MRC News
Kicking off MRC’s 11th Year of “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” 2026/27 Berks Schuylkill County Student-Manufacturer Teams
Student teams from 31 Berks and Schuylkill County middle schools are partnering with 31area manufacturers to produce their video submissions. All videos will be posted on the “What’s So Cool” website WhatsSoCool.org and will be open to the public for voting April 5, 2027, for the Viewers Choice Award.
MRC’s 14th Anniversary for “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” Lehigh Valley Teams Announced
The “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing” student video contest provides 7th and 8th grade students with a unique opportunity to connect directly with local manufacturers. Students build on their curiosity and apply their creativity to develop, shoot, edit, and produce a “cool” video to document their experiences.
Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum to Bring Regional Industry Leaders Together
The 2026 Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum brings regional manufacturers, industry leaders, suppliers, and community stakeholders together October 1 at ArtsQuest SteelStacks to explore manufacturing trends, workforce, business growth, AI, technology, and the future of manufacturing. “Manufacturing is a vital part of the Lehigh Valley’s economic strength, and its future depends on our ability to work together,” said Rich Hobbs, President & CEO of Manufacturers Resource Center.
Deborah Smalley Appointed to Manufacturers Resource Center Board of Directors
Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC) announced the appointment of Deborah S. Smalley, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Precision Roll Grinders, to its Board of Directors. Smalley will also serve on MRC’s Finance Committee, bringing extensive manufacturing, financial, and governance expertise to support MRC’s mission of strengthening manufacturers throughout Pennsylvania.
What’s So Cool About Manufacturing® 8th Annual Statewide Awards Announces Winners
The 8th Annual What’s So Cool About Manufacturing® Best of PA Statewide Awards celebrated Pennsylvania student creativity, STEM education, and manufacturing career awareness at the Whitaker Center in Harrisburg. Student teams from across the Commonwealth competed for statewide honors after advancing through 13 regional contests featuring 166 student-produced manufacturing videos.
Manufacturers Resource Center Announces New Board Chair and Finance Committee Leadership
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.
Automation with Intention: Inside MRC’s 2026 AMT Show
Manufacturers at MRC’s 2026 AMT Show shared a clear message: successful automation isn’t about scale, it’s about intention. From MES implementation to Lean AI, the event highlighted practical strategies delivering real results.
What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” Announces 2026 Berks Schuylkill Awards
Over a three-day voting period, the contest, which featured two-minute videos produced by each student team, received 176,828 votes. The video with the most votes received the “Viewers Choice Award.” Student videos were also reviewed by a panel of judges for awards in eleven other categories, including Outstanding Career Pathway and Outstanding Creativity.
MRC to Host 2026 Automation and Manufacturing Technology Show in Lehigh Valley
Designed as a highly focused, half-day experience, the AMT Show brings together proven technologies, real-world applications, and trusted solution providers to help manufacturers improve safety, increase quality, strengthen delivery performance, and reduce operating costs. This year’s event features an enhanced layout with dedicated speaker and demonstration areas.
Coca-Cola Park Crowned America’s Best Minor League Ballpark
Coca-Cola Park has officially been crowned America’s Best Minor League Ballpark. This latest national recognition highlights the Lehigh Valley’s vibrant comeback and shows how strong community amenities, good jobs, especially in manufacturing, and a collaborative spirit continue to fuel the region’s success.
“What’s So Cool About Manufacturing®” Announces 2026 Lehigh Valley Awards
Over a three-day voting period, the contest, which featured two-minute videos produced by each student team, received 321,908 votes. The video with the most votes received the “Viewers Choice Award.” Student videos were also reviewed by a panel of judges for awards in 11 other categories, including Outstanding Videography and Outstanding Creativity.
Voting Begins for What’s So Cool About Manufacturing® Berks Schuylkill Video Contest
Student teams from 33 regional middle school teams compete for the most votes to win the coveted “Viewers Choice Award.” The videos will also be reviewed by a panel of judges for awards in eleven other categories, including Best CTE Story, Outstanding Editing and Outstanding Creativity.