FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2020
For more information please contact:
Zenagui Brahim
President, NH MEP
603-226-3200
zenaguib@nhmep.org
Manufacturing Month this year in NH became official on Friday, October 2nd at Filtrine Manufacturing Company, a fifth generation family owned, water filtration manufacturer in Keene, NH.
In attendance were Governor Chris Sununu, George Hansel, Vice President and Manager of Innovation/Engineering at Filtrine and Keene City Mayor, Will Arvelo, Director of New Hampshire Business and Economic Affairs, Senator Jay Kahn of District 10 and representatives from the federal delegation.
George Hansel kicked off the event stating how the state can expose more young people to careers in manufacturing and engage their interest. “There’s something really fulfilling about working every day and leaving something tangible that you made behind.” Hansel said.
Governor Chris Sununu emphasized the importance of New Hampshire stressing the contribution manufacturing makes in the state economy. He advised that manufacturers, high schools, community colleges and universities need to have a two-way street and serve as connectors for students and industry. He closed his speech by reading the Governor’s proclamation of October as New Hampshire Manufacturing Month.
Will Arvelo talked about how manufacturers have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of a well trained workforce post pandemic. State Senator Jay Kahn continued by recognizing that the Monadnock region still has the highest concentration of manufacturing workforce in New Hampshire since the 19th century. He acknowledged the Career Readiness Credential through Career Technical Education (CTE) centers at middle and high schools that led students into college and careers in manufacturing.
Zenagui Brahim, President of New Hampshire Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NH MEP), described Manufacturing Month’s successful progress over the years. He affirmed the importance of building the workforce at middle school age and encouraged manufacturers to open their doors to students during the entire year, not just during Manufacturing Month. This year manufacturers will do presentations for the students for 15-17 minutes and the rest of the hour will be devoted to Q&A.
Learn more about Manufacturing Month or to participate, contact Zenagui Brahim at zenaguib@nhmep.org
To watch a video recording of the event, click here.