Vespel® business also participates in the DuPont Field Engineering program to seek, hire, and develop high potential early career engineers to improve manufacturing operations and

Examples of Vespel® parts manufactured at the Pencader facility, such as washers, bushings, rollers, and seal rings.

provide pathways to leadership roles in the company.

LOCAL COMMITMENT

The Kalrez® and Vespel® businesses are proud to call Delaware home. We remain committed to investing for growth in Delaware while also developing and retaining our highly skilled employees who work every day to fulfill our purpose of empowering the world with the essential innovations to thrive. We will continue to innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place for us all while solving tough challenges in rapidly growing and everchanging industries, such as energy, aerospace, and semiconductor electronics. n

Arnold Wong is Americas marketing manager at DuPont Kalrez® & Vespel®

Opportunity Available—

No Experience Needed

Why you should give a career in manufacturing another look

BY ZACH KUEHNE

IT’S A TALE UBIQUITOUS TO OUR TIMES. Increasing numbers of students are completing their studies in colleges and universities across Delaware, burdened by overwhelming student debt and lacking substantial on-the-job experience. Unfortunately, many postgraduates struggle to secure employment as many “entry-level” corporate roles require three-to-five years of relevant experience. For those fortunate enough to receive job offers, the accompanying salaries are often not enough to make ends meet.

But what if I told you Delaware manufacturing offers a different path?

Instead of taking on loans to pay for tuition and books while learning abstract theories and reviewing case studies, you can be paid to work alongside and learn from the top professionals in your chosen field. At the end of four years, instead of graduating with debt and no real-world experience, you’ll have earned up to $300,000 and gained years of lessons learned, successes, and “we’re never trying that again” stories to share with future employers.

Plus, once you start a career in manufacturing, the growth never stops.

Manufacturing offers new opportunities to hone your skills, gain experience, try new ideas, and earn promotions. Take Kuehne Company’s plant manager as an example. He started at the company over 20 years ago in

1991 as an operator. Since then, he has worked his way up the ranks and now leads our entire Delaware facility.

It’s not just upward mobility. Manufacturing also provides avenues for cross-training new skills and technologies.

For those who obtained a degree, an industry traditionally seen as bluecollar provides a wealth of opportunity. From accountants that keep our books to engineers and chemists that provide laboratory testing and new product research and development, Kuehne and other Delaware manufacturers offer a myriad of opportunities that can utilize your unique skillset and passions.

So, before you pick up that college application, or take out that student loan, take a closer look at the abundant opportunities that exist in manufacturing right here in Delaware and get paid to figure it out. n

Zach Kuehne is president of Kuehne Company. For more information about Kuehne and open positions, visit kuehnecompany.com/careers.

WHAT ARE YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN WEAKNESSES?

Risk is everywhere. It doesn’t sleep. It often shows up uninvited and at the most inopportune time. Manufacturers most trusted resource, the NIST-Manufacturing Extension Partnership, provides a step-by-step roadmap to help manufacturers address risk, increase visibility and create supply chains that function at optimum capacity

We’ll show you how to apply constraint theory concepts that address risk, and account for total cost of ownership, so you may make informed sourcing decisions that increase the flow of products from suppliers to customers, using a value system model.

Change the World

Build your future in manufacturing

BY CAROLYN LEE

IF YOU’RE LOOKING to find your first job, restart your career, or do something to make a big mark on the world, manufacturing offers some of your best options. There is truly something for everybody in modern manufacturing.

You’ll find endless options and things to do as part of a modern manufacturing team. In Delaware, for example, you can join a company that makes delicious food and beverages, essential chemicals and materials, lifesaving medicines and heavy machinery, to name just a few.

So, which kinds of people are best suited to be part of a manufacturing team? Regardless of whether you like to work with your hands or stay hands-off at work, there are opportunities for you. There’s room for people at every level of educational experience, whether you’re a high school graduate or you have an advanced degree. Job openings are available at every level of career expertise, from entry-level job-seekers to people with decades of experience. And all sorts of skills can come into play, whether it’s design, marketing, driving or especially those science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills that are always in demand.

Manufacturing is perfect for dreamers—those people who want to change the world or do something fun and meaningful with their lives. Every day

at work can be an adventure, especially because the modern manufacturing shop floor is one of the most high-tech places to work. Manufacturers are no strangers to state-of-the-art technologies, such as 3D printing, digital twins, drones, artificial intelligence, robots and cobots, and more.

These careers are also quite lucrative. The latest data shows that manufacturing team members in Delaware made nearly $84,000 per year. Employees from all other industries across the state earned roughly $61,000 on average.

And these jobs will likely be abundant for a long time. That’s because as manufacturers scale up, grow the economy and invest in new technologies, they’ll need many more team members to innovate and help meet demand. In fact, research by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute (MI) shows that by 2030, manufacturers will need to fill 4 million jobs. That’s 4 million incredible opportunities to create the next best thing and to build a lifelong career.

Photos by David Bohrer courtesy of National Association of Manufacturers

Manufacturers are always excited to show people what they do—and to offer a foot in the door. Later this year, on Friday, October 6, manufacturers across the country will open their shop floors to communities for a firsthand look at a day in the life of a modern manufacturing team. We call it MFG Day, and it’s a national grassroots movement and initiative of the MI, with events throughout October.

Each year, thousands of companies and educational institutions come together for their biggest opportunity to inspire the next generation, positively shift perceptions about our industry and build the foundation for the manufacturing workforce of the future. You can visit mfgday.com to learn more. MFG Day is a great

way to meet and shape the future of the workforce, so be sure to visit our website if you’re a manufacturer who would like to host an event of your own, or someone who wants to see what kind of modern manufacturing is happening near you.

Being a manufacturer means being a creator, taking ideas and turning them into useful products that make the world a better place. There will always be bright futures and endless possibility waiting for you in manufacturing. n

Purpose, Values, & Behaviors

We make useful things joyful. This is our purpose, our north star that guides all we do. We infuse joy into our daily interactions, and we create products that are functional and joyful for our consumers. Our values are foundational to our purpose and govern our collaborations with our teammates, our partnerships with our customers, and our connection to our consumers. As we innovate for the future, these values are the beacon that keep us on course. They aren’t just words on a page, we live them. They define our expectations—of our products, our company, and ourselves.

Carolyn Lee is the president and executive director of the Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers.

Research by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute shows that by 2030 manufacturers will need to fill four million jobs. That’s four million incredible opportunities to create the next best thing and to build a lifelong career.

A Vital Hub

Siemens-Healthineers is pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare— for everyone, everywhere

A VITAL HUB for Siemens Healthineers research and development, engineering, and manufacturing, the Glasgow facility in Newark, Delaware, is one of more than 50 such sites across the globe. Among the five largest medtech companies worldwide, Siemens Healthineers enables healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality care, leading to the best possible outcome for patients—no matter where they are.

Siemens Healthineers products and services span from in-vitro diagnostics, image-guided therapy, in-vivo diagnostics, and innovative cancer care. These solutions touch approximately five million patients every day.

The company’s Glasgow site specifically focuses on in-vitro diagnostic testing systems and assays, building on the company’s rich history in pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare, dating back to 1896. Notably, 70% of all critical clinical decisions are influenced by IVD tests—the type of technology provided by the Glasgow site1

CONTRIBUTED BY SIEMENS-HEALTHINEERS

Comprised of six buildings with over 545,000 square feet of space on 130 acres of owned land, Glasgow is the company’s principal reagent manufacturing location for clinical chemistry assays. The site is home to approximately 1,000 full-time and contractor colleagues working across all major business functions—R&D, manufacturing, supply chain, portfolio and product management, marketing, customer service, product education, quality management, and more—advancing innovation and developing diagnostics technologies for labs of all sizes.

Today, Siemens Healthineers in Glasgow supplies about 700 finished products and produces over 11 million units, representing six billion tests shipped across North America, Latin America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. Over its 60-plus years, the site has been home to DuPont, Dade-Behring, and since 2007, Siemens Healthineers.

Over the past three years, Siemens Healthineers invested nearly $50 million into infrastructure improvements and ongoing R&D activities

Siemens Healthineers Glasgow Facility – Newark, Delaware

that support Glasgow’s contributions to a rapidly growing and diverse diagnostic testing portfolio. At the same time, Glasgow is central to the company’s strong commitment to sustainability as site leadership and colleagues collaborate to reduce the facility’s ecological footprint:

Electricity – The facility has replaced more than 2,000 fluorescent lights, helping to reduce the amount of electricity used and the number of bulbs and ballasts requiring replacement.

Water conservation – The site identified a source of “one-pass” water for use in cooling process equipment. By switching to a recirculation pathway, Glasgow saved nearly five million gallons of water annually.

Waste management – Ten years ago, the site set a zero-waste-to-landfill goal. Today, most waste is sent to waste-to-energy incineration. In 2012, approximately 80% of the waste generated at the site was sent to landfills, with 20% targeted for recycling. By 2022, the numbers flipped: 81% of site waste was sent for recycling with 19% sent to landfills.

The Glasgow site operates 24 hours a day, 5 days a week, with some production processes operating daily. The facility is led by Jessica Hunt,

At Kuehne Company, every role is mission-critical. For over 100 years, this family-owned and operated business has been dedicated to manufacturing and delivering bleach - an essential water treatment product - to municipal facilities across the North East, ensuring clean drinking water for millions of people.

Joining Kuehne means becoming a part of a company with a remarkable history that deeply values its employees' financial, mental, and physical well-being. Our culture fosters connection, belonging, and excellence, complemented by an exceptional benefits package. Medical, dental, vision insurance, full life insurance, as well as a 401K with matching plans are provided to all employees.

No prior skills or experience are required. At Kuehne, we value honesty, dedication, and a passion for continuous learning and are willing to train those who embody these traits.

Don’t just take a job, launch your career!

A Pacemaker for American Innovation

How chemistry is driving the future economy

BY GERARDO FAMILIAR

THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR has been a cornerstone of the U.S. economy for generations, contributing significantly to economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement. Today, the evolution of our sector has seen manufacturing evolve into a dynamic landscape of innovations driving the sustainable transition of societies and economies.

In Delaware, we have a rich history of industrial advancements, and we have a real opportunity to position the First State at the forefront of innovations that are helping shape the economy of today and the future. Ingenuity has thrived in our state, and our chemical industry has been a pacemaker for innovations that impact our local economy and the global landscape. It all

begins with manufacturing, investments in American innovation, and providing great jobs in our communities.

For Chemours, innovation is at the core of what we do. Chemicals are the building block of modern society, and our chemistries play a crucial role in tomorrow’s economy–enabling clean energy, driving decarbonization, and realizing global climate goals. We are committed to making cutting-edge products that are better for our customers and our planet. We’re focused on the “why” behind our solutions—which is to create a cleaner and more connected world.

This pace of innovation requires a culture of collaboration. We ensure hand-in-glove connectivity between our Chemours Discovery Hub, the heart

of our global research, and our manufacturing sites to responsibly design and produce better-performing and greener chemistries that enable sustainable technologies—from green hydrogen and electric vehicles to heat pumps and more durable infrastructure. This collaboration allows us to implement new technologies, improve efficiency, and responsibly develop products that address the needs of our customers and society.

The Chemours Discovery Hub is our flagship, state-of-the-art research facility on the University of Delaware’s STAR Campus and it is home to 130 labs and 330 employees. From its design to its culture, it is intended to foster collaboration and innovation at every turn. This enables our experts to partner with our sites and customers in ways that drive new generations of scientific and technological innovation. Our key brands and critical applications are innovated here, from evolving alternative energy storage to enabling the development of faster, smaller, and more durable technologies.

For example, we invented the Nafion™ ion exchange materials category decades ago for the chemical processing industry. Today, we continue to transform and perfect our Nafion™ membranes to play a central role in pro ducing and deploying scalable hydrogen as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Our membranes are used in both electrolyzer technologies to produce green hydrogen from water with no carbon emissions and fuel cells that convert hydrogen to energy to power transportation. As the opportunity for hydrogen grows—along with the need for our Nafion™ membranes—we continue to innovate to help meet the performance demands to make hydrogen energy more affordable and available for a new hydrogen economy. This requires close collaboration between our labs and our production lines, and often other partners across the public and private sectors.

Chemours regularly collaborates with academia, national labs, universities, and customers to gather insights and stay on the front edge of innovation. We’re continuously looking across the enterprise to see where we can accelerate innovation and new technologies where there is opportunity and customer demand.

As the industry evolves, so do the career opportunities presented. The resurgence of manufacturing has redefined job prospects in our sector and opened the door to exciting career opportunities across a spectrum of manufacturing roles. From skilled technicians to scientists and beyond, the sector

is attracting a diverse range of professionals eager to be a part of the sustainable transformation of our state and nation-wide economy.

At Chemours, we’re committed to creating a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable workforce of future STEM professionals. That means investing in our communities, nurturing talent early on, and creating more career opportunities in communities that have historically been underserved and under-resourced. We are doing this through programs like the Chemours Future of Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology (ChemFEST) School Partnership Program. By providing greater access to the sciences early on, we can help inspire students from diverse backgrounds to see a future with a greater variety of opportunities, contributing to a pipeline of the best, brightest, and most diverse talent.

Since our founding, we’ve harnessed the power of our chemistry to advance modern society, create value for our customers, promote a culture that inspires our people, improve our communities, and set a new standard for responsible manufacturing. We’re a different kind of chemistry company, one that was born to power progress and to make a difference. n

Gerardo Familiar is president of advanced performance materials at Chemours.

US Wind Is Bringing Clean Energy to Delmarva

Great manufacturing opportunities for the region

WITH 33 PROJECTS in development along the U.S. East Coast, the offshore wind industry is poised to become a major source of clean energy. These projects have the collective capacity to power almost 14 million U.S. homes with clean, renewable energy and ignite sustainable job creation and economic development for decades to come. US Wind is developing two of those projects, with the capacity for a third—all of which could deliver enough clean energy to power more than 500,000 Delmarva homes.

Today, the supply chain for offshore wind component parts is in Europe and Asia, where the industry has been growing with gusto for the past 30 years. However, most of that capacity will be dedicated to fulfilling foreign offshore wind expansion plans. Thus, to be successful here in the United States and to put more Americans to work in this emerging industry, a domestic supply chain is needed.

To help make this happen, US Wind plans to build an offshore wind factory, Sparrows Point Steel, at the former site of Bethlehem Steel in Baltimore County, Maryland. This facility—the first of its kind for

BY MIKE DUNMYER

Delmarva—will produce foundations and towers for offshore wind farms along the Eastern Seaboard and provide ample land to stage offshore wind parts. At full capacity, Sparrows Point Steel will employ more than 500 area workers, many of whom will be union laborers and employees of minorityowned businesses.

US Wind expects to make landfall and connect to the grid in Sussex County, so there will be significant sourcing from Delaware companies. This includes secondary steel, pre-cast concrete, civil engineering, earthworks, and electrical work. US Wind will invest more than $100 million to strengthen the Sussex County grid, creating opportunities for local members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The projects are also having ripple effects: Delaware Technical Community College and the University of Delaware (UD) are launching an offshore wind training academy, and UD and Delaware State University are expanding their

Left, an offshore wind turbine. Above, a rendering of what the Sparrows Point Steel facility’s interior will look like in action.

underwater robotics capabilities, with a focus on applications for offshore wind development. US Wind is engaged in both ventures and anticipates working with these schools for years to come.

Longer term, there will be more opportunities for Delaware to participate in the offshore wind industry. More marshalling ports are needed to meet the huge demand from projects between North Carolina and New York, and some locations along the Delaware Bay could be ideal. Further, Delaware has begun to evaluate whether to launch its own offshore wind procurement program, which could allow the state to facilitate major supply chain investment within its borders.

Offshore wind is the clean energy resource that can be delivered at utility scale along the East Coast and is vital to transitioning away from carbonintensive fossil fuels. Constructing, operating, and maintaining these wind farms will require thousands of skilled workers, but establishing a domestic manufacturing supply chain will have an even bigger impact on job growth. n

Mike Dunmyer is Delaware development manager at US Wind.

Did you miss the Chamber Chatter online? Here are some posts about us on social media...

@Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

@DelawareStateChamber @DEStateChamber

ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Margaret Henning: Had a great start to my day with the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce at Wilmington University Brandywine!

#ProudWildcat #WilmU #Delaware

OperaDelaware: OperaDelaware is singing across the state and gearing up for two gorgeous operas at The Grand Opera House, Wilmington DE this season.

The “Opera - Anywhere, Anytime” article is out now in the Delaware State Chamber summer edition of Delaware Business Magazine! #visitwilm #operadelaware #OperaForALL #PopUpOpera #meetopera

Emily Leach: So excited to join a wonderful group of individuals as an ambassador for Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. DSCC is a critical community leader in our small state with impressive impact! I am pleased to amplify their work and engage with community members across the state. #dscc #visacommunity

Janice Nevin MD: Great to host yesterday’s @DEStateChamber Networking Breakfast. #MedicalEducation is an essential part of how @ChristianaCare serves our community, and Dr. Neil Jasani shared some key facts about ChristianaCare’s important role as #netde’s #medicalschool.

Melissa Brayman: Fri-YAY! Kerri Welcher and I joined our friends from BELFOR Property Restoration today for the Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp!

Jason Pinder is one of our newly minted Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, and we're grateful to have him on the Committee. Do you love what we do at the Chamber? Do you think you have what it takes to be a DSCC Ambassador? We have a few more seats available, if so! To learn more, please visit: https://lnkd.in/e7Br3YDb.

Delaware Networking Station

Networking Breakfast at Food Bank of Delaware

the Food Bank of Delaware’s Newark facility, and learn about their mission to inspire hope in our communities and create long-term solutions to hunger and poverty.

$55

Oliver Yao Named Dean of the Lerner College

Oliver Yao, interim deputy provost for graduate education and associate dean for graduate programs of the College of Business at Lehigh University and esteemed business faculty member, has been appointed dean of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics.

“I am delighted to welcome Oliver Yao to UD as the next dean of the Lerner College of Business and Economics,” University President Dennis Assanis said. “As a recognized scholar with extensive administrative experience at the department, college and university levels, his demonstrated vision for academic excellence integrating research, education and impact will be an enormous asset to UD.

I look forward to our work together as we continue strengthening the identity of the Lerner College while embracing partnership and interdisciplinary opportunities across the University, including ongoing development of the Fintech ecosystem.”

Yao will be a key member of the University’s senior administrative team, responsible for leadership of the college, including the development, operation, and sustained excellence of all academic programs across its five academic departments, centers, and institutes.

Richards, Layton & Finger Elects New Firm Directors

Richards, Layton & Finger elected attorneys Robert Greco, Antonios Roustopoulos, and Brendan Schlauch as directors of the firm, effective July 1.

“We’re thrilled to promote Rob, Tony, and Brendan as directors of our firm,” says Lisa Schmidt, president of Richards Layton. “These outstanding young lawyers have demonstrated the skill, the drive, and the commitment to excellence that our clients depend on, and I know they will continue our tradition of offering innovative counsel, practical solutions, and exceptional client service.”

Robert Greco advises clients on transactions and governance matters involving Delaware corporations. His

practice includes counseling on mergers and acquisitions, internal restructurings, IPOs, equity and debt financings, dissolution, and ratification of defective corporate acts.

Tony Roustopoulos focuses on matters related to commercial real estate, ranging from simple real estate acquisitions and financings to complex business matters related to real and personal property. He represents developers, lending institutions, borrowers, landlords, tenants, and other holders of commercial property in a broad range of business, contract, and real estate matters.

Brendan Schlauch focuses his practice on corporate bankruptcy, bankruptcy litigation, corporate restructuring, and other insolvency matters. He represents debtors, prepetition and DIP lenders, purchasers, and other parties in all aspects of chapter 11 cases.

Mountaire Awards $80,000 in Scholarships

Mountaire Farms, the nation’s fourth largest chicken company,

recently awarded 32 students with $2,500 scholarships to help them pay for college. Children and grandchildren of employees, growers, and grain producers were eligible for the scholarship.

“We are proud of this program because it embraces everything that we care about – our employees, our growers, our grain producers and their families,” said Phillip Plylar, president of Mountaire Farms. “And these students have all demonstrated a commitment to their education, and to their communities, which we believe should be celebrated.”

Home Energy Assessment Incentives for Military and First Responders

Energize Delaware has opened their Assisted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program for military and first responders. That means military active duty, military retirees; firefighters; police; and EMTs receive a home energy

Brendan Schlauch

Oliver Yao

audit performed by a professional energy auditor ($450 value) for $25 and receive higher rebates on energy efficiency work that is completed.

After the energy assessment, Energize Delaware incentivizes homeowners to make the energy-efficiency upgrades with a variety of rebates after the work is completed by a program participating contractor. The rebates could be for weatherization measures such as insulation, crawlspace encapsulation, insulated siding, air sealing or duct sealing. There are also rebates for HVAC and water heating measures like adding a new heat pump, mini-splits, furnaces, heat pump and tankless water heaters, smart thermostats, whole house dehumidifiers, and more.

Renters who have an energy assessment done, have a whole house report they can share with their landlords to show them what could be done to make the house more energy efficient to reduce utility bills, improve comfort and also improve the durability of the home.

Energize Delaware also offers lowinterest loans to eligible borrowers to complete projects. Learn more at energize.delaware.org.

Harvey, Hanna & Associates Appoints COO

Harvey, Hanna & Associates, Inc. (HHA) announced that John C. Fannin III, CPP, LEEDAP, has been appointed chief operating officer for the company. The company also announced two additional promotions.

Mr. Fannin joins Harvey, Hanna & Associates after leading a distinguished career as a government official, corporate executive, successful entrepreneur, proactive

Division of Small Business Honors EDGE Winners

The Delaware Division of Small Business recognized 10 small businesses Wednesday as winners of the seventh round of the Encouraging Development, Growth and Expansion (EDGE) competition. Awardees in the latest round of the competition include a drone company in need of an indoor facility, a company developing a new product for next generation silicon solar cells, and owners looking to bring a printing and artist co-working space to Kent County.

Gov. John Carney, Deputy Secretary Kristopher Knight, and Division of Small Business Director Regina Mitchell announced the companies at an event at the Chase Field House in Wilmington, where Hx Innovations, LLC, one of this round’s winners in the STEM category, is located.

“The EDGE grant program helps small businesses get the ‘edge’ they need to expand and innovate by providing much-needed capital assistance that these businesses may not have access to otherwise,” said Governor Carney. “This program has been very successful over the last few years, and we look forward to seeing how these companies and business owners grow their businesses with their grants.”

“Small businesses in Delaware are job creators, innovators, help create economic diversity, and reduce environmental impacts,” said Deputy Secretary of State Kristopher Knight. “The EDGE grants are driven by creativity and innovation—which is reflected by the diverse array of entrepreneurs and STEMrelated businesses this round. With the help of the EDGE grants, we are fostering innovation with the necessary capital to help individuals start or expand their small business.”

business partner, and a consultant to many international organizations. Mr. Fannin’s leadership at HHA encompasses oversight and accountability of all aspects of company operations including, but not limited to, portfolio and property management, construction planning and management, marketing, customer relations, and related subsidiaries including Big Box Buildings LLC.

“John brings to HHA a proven record of leadership in sourcing and expanding alliances and identifying trends and strategies to help sustain profitable growth,” stated company Chairman E. Thomas Harvey III. “We are excited to engage John’s unrelented focus on organizational excellence,” Mr. Harvey added.

YMCA of Delaware Welcomes Tom Myers

After an extensive search, the YMCA of Delaware is excited to name Tom Myers as the organization’s new chief development officer. Myers comes to the Y with 20 years of experience in youth development, education, community engagement, and philanthropy, and has a proven track record of helping the Y expand its reach and increase impact.

“I am truly grateful for this opportunity to work hand-in-hand with the passionate staff and volunteers of the YMCA of Delaware to advance our mission,” expressed Myers. “I’m inspired by our team’s commitment to improving the health of our Y communities, their dedication to fostering pathways for success for our young people, and their

John C. Fannin III, CPP, LEEDAP

efforts to help individuals and families gain economic stability. I’m eager to help elevate this important work, in collaboration with our partners and community leaders, to support the wellbeing and prosperity of all children, teens, and adults across Delaware.”

In his new role, Tom will lead the YMCA of Delaware’s Development team to spearhead mission advancement, corporate partnership, and organizational fundraising initiatives to expand the reach and transformative impact of the Y.

New College Level Esports Certificate Prepares Gamers for a Competitive Industry

This fall, Wilmington University will offer a certificate for serious gamers who want to take their talents to the next level.

The new 18-credit, 100%-online certificate—the first in Delaware—was created in partnership with Futures First Gaming (FFG). It can stand alone, or its credits can count toward an associate or bachelor’s degree. The certificate combines six credits of esports-specific coursework, including esports events and production and esports and data, with nine credits of industry skill-based curriculum that will provide students with many flexible career opportunities.

“Three billion people worldwide are identifying as gamers,” says Stephen Sye, CEO of Futures First Gaming. “I like to say, ‘Gaming’s the carrot, but the learning is the nugget.’ This is an opportunity for both students and parents to really understand that their children can pursue their passions and still be successful.”

“This is a growing industry that we are proud

to be a part of,” said Matthew Wilson, Ed.D., program chair and a director of the College of Education and Liberal Arts. “WilmU has a new esports lab and its competitive esports teams are participating in events we host with FFG, so we see this as the next logical step.”

“It’s not just the fact that you’re getting into the field of esports,” agrees Christian Broderick, WilmU’s head esports coach, who will also teach Intro to Esports Events and Production. “The certificate’s courses develop various skills that can transfer into other types of careers like data analyst, network engineer, social media manager, or program coordinator.”

ChristianaCare Launches Speakers Bureau

ChristianaCare has launched a new speakers bureau that makes it easier than ever for community and professional organizations to request health experts as guest speakers at an event or meeting.

“At ChristianaCare, our mission of service to the community includes a commitment to provide timely, accurate health information so that people can make informed decisions about their health,” said Karen Browne, vice president of marketing and communications.

“Through our new speakers bureau, we’ve expanded our capacity to meet these needs in the community.”

Designed using technology from ExpertFile, the speakers bureau website provides easy discovery and access to experts, including their bios, downloadable photographs, samples of past presentations, languages spoken and more.

To request a speaker, visit: www. christianacare.org/speakers. To request ChristianaCare’s participation in health fairs or other community events, contact ChristianaCare’s Community Health team at christianacare.org/us/en/wellness/ community-health.

Offit Kurman Expands Wilmington Office

Offit Kurman announced that Christopher Coggins and Michael DeSantis have joined the firm’s Wilmington office. The firm continues to expand its Delaware presence, which now includes thirteen attorneys.

Christopher Coggins joins as principal in the firm’s commercial litigation practice group, with a concentration on disputes between stockholders and corporate directors, LLC members and managers, business owners and trustees and beneficiaries in Delaware’s Court of Chancery.

Michael DeSantis joins as counsel in the firm’s labor and employment practice group. A seasoned litigator and trial attorney, DeSantis spent over a decade working as litigation counsel for a large insurance corporation in Delaware.

Nemours Children’s Health Announces Chief Research Informatics Officer

Eric Hall, PhD, MBA, was appointed chief research informatics officer (CRIO) at Nemours Children’s Health. In the newly created role, Dr. Hall will oversee all aspects of research information technology and data science across the enterprise. He will also supervise the Biomedical Research Informatics Center based in the Delaware Valley and other research informatics services to bridge the gap between data analytics, science and health care. Dr. Hall will

work to increase data sharing and multiinstitutional collaboration, advance analytic capabilities and manage data governance activities.

“Dr. Eric Hall’s arrival marks an exciting chapter in the ongoing growth and progress of research methodologies at Nemours Children’s Health. The CRIO will serve as a champion for leveraging cutting-edge technology and the power of data analytics to accelerate research outcomes,” said Mark Mumford, executive vice president and enterprise chief operating officer at Nemours Children’s Health.

“I am honored to join Nemours Children’s Health where I have the opportunity to combine my passion for research and my dedication to pediatric healthcare,” Dr. Hall said. “My goal in this position is to drive discoveries that change lives and help to create the healthiest generations of children by harnessing the power of data, technology and collaboration.”

The Grand to Hold Over 50 Performances

The Grand is thrilled to open another season starting September 6 with the Byrds co-founder and acclaimed guitarist Roger McGuinn. Highlights of the 20232024 season’s currently announced line up include: seasoned singer-songwriters Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt Together on Stage (October 5); beloved Disney Junior characters and your favorite Marvel Superheroes are live on stage in Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza! (September 26); comedians Tig Notaro (September 17), David Sedaris (April 5), and Lewis Black Live (May 2); a celebration of world music and culture with the Pedrito Martinez Group (September 29) and Tablao Flamenco (September 30); Broadway legends Alan Cumming (October 28) and Sutton Foster (March 2); and more!

The Grand’s Broadway in Wilmington series at The Playhouse on Rodney Square opens in October with the North American tour of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic story, PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL (October 13-15). In March, the ‘Rhythm is Gonna Get You’ with ON YOUR FEET!, which follows the lives of Cuban-American musicians Emilio and Gloria Estefan and their rise to stardom (March 7-10). The smash-hit musical COME FROM AWAY arrives in April, telling the inspiring true story of a small town that welcomed the world (April 19-21). Just in time for Mother’s Day, LITTLE WOMEN: The Musical brings Louisa May Alcott’s classic story to life on stage (May 9-12). The Broadway season is rounded out with the heartwarming holiday rock ‘n’ roll musical MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS (November 17-19) and the feel good family-favorite ANNIE (January 5-7).

“We are so excited to welcome the community to The Grand this season. There is absolutely something for everyone” says Pamelyn Manocchio, executive director. “It is our sincere hope that we continue the rich history of this historic building as Delaware’s home for the performing arts and place to create lasting memories.”

Tickets are now on sale to the general public and can be purchased online at TheGrandWilmington.org or by calling 302-652-5577 or 302-888-0200.

Enstructure, GT USA Complete Transfer of Port of Wilmington Operations

Enstructure, a leading U.S. marine terminal and logistics company, and GT USA Wilmington (GT USA) completed the transfer of operations at the Port of Wilmington to Enstructure. Enstructure was selected by the Diamond State Port Corporation (DSPC) and the State of Delaware as the new operator at the Port of Wilmington

and to collaborate with the DSPC on the potential expansion at Edgemoor.

“Enstructure is excited to partner with the DSPC and begin operations at the Port of Wilmington, where we will bring our experience in national and local markets, best-inclass service, and comprehensive terminal and logistics solutions to our customers,” said Matthew Satnick and Philippe De Montigny, co-CEOs of Enstructure. “Additionally, we will be working alongside the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), the Delaware Building and Construction Trades Council, and the Teamsters to grow operations at the Port, revitalize Port facilities and infrastructure, and maximize economic development and union job growth opportunities along the way, all while improving the experience for the long-standing customers of the Port of Wilmington. We are also excited to continue working with the DSPC to bring the potential Edgemoor development project to life.”

Peter Richards, CEO of Gulftainer, stated that “GT Americas has decided to step away from the development of the Port of Wilmington.” He continued, “Whilst the significant contributions made by Gulftainer in Wilmington over the last 4.5 years have been fully recognized by all stakeholders and have embellished Gulftainer’s successful track record of creating highly productive port operations, the evolved economic conditions and future financial viability did not meet our threshold for continued investment. Adhering to strict financial discipline has been central to the success of Gulftainer over the years. When investing in trade infrastructure and services, our goal is to serve our global customers and we remain committed to investing in the right projects worldwide, that have an appetite for foreign direct investment.”

CALL THE CHAMBER

The State Chamber of Commerce staff works for you, serving our member companies and organizations statewide. This State Chamber staff directory lists phone numbers and email addresses, as well as individual areas of responsibility. If you need business assistance or information, please don’t hesitate to call.

Michael J. Quaranta President (302) 576-6585

mquaranta@dscc.com

Kelly Basile Vice President, Strategic Communications (302) 576-6564 kbasile@dscc.com

Melissa Brayman Office Administrator (302) 576-6572

mbrayman@dscc.com

Regina Donato Manager, Program & Communications (302) 576-6567

rdonato@dscc.com

Ken Evans Account Executive (302) 576-6576 kevans@dscc.com

Tyler Micik Director, Public Policy & Government Relations (302) 576-6590 tmicik@dscc.com

Fred Miller Advertising/Retention (302) 576-6579

fmiller2@dscc.com

Helana Rodriguez Director, The Partnership, Inc. (302) 576-6575 hrodriguez@dscc.com

Matt Volk Digital Advertising Sales (302) 576-6571

mvolk@dscc.com

Kerri Welcher Events Manager (302) 576-6566 kwelcher@dscc.com

1201 N. Orange Street, P.O. Box 671

Wilmington, DE 19899-0671

(302) 655-7221

www.dscc.com

Facebook: DelawareStateChamber

Twitter: DEStateChamber

Linkedin: Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

YouTube: DEStateChamber

Amanda Schimmel Manager, Marketing & Accounting aschimmel@dscc.com

The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting an economic climate that strengthens the competitiveness of Delaware businesses and benefits citizens of the state. Founded in 1837 as the Wilmington Board of Trade, the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce has a long history as the largest, most influential business organization in the state. The State Chamber is uniquely positioned to bring parties together to solve problems, create jobs, promote business, and improve the quality of life for all Delawareans.

SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE

Small Business, Great Big Event

SPONSORS:

Platinum:

M&T Bank

Diamond:

Bank of America

Kuehne Company

TD Bank

Weiner Benefits Group, LLC

Whisman Giordano & Associates, LLC

Wilmington University

Gold:

Aloysius Butler & Clark

Artesian Water Company

Artisans’ Bank

Belfint, Lyons & Shuman, CPAs

Boulden Brothers

ChristianaCare

Cover & Rossiter

CSC

Delaware Athletics, Community & Campus Recreation

Delaware Division of Small Business

milliCare Floor & Textile Care

PNC Bank

Verdantas

WSFS Bank

Silver:

Assurance Media, LLC

Bumpers & Company

Delaware Cadillac, Delaware Subaru & Kia of Wilmington

DiSabatino Construction Company

EDiS Company

Environmental Alliance, Inc.

FideliTrade, Incorporated

Goldey-Beacom College

MySherpa

Peter Gilman & Family

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Delaware

Santora CPA Group

Bronze:

Janssen’s Market

Schlosser & Associates Mechanical Contractors

Sunday Breakfast Mission

Media:

Delaware Business Times

Delaware Today

NOVEMBER 8, 2023

HOTEL DU PONT, Gold Ballroom

Wilmington, Delaware

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

BRIAN DISABATINO

President & CEO EDiS Company

REGISTER:

Sponsorship opportunities are available

Contact Kerri Welcher at kwelcher@dscc.com or (302) 576-6566 for more information