Manufacturers Resource Center Announces New Board Chair and Finance Committee Leadership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Manufacturers Resource Center
April 22, 2026
Allentown, PA –The Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC) proudly announces a transition in Board leadership, as Steve Gergar assumes the role of Chairman of the Board, succeeding Stephen Weise, who officially concluded his service on March 27, 2026. At the same meeting, Harry Ciavarella was appointed Chairman of the Finance Committee.
Gergar, a seasoned financial executive and long-term advocate for manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley, brings decades of leadership experience to his new role. He is the founder of SG Industrial Properties LLC, following a distinguished career that included serving as Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Hospital Central Services/Miller-Keystone Blood Center. Throughout his career, Gergar has led financial and general management operations, strategic planning, and organizational growth initiatives across manufacturing and technology-driven organizations, positioning him well to guide MRC’s continued impact across the region.
“I am honored to step into the role of Chairman and build upon the strong foundation established by Steve Weise,” said Gergar. For nearly 40 years, I have been a dedicated advocate of MRC, leveraging their training and expertise to drive positive outcomes across several previous organizations. MRC plays a critical role in strengthening our manufacturing community, and I look forward to supporting its mission and future growth.”
The organization also recognizes and thanks outgoing Chairman Stephen Weise, former Executive VP at Freshpet, for his dedicated leadership and lasting contributions. During his tenure, Weise helped guide MRC through a period of growth and operational excellence while championing initiatives that strengthened regional manufacturing competitiveness.
Weise retired from his role as Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Supply Chain at Freshpet, Inc., where he led significant operational advancements, including supply chain transformation, cost reductions, and the successful expansion of manufacturing capabilities to support sustained company growth. His career reflects a deep commitment to continuous improvement, cross-functional leadership, and innovation in manufacturing.
“Stephen Weise’s leadership has made a meaningful and lasting impact on MRC and the manufacturers we serve,” said Rich Hobbs, President and CEO of MRC. “We are grateful for his service and the legacy he leaves behind.”
In addition, MRC announces that Harry Ciavarella has been appointed Chairman of the Finance Committee. Ciavarella serves as the Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of Commercial Lending at Tompkins Community Bank, where he oversees operations across Schuylkill, Carbon, Lehigh, and Northampton counties. With extensive experience in financial management and regional economic development, he brings valuable insight and leadership to MRC’s financial strategy and oversight.
“I’m honored to take on this role and contribute to MRC’s continued success,” said Ciavarella. “Supporting manufacturers and ensuring strong financial stewardship are both critical to sustaining growth in our region.”
These leadership transitions reflect MRC’s ongoing commitment to strong governance, strategic direction, and delivering value to the manufacturing community across its five-county region, while maintaining continuity through the continued service of Vice Chairman, Satish Mohapatra, President & CEO, Dynalene Inc.
About Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC)
The Manufacturers Resource Center is a nonprofit partially funded by NIST MEP and Manufacturing PA. MRC has been a trusted partner for Pennsylvania manufacturers for over 35 years, providing expert solutions, training, and industry connections to drive business growth and innovation. With a focus on technology, workforce development, and operational excellence, MRC empowers businesses to grow, compete, and succeed in an evolving industry. For more information, visit www.mrcpa.org.
Contact Information:
Patricia Felise | Media Relations
Manufacturers Resource Center
pat.felise@mrcpa.org | (610) 628-4640.