By Tony DeSantis, NJMEP’s Senior Vice President
When people from around the nation hear, “New Jersey,” what do you think comes to mind? It’s probably pop culture references like The Sopranos, famous rock stars like Bruce Springsteen or Jon Bon Jovi, or good food and famous pizza.
While all of these things are certainly New Jersey, manufacturing should be the top thought.
The Garden State is home to over 9,100 manufacturing establishments of all different sizes. More than 247,000 workers are employed through manufacturing according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and we offer some of the highest paying careers in the state. The industry, which is comprised of approximately 20 different sectors, is one of the largest contributors of our state’s economy.
Manufacturing also has a “multiplier” effect on our economy. Meaning, every manufacturing job creates at least four additional jobs. For every $1.00 spent in manufacturing, $1.48 is created for the economy. The industry’s strong impact to our state is precisely why we need advocacy for NJ’s manufacturing community.
I am proud to announce that NJMEP has proclaimed the kick-off to its “Year of Advocacy” Program!
So… what do I mean by “Year of Advocacy?”
NJMEP pledges to give back to NJ manufacturers and work to shape the perception of manufacturing to the media, business community, legislators, educators, students, and the general public at large.
Throughout the year, we will introduce numerous new initiatives and campaigns to support manufacturing in the Garden State. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Experience Manufacturing
- Free Training Days and/or Workshops donated by our team of industry experts
- Advisory Board Development
- Small Business Focused Support
- Industry Symposiums
- Plant Tours for Students
Overall, our goal is to “give back” $250,000 in value to our manufacturers!
Details about the Year of Advocacy program will be revealed at our Open House. We recently moved locations and are inviting you to check out our new headquarters. Here are the details:
Date:
Wednesday, May 28th
12:00pm to 6:00pm
Location:
2 Ridgedale Avenue – Suite 305
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
Attendees can pre-register by clicking here. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required.
Have you ever seen the famous bridge in Trenton…the one that says, Trenton Makes the World Takes? Through advocacy, let’s make it, New Jersey Makes, the Universe Takes!