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Interview
Ethan goes on to highlight that alongside these challenges , the sector is also facing shifting market dynamics . “ The manufacturing industry is changing . While it ’ s important for organizations to adopt technology moving forward , it ’ s not always necessary for every company to focus on every shift . The enduring legacy of a company will be based on its people . Acquiring and retaining the best talent , at all levels , will increase exponentially if you are the employer of choice , because you pay well , and you treat your people well . Manufacturing is a harder field to go into in terms of the type of work generally involved and the slightly more intense environment . As such , people need to be remunerated accordingly . The best way to insure yourself against business cycles or recessions is to have the best innovations and the best people . These are the ingredients that really create value .
“ Northeast Ohio may not be unique , but it is special ,” Ethan elaborates . “ We ’ re dependent on manufacturing and our region is fundamental to the supply chain . Everything we do , at MAGNET and as part of the MEP National Network , is to show a brighter future for existing manufacturers and their workers . America is still the second top producer , and we need to bolster our position for national security , for jobs , and for everything in between . Manufacturing built the middle class for America , and it should and can do so again . Our manufacturers are somewhat hidden today , but there is tremendous pride in what they do , and we want to boost that pride to propel people to get onto this career path . We want to reignite that pride and remind people how many families are fed because of manufacturing ,” he concludes . “ I feel immense pride in my adopted industry here , and I know that everybody who gets to know manufacturers and the people who work in the sector also feels that pride .” ■
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