Business Magazine - June 2024

DEPARTMENTS EVENTS

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FEATURES

WHAT’S INSIDE | FEATURED STORY

3 THANK A FAMILY BUSINESS

They are the unsung heroes of our economy, communities.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

4 SEAWAY MANUFACTURING CORP. Family owned business celebrates 65 years of quality, craftmanship and unwavering customer service.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | GENERATIONS

7 Tricia Staible, president and general counsel of Zelienople-based Robinson Fans, a prominent manufacturer of custom engineered and designed industrial fans, shares her thoughts on leading a family owned business that has excelled in its industry for the past 132 years.

EDITORIAL

LEGAL BRIEF | WORTH NOTING

9 Corporate formalities: A necessary checklist for family businesses.

Kyle E. Gallo

COMPANY PROFILES | INDUSTRY

11 Plyler Entry Systems: A family legacy of quality and service excellence.

15 Industrial Sales & Mfg., Inc.: Three-generation leader in contract manufacturing for 57 years.

19 Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency : Agency announces addition of two new staff associates.

INSERT | TRAINING CATALOG

Executive Editor

Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org

Contributing Writers

Tracy Daggett

Kim Figurski

Kyle E. Gallo

Carl Marrara

Feature Photography R. Frank Media

Seaway Manufacturing Corp. Tungsten Creative

Additional Photography iStockPhoto.com

Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. info@printingconceptsonline.com

Advertising Sales

Shawn Netkowicz snetkowicz@mbausa.org

Frank Mehler fmehler@mbausa.org

Judy Rosatti jrosatti@mbausa.org

Patty Welther pwelther@mbausa.org

On the Cover: Chairman Michael Goodrich, CEO Jana Goodrich and President Patrick Goodrich stand in front of Seaway Manufacturing Corp. in Erie, Pennsylvania. The family owned company, known for its vinyl replacement windows, patio doors and sunrooms, is marking its 65th year in 2024. See full story, page 4.

Mission Statement: “We are dedicated to

and delivering

and

that help businesses solve problems and succeed.” – Board of Governors

Manufacturer & Business Association

Headquarters: 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508 Pittsburgh: 850 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 2224 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 814/833-3200 | 800/815-2660 | mbausa.org

See all the new computer, HR and professional development training courses available at the Manufacturer & Business Association.

ON THE HILL | CONSIDER THIS

17 Shapiro’s science fiction fantasy equals bad energy policy for Pennsylvania. Carl Marrara

Thank a Family Business

They Are the Unsung Heroes of Our Economy, Communities

While they may not always grab the spotlight, the contributions of family businesses are profound and certainly worthy of celebration. These enterprises, spanning generations and rooted in tradition, are often the unsung heroes of our economy and communities.

Family businesses are the true backbone of our economy. From mom-and-pop shops to multi-generational enterprises, these businesses create jobs, stimulate economic growth and foster innovation. They often prioritize quality over quantity, offering personalized services and products that resonate deeply with their communities. In doing so, they cultivate loyalty and trust among customers, keeping dollars circulating within local economies.

In most cases, family businesses embody a unique set of values that extend far beyond profit margins. Built on a foundation of hard work, integrity and resilience, these businesses are deeply ingrained in the fabric of the communities in which they operate. They sponsor local events, support charitable causes, and serve as mentors to aspiring entrepreneurs. Their commitment to giving back not only enriches the lives of those they serve but also fosters a sense of belonging and interconnectedness.

Family businesses also play a crucial role in preserving our history. Passed down

from one generation to the next, they carry with them the stories, customs and values of their founders. Whether it’s a neighborhood bakery renowned for its secret recipes or a centuries-old manufacturer, these businesses share lasting legacies within our communities. By supporting these enterprises, we not only bolster our local economies but also preserve the unique identities that make our communities vibrant and resilient.

In this issue of the MBA Business Magazine, we want to recognize the many family owned businesses that make up our diverse membership. These companies may not always make headlines, but their impact on our economy and communities is nothing short of extraordinary.

In fact, in this special issue, we are proud to feature the Goodrich family, owners of Seaway Manufacturing Corp. in Erie, which is marking its 65th anniversary in 2024. We’ll also hear from Tricia Staible, one of the MBA’s newest Board members,

about her family business Robinson Fans, which has been operating in Zelienople, Pennsylvania for more than 130 years.

Be sure to check out our expert articles from area attorneys, training professionals and HR consultants on topics such as corporate formalities for family businesses, and ways to recruit and retain top talent in small and large businesses alike.

Plus, don’t miss this month’s Training Catalog featuring all the new computer, HR and professional development training classes that the MBA has to offer.

The MBA is proud of the many contributions made by our members, especially those that are family owned. Thank you for all that you do for your families, businesses, teams, industry, economy and community — and so much more!

To learn more about the programs and services that can help your organization prosper and grow, visit mbausa.org

THE MBA APPRECIATES YOU!

alking through the 100,000-squarefoot factory where Seaway Manufacturing Corp. makes its signature home improvement products, you’ll find innovation and craftsmanship at work.

Here, in its home base of Erie, Pennsylvania, Seaway Manufacturing specializes in producing vinyl replacement windows, patio doors and sunrooms for builders, contractors and specialty home improvement remodelers in 25 states along the Eastern seaboard and west. In addition, its subsidiary, Seaway Window, sells and installs Seaway products and those not directly manufactured in its plants (entry doors, awnings — stationary and retractable — and other products) directly to homeowners and businesses in the Greater Erie region.

The Goodrich family, owners of Seaway, are proud of the investment they’ve made in their production facilities and their employees to create the high-quality products for which they’re known.

“Our differentiator has always been our quality and performance,” explains President Patrick Goodrich. “We are not a low-cost supplier and prefer to provide high-quality, long-lasting products for a fair price.”

This unwavering commitment to excellence — by the Goodriches, their team members and independent dealers — is one of the reasons for Seaway’s continued success as it marks 65 years of operation in 2024.

“A milestone like this is really a proud moment for all of us,” explains Chief Executive Officer Jana Goodrich. “We have pride in our products and our people, and to have that kind of longevity as a family focused business is very special. It’s a real achievement to have been able to provide solid, sustainable living wages to our employees who, along with our loyal and diverse dealer network, we consider ‘Seaway family.’ ”

A PROUD HISTORY

Seaway started as a partnership in 1959 when Robert J. Goodrich joined

Family Owned Business Celebrates 65 Years of Quality, Craftsmanship and Service

his former supplier and friend Gene Friedman to form Seaway Aluminum in Erie’s EBCO Park. Over the next 10 years, Seaway and its product offering continued to grow and relocated to its present home — which includes two facilities occupying 130,000 square feet — at 2250 East 33rd Street in 1965. When Friedman passed away, the Goodrich family became sole owners of Seaway in 1969, with Michael, Robert’s son and U.S. Navy veteran, taking over leadership of the company in 1993. The Michael and Jana Goodrich family, including children Christine Goodrich Blashock and Patrick Goodrich, assumed full ownership in 2005.

Michael Goodrich is credited with the wellrecognized and sought-after aesthetic design of Seaway’s premium window line. Now retired after a more than 40-year career, Michael serves as chairman of the board, while Jana

and Patrick lead Seaway day-to-day. Jana joined Seaway in 2010 as vice president, taking on greater roles and responsibilities leading to her current position as CEO.

Featured as a CEO to Watch in 2022’s Family Business Magazine and in Door & Window Market Magazine in 2014, Jana Goodrich has been recognized with numerous awards in her professional ventures. Prior to Seaway, she served as a territory marketing representative for Xerox and as a systems engineer for IBM. She also founded and ran a management consulting firm and was a professor at Penn State Behrend.

Patrick, who earned his mechanical engineering degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, “started” at Seaway three times — first as a student sweeping floors, then as an installer and again in 2012 when he became operations engineer, paving the way to operations manager, vice president of operations, chief operating officer, and his current role as president. He previously worked as an applications engineer

 (Above) Partners Eugene Friedman and Robert J. Goodrich

The

sole

and

 (Seaway Manufacturing Corp. employs a team of 80 professionals, many of whom are shown here with (front row) President Patrick Goodrich, CEO Jana Goodrich and Chairman Michael Goodrich.

founded Seaway in 1959.

Robert J. Goodrich family took over

ownership of the company in 1969, with the Michael

Jana Goodrich family assuming full ownership in 2005. (Left) Shown here are some of the station wagons and trucks used by Seaway in its early days. (Right) Today, Seaway Manufacturing is owned and operated by the Goodrich family. From left are: CEO Jana Goodrich, President Patrick Goodrich (seated) and Chairman Michael Goodrich.

WINDOWS

 Seaway Manufacturing is an industry leader in producing high-quality home improvement products, including vinyl replacement windows, sunrooms and patio doors. Its subsidiary, Seaway Window, sells and installs Seaway products and those not directly manufactured in its plants to homeowners and businesses in the Greater Erie region.

for a Fortune 500 company and spent two years supporting the window, door and glass industries as an application engineer for FeneTech. Together, the Goodriches bring extensive knowledge and experience to their business and their industry. They also wear many hats and share responsibility for all major decisions at the company — both strategic and operational — as they transition from one generation to the next. “Being able to work with family every day is great and strengthens the family. It can have its challenges, but you know you have someone to count on in family,” explains Patrick. “Our success has been based on our tradition of working hard on what we have and always looking to the future.”

Determination, perseverance, long hours, trust and a deep faith guide the Goodriches, along with a practical approach to leadership. “Hire good people who are experts at what they do and let them shine,” Michael adds.

Indeed, the Goodriches credit their 80 dedicated and often long-tenured employees as a big factor in Seaway’s success. “They care greatly about quality and about making sure everything is right when a product goes out the door,” states Jana. “They are knowledgeable and eagerly train newer employees to carry on the traditions of excellence we’ve always maintained.”

Investing in its team and cutting-edge technology, Seaway has continued to push the boundaries of craftsmanship and product innovation in product design, materials and glass coatings, solidifying its position as an industry leader for the next generation of homeowners. Most recently, Seaway invested roughly $1 million in high-tech equipment to support a new window line for the growing new construction, multifamily market — largely three-to-five story rental housing — and residential remodeling.

automation is designed to ensure consistent quality. Human operators can be found throughout each line to handle and inspect for quality at each stage of production.

LOYAL CUSTOMERS AND DEALERS

Perhaps the true measure of Seaway’s success lies not only in its products and robust warranty, but from its loyal customers and selective network of independent specialty home improvement dealers in the Eastern and Midwest United States — which includes many family owned businesses as well.

A proud Seaway dealer, John Hogan, president of WSA (Weather Sealco of Ashtabula) Inc., a thirdgeneration home improvement installer/retailer, can attest to the 65-year relationship with Seaway and what he describes as the best product in the marketplace for vinyl replacement windows.

“There’s a lot of trust that’s been built up over the years, and that’s a great part of our relationship. But No. 1 is the quality of the product, which is why we continue to buy from them. Their customer service is also exceptional due to the family feel we get when we talk with their employees.”

It’s a sentiment shared by Sean Noonan, owner of Central Mass Sunrooms in Auburn, Massachusetts. Noonan, who started his business in 2008 when his former employer decided to close, immediately reached out to several sunroom companies to find a good supplier. He initially worked with Jana and Michael, and eventually Pat, who happened to go to the same college as Noonan’s nephew who is also in the business.

lot of breadth for the next generation.”

LASTING LEGACY

From its founding principles of integrity and quality to its embrace of innovation and technology, Seaway’s lasting legacy is that of the Goodrich family. As the owners look to the future, they do so with optimism, confidence and a deep sense of pride.

“Our focus on industry-leading products, consistent premium quality manufacturing and unsurpassed service remains at the top of our list, as well as providing a great place to work for our team,” notes Jana. “We will continue to pursue controlled growth with a focus on constantly building for the future, allowing us to maintain and extend our long tradition as both an employer and as a supporter of the Greater Erie community.”

For more information, visit seawaymfg.com or seawaywindow.com.

The Goodriches say their products are “high touch, high tech,” meaning that they work hard to incorporate the latest technology, but never at the expense of quality, aesthetics, performance or durability. Although they utilize hightech automation in production, Seaway’s

“It’s been a wonderful relationship, and I would assume they would say the same. We’re one of their only Northeast sunroom-only companies, and we’ve kind of stuck with that just because we’ve specialized in it,” Noonan says. “But it always comes down to the product. Most everyone, once they have our product, they love it, which is Seaway’s product.”

Ken Mariotti, owner and president of Woodland Windows & Doors, also a family owned business, located in the Chicago suburb of Roselle, Illinois, has been a Seaway dealer for close to 20 years. Mariotti can attest to the quality, design, features and warranty of Seaway products. He is equally impressed with the company’s leadership, now working with Patrick Goodrich. “He’s an engineer, so he understands the details of how product relates to wall construction, how it relates to how it integrates with the home. Any time I had questions, Patrick was quick to respond and added a lot of value to any scope of project that I worked on. He brings a

Seaway’s commitment to the region begins with its history of employing local craftspeople and extends to its involvement both past and present in numerous civic and charitable organizations, including:

• National Glass Association

• National Sunroom Association

• Manufacturer & Business Association

• United Way’s associated groups Erie Women’s Fund and Erie Women United

• City of Erie–Mayor’s Business Council

• Penn State Behrend–Black School of Business Advisory Council and Council of Fellows

• Penn State Behrend Center for Family Business

• Donations and support to numerous local organizations

 Seaway is a high-tech, high-touch manufacturer that continues to invest in its employees and equipment, supplying products to 25 states.

WINDOWS ~ DOORS ~ SUNROOMS

TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS BUSINESS BANKING

Wm. T. Spaeder is a family-owned company providing comprehensive mechanical contracting, commercial and residential HVAC and plumbing, and electrical contracting services.

Founded in Erie in 1914, the company has expanded into Pittsburgh and Buffalo and is now owned and operated by the fourth generation of the family.

Over the last century, Spaeder has continued to evolve, keeping up with the skilled trades and technology needed to meet the demands of their changing markets.

“We needed a bank we could count on to be responsive to our needs,”

says Mary Kay Reber, CFO. “We appreciate that decisions affecting the success of our business are made locally by people who know and understand us. Marquette listens and has become an excellent partner with quick turnaround.”

According to Jay Spaeder, CEO, “When looking for a new financial partner, we found Marquette to be a great fit for us. Our company values family, our hometown and giving back to the community — just like Marquette.”

Talk with us at 814-455-4481. Or to learn more visit MarquetteSavings.bank/Business

Pictured from left, Jeff Holloway, Operations Manager; Jay Spaeder, CEO; Mary Kay Reber, CFO; and Steve Eastbourn, Preconstruction Manager

Robinson Fans President Shares Legacy, Leadership of Zelienople-Based Company

Family owned businesses serve as the cornerstone of the American economy due to their significant contribution to job creation, innovation and community development. Their resilience, commitment to quality and focus on long-term success embody the spirit of entrepreneurship that has been fundamental to America’s economic growth and prosperity. Here, Tricia Staible, president and general counsel of Zelienople-based Robinson Fans, a prominent manufacturer of custom engineered and designed industrial fans, shares her thoughts on leading a family owned business that has excelled in its industry for the past 132 years.

Robinson Fans has more than 130 years of experience in building air solutions. Tell us how the company got its start. The Robinson Family has always had ties to the coal-mining industry. In 1863, Samuel Robinson and his son, JR, moved from the United Kingdom to the United States where Samuel was a coal-mining designer. Samuel and JR worked together to design the very first mine ventilation fan. They then acquired a machine company in 1892 and began building equipment for the coalmining industry along with fans.

In addition to being a savvy businesswoman, you are also a lawyer and joined the family business, becoming its sixth-generation president and general counsel. What led to your decision to take over for your father at age 36?

I joined the company in 2008 after a stint at a law firm. I wanted to be a part of building a team. I had the opportunity to learn the business from a lot of different angles over the last eight years. Eventually, my dad and

the board determined I was ready to step into the role of president and continue to lead the Robinson team.

What do you enjoy most about running your family’s business?

Being a part of a team that works to build the foundation of the economy.

Innovation and diversification are critical to long-term success. Describe Robinson Fans’ operations, equipment and diverse product line today.

We now have three different companies under the Robinson name — Fans, Service and Machine. Fans has operations in Florida, Utah and Pennsylvania. Service has operations in Alabama and Pennsylvania, and Machine is headquartered in Florida.

We build fans for every heavy industrial process, anything from food production to cement to oil refining. Our Service team is available anywhere around the world to troubleshoot and install or remove industrial processing equipment. The Machine Company has extensive machining

and fabricating capabilities but also specializes in welding pressure vessels and structural pipe.

In your opinion, what is the secret to Robinson Fans’ continued success as a family owned business?

We have committed to building a culture at Robinson that empowers all of our teammates to feel like family. Because everyone is invested in our success, it allows us all to best serve our customers.

What’s next for Robinson Fans in 2024?

Our goals are always aligned with our desired outcomes as a company — to be a safe, engaged and improving team working toward a high quality, on time, waste-free flow.

What’s the best way to learn more about the company?

To learn more about Robinson Fans, visit robinsonfans.com.

Securing Legacy: Navigating

Succession in Family Owned Businesses

Planning for the transfer of the business and its value from one generation of family members to the next is of critical importance to both the future of the next generation and legacy of the current generation. Regardless of whether the succession from one generation to the next is achieved by sale, gift, or some combination of the two, or on whether instead the business will be sold to a third party, MacDonald Illig attorneys have the experience to guide a Family Owned Business through the legal, non-legal, and tax consequences of family succession.

We have over 45 attorneys that practice in numerous areas of law, including:

BANKING & FINANCE BANKRUPTCY & CREDITORS’ RIGHTS

BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS CHARITABLE & NONPROFIT

ORGANIZATIONS CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION

ENVIRONMENTAL & ENERGY

FAMILY LAW

GOVERNMENT SERVICES

FAMILY OWNED BUSINESSES & TECHNOLOGY

HEALTH CARE

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION MANUFACTURING

REAL ESTATE TAX PLANNING & REPRESENTATION

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS TRUSTS & ESTATES

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

Michael Bishop Thomas Buseck Colleen Stumpf John Lauer Janine McClintic Michael Micsky Brian Cressman

Scott Wallen Craig Shamburg

Michael Thomas Kyle Gallo

Jim Walczak Jim Spoden

Emilie Reinhardt

Corporate Formalities: A Necessary Checklist for Family Owned Businesses

Kyle E. Gallo is an associate at MacDonald Illig Attorneys. He is a member of the Firm’s Trusts & Estates and Business Transactions Practice Groups.

An owner-operator of a family owned business often wears many hats (CEO, HR director, sales manager, copy machine repairman, chief coffee maker, etc.). While doing all of these tasks, it is important to also remember to obey the corporate formalities in order to preserve the liability protections afforded to the shareholders and directors of the Corporation.

At a minimum, the Corporation should have a meeting of the shareholders and a meeting of the directors at least annually. The shareholders are the individuals that own the Corporation. They are not entitled to serve as an officer or employee of the Corporation merely because they are a shareholder, nor are they entitled to any form of compensation for being a shareholder. Shareholders are only entitled to receive annual financial statements and distributions of income when determined appropriate by the Board of Directors (the “Board”).

The main function of the shareholders is to vote on certain corporate matters. The most fundamental voting right of the shareholders is to appoint the Board. The manner in which nominations are made and elections carried out are generally set forth in the Bylaws. In addition to appointing the Board, shareholders are entitled, by statute, to vote on certain other corporate matters (e.g. adopt, amend or repeal Bylaws, ratify or request Board actions and remove Board members).

Once the shareholders have elected the Board, the Board is responsible for creating and executing a plan for the overall success for the Corporation. The Board approves the annual budget, approves the compensation of the president, and helps establish the short- and long-term goals for the Corporation. Directors on the Board may or may not be compensated for serving.

In addition to crafting the vision of the Corporation, the Board is responsible for the appointment of officers (president, secretary, treasurer). The officers serve at the direction of the Board and manage the day-to-day operations of the Corporation. Officers are typically compensated for the services they provide to the Corporation.

In many small family owned businesses, the individual owner-operator acts as the shareholder, director and the president, secretary and treasurer.

While this structure is the simplest from an operational standpoint, it can have negative consequences for the Corporation. For example, if something unexpected happens to the owneroperator, the Corporation may be left without the ability to issue checks, make payroll or carry-on any form of business.

A sound understanding of the various roles individuals can serve in the Corporation also allows the owner-operator to begin developing a succession plan. Over time, the owner-operator can appoint officers to the Corporation that he or she believes can operate the business in the owner-operator’s absence. The officers can work with the owner-operator to manage the day-to-day operations of the business, all while the owneroperator evaluates the capabilities of the individuals. These individuals can be terminated by the Board at any time.

In addition, the owner-operator can appoint individuals to the Board in a formal or strictly advisory capacity to help with bigpicture matters impacting the Corporation. These individuals might be family members or outsiders with expertise in particular areas that can benefit the Corporation. These individuals can be removed from the Board by the shareholder.

When the owner-operator believes it is time to formally transition the business, he or she can begin transferring shares to the successor or successors. The new shareholders, once they have a majority of the shares, are then responsible for appointing the Board and continuing the legacy of the Corporation.

Utilizing the corporate formalities and a staged approach to a transition allows the owner-operator to identify and evaluate successors, sets up an emergency succession plan, and can defer the actual sale or transition of the Corporation until the owner-operator is confident his or her wishes for the Corporation will be carried out.

For more information, contact MacDonald Illig Attorneys at 814/870-7600 or info@mijb.com.

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COMPANY PROFILE

Erie 8850 Fry Road McKean, PA 16426

814/476-7717

Hadley

2357 Perry Highway Hadley, PA 16130

724/253-3564

Jamestown

1884 Mason Drive Jamestown, NY 14701

716/296-0595

Website: PlylerEntry.com #29639

A Family Legacy of Quality and Service Excellence

Throughout the last half century, three generations of the Plyler family have positioned Plyler Entry Systems as a market leader in commercial and residential entry systems in the region.

The company is committed to delivering top-tier installations, maintenance and support — ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction for a range of products, including garage doors, entry doors and windows.

Building a Legacy

Plyler Entry Systems, originally known as Plyler

Overhead Door, was established in 1967 by Ernie Plyler. The company started as a small, family-owned business focused on delivering high-quality residential garage doors.

Jeff Plyler joined the business in 1978 and later took over leadership, expanding the company’s service areas while maintaining a focus on service excellence.

Today, Plyler Entry Systems is owned and operated by the third generation: Justin Plyler, Jordan Plyler and Paige Boesch. They bring a deep understanding of the company’s history and values, and continue the legacy while introducing new perspectives and modern strategies to adapt to a changing market.

With the area’s largest fleet of service trucks, Plyler Entry Systems now serves the communities of Erie and Hadley, Pennsylvania, and Jamestown, New York, with the same focus on customer service established by Ernie more than 50 years ago.

Expanded Residential and Commercial Product Lines

Plyler Entry Systems specializes in sales, service and installation of residential fixtures such as garage doors; openers; entry, patio and storm doors; windows and retractable awnings.

Commercial clients rely on Plyler’s expertise for overhead sectional and coiling doors, gate operators and loading dock levelers, in addition to hollow metal products including division 8 doors and windows, as well as division 10 specialty products.

Focused on Safety

Plyler Entry Systems ensures compliance and promotes a proactive safety culture through regular safety committee meetings, industry training sessions and professional certifications. The company invests in the right equipment for the job and the Plylers believe their number one asset is their employees. “When our employees know their value, it reflects in their quality of work and willingness to get the job done in a safe, professional manner,” says Jordan Plyler.

An Experienced Team of Technicians

The International Door Association’s IDEA certification recognizes individuals who demonstrate an exceptional level of knowledge on technical, regulatory and safety issues. Plyler Entry Systems is proud to have IDEA-certified technicians as part of its expert teams.

Plyler’s experienced, in-house and fully trained installation technicians deliver the high level of friendly service customers have come to expect from the company.

Award-Winning Service

In 2023, Plyler Entry Systems was recognized by the International Door Association as one of the top door dealers throughout the United States and Canada. Plyler ranked 23rd in Top 50 Door Dealers Residential and 15th in Top 50 Door Dealers Commercial. The Plylers are proud of the hard work and dedication of their incredible team. “Their commitment to excellence has truly set us apart in the industry,” says Justin.

Justin Plyler, VP, Finance

Jordan Plyler, VP, Sales/Service

Paige Boesch, VP, Marketing

AHN CUTS RIBBON FOR NEW SPORTS MEDICINE AND PERFORMANCE PAVILION AT ERIE SPORTS CENTER

Officials from Allegheny Health Network (AHN) and Highmark Health recently cut the ribbon to a state-of-the-art $6.5 million sports medicine and sports performance training facility at the Erie Sports Center. They were joined by community leaders, elected officials and area coaches and athletes to celebrate the opening of the new AHN Pavilion, located at 8161 Oliver Road in Summit Township, ushering in a new era of advanced clinical care and sports performance training for athletes of all ages across in the northwest Pennsylvania region.

Located adjacent to the Erie Sports Center’s domed indoor athletic field, the AHN Pavilion is a 14,000-square-foot facility staffed by AHN’s nationally recognized sports medicine team, including orthopedic surgeon Jay Deimel, M.D., director of sports medicine at AHN’s Saint Vincent Hospital; sports medicine primary care physicians Jeff Kim, D.O., Philip St. Julien, D.O.; and Dominic Vanchieri, D.O.; and numerous athletic trainers, strength and conditioning specialists and sports physical therapists.

Together, the AHN team will provide a spectrum of services at the location for athletes and active adults, including physician appointments, care management, physical/occupational

therapy and sports rehabilitation, concussion management, strength training, conditioning, speed, agility, and recovery services. Onsite X-ray is also available to support rapid assessment of injuries and the development of comprehensive treatment plans that put patients on the right path to recovery.

“AHN has a long history of providing the people of western Pennsylvania with outstanding orthopaedic and sports medicine services — from developing athletes and active

adults to Olympic hopefuls and some of the top professionals in the world,” said Patrick DeMeo, M.D., chair, AHN Orthopedic Institute and medical director of the Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Club.

The new AHN Pavilion is the anchor tenant of the multi-sports complex that Erie Sports Center owner Troy Bingham is currently transforming into one of the nation’s preeminent destinations for advanced athletic training and competition. For more information, visit ahn.org.

The $6.5 million sports medicine and sports performance training facility at the Erie Sports Center in Erie, Pennsylvania is now open.

TRAINING @ THE MBA

JULY CLASS LOCATIONS

All courses are held at the MBA Conference Center in Erie, unless otherwise noted.

Cranberry Twp. MBA Pittsburgh Office RLA Learning & Conference Center 850 Cranbery Woods Drive, Suite 2224

Erie MBA Conference Center 2171 West 38th Street

Meadville Holiday Inn Express 18240 Conneaut Lake Road

St. Marys Community Education Council 4 Erie Avenue, Suite 200

* Handicap access and parking available at all sites.

ONSITE TRAINING

CONVENIENCE: Let our expert instructors bring the training you need, when you need it, where you need it.

CUSTOMIZED PROGRAMS: From full-day to half-day programs, we will tailor any program to fit your specific needs.

FOCUSED INTERACTION: Group training discussions focus on the key topic areas specific to your company’s environment.

REGISTER TODAY!

VISIT: MBAUSA.ORG

CALL: 814/833-3200  800/815-2660

EMAIL: MLESNIEWSKI@MBAUSA.ORG

* A.M. classes run 8 a.m. to noon, and P.M. classes run 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

Cancellation/No-Show Policy: If notice is four business days or more, a full refund will be made. If notice is less than four business days, or if you do not show up for the class, no refund will be made. NOTE: You may substitute another individual from your organization at any time and at no cost.

LEADERSHIP

CERTIFIED SUPERVISORY SKILLS SERIES

Course I 7/11 and 7/18

Course III 7/18 and 7/25

Course IV 7/10 and 7/17

LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM LEADERS SERIES

Course III

7/17

Course III 7/23

Course V 7/11

HUMAN RESOURCES

HR ESSENTIALS SERIES

Course I: Safe Hiring Practices (9 a.m. to Noon) 7/11

Course IV: Employment Law: Labor Laws by the Number (Cranberry Twp., 9 a.m. to Noon)

Course V: Retention and Benefits (Cranberry Twp., 1 to 4 p.m.)

Course VI: Unemployment Law and Workers’ Comp: What You Really Need to Know (Cranberry Twp., 10 a..m. to 1 p.m.)

GENERAL HR CLASSES

7/9

7/9

7/10

Confrontational Skill Building for HR (9 a.m. to Noon) 7/25

FREE HR WEBINAR

Onboarding for Retention (11 to 11:45 a.m.) 7/6

HR COFFEETALK

July CoffeeTalk (9 to 10 a.m.) 7/10

MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP 7/23

WRITING TO WOW!

COMPUTER

MANUFACTURER & BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

TRAINING SCHEDULE

SEPTEMBER AUGUST

LEADERSHIP

CERTIFIED SUPERVISORY SKILLS SERIES

Course I (Meadville) 8/22 and 8/29

Course I 8/28 and 9/4

Course II 8/1 and 8/8

Course IV 8/15 and 8/22

Course V 8/7 and 8/14

LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM LEADERS SERIES

Course I 8/1

Course II 8/29

Course IV 8/7

Course IV 8/13

Course V 8/28

HUMAN RESOURCES

HR ESSENTIALS SERIES

Course II: Discrimination & Harassment (9 a.m. to Noon) 8/15

GENERAL HR COURSES:

Performance Appraisals (9 a.m. to Noon) 8/8

Confrontational Skill Building for HR (Cranberry Twp., 9 a.m. to Noon) 8/6

HR FOR NON-HR – THEBIG6 SERIES

Course V: Employee Performance 8/6 (LIVEOnline, 1 to 2 p.m.)

Course VI: Conducting Terminations 8/13 (LIVEOnline, 1 to 2 p.m.)

HR ROUNDTABLE

August HR Roundtable (8 to 9:30 a.m.) 8/20

FREE HR WEBINAR

Employee Recognition & Engagement 8/8 (2 to 2:45 p.m.)

HR COFFEETALK

August CoffeeTalk (9 to 10 a.m.) 8/14

MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS

CANVA FOR MARKETING (St. Marys, p.m. only) 8/13

CANVA FOR MARKETING (a.m. only) 8/14

INTRO TO USING AI IN THE WORKPLACE (a.m. only) 8/14

PRINCIPLES OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT (p.m. only) 8/6

WRITING TO WOW! (St. Marys, a.m. only) 8/13

SAFETY/QUALITY

ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION 8/19

OSHA 10-HOUR 8/8 and 8/9

COMPUTER

EXCEL I 8/20

EXCEL II 8/6

EXCEL III 8/13

EXCEL: DASHBOARD BASICS (LIVEOnline, 1 to 3 p.m.) 8/7

EXCEL: DATA ANALYSIS (LIVEOnline, 9 to 11 a.m.) 8/7

POWERPOINT I 8/14

LEADERSHIP

CERTIFIED SUPERVISORY SKILLS SERIES

Course I 9/10 and 9/17

Course II 9/25 and 10/2

Course II (Meadville) 9/26 and 10/3

Course III 9/5 and 9/12

Course IV 9/26 and 10/3

Course V 9/12 and 9/19

LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM LEADERS

Course I 9/24

Course III 9/25

Course V 9/10

HUMAN RESOURCES

HR ESSENTIALS SERIES

Course III: Proper Terminations (9 a.m. to Noon) 9/12

GENERAL HR COURSES:

HR: Building an Ethical Culture (LIVEOnline, 9 to 10 a.m.) 9/19

EI: Emotional Intelligence in HR (9 a.m. to Noon) 9/26

HR ROUNDTABLE

September HR Roundtable (8 to 9:30 a.m.) 9/17

FREE HR WEBINAR

Creating a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) (11 a.m. to Noon) 9/24

HR COFFEETALK

September CoffeeTalk (9 to 10 a.m.) 9/11

MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS

WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION (p.m. only) 9/10

DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS (p.m. only) 9/3

SAFETY/QUALITY

BLUEPRINT READING 9/18 and 9/19

ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION 9/16

COMPUTER

ACCESS I 9/11

EXCEL ADVANCED CHARTS (LIVEOnline, 1 to 3 p.m.) 9/18

EXCEL CHARTS (LIVEOnline, 9 to 11 a.m.) 9/18

EXCEL I 9/17

EXCEL II 9/3

EXCEL II 9/24

EXCEL III 9/10 POWER BI 9/4

I 9/25

MAKE MBA TRAINING PART OF YOUR GREAT RETENTION STRATEGY!

PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS

(5)

DIVERSE TRAINING CLASSES

(17) Leadership & Management

(13) Human Resources & Legal

(11) Marketing & Communications

(11) Computer & Social Media

(9) Quality

(6)

Supervisory

Supervisory Safety Skills

Leadership for Team Leaders

HR

HR Essentials Advanced

Marketing & Communications

Lean

One-Day Food Safety

MANUFACTURER & BUSINESS ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES BOARD OF GOVERNORS FOR 2024–2025

The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) recently announced its 2024–2025 Board of Governors.

Chairman Bob Frost is the vice president of Commodity Management for Wabtec Corporation in Erie. Frost has over 30 years of experience in various Global Supply Chain & Quality roles. He joined GE in 1993 in its Manufacturing Management Program (MMP), an entry-level leadership development program. After MMP, he held various Supply Chain roles including supervision, shop operations, master scheduling, purchasing, inventory, sourcing, Six Sigma Master Black Belt and plant manager.

Matt Clark, vice president and general manager of Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram; Treasurer Jennifer Nelson, senior vice president of Supply Chain for Airborn; Secretary Tammy Lamary-Toman, vice president and employment attorney, MBA; Lori Joint, president and CEO, MBA; and, Immediate Past Chairman Kyle Blakeslee, general manager of Grede Meadville.

New Board members appointed to three-year terms include:

As an executive in GE and Wabtec, Frost has held significant leadership roles such as Global Supply Chain / Operations manager, Manufacturing Quality & Process Engineering manager, as well as his current role. From 2015-2020, he also acted as the leader for the GE / Wabtec Erie Volunteers organization, working closely with the Erie School District and other local organizations to positively impact the community. Frost earned a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and Master of Business Administration from Wake Forest University. Frost is joined on the MBA Board of Governors Executive Committee by Vice Chairman

Chuck Jenkins, president of E.E. Austin & Son, Inc., General Contractors and Construction Managers located in Erie. E.E. Austin performs commercial, institutional and industrial building construction in northwestern PA and western New York. Jenkins joined Austin in 1981 after college graduation, became a stockholder and named vice president in 1991 and became president in 2022. He is responsible for the construction operations with a focus on estimating and project management. He also manages the construction sales and marketing efforts and focuses on the company’s financial success.

An Erie native, Jenkins is a graduate of Penn State University with a degree in structural design and construction engineering and is a registered professional engineer. He is active in the community and has served on various facility committees at Erie Arts Museum and Saint Luke Church.

Tricia Staible, president and general counsel of Robinson Fans Holdings, Inc. in Zelienople, Pennsylvania. Staible initially joined as Robinson Fans as Risk and Marketing manager, and has held several roles, including as vice president of Sales & Marketing and executive vice president. She’s held her current role since 2016. Staible previously worked for the firm Dorsey & Whitney, LLP in Salt Lake City and has always been interested in serving the community both locally and globally.

Staible also is a member of several professional organizations and serves on the boards of the American Boiler Manufacturer’s Association, the Young President’s Organization – Pittsburgh Chapter, where she recently completed her year as chapter’s chair, the Passavant Development Corporation (associated with the Passavant Memorial Homes Family of Services) and the Veterans Breakfast Club.

Staible earned dual degrees from Calvin University in 2002 in political science (international relations) and business & sociology. She earned her Juris Doctorate with honors from American University, Washington College of Law in 2005.

Additional members of the MBA Board of Governors include Chad Betts, president and CEO of Betts Industries, Inc.; Scott Bonnell, owner of Bonnell’s Auto Sales; Gary Clark , CEO of Reed Manufacturing Co.; Jon DeArment, president and chief operating officer of Channellock, Inc.; Jana Goodrich, CEO of Seaway Manufacturing Corp.; Jeff Plyler, CEO and president of Plyler Entry Systems, Inc.; and Tom Tredway, president of Erie Molded Packaging.

FIRST CHOICE

EE Austin & Son remains steadfast in its century old promise to...

“Do the right thing...all the time.” It’s the

AHN Saint Vincent Emergency Department, Erie, PA

UPMC Chautauqua, Jamestown, NY

UPMC Hamot Patient Tower, Erie, PA

AHN Saint Vincent Hardner Building, Erie, PA

Three-Generation Leader in Contract Manufacturing for 57 Years

In 1967, James Rutkowski Sr. and Joan Rutkowski founded Industrial Sales & Mfg. Company in their family garage on Connecticut Drive with a Fosdick drill press and some parts to be machined for Copes Vulcan. Fast forward to today, Industrial Sales & Mfg. Inc. (ISM) is a contract manufacturer that employs over 150 hard-working Pennsylvanians in six facilities in Millcreek Township in Erie County, Pennsylvania. In that time, ISM has produced over 25,000 distinct parts numbers lifetime sales of over half a billion dollars in revenue. In 2024, ISM has added additional laser welding capabilities, a new hi-definition plasma burner, laser marking and a Trumpf TruBend Brake Press – 36 Ton x 41" Length Capability to our manufacturing buffet of services. Furthermore, we have upgraded our offices to the latest in workspace and technology. ISM is a premier contract manufacturer and supplier of quality machined, fabricated and assembled components for over 800 original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). With advanced technology and highly skilled employees, ISM can produce a range of components and assemblies ranging from a single prototype to millions, exactly as ordered, on time, every time. “ISM’s commitment to quality and performance has allowed us to achieve the growth that benefits our company, our employees, and the community in which we live,” says Founder and CEO Jim Rutkowski Sr.

YOUR BUSINESS: THE NEXT GENERATION

For most family businesses, planning for succession is a tough and critical challenge. Yet succession planning can also be a great opportunity to create a multigenerational institution that embodies the family’s values for generations to come.

Attorneys at Knox Law provide guidance and counsel helping you to address issues related not only to ownership succession, but also concerns involving estate planning, tax planning, workforce, real estate and intellectual property — planning that will deliver lasting value to your family. "

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Erie | Pittsburgh | Jamestown, NY

814-459-2800 | www.kmgslaw.com

I know what my business needs. And so does my bank.

Comprehensive financing solutions. Local decisions. Let’s get started.

Having a financial partner who understands your business is important. Having one who is invested in your success is invaluable. With FNB, you’ll have access to a full range of financing solutions to meet your long- and short-term goals, from asset-based loans to flexible equipment leasing options. More importantly, you’ll have the support of a dedicated expert who understands your vision and can offer creative solutions to realize it. Find out how FNB can help your business grow at fnb-online.com/business.

Shapiro’s Science Fiction Fantasy Equals Bad Energy Policy for PA

Carl A. Marrara is executive director of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association, a statewide business organization representing the interests of manufacturers in Pennsylvania’s public policy process since 1909. Contact him at 717/232-0737 or visit pamanufacturers.org..

As a candidate for governor, Josh Shapiro was indifferent, if not downright dismissive, of his predecessor’s extra-legal maneuvering to enact a carbon tax in Pennsylvania through membership in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). But as governor, Shapiro not only appealed Commonwealth Court’s rejection last fall of Tom Wolf’s RGGI plan as an unauthorized tax, but also introduced his own science fiction, Pennsylvania-specific version. As usual, with green energy proposals it comes with promises it can’t keep. In this case, the governor claims his proposal “PACER” (Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act) and “PRESS” (Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard) will reduce energy bills for most consumers when it will achieve precisely the opposite.

Now Shapiro’s PACER plan would slap a carbon tax on generation, a point not missed by Senate Republicans, who have majority control.

“Our Commonwealth needs to be focused on unleashing our energy potential, not taxing it,” Senate President Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) said. “Doing so would create thousands of good jobs and keep our power grid secure. Shapiro’s

carbon tax appears to be more aligned with states like California and Washington, who suffer from rolling blackouts and higher energy prices.”

Shapiro promised that no one will pay more for electricity, and many will pay less. It’s a fantasy. Power PA Jobs Alliance calculations show that over five years PACER and PRESS, will cost ratepayers $2.66 billion under PACER and an additional $950 million under PRESS.

PRESS would be a massive expansion of PA ratepayer paid subsidies for out-of-state wind and solar developers. Shapiro’s plan would overthrow Pennsylvania’s competitive electricity market by forcing utilities to buy 50 percent of their electricity from government-chosen energy sources by 2035 in contrast to today’s 18 percent.

Boasting of new sources in the AEPS (Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard), Governor Shapiro said: “So not only will it be wind and solar anymore, but it’s also going to be methane digesters, new fusion technology, [and] small modular nuclear reactors.”

Unfortunately, two of Shapiro’s Tier I energy sources — small modular nuclear reactors and fusion reactors — are years if not decades from coming online. The likelihood of those sources contributing to Pennsylvania’s energy production by 2035 is near zero.

A recent analysis shows that when it comes to small modular nuclear reactors some, “real-world difficulties can be found in western states.”

Science.com states, “Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems, a coalition of community-owned power systems in seven western states, withdrew from a deal to build the plant, designed by NuScale Power, because too few members agreed to buy

into it. The project, subsidized by the U.S. Department of Energy, sought to revive the moribund U.S. nuclear industry, but its cost had more than doubled to $9.3 billion.” The report also said, “to some observers, the plan’s collapse also raises questions about the feasibility of other planned advanced reactors, meant to provide clean energy with fewer drawbacks than existing reactors.”

Scientists have worked for decades on capturing energy from fusion with scant success. A recent Space.com article stated, “But it turns out that fusion power is… hard. Really hard. Really complicated, Full of unexpected pitfalls and traps. We’ve been trying to build fusion generators for three-quarters of a century, and we’ve made a lot of progress — enormous, groundbreaking, horizon-expanding progress. But we’re not there yet. Fusion power has been one of those things that’s been ‘only 20 years away’ for about 50 years now.”

In the meantime, Pennsylvania does a stellar job of reducing carbon emissions without government control typified by the Shapiro plan. Recent Independent Fiscal Office data shows that over the past decade Pennsylvania has dramatically reduced its carbon emissions while increasing energy production.

Pennsylvania is the largest exporter of electricity, second largest producer of natural gas, and third largest producer of coal in America. We power the grid, and our production is essential to American energy leadership and national security. Governor Shapiro’s energy tax will stifle Pennsylvania’s energy production. Pennsylvania is leading on reducing carbon emissions while contributing to America’s energy leadership. Shapiro would be wise to stop chasing science fiction and let consumer choice and competition succeed.

Address: 3537 West 12th Street, Erie, PA 16505-3650

Phone: 814/833-5433

Website: LSinsure.com

Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency Welcomes Two New Associates

Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency is growing — again! The company is happy to announce the addition of Brett Folga as a Commercial Lines advisor and Jillian Slater as account manager with the Employee Benefits team.

In his role, Folga will be helping businesses by reviewing their coverage and aligning loss control and risk management. He has a diverse background, including several years of experience with a Super Regional Commercial Lines carrier, and is familiar with product development, loss control and various programs designed to help employers of all sizes.

Slater has been in the employee benefits field for over a decade, including working for a large medical carrier. She also has experience as a benefits broker and management of a large dental practice. Slater understands benefit design, administration, claims, compliance and all the intricacies that are a part of providing coverage to employees.

Loesel-Schaaf is an independent insurance agency offering a comprehensive suite of

solutions to

your business and your life from the unexpected.

“It’s

JILLIAN SLATER

Three Employee Benefits That May Help with Retention and a Workplace That Feels like Family

The current labor market is a wild place! The average person will change careers five to seven times during their working life and approximately 30 percent of the total workforce will now change jobs every 12 months. This creates a frustrating revolving door of employees, makes it very difficult to stabilize a workforce and creates havoc with company culture. One area of employment that may lead to attracting and retention of valued employees is the employee benefits that are available to them, fostering a more “family” feeling in the workplace.

Consider these three, often overlooked, recommendations:

Technology Training

We all need to stay updated on the latest and greatest developments in the technological world, it’s only a matter of time before the new tech that we scrutinize becomes part of daily life. Those who resisted the use of smartphones eventually had to concede defeat because so many things now rely on them. Not only is it fun for people who are interested in technology to learn about new advancements, but it’s also useful for their careers because it gives them advance notice of what the future might hold — and it shows you are invested in them.

Employee Pet Support

Child support is a fantastic benefit, but one that flies under the radar is pet support — no, seriously! It might sound trivial relative to the other things we have to deal with, but our pets matter so much to us — and contribute so significantly to our well-being — that having an employer that does what it can to support its employees’ pets will earn a lot of goodwill!

Mental Health Days

When employees feel down, exhausted or their mind is stuck on some issue in their personal life, the traditional business stance is “get on with it” — just continue working as normal and deal with your problems on your own time. Thankfully, more businesses are coming to accept that this approach doesn’t help anyone. Mental health is slowly losing its stigma. If employees know that they can take a few days off to recover if things get bad enough can really comfort someone who’s struggling, and if they need even more time than that, they can simply ask for it. Offering high wages certainly helps, but things are more complicated than that. Given the comforts of modern life, many applicants now want more than just money. They want to be treated more like “family” and sometimes need our support.

Tracy Daggett, PHR, is the manager of Professional Development Training Services at the

Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact him at 814/833-3200 or tdaggett@mbausa.org.

REPORT: MAJORITY OF U.S. FAMILY BUSINESSES EXPECTING GROWTH IN 2024

Family businesses are gearing up for growth, according to a recent report.

Seventy-four percent of U.S. family businesses are anticipating at least 10 percent growth this year, reported Family Enterprise USA, a nonprofit and advocacy group that promotes family businesses.

Last year, 61 percent of family businesses grew — and 38 percent of those businesses grew by at least 10 percent. Additionally, most family businesses in the survey — 90 percent — added “between 1 and 50 jobs to their payroll last year,” according to the report. By the end of 2023, 40 percent of surveyed businesses had gross revenues between $1 million and $5 million, and a quarter had over $50 million. These findings come nearly a year after a report from PwC found that family businesses had had their biggest growth spurt in 15 years.

Still, it seems family businesses are setting their sights on future gains. Those that want to grow even further can leverage a few potentially untapped opportunities, according to last year’s PwC report, including enhanced digital capabilities, diverse boards, and a focus on ESG (environmental, social and governance).

HOW CAN WE FILL VACANCIES CREATIVELY WHEN EXTERNAL RECRUITING IS NOT SUCCESSFUL?

Look at your existing employees. Small businesses should consider how they can bridge skills gaps in-house. Some strategies may include providing career pathing plans, creating mentorship programs, offering microlearning workshops to focus on specific skills, or paying for employees to attain certifications or further their education outside the workplace.

WHAT OTHER LOW/NO COST OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP RECRUIT OR RETAIN THE CURRENT WORKFORCE?

Offer a flexible work environment.

Talent Challenges Can Be a Big Problem for Small Businesses

Employers of all sizes continue to face attraction and retention challenges. Unfortunately, small businesses often don’t have the excess resources to invest in attraction and retention efforts in today’s labor market, making it difficult to compete with larger organizations.

Many of today’s employees worked remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic and would prefer to work from home. Flexible work arrangements, such as work-from-home arrangements and hybrid or flexible schedules (including flex time or days), can help small businesses maintain a competitive edge over employers who don’t offer such flexibility.

Create a strong workplace culture. Small businesses should aim to foster a desirable workplace. A healthy company culture can help retain employees and, in turn, create an environment that’s attractive to applicants.

Like many organizations, small businesses face several challenges with attracting and retaining the employees they need. Fortunately, small businesses can leverage these strategies to help them compete in today’s talent market

Economic pressures continue to make it challenging for small businesses to hold on to their best talent and appeal to other top-tier workers. Furthermore, rising health-care costs are stressing employees and employers alike. Aside from expense concerns, employers are also experiencing a growing skill gap as many workers join organizations without all the desired skills.

Consider the following talent strategies:

• Offer health insurance and tailored benefits. Health insurance is valued highly by workers. Simply offering health insurance can give small businesses a competitive edge against those that don’t. Health insurance is just one component to consider as part of a benefits package; small businesses should tailor their benefits offerings to meet the specific demands of current and prospective employees. The best benefits vary for each organization, but they can be used to attract and retain employees. See this month’s HR Connection article for some other suggestions!

• Embrace digital and generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools. Small businesses often have limited resources for recruiting, hiring and onboarding practices, so it’s important to be as efficient as possible. Leveraging cost-effective applicant tracking systems and digital tools can help small businesses improve these practices. Generative AI can also help workers spend less time on tedious tasks, such as manual data entry.

• Expand recruitment reach. If an employer isn’t receiving the number of quality candidates they desire, it’s worth strategizing to grow their talent pool. Expanding an organization’s online presence is a good start. This may include creating and maintaining multiple online profiles, posting content regularly and informing prospective workers of job opportunities.

Kim Figurski is an HR consultant and trainer at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/8152660 or kfigurski@mbausa.org.

2024 LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

The MBA held its second annual Leadership Summit on April 25 at the MBA Conference Center in Erie. The event featured the transformative Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®) for strategic business planning, inspired by the best-selling book, Traction. The event also featured an executive panel of MBA members who shared their experiences with utilizing EOS®. This year’s summit was sponsored by premier sponsor Logistics Plus, as well as Highmark Blue Cross Shield, Duncan Financial Group and Gerlach’s Garden and Floral.

The member panel included Tim Barnhart of SMG Industries (Barnhart Transportation); Wendy DeArment, Networking Technologies; Jon DeArment, Channellock; Meghan Kinter, LECOM Behavioral Health; and Brian Duncan, Duncan Financial Group. 

 Keynote speaker Tim Tannert, a certified EOS ® implementer, discussed how employers can get more clarity and traction from their businesses. He also held a three-hour, hands-on EOS workshop specifically designed to help their organizations reach their full potential.

The MBA’s Shawn Netkowicz (second from left) poses at the MBA’s photo booth with Duncan Financial Group’s David Leng, speaker Tim Tannert and Brian Duncan. Duncan also was a sponsor of the event 

of

Scott Frederick

premier sponsor Logistics Plus introduced Tim Tannert to the stage. 

Nearly 70 members attended the MBA’s second annual Leadership Summit at the MBA Conference Center in Erie. 

 Joseph Cintron of the R.B. Wiley Community Charter School of Excellence won the summit’s grand raffle prize

Penn

Through

As