Business Magazine - September 2021 by MBA Business Magazine

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November 2021

Construction & Real Estate Issue

BUSINESS

VOL. XXXII NO. 9 | SEPTEMBER 2019

Learn more about the organizations that are building for the future in November’s Business Magazine! In this issue, we’ll explore some the exciting resources available — from architecture, surveying and construction firms to consultants, law firms, real estate agencies and banks — as well as some recent infrastructure updates and investments that are under way!

MAGAZINE

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BUSINESS

VOL. XXXIII NO. 11 | NOVEMBER 2020

MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT Q&A:

PFEW, PA BUSINESS WEEK STRESS VALUE OF BUSINESS EDUCATION

EDDC CHIEF SHARES WHY NOW IS THE BEST TIME TO INVEST IN ERIE

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LEGAL Q&A

• Read by more than 15,000 influential business leaders (CEOs, executives, owners). • Distributed throughout Pennsylvania, as well as eastern Ohio and western New York. • Ads are included in the digital version at no extra cost and link directly to your organization’s website. LEGAL Q&A | GET ANSWERS

WHAT NOTICE DO EMPLOYEES NEED TO GIVE THEIR EMPLOYERS FOR FMLA LEAVE? In general, employees should give their employers as much notice as possible when requesting leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). While not required to use the term “FMLA” when seeking leave, the employee must provide sufficient information for the employer to determine if the leave qualifies for FMLA protection. When an employee seeks leave due to an FMLAqualifying reason for which the employer has previously provided FMLA leave, the employee must specifically reference the qualifying reason for leave in notifying the employer.

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As part of its 150th-anniversary celebration, Wabtec also celebrated its new, state-of-the-art offices in the heart of Pittsburgh’s North Shore community. The office will house roughly 250 employees and play a critical role in accelerating the future of transportation. For more information, visit www.WabtecCorp.com.

1895 1895 1895

125 YEARS 125 YEARS 125 YEARS

Photo courtesy of Wabtec

The company’s origins began in Western Pennsylvania with founder George Westinghouse Jr.’s invention of the automatic air brake — a breakthrough that redefined the transportation industry and saved lives.

Wabtec recently celebrated its 150th anniversary and opening of its new headquarters in Pittsburgh this past fall.

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The takeaway for employers: When a indicate that an employee’s need for reason (for example, an employee tel she would like to request time off to c employer should begin the FMLA leav employee’s time off request is covere does not mention FMLA. If the emplo FMLA, the employer must designate a written designation notice to the em

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Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB), a high-tech supplier for the freight and transit rail industries, celebrated 150 years of innovation and the grand opening of its new headquarters in Pittsburgh this past fall.

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) recognized the significance of Westinghouse’s air brake to society with a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark designation. The Westinghouse air brake joins an exclusive collection of 273 artifacts from around the world that have been designated historic mechanical engineering landmarks, heritage collections or heritage sites. The ASME History and Heritage Committee selects these artifacts based on their engineering attributes, role in the evolution of the mechanical engineering profession, and significance to society in general.

Employers have questioned whether it is permissi some or all of the employee’s available paid leave FMLA-qualifying, even when the abse recent opinion letter from the Depart their question. The opinion letter clar designating paid leave as FMLA leave this delay. For example, an employee want to exhaust his or her available p and then take unpaid leave for 12 we

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WABTEC CELEBRATES 150 YEARS OF REDEFINING TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides job-protected leave for certain family and medical takes time off for an FMLA-qualifying reason, the e absence as FMLA leave and provide written notice

According to the FMLA regulations, employees are when making a request for leave in order to have they only have to provide the employer with enou determine that the reason is FMLA qualifying.

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BUSINESS

VOL. XXXIV NO. 9 | SEPTEMBER 2021

MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT Q&A:

NORTHERN PA REGIONAL COLLEGE PRESIDENT STRESSES VALUE OF AFFORDABLE, CONVENIENT EDUCATION

MINISTRY EMPOWERS WOMEN IN NEED WITH HOUSING, EDUCATION AND SUPPORT

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Retired U.S. Navy Four-Star Admiral, Commander of U.S. Retired U.S. Navy Four-Star Admiral, Commander of U.S. Special Operations (2011-2014) and U.S. Joint Operations (2008Special Operations (2011-2014) and U.S. Joint Operations (20082011), and Chancellor of University of Texas System (2015-2018). 2011), and Chancellor of University of Texas System (2015-2018). McRaven commanded the troops that captured Saddam Hussein McRaven commanded the troops Saddam Hussein and is credited with developing the that plan captured and leading the Osama bin and is credited with developing the plan and leading the Osama bin Laden mission in 2011. He also led one of the nation’s largest and Laden mission systems in 2011.ofHe also education led one ofatthe largest and most respected higher thenation’s University of Texas. most respected systems of higher education at the University of Texas.

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FEATURES FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE

Education and Empowerment The importance of setting your team up for success.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

Mercy Center for Women A sponsored ministry of Sisters of Mercy in Erie, Pennsylvania, the 501c3 charitable social service organization has been empowering homeless women, many of whom with young children, on their road to recovery and self-sufficiency since 1994.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | EDUCATION

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BUSINESS BUZZ

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HR CONNECTION

WHAT’S NEW

SPECIAL SECTION 21 NETWORKING AND MORE

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Learn about the latest happenings for MBA members in the region!

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Executive Editor Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org Contributing Writers Eileen Anderson Lisa DeFilippo Tom Pendleton Tammy Lamary-Toman

Feature Photography R. Frank Media

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Association is dedicated to providing information and services to its members that will assist them in the pursuit of their business and community interests. – Board of Governors

Educate yourself! Why MBA members should attend the September 22 Western Pennsylvania Legislative Session at CNX Resources near Pittsburgh. Eileen Anderson

PROFILE | SERVICE

David Thornburg 814/833-3200 dthornburg@mbausa.org

A look at the Erie County Independent Living Program’s Snack-Shack.

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On the Cover: The Mercy Center for Women has been providing critical services to women and children since 1994. Now, the Center is embarking on a major renovation project at the former Holy Rosary School in Erie, Pennsylvania, which will expand and enhance the Center’s housing program and services. For full story, see page 4. Mission Statement: The Manufacturer & Business

A closer look at the tax incentives that promote hiring for individuals who face barriers to employment. Tom Pendleton

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Advertising Sales Frank Mehler 814/833-3200 fmehler@mbausa.org

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Susan Snelick, president for the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College, talks about the value of affordable and convenient education for employees, employers and the community at large.

Learn about the upcoming computer, HR and professional development training courses available in person and LiveOnline at the MBA!

Manufacturer & Business Association Headquarters: 2171 West 38th Street Erie, PA. 16508 Pittsburgh: 600 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 190 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 814/833-3200 |800/815-2660 | www.mbausa.org

© Copyright 2021 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

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FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE

Education and Empowerment SETTING YOUR TEAM UP FOR SUCCESS

Research shows that when employees feel empowered at work, it is associated with stronger job performance, job satisfaction, and commitment to the organization.

As a result of employee empowerment, employees show the desire to embrace changes and become more proactive. Employee empowerment creates employees who are more invested in the organization and its success. According to Deloitte’s Millennial Survey, more than two-thirds of Millennials believe it is an organization’s role to provide them with accelerated development opportunities in order for them to stay with that organization. A supportive management that guides employees and knows how to empower them, by setting clear goals, coaching for high performance, developing future leaders, and providing continuous feedback, can make a workplace more desireable to potential employees. Organizations have started realizing the importance of allowing employees to make independent decisions and act on them. They are seeing that employee empowerment leads to a high-impact learning culture, and that organizations with a strong learning culture are 92 percent more likely to develop novel products and processes. Such organizations are 52 percent more productive, 56 percent more likely to be the first to market with their products and services, and 17 percent more

profitable than their peers. Their engagement and retention rates are also 30 percent to 50 percent higher. Employees today are placing a higher premium on flexibility, creativity and purpose at work — and it’s worth noting. For organizations, empowerment means allowing employees to contribute more to the running of their businesses. Employee empowerment increases the employees’ sense of responsibility, enhances their morale and improves the quality of the work product. In fact, the same principles of empowerment can benefit the community too. By providing training and skill development to gain and keep a job, or gain valuable life skills, people are more likely to improve their self-image, quality of life and independence. That’s why, in this month’s magazine, we are showcasing the many ways that education and empowerment go hand in hand — and the organizations that are helping to propel our community forward. The Mercy Center for Women, for one, a sponsored ministry of Sisters of Mercy in

Erie, Pennsylvania, has been empowering homeless women, many with young children, on their road to recovery and self-sufficiency since 1994 — and a new building project will soon help even more. We’ll also talk with Susan Snelick, the new president for the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College, about the value of affordable and convenient education for employees, employers and area residents. Plus, we’ll share some important information about our ninth annual HR & Employment Law Conference, as well as tax incentives for employers who hire those facing barriers to employment, and much more! Be sure to check out this month’s Training Catalog too for the latest computer, HR and professional development training courses available online and in person at the Manufacturer & Business Association. At the MBA, we’re here to help you and your team succeed!

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

The Mercy Center for Women, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, in Erie, Pennsylvania, provides services for women in the community who are homeless or who need some assistance with their personal development. The Center is in the process of expanding its housing and support services with renovations under way at the former Holy Rosary School.

Ministry Empowers Women in Need With Housing, Education and Support Jennie Hagerty knows a lot of strong women. She works with them every day. As executive director of the Mercy Center for Women, a sponsored ministry of Sisters of Mercy in Erie, Pennsylvania, Hagerty leads a social service organization that has been empowering women, many with young children, who are on a journey to overcome homelessness, and in many cases, addiction and/or abuse. These women are committed and motivated to change their lives for the better. For them, the Mercy Center is a way to get them to become self-sufficient by providing transitional housing, training, life skills and support.

embark on its largest expansion project to date at the former Holy Rosary School. The purchase of the property from Holy Rosary Church for $300,000 has the enabled the church to pay back the diocese for tax assessments while carrying on the mission to serve women — and children — who are in need. Expected to be completed by June 2022, the 39,000-square-foot former Catholic elementary school located behind the Center, will soon include 13 two-bedroom apartments for women and those with children to call home. “Right now, what we are able to accomplish is maintain and excel in our current program of 18 rooms for transitional living to our women and children, and we’re expanding that vision into permanent housing for women and children into a former school building,” Hagerty says. Presently, the Mercy Center, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1039 East 27th Street in Erie, can house between 27 to 34 women and children. The new housing at the former Holy

“We were all once broken,” says Hagerty. “The difference is how we collected the pieces to make us whole again. The journey is ever constant, and change is ever present.” If Hagerty is passionate about the Center’s work, it’s because she understands the impact it has made. More than 4,000 women and children have been helped by the Center since it began operating as a 501c3 charitable organization in 1994. Now, thanks to support of the local community, that number is expected to grow exponentially by spring of next year. According to Hagerty, the Mercy Center’s 2020 Vision Capital Campaign exceeded its $2.5 million goal and has allowed the Center to

SEPTEMBER 2021 • mbabizmag.com

Jennie Hagerty, Executive Director

Sister Mary Felice Duska, Sister Pat Whalen and Sister Michele Schroeck of the Sisters of Mercy have been instrumental in the Mercy Center for Women’s founding and mission.

The Mercy Center is one of the few housing opportunities for homeless women with children in Erie County.

The Mercy Center attempts to empower women by working with and for them to meet their current needs and to help them attain future self-sufficiency.

Through the Mercy Center, women are provided safe and supportive transitional housing, education and counseling.

Rosary School will not only double that capacity but transform the building into a community center — including a library, technology hub with 10 computers, and a host of educational offerings and health clinics. It also will host a day care, thrift store, food bank and the Center’s highly successful Dress for Success program. The project certainly comes at a critical time.

“We all have our strengths here at Mercy Center,” Hagerty explains, “but also know too how great the resources outside our doors are, and we want our clients to be holistically strong.” For many, the Mercy Center is opening new doors to new life. Of the women who have been in the Mercy Center program since 1994 and could be located:

According to recent vital statistics, the need for social services was heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially for those fleeing domestic violence and addiction. In 2020, there were 5,172 reported drug overdose deaths in Pennsylvania, of which Erie County reported 89. Those deaths reversed a two-year trend that had seen drug-related deaths in the county drop from a record 124 in 2017 to 82 in 2018 and 76 in 2019.

• 96 percent gained employment or other income sources.

According to Hagerty, offering support services and housing to aid recovery are essential now more than ever.

• Zero women and their children who graduated from Mercy Center in the last three years returned to emergency shelters.

“The statistics are absolutely concerning because people are fleeing not only difficult situations, but they don’t want to relapse back into their addiction, and they also want to make sure that they have a safe place to live,” Hagerty explains. Services and Support Today, as one of the few housing opportunities that allows children, the Mercy Center is a critical housing program for homeless women in the region. However, the women, age 21 and older, must meet several criteria in order participate in the Center’s programs. Each client is interviewed by a case manager and must be committed to life-changing actions for physical, psychological and emotional growth; have no history of violence or serious mental issues; and have been in recovery from drugs and alcohol for at least 30 days. Once accepted, women at the Mercy Center have access to not only safe and supportive transitional housing, but also educational training such as GED classes; life skills training for counseling and parenting; and connections through other social services agencies, such as the Saint Martin Center, Sarah Reed Children’s Center and Safe Harbor. The Center also offers vocational training and employment opportunities, which have included LECOM, UPMC Hamot, Plastek, Parker LORD, Industrial Sales & Mfg., Inc. and more. Collaboration is critical not only for the women at the Center but also transforming the community with access to vital services. As part of the Holy Rosary School project, for example, the Center is collaborating with the YMCA and AHN Saint Vincent for classes and health-care clinics.

• 96 percent attended mental health and related counseling programs. • 86 percent obtained permanent housing. • 74 percent reduced debt. • 67 percent completed substance abuse programs.

It’s that assistance that the Sisters of Mercy envisioned in 1986, when they first took a small, reasonable home on the lower east side and turned it into housing for women and children. “At that time, you didn’t have to have a reason to knock on that door. You just came and the Sisters provided you with that opportunity to get well,” Hagerty explains. “The Sisters of Mercy were the ones who have provided that mercy mission for the Mercy Center, and we are carrying that mission forward.”

The Mercy Center for Women is a 501c3 charitable organization that was founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1994 by bringing together the services of Hope House, a transitional housing facility for women and children, and GROW (Grass Roots Opportunities for Women), an advocacy center. Location: 1039 East 27th Street, Erie, PA 16504 Phone: 814/455-4577 Website: www.mcwerie.org

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

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SPOTLIGHT Q&A| EDUCATION

Northern PA Regional College President Stresses Value of Affordable, Convenient Education A company can create an innovative product with high-tech equipment in the most modern facility, but if it doesn’t employ a trained, well-educated workforce, the chances are it won’t go far. Here, Susan Snelick, president for the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College, talks about the value of affordable and convenient education for employees, employers and the community at large. The Northern PA Regional College was officially established in May 2017, but its beginnings started years earlier. Tell us about how it came to be. NPRC developed out of the Education Consortium of the Upper Allegheny (ECUA) with the vision of delivering open admission and low cost, high-quality education/training opportunities to the residents of northern Pennsylvania. The college, now known as NPRC, was approved to operate as a college in the Commonwealth in 2017 and received formal authorization as a degree-granting institution in 2019. NPRC is now pursuing institutional accreditation. Please share the mission and philosophy of the Northern PA Regional College today. Our mission is to provide affordable and accessible post-secondary education to the residents of northern Pennsylvania. Our flexible, career-focused curriculum and quality instruction creates meaningful face-to-face classroom experiences and meets employers’ needs for skilled workers. By doing so, we create greater opportunities to help retain and attract residents to our region. Our employees and communities partner together to support our students’ success in school and in life. Tell us about your enrollment and what makes the Northern PA Regional College so attractive to students.

Many students may have competing interests on top of attending college. The biggest thing that sets NPRC apart is the way we advise. The constant contact and reassurance that they are never on their own while going through their education journey is a great benefit. The smaller class sizes and the accessibility to staff and faculty is important because they like being able to work their jobs and raise their families, while still being able to get a college education without having to leave their communities. What are some key programs that are unique to the Northern PA Regional College? Our Associate of Applied Science in Applied Technology is one of our newer programs. It has a focus in Industrial Maintenance. We know that manufacturing technology advances constantly and our program incorporates training with the most current technology and equipment used in our region’s manufacturing industry! What are some new classes being introduced in 2021? NPRC was just approved by the PA State Fire Academy as an educational training agency, so we are excited to begin planning for these new public safety courses in our Workforce Development Department. We are also seeking the addition of a human services course for direct care workers.

The Northern PA Regional College is planning to establish a facility in Erie this year. Tell us more. Our facility in Erie is located at 5739 West Ridge Road and includes state-of-theart precision machining and industrial maintenance technology labs, an early childhood education lab, science lab, Nurse’s Aide and medical lab, and 14 general classrooms equipped with video technology. We are excited to begin holding classes there this fall. Our grand opening will be on November 4. We’ll have more details soon! Is there anything you would like to add? We focus on keeping courses affordable, but many students still find it difficult to participate in post-secondary education. Students who enroll at NPRC may be eligible for a variety of financial assistance, including Institutional Aid, support through PA CareerLink® centers, program-specific scholarships and tuition assistance, and even local scholarship. What is the best way for our members to learn more? You can visit our website at http://discoverNPRC.org or give us a call at 814/230-9010.

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 • mbabizmag.com

LEGAL BRIEF | HIRING

Tax Incentives Promote Hiring Individuals Who Face Barriers to Employment

the one-year period ending on the hiring date. In order to obtain the credit, Pennsylvania employers must file IRS Form 8850, PreScreen Notice and Certification Request for the Work Opportunity Credit, with the Bureau of Workforce Development within 28 days after the eligible worker begins work. The credit is limited to the amount of the business income tax or Social Security tax owed. A taxable business may apply the credit against its business income tax liability, and the normal carry-back and carry-forward rules apply. For qualified taxexempt organizations, the credit is limited to the amount of employer Social Security tax owed on wages paid to all employees for the period the credit is claimed. The work opportunity credit is available through the end of 2025.

Tom Pendleton is a partner at MacDonald Illig and has been representing businesses, nonprofit corporations and individuals in a wide variety of legal matters for more than 25 years. He concentrates his practice on business matters, including preparing agreements and commercial litigation. It is no secret that finding employees is a challenge for many businesses during 2021. Two federal tax credits and one tax deduction encourage employers to hire individuals who historically have had difficulty finding work. Work Opportunity Tax Credit The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal tax credit available to employers that hire employees in the following categories: qualified veterans, vocational rehabilitation referrals, state welfare benefit recipients, ex-felons, designated community representatives, summer youth employees, supplemental nutrition assistance program (“SNAP”) recipients, supplemental security income (“SSI”) recipients, long-term family assistance recipients, and qualified long-term unemployment recipients.

Each of these categories requires the employee to meet certain characteristics. As an example, a qualified veteran is explained below. The remaining categories are explained at https://www.irs.gov/ businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/ work-opportunity-tax-credit. A qualified veteran is a veteran who meets any of the following requirements: 1. A member of a family receiving assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps) for at least three months during the first 15 months of employment; 2. Unemployed for a period totaling at least four weeks (whether or not consecutive) but less than six months in the one-year period ending on the hiring date; 3. Unemployed for a period totaling at least six months in the one-year period ending on the hiring date; 4. A disabled veteran entitled to compensation for a service connected disability hired not more than one year after being discharged or released from active duty in the U.S. armed forces; or 5. A disabled veteran entitled to compensation for a service connected disability who is unemployed for a period totaling at least six months in

Disabled Access Credit The Disabled Access Credit is a nonrefundable credit for small businesses that incur expenditures for the purpose of providing access to persons with disabilities. An eligible small business is one that earned $1 million or less or had no more than 30 full-time employees in the previous year. Eligible expenditures including amounts paid or incurred to remove barriers that prevent a business from being accessible or usable by persons with disabilities, provide qualified interpreters or other methods of making audio materials available to hearing impaired individuals, provide qualified readers, tape, text or other methods of making visual materials available to individuals with visual impairments, or acquire or modify equipment/devices for individuals with disabilities. Architectural Barrier Removal Deduction The Architectural Barrier Removal Tax Deduction may be claimed up to $15,000 per year for qualified expenses for items that normally must be capitalized. This deduction may be used in the same year as the Disabled Access Credit if the requirements for the credit and the deduction are met. More details regarding each of these tax credits and deductions and how to claim them is available at https://www.irs.gov/ businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/taxbenefits-for-businesses-who-have-employeeswith-disabilities. For more information, contact Tom Pendleton at MacDonald Illig at tpendleton@mijb.com or 814/870-7756. mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

BUSINESS BUZZ | WHAT’S NEW MBA TO HOST NINTH ANNUAL HR & EMPLOYMENT LAW CONFERENCE ON SEPTEMBER 8

The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) will host the region’s premier human resource (HR) / legal event of the year during its ninth annual HR & Employment Law Conference from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, September 8, at the Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier. This year, the MBA’s ninth HR & Employment Law Conference also will give attendees the choice to attend in person or virtually — bringing together one of the largest HR audiences to date. The MBA’s HR & Employment Law Conference is focused on timely employer-related HR and legal topics, networking and more. Keynote speaker Kathy Parry, author of The Rubber Band Resilient Leader, will discuss the 10 steps to reframing how you think, work and interact post-crisis after COVID-19. Other session topics include: Legal Updates on Medical and Recreational Marijuana: What Employers Need to Know; Employment Law Updates on the PRO Act of 2021; and, Establishing Your Identity as a DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Organization. The 2021 conference premier sponsor is ECCA Payroll+ ,which has been committed to solving the HR challenges for companies of all sizes since its founding in 1975. Event sponsors include: Aflac, Widget Financial, Knox Law, Steptoe & Johnson and Vision Benefits of America (VBA). “The MBA would like to thank ECCA and all our sponsors for their support and partnership in bringing this great event to our members,” said Stacey Bruce, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, director of HR Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association. “We are looking forward to an exciting and jam-packed program!” For more information about the ninth annual HR & Employment Law Conference, including a full agenda, cost and registration info, visit www.mbausa.org/hr-and-legalservices/hr-conference/.

NEW MARQUETTE SAVINGS BANK CENTER OPENS IN DOWNTOWN ERIE

The new Marquette Savings Bank Center recently opened at 930 Peach Street in Erie, Pennsylvania — the result of an $8.25 million investment. “It’s exciting to investing and expanding in downtown Erie. We’ve been committed to the downtown since our start in 1908 and we’re very excited with how everything turned out and excited for the public to come see the new building,” stated Michael Edwards, CEO of Marquette Savings Bank. The new operations center features a cafe that will be open to the public week days from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It is operated by the Main Street Cakery Cafe Restaurant. Marquette is the only remaining locally headquartered bank in Erie and Crawford counties For more information, visit www,marquettesavings.bank.

SEPTEMBER 2021 • mbabizmag.com

The MBA will host its annual HR & Employment Law Conference at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie.

PRECISION PROFILES, LLC EXPANDS CAPABILITIES WITH HOLLOW MACHINING ACQUISITION

with the establishment of Eriez-Deutschland GmbH (Eriez-Germany), headquartered in Recklinghausen, Germany.

Precision Profiles, LLC, a manufacturer of highprecision, tight tolerance OEM steam turbine components and other precision metal parts, recently announced that it has acquired a majority of the assets and customers of the Commercial Fluid Power Titusville division on June 28, 2021. The facility is now operating as the Hollow Machining division of Precision Profiles, LLC.

Kohmuench explains, “This exciting step is the culmination of a larger strategic plan to better serve Europe’s largest economy. Rather than servicing this market through representatives and distributors, we are establishing EriezDeutschland to provide a direct line to our customers in Germany and throughout central Europe.”

“We are thrilled to add trepanning, boring, and honing to the portfolio of services offered by Precision Profiles,” noted Matthew J. Lucco, president and CEO. “These hollow machining services, along with the 40-plus new customers obtained in the acquisition and the nine talented employees that have joined our team, will help to diversify our business and strengthen our position for future growth.”

The new Eriez-Deutschland management team will work in close partnership with Eriez Magnetics Europe Ltd, which has been selling magnetic separation, metal detection and vibratory feeding equipment into Europe from their headquarters in Caerphilly, UK since 1968. This new entity will increase Eriez’ impact in central Europe, with a strong focus on the German, Austrian and Swiss markets. Germany is already the largest trading partner in central Europe for Eriez Magnetics Europe Ltd. This bold move will serve to further cement relationships with existing customers while also facilitating an expansion of the customer base.

Commercial Honing, LLC dba Commercial Fluid Power provides a wide array of services for the oil & gas and fluid power industries across its four operating facilities in North Canton, Ohio; Dover, Ohio; Rome, Georgia; and Titusville, PA. The Titusville facility, now owned by Precision Profiles, LLC, specializes in trepanning and related services such as boring, honing, turning, machining, and welding. Precision Profiles, LLC is a custom manufacturer that has been producing high precision metal components for more than 25 years. The company specializes in producing tight-tolerance turbine components for OEMs and other companies within the power generation industry. For more information, visit www.precisionprofilesllc.com.

ERIEZ® LAUNCHES ERIEZ-DEUTSCHLAND

Eriez® Vice President-International Jaisen Kohmuench recently announced that the company is boosting its international profile

Kohmuench says, “By having a physical presence in Germany and implementing a more localized approach, we can better serve our central European customers by bringing state-of-the-art processing solutions straight to their doorstep.” He adds, “Our customers in this area will now benefit from direct access to Eriez’ vast array of application expertise, while the dedicated German language website, www. eriezdeutschland.de, backs up this local approach for Eriez’ German speaking clients.” Eriez, headquartered in Erie, Pennsylvania, is recognized as the world authority in separation technologies. For more information, visit www.eriezdeutschland.de/announcement or www.eriez.com.

TRAINING @ THE MBA LEARN IT TODAY . . . APPLY IT TOMORROW!

Harness the true potential of your workforce with professional training @ the mba!

OCTOBER



NOVEMBER



DECEMBER 2021

MANUFAC

2021

OCTOBER

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

LEADERSHIP

Cranberry Twp. MBA Cranberry Office 600 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 190 Erie MBA Conference Center 2171 West 38th Street Hermitage Training & Workforce Development Center 3050 Prosperity Place St. Marys Community Education Council 4 Erie Avenue, Suite 200 Warren Warren/Forest Higher Education Council Curwen Building, 2nd Floor 589 Hospital Drive * Handicap access and parking available at all sites.

LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM LEADERS SERIES Course I

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.

CERTIFIED SUPERVISORY SKILLS SERIES Course I (Cranberry Township) 10/26 and 10/27 Course I 10/21 and 10/28 Course I (Hermitage) 10/12 and 10/19 Course III 10/27 and 11/3 Course IV 10/19 and 10/26 Course V (St. Marys) 10/20 and 10/22

BLUEPRINT READING

10/6

10/18 and 10/19

DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS (LIVEOnline, a.m. only) 10/7 EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE FOR ANY MANAGER (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 10/12 ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS OPTION 1 (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 10/28 ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS OPTION 2 (9 a.m. to noon) 10/7 FINANCE FOR THE NON-FINANCIAL MANAGER 10/14 FORKLIFT: TRAIN THE TRAINER (a.m. only)

10/20

INFLUENCE & PERSUASION (p.m. only) 10/12 SUPERVISOR ROUNDTABLE (LIVEOnline, 8 to 9:30 a.m. or 3 to 4:30 p.m.) 10/4 WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

10/5

WORKPLACE CIVILITY (a.m. only) 10/18

COMPUTER TRAINING Learn the coolest tips and tricks to the latest computer applications available today. Classes can be taken individually or as part of a certificate series. • Access 10/7 • Excel (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) 10/6, 11/10 or 12/1 • Excel: Advanced Charts (LIVEOnline, 1 to 3 p.m.) 12/2 • Excel: Charts (LIVEOnline, 9 to 11 a.m.) 11/18 • Excel: Data Analysis Essentials (LIVEOnline, 1 to 3 p.m.) 11/18 • Excel Formulas & Functions (LIVEOnline, 9 to 11 a.m.) 11/3 or 12/8 • Excel Tables & Pivot Tables (LIVEOnline, 9 to 11 a.m.) 11/17 or 12/15 • Excel I 10/21, 11/9, 11/30 • Excel II 10/5, 11/11 or 12/7 • Excel III 10/19. 11/16 or 12/14 • PowerPoint 11/4 • Microsoft Teams (a.m. only) 12/2 • Word 12/16

WRITING TO WOW! (a.m. only) 10/12 HR ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATION SERIES (In Person and LIVEOnline) Interviewing & Hiring (a.m. only)

10/7

Terminations (1 to 5 p.m.)

10/7

HR ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATION SERIES — ADVANCED (In Person and LIVEOnline) FMLA & ADA Compliance (a.m. only) 10/28 Form I-9 Compliance & Onboarding (1 to 5 p.m.)

10/28

MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIES (LIVEOnline, p.m. only) 10/19

SAFETY ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION (Cranberry Township) 10/25 ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION

10/18

ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION (St. Marys) 10/11

CTURER & BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

TRAINING SCHEDULE

DECEMBER

NOVEMBER

LEADERSHIP

CERTIFIED SUPERVISORY SKILLS SERIES Course I 11/30 and 12/7 Course II (Cranberry Township) 11/16 and 11/17 Course II 11/11 and 11/18 Course II (Hermitage) 11/2 and 11/9 Course III (Hermitage) 11/30 and 12/7 Course V 11/9 and 11/16 LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM LEADERS SERIES Course II Course III

11/3 11/17

BUILDING & LEADING EFFECTIVE TEAMS (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 11/4 EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT THROUGH MOTIVATION (LIVEOnline, 10 a.m. to noon) 11/23 ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS OPTION 1 (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 11/18 ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS OPTION 2 (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 11/4

LEADERSHIP

CERTIFIED SUPERVISORY SKILLS SERIES Course III 12/9 and 12/16 Course III (Cranberry Township) 12/14 and 12/15 Course IV 12/1 and 12/8 LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM LEADERS SERIES Course I Course II Course IV

12/1 12/22 12/8

CUSTOMER SERVICE (LIVEOnline, a.m. only)

12/14

EMOTIONAL & SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE (LIVEOnline, p.m. only) 12/14 ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS OPTION 1 (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 12/16 ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS OPTION 2 (LIVEOnline, 9 a.m. to noon) 12/2 GETTING ORGANIZED (a.m. only) 12/7 MOTIVATE YOUR EMPLOYEES (p.m. only) 12/14

SUPERVISOR ROUNDTABLE (LIVEOnline, 8 to 9:30 a.m. or 3 to 4:30 p.m.) 11/1

SUPERVISORS ROUNDTABLE (8 to 9:30 a.m. or 3 to 4:30 p.m.) 12/6

WORKPLACE CIVILITY (a.m. only)

USING OUTLOOK TO GET ORGANIZED (1 to 4:30 p.m.) 12/7

11/15

WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION

11/9

HR ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATION SERIES (In Person and LIVEOnline) Employment Law (a.m. only)

11/11

Unemployment Comp & Workers’ Comp Basics (1 to 5 p.m.)

11/11

HR ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATION SERIES — ADVANCED (In Person and LIVEOnline) Pre-Employment Screening (a.m. only) 11/18 Job Descriptions & Reasonable Accommodations (1 to 5 p.m.) 11/18

HR ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATION SERIES (In Person and LIVEOnline) Harassment & Discrimination (a.m. only)

12/9

Retention & Benefits (1 to 5 p.m.)

12/9

HR ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATION SERIES — ADVANCED (In Person and LIVEOnline) Handbook Essentials (a.m. only) 12/16 Understanding the Fair Labor Standards Act (1 to 5 p.m.)

SAFETY

ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION

MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS

12/16 12/13

DIGITAL MARKETING & SEO (p.m. only) 11/12 DIGITAL WRITING & ONLINE CONTENT (9 a.m. to noon) 11/16 MARKETING & PLANNING (p.m. only) 11/16 PRESENTATION SKILLS

11/12 and 11/19

SAFETY ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION

11/15

ONE-DAY FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION (Warren) 11/8

REGISTER TODAY! VISIT: MBAUSA.ORG CALL: 814/833-3200  800/815-2660 EMAIL: REGISTRATIONS@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.

How you need it. When you need it. Where you need it.

Considered a leader in professional development and computer training for more than 25 years, the Manufacturer & Business Association offers you the ease and flexibility of onsite training for your group. ONSITE CONVENIENCE: Nothing beats the convenience of training conducted at your facility. 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, all of our courses can be tailored to address your organization’s specific needs. FOCUSED INTERACTION: Facilitated by our training specialists, your employees’ experience is further enhanced through group discussion on key topic areas specific to your company’s work environment. For more information about onsite training programs, contact Tracy Daggett, PHR, Manager of Professional Development Training Services at 800/815-2660, 814/833-3200 or visit mbausa.org.

PEOPLE BUZZ | AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS PLASTEK FOUNDER INDUCTED INTO PLASTICS HALL OF FAME

KNOX LAW ATTORNEYS SELECTED FOR 2021 PA SUPER LAWYERS® AND RISING STARS LISTS

Bryan G. Baumann, Mark G. Claypool, Neal R. Devlin, Guy C. Fustine and Thomas A. Tupitza, shareholders at Knox Law, have all been selected for inclusion on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® list for 2021. Additionally, four shareholders have been selected for inclusion on the 2021 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list: Alexander K. Cox, Julia M. Herzing, Frances A. McCormick and Jeremy T. Toman. Super Lawyers® is “a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.” Only 5 percent of attorneys in a state are selected for the Super Lawyers® list; only 2.5 percent of attorneys are selected for the Rising Stars list. “Rising Stars” candidates must be 40 years old or younger, or have practiced law for 10 years or less. Attorney Baumann is a full-time litigator, and is AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rated (MartindaleHubbell). He has extensive experience representing clients in commercial and construction disputes, injunction proceedings, personal injury matters, and trust & estate disputes. Attorney Claypool is Board Certified in bankruptcy law by the American Board of Certification and a full-time member of Knox Law’s Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights Group. He routinely represents banks, lenders and financial institutions in collections and foreclosure matters in both state and federal court. Attorney Devlin focuses his practice on litigating complex disputes, and he has litigated such disputes in state and federal courts throughout the country. His practice includes litigating contract, business and intellectual property disputes, as well as white collar crime matters. Attorney Fustine’s practice is focused on business reorganization, commercial litigation and sports law. He is Board Certified in business bankruptcy law by the American Board of Certification and is AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rated (Martindale-Hubbell). Attorney Tupitza advises clients in the private, public and nonprofit sectors on finance, real estate and governance matters. A past president of the Pennsylvania Association of Bond Lawyers, he is active as bond counsel and underwriter’s counsel in tax-exempt financing transactions. He has served as the firm’s president since 2007.

Attorney Cox is new to the list for 2021. He focuses his practice on litigating complex and commercial disputes in state and federal courts throughout the country. Attorney Herzing focuses her practice on a variety of labor & employment matters, including litigation. Attorney McCormick, who is licensed in both Pennsylvania and New York, focuses her practice in the areas of business & tax law, estate planning & administration, business succession planning and real estate. Attorney Toman, who is licensed in Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York, focuses his practice on real estate, business law and environmental law. He has represented commercial clients and individuals in all phases of commercial and residential real estate transactions.

UPMC NAMES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO

Leslie C. Davis is the new president and chief executive officer of UPMC the health system’s board of directors announced recently.

She will replace the retiring Jeffrey A. Romoff, who will serve as president emeritus through Oct. 1. Davis most recently served as president of UPMC’s health services division and has been responsible for leading UPMC’s 40-hospital system with operations across Pennsylvania — including UPMC Lititz in Lancaster County — Maryland and New York. Davis served as president of UPMC MageeWomens Hospital in Pittsburgh from 2004 to 2018, prior to serving as chief operating officer of the health services division for three years. Before joining UPMC, she was president of Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia, part of Tenet Healthcare Corp. She began her career at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City and spent 13 years with Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She also served as chief operating officer of Presbyterian Medical Center and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, as well as the chief marketing and planning officer for the University of Pennsylvania Health System. Romoff has worked at UPMC since 1973. He was named president in 1996, with the CEO title being added in 2006. UPMC had operating income of $836 million and operating revenues of $23 billion in 2020, according to the health system. It employs more than 92,000 people.

Erie businessman Joe Prischak was named to the 2021 Plastics Hall of Fame. An induction ceremony is now planned for October 7 in Chicago.

Membership in the Hall of Fame is the highest honor the Plastics Industry Association bestows upon an individual. New members are added every three years. Prischak’s career in plastics began in 1949, when, at age 18, he was hired at Erie Resistor, which had produced radios and radar systems for the U.S. war effort. The company owned the second injection-molding machine in the United States. A second job at Penn Erie Tool Shop positioned Prischak to launch his own business, the Triangle Tool Company, in 1956. Toolmaking led him back to moldand-press work and a contract to build parts for Marx Toys, which at the time manufactured more than onethird of all the toys sold in the United States. His next company, Plastek, adapted the moldmaking process to the emerging field of plastics. Prischak made components for IBM computers and the Schick safety razor. Today, the Plastek Group manufactures packaging for the personal-care, food and beverage, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The company, which is still based in Erie, has more than 2,500 employees at manufacturing sites in the United States, the United Kingdom, Mexico and Brazil. Prischak also has been instrumental in the founding of Penn State Behrend’s plastics engineering technology program, along with Paul “Hoop” Roche of then Erie Plastics. He is also the founder of the nonprofit Africa 6000 International, a nonprofit that drills deep freshwater wells across the African continent.

MERCYHURST UNIVERSITY WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENT

Following a five-month national search, Mercyhurst University recently welcomed Kathleen A. Getz, Ph.D. as its 13th president. Getz began her tenure at Mercyhurst on July 12, 2021.

Getz previously served as the dean of the Sellinger School of Business and Management at Loyola University Maryland, a Jesuit Catholic institution whose business school is home to nearly 2,000 students, 55 full-time faculty, and 13 full-time staff. Getz also served as dean of the Quinlan School of Business at Loyola University Chicago, one of the largest Catholic universities in the United States, and senior associate dean for academic affairs at the Kogod School of Business at American University. This marks the first time a woman has led Mercyhurst in nearly 50 years — since the 1963-1972 tenure of Sister Carolyn Herrmann, RSM, Ph.D., who was preceded in that role by six Sisters of Mercy, starting with Mother Borgia Egan, RSM, in the year of the university’s founding, 1926. mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

LET’S TALK If you are seeking legal services, we should have a conversation about: • How we strive to achieve each client’s objectives • How we invest in our people • How we are thought leaders • How our firm has grown to a staff of more than 90 • How we’ve been recognized nationally • How we serve our communities • How we have worldwide capacity Let’s talk. Call us at 814-459-2800. Or visit kmgslaw.com/LetsTalk to learn more.

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Erie

North East | Pittsburgh | Jamestown, NY 814-459-2800 | www.kmgslaw.com

ON THE HILL | SPECIAL EVENT

Educate Yourself! MBA Members Encouraged to Attend Western Pennsylvania Legislative Reception September 22 Event to Be Held at CNX Resources

Eileen Anderson is the director of Government Relations for SMC Business Councils, which merged with the Manufacturer & Business Association in 2019. The Manufacturer & Business Association’s (MBA) mission is to build a pro-business environment in Pennsylvania. That is a simply stated goal, but what does it really mean and how do we do it? From the point of view of this lobbyist, who has been working at her craft for 15 years, it begins and ends with one word — education. As a businessperson, it is important to actively build and maintain a general awareness – educate yourself – about what is happening at the state and federal levels of government and how these actions impact business. The MBA helps with this through newsletters, this column, legislative updates and other programming. It is important to know your lawmakers, state and federal, and to occasionally pick up the phone, write them a letter, or send them an email. Educate them about your top concerns. Elected officials must continually be reminded that smaller businesses are backbone of the Pennsylvania economy. They need to understand smaller

businesses; know how many employees a business has, how a business gets customers, how businesses meet payroll and the barriers to growth. Those who write the laws and regulations must be aware of how their actions and consequences impact smaller businesses. If we are silent, it means that we are “OK” with the status quo. To understand their viewpoint, sign up for their email newsletters to become educated about their work. The MBA helps with this. You can easily find your lawmakers and their contact information on the MBA Government Affairs website at https://www.mbausa.org/ services-and-benefits/government-affairs/. However, the best education is to meet lawmakers in a social atmosphere – not just when you need something – so they can speak directly, face-to-face, and increase their understanding of businesspeople and vice versa. Hopefully, through education, misconceptions can be eliminated. Some lawmakers think businesspeople “write everything off” and turn on the “money spigot” at will. Likewise, some businesspeople think lawmakers are “bought and sold” by big business and are not interested in addressing smaller business’ concerns. The MBA helps with this. Meet With State and Federal Lawmakers MBA is partnering with the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and the Pittsburgh Business Exchange to host the first reception of its kind in the western half of the state, the Western Pennsylvania

Legislative Reception. All 90 western Pennsylvania lawmakers, state and federal, are invited to attend. SMC Business Councils, now merged with MBA, held legislative receptions for 14 of the past 15 years. This new, expanded event will have a much broader attendance of lawmakers and the region’s corporate leaders and smaller business owners. The goal is to make it the biggest and best legislative reception in western Pennsylvania. The reception creates an opportunity for you to speak with lawmakers, so you can educate lawmakers about the issues of top concern to business. Through conversation you can educate yourself about issues and government. The MBA sincerely invites you to attend. The event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. September 22, 2021 at CNX Resources in Canonsburg, PA. A sell-out crowd of 400 people is expected. Another fact that elevates this reception above others is the evening’s special guest, Speaker of the House, Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Bryan Cutler. We in Pennsylvania are very fortunate to have Representative Cutler at the helm. He is dedicated, conscientious, and an extremely knowledgeable individual. Come and say hello to him! This is a step you can take to build a probusiness environment in Pennsylvania. Watch your inbox for registration details or email me at eileenanderson@mbausa.org.

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

For Those Who Lead Edinboro University has been advancing the region for more than 160 years—working with students who are ready to learn, ready to work, and ready to succeed. It starts with innovative programs developed hand in hand with employers that prepare students to meet the demands of an ever-changing workplace. And it extends well beyond the classroom. Our students prepare for careers through opportunities for hands-on learning, collaborative research and internships. Edinboro is keenly focused on student success and ensuring that our students are prepared to achieve their goals and exceed their own expectations.

Edinboro.edu

People. Activated. At Workpartners, we call our unique approach to human capital management People Activation, and we believe it’s the key to ensuring that your company and your employees flourish. Workpartners employee assistance program (EAP) offers a wide array of resources to help your employees overcome challenges in their personal lives and on the job.Our EAP leverages your investment in your workforce by increasing engagement and productivity. We are proud to be endorsed by the Manufacturer & Business Association, and MBA members save 10% when working with our confidential EAP services. To find out more about our EAP services or any of our services visit work.partners/mba For more about the MBA/Workpartners partnership, contact Keith Eller at ellerk@workpartners.com

analytics | advocacy | absence | technology

SEPTEMBER 2021 • mbabizmag.com

HR CONNECTION | WORKPLACE TRENDS POLL: MAJORITY OF HIRING DECISION MAKERS TAKING ACTION ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

With diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) becoming a top priority in the workplace, the majority of U.S. hiring decision-makers indicate their company is responding through action and policy to prioritize and underscore these efforts. A recent survey from The Harris Poll, commissioned by Express Employment Professionals, reveals more than three in four hiring decision-makers (78 percent) say their company has taken action on DEI, most commonly in these areas: • Provided training for employees: 40 percent

One-Day Food Safety Certification Provides Training, Convenience

• Offered safe ways for employees to report discrimination and harassment complaints: 31 percent • Revised policies and procedures: 29 percent • Changed recruitment and hiring practices: 28 percent

Sanitize surfaces, wash your hands often and thoroughly, do not sneeze around food. Does this sound familiar to you recently? These procedures are “old hat” for properly trained food handlers. Safe food handling didn’t start with the advent of the recent pandemic — it’s been the standard operating procedures required by all licensed food facilities and trained food handlers. Currently, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no evidence to suggest that handling food or consuming food is associated with COVID-19. Yet, in response, food facilities have kept up with mandates, such as masks and social distancing, and implemented further safety precautions, such as no-contact orders and takeout, to help maintain the health of their employees and the safety of their workplaces, products and customers. Virtually every business handling food must have in place a person in charge (PIC) during all hours of operation, including when the business is not open to the public, such as during morning prep. The food industry in our membership territory has shown great response to this mandate by exceeding the minimum of certified PICs working in each facility. The PIC is trained and must pass a certification examination and is responsible for his or her facility following all food-handling regulations. Some facilities serve highly susceptible populations — schools, hospitals and nursing homes. Though an average of 20 percent of customers at any food facility do fall into the highly susceptible populations, the facilities listed above are specifically serving these populations. They include children, elderly and those with immunocompromised conditions, putting them at an even higher risk of the dangerous effects of a possible foodborne illness. The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) provides a one-day training, including the approved the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) exam, during public classes held the third Monday of every month at our Conference Center in Erie. More classes are held at our regional locations. Onsite classes are conveniently provided for chain restaurants and larger facilities, such as certifying school district food handlers during their downtime during summer break or holidays. For more information on the MBA’s public and onsite food safety training courses, contact me at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or ldefilippo@mbausa.org.

Lisa DeFilippo

Nearly half (46 percent) say their company currently has a DEI policy with 11 percent reporting they don’t have one but plan to implement one by the end of 2021 and 14 percent plan to implement after 2021. Around 1 in 3 (31 percent) say one of the most important priorities for their company right now is expanding the diversity of their employees.

REMOTE WORK CREATES JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR DISABLED

For some employees, the pandemic has been a blow to their professional success. But for disabled workers, the past year has created new opportunities that have helped them kick start their careers. In wake of record-breaking layoffs and unemployment, the labor force is still suffering from a nationwide labor shortage. As the need to fill open positions continues to grow, companies are broadening their recruiting criteria — a trend that may inadvertently begin creating more jobs for disabled workers. “HR professionals have pulled out all the stops to attract talent,” says Diane Winiarski from Allsup Employment Services, a provider of return to work services. “And we have an extremely motivated and qualified population that truly remains uncapped.” Pre-pandemic, employers had no idea how productive a WFH employee base could be, according to Winiarski, a variable that kept many employers from taking the plunge with disabled workers who needed the flexibility. Moving forward into post-pandemic planning, many companies have seen an uptick in productivity and plan to keep remote positions as part of their permanent offering, which drastically opens up the pipeline for disabled applicants.

is a senior professional development trainer at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or ldefilippo@mbausa.org.

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

LEGAL Q&A | GET ANSWERS THE FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT (FLSA) INCLUDES AN EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN COMPUTER PROFESSIONALS. DOES THE PENNSYLVANIA LAW ALSO ALLOW FOR SUCH AN EXEMPTION? No. Although there are many similarities between FLSA and the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act (PMWA), Pennsylvania does not recognize certain exemptions that the FLSA recognizes such as an exemption for highly compensated employees, or for certain computer and educational professionals.

WHAT IS PENNSYLVANIA’S LIVING DONOR PROTECTION ACT?

Beginning June 26, 2021, Pennsylvania’s Living Donor Protection Act (LDPA) provides time off to organ and tissue donors to cover time off for donation surgery, including necessary preparation and recovery. Pennsylvania employees are be eligible for leave under the LDPA if they meet the following FMLA eligibility criteria: the employee must 1) work for a covered employer, 2) work 1,250 hours during the 12 months prior to the start of leave, 3) work at a location where 50 or more employees work or within 75 miles of it, and 4) have worked for the employer for 12 months. Under the FMLA, an eligible employee may take up to 12 workweeks of unpaid leave a year and is entitled to return to their same (or equivalent) job at the end of their leave. Leave under the LDPA applies to an employee’s own donation or to care for a spouse, child or parent who is making or receiving an organ or tissue donation. LDPA leave will run concurrently with FMLA leave.

New Pennsylvania Overtime Exemption Minimum Salary Requirements Repealed Recently, Governor Tom Wolf reached a final deal on the state budget for 2021-2022. As part of the overall budget deal, Governor Wolf agreed to a provision repealing the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act (PMWA) regulations published in October 2020. As you may recall In October 2020, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) published its final rule to substantially increase the salary threshold for qualifying as an exempt employee under the PMWA to: • $684 per week ($35,568 annually) effective October 3, 2020; • $780 per week ($40,560 annually) effective October 3, 2021; and • $875 per week ($45,500 annually) effective October 3, 2022. The October 2020 regulations also created a rule that effective October 3, 2023 (and each third year thereafter), the salary threshold would reset automatically to the 10th percentile of Pennsylvania workers who work in exempt EAP classifications. As background, the PMWA is the state-law equivalent of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The PMWA’s requirements apply to essentially all employers in Pennsylvania. The PMWA and FLSA both place minimum wage and overtime pay obligations on Pennsylvania employers. While the laws’ requirements are similar, they are not identical. Employers in Pennsylvania must meet the requirements of both laws to ensure compliance. In areas where one law is more favorable to employees than the other, Pennsylvania employers must comply with the more employee-friendly requirements to avoid liability for unpaid minimum wages or overtime pay. What is the bottom line for employers? The minimum salary requirements will remain at the FLSA level (i.e., $684 per week ($35,568 annually) — at least for the time being. For more information, contact the Association’s HR & Legal Services Division at 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

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SEPTEMBER 2021 • mbabizmag.com

Tammy Lamary-Toman, JD, PHR, SHRM-CP is vice president and employment counsel at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or ttoman@mbausa.org.

WOMEN IN IN BUSINESS BUSINESS WOMEN

Julie Wilson

Kelly Montefiori

Lisa Lopez

Stella LaPaglia

Chief Financial Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Senior Vice President of Deposit Operations

Senior Vice President of Human Resources

“My advice for women in business today would be to define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules and build a life you’re proud to live. If there is something you really want to do, believe in yourself and keep moving forward because success will come. And lastly, pay it forward and help others to achieve success.”

“Banking is an industry that has traditionally recognized women. I feel extremely fortunate to have built a career at Marquette, where my contributions are both recognized and valued. The fact that my career has provided an opportunity to help make our community a better place has been very rewarding.”

“It never occurred to me that I had what it takes to have such an exciting and successful career in banking. I have always felt like I have a voice here. Hard work pays off. Management recognized my potential and believed in me. And, throughout the years I have had a steady upward career path.”

“Marquette has given me the opportunity to not only reach my own potential as a leader, but more important, an opportunity to help others reach their full potential. It’s important to me that Marquette recognizes the contributions women make and values employees as their greatest asset.”

Today, more and more women are taking risks, embracing new opportunities and effecting change in key leadership roles. But, when it comes to the workplace, there is still a long way to go. Join us as we hear from a local difference maker and Fortune 500 company representative on the importance of fostering motivation, team building and talent within your organization that can have a powerful impact on your business and community as a whole. Ann Scott is the community outreach manager for Erie Insurance where she oversees the company’s charitable giving and community outreach, including philanthropy, volunteerism and employee giving. Before assuming her current role with the Erie Insurance Giving Network, she had a long career in human resources, with a focus on diversity and inclusion. In 2012, the Mercy Center for Women named her a “Woman Making History” for her contributions to supporting women and youth in the community. PRESENTED BY:

Erie County ILP is a collaboration of the Erie County Office of Children and Youth, Bethesda Lutheran Services, and Family Services of Northwestern Pennsylvania. The program helps youth leaving foster care or other types of placement gain the necessary skills to live independent and productive lives.

814/413-3351 www.ILPSnackShack.org

CO M PAN Y PR O FIL E

Erie’s Newest Food Truck Helps Local Youth Succeed The ILP Snack Shack, LLC food truck is the newest venture of the Erie County Independent Living Program (ILP). The youth-driven business was created to provide youth transitioning out of foster care or other placement with training and practical experience in business development and operations. Dozens of youth from Erie County ILP have been involved with and contributed to this venture since its inception. Currently, the food truck employs six youth in ILP, and will soon employ more. Kerry Sessler, manager of the ILP Snack Shack, is responsible for oversight of business development, operations, and supervision of the youth employees. “One of the barriers we’ve identified is that youth leaving foster care can get a job, but often cannot hold onto that job for an extended period of time,” said Sessler. “This venture helps our youth strengthen their employability skills and manage themselves in an employment situation.” Another barrier for success is a lack of self-confidence. “Success breeds success,”

said Sessler. “We teach the youth to have confidence in themselves and experience success that can translate into future employment opportunities in the real world.” Sessler has a unique background that makes her a perfect fit for this new youth-driven venture. Employed as a social worker for more than 30 years, Sessler worked in a variety of settings with youth. In all cases, Sessler used cooking to connect with the kids and help them develop tangible life skills. “I’ve cooked with kids in a residential setting, in schools, and in all kinds of other environments,” said Sessler. “I love being able to incorporate my background in cooking, social work, and food truck management to really help the youth succeed. As manager of the ILP Snack Shack, Sessler is able to blend her unique skill set to help the youth in ILP learn employability skills as they enter adult life. “I really focus on finding a balance between teaching the youth skills, holding them accountable, and having them leave this program more competent and confident than they were when they came in,” said Sessler. Youth employed by the Snack Shack learn a variety of tangible life skills. They also have

the opportunity to put to use the skill sets and talents they already have in a productive way. “They learn a lot about cooking and food safety, but they are also learning about the business side of things,” said Sessler. “We teach them about time sheets, managing money within a business, scheduling, accounting, multi-tasking and more.” So what types of food can people expect from the Snack Shack? “Our goal is to create walk-away food that can be ready for the customer in 3-5 minutes,” said Sessler. “Everything is homemade, and we’ve already developed a number of signature menu items that we are really excited about.” Signature menu items include the Rueben Ball and the Everything Pizza Ball. The Snack Shack will also offer a variety of handmade dips, including sausage dip, buffalo chicken dip, and artichoke jalapeno dip. Street Tacos are also included in the menu, as are signature handmade brownies. The ILP Snack Shack invites members of the community to support this important youth-driven business venture. To see a menu and find out where you can find the Snack Shack Food Truck, visit www.ILPSnackShack.org.

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

Students, educators, business and community leaders will join us at the Bayfront Convention Center for an amazing exhibition of innovation, technology and career opportunities available in today’s manufacturing industry. In the evening, we will welcome a sold-out crowd of business leaders to the region’s premier networking occasion of the year, our 116th Annual Event, featuring keynote speaker William McRaven, Retired U.S. Navy Four-Star Admiral.

Keynote Speaker Admiral William H. McRaven

EVENT SPONSORS

Committed to Service since 1946

KeepAmericaStrong

WELD IT! Do not print black outline TM

SPECIAL SECTION | NETWORKING AND MORE

The Manufacturer & Business Association is proud to recognize our members throughout the region. To learn more about the benefits of MBA membership, as well as upcoming programs and services, visit www.mbausa.org. recognize American recently presented a plaque to MBA President and CEO John Krahe in Bradford, The company, headquartered ess. busin in year 140th p’s Refining Grou s. t oil refineries in the United State oldes the of one is nia, sylva Penn

Congratulations to Jacklyn Schna uber of Channellock, Inc. She was the winner of the MBA’s HR CoffeeTalk raffle baske t.

Control Chief Corporation is 50 years old this year! The Bradford, Pennsylvania company manufactures wireless crane remote controls, locomotive remote controls, and remote controls for a variety of industries and applications.

The Matric Group in Seneca, Penn sylvania is celebrating its 50th year in business. Shown here are MBA President and CEO John Krahe presenting a plaque to President and CEO Rick Turner, first empl oyee Denny Haag and Rick’s son Bradl ey Turner.

The MBA recently met with mem bers and prospective members at the Pittsburgh Business Exchange, which bring s together like-minded profession als and business leaders in the Greater Pittsburgh region.

ly Company on 75 years y and his team at Welders Supp Congratulations to Mark Raim supply of medical, nia company, is a leader in the in business. The Erie, Pennsylva York region. in the NWPA and western New industrial and specialty gases

mbabizmag.com • SEPTEMBER 2021

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ERIE, PA PERMIT #199

Stick with what works.

96% of businesses that choose UPMC Health Plan stay with UPMC Health Plan. You’ve given a lot of thought to your employees’ health coverage. And you’ve come to a familiar conclusion — nothing’s better than UPMC Health Plan. Choose us for affordable plan options. Full in-network access to UPMC along with other doctors and hospitals in the community. Access to 24/7 virtual urgent care. Service from a designated Health Care Concierge. And digital health tools that keep up with busy lives and schedules. All this is worth sticking with, don’t you agree? To learn more, visit UPMCHealthPlan.com/employers.

Choose. Love. Repeat.