MRC News
Kicking off MRC’s 10th Year of “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” 2025/26 Berks Schuylkill County Student-Manufacturer Teams
The WSCM program is a video-based educational tool that increases awareness of career paths and technology in manufacturing through “peer marketing” (kids telling kids what’s so cool about manufacturing jobs). The “What’s So Cool” contents have expanded across the Commonwealth and the country.
Kicking off MRC’s 13th Anniversary for “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” Lehigh Valley’s Student-Manufacturer Teams Are Announced
The 13th Anniversary of “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” launches in Lehigh Valley with 30 middle schools partnering with local manufacturers. This student video contest promotes STEM and CTE education, culminating in an awards event on March 25, 2026.
Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum 2025: Celebrating Innovation and Economic Growth in the Region
The 2025 Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum showcased the region’s manufacturing excellence, featuring expert insights on workforce development, AI, tax strategies, and energy investments. Highlights included the Manufacturer of the Year award and thought-provoking keynotes. It is a must-attend event for the Lehigh Valley’s industrial community.
Precision Roll Grinders, Inc. Lehigh Valley’s Manufacturing Precision Powerhouse Earns Top Honor
Precision Roll Grinding’s extraordinary technical grinding precision demonstrates not just mechanical skill, but a commitment to innovation that drives entire industries forward. PRG provides the tightest tolerances in the world — a testament to the advanced manufacturing capabilities that make our region a global leader.
MRC Welcomes New Board Member Harry Ciavarella of Pottsville, PA
We’re proud to welcome Harry Ciavarella, Senior VP at Tompkins Community Bank, to the MRC Board of Directors. Harry brings a wealth of experience in commercial lending and a deep commitment to community leadership across Schuylkill and Carbon counties. His financial insight will be a powerful asset to our mission of empowering Pennsylvania manufacturers.
Mitchell Roedema Joins MRC as Leadership Development & Training Strategy Manager
A key focus of Mitchell’s work will be to develop and support MRC’s existing leadership development courses, which include introducing courses in Spanish, and enabling manufacturers to connect with talent from varied backgrounds. Mitchell excels at creating training that is both inspiring and practical, seamlessly blending theory with practice.
Celebrating Leadership Excellence with MRC Board Member Justin Spannuth
Meet an MRC board member who’s redefining leadership! Justin Spannuth of Unique Snacks is inspiring with his 7th-generation vision. Curious how he’s building a culture of respect and growth? Dive into the full story!
How the Manufacturing Industry Can Leverage SBA Lending for Growth and Modernization
Whether you’re a CEO charting the company’s long-term growth plan, a CFO balancing expansion with risk, or an employee invested in your company’s future, Small Business Administration (SBA) lending offers powerful tools to unlock your next stage of growth
What’s So Cool About Manufacturing® 7th Annual Statewide Awards takes place at the Whitaker Center in Harrisburg, PA
he contest is showcased on the What’s So Cool Website and shared nationally through the Manufacturing Institute and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership platforms. The Lehigh Valley contest has expanded across the Commonwealth and the country.
Smart Manufacturing Shines at MRC’s Packed 2025 Technology Show
“This year’s show highlighted how manufacturers can use automation not to replace people, but to empower them to do more meaningful, high-impact work.” says Shawn Furman, MRC’s Director of Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy.
Federal Shifts Won’t Change Our Mission
We’re not slowing down! Our programs, events, and training opportunities are as robust as ever, and we’re energized by the road ahead. MRC stands ready to adapt, innovate, and lead, just as we always have.
Explore Cutting-Edge Tech at MRC’s AMT Show: From Robotics to Smart Manufacturing
This year, our focus on Smart Manufacturing will give attendees actionable insights and real-world examples of how advanced technology can transform their operations