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Message from the Chairman

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Dear Members:

Resilience. The definition of resilience is to recover quickly from difficulties, or toughness, and I believe it is a word that best describes the world we are living in today. No matter how many times our business community has been tested over the past year and a half, there’s no question that resilience has propelled many of our organizations — and teams — forward.

Yes, we have and continue to face many challenges, but through our resilience and resolve, we know now that we can be more flexible than we
ever imagined, finding new ways to work, innovate and serve customers
— many not only in our region, but across the country and even the
world. We are connected more than ever — in person and virtually — and
here, at the Association, we continue to be a trusted leader when it comes
to services and support that can help employers succeed.

Today, your Manufacturer & Business Association is certainly well positioned to assist you, our members, during these complex times by providing exclusive, valued-added services that can help keep your operations current and prepared.

From comprehensive HR and legal support, exclusive HR services and products, professional development and computer training, competitive
group insurance, expert logistics services, reduced energy costs, premium meeting space, timely legislative information, thought-provoking business news, and premier networking opportunities, the MBA is recognized as a trusted resource for employers across Pennsylvania, northeastern Ohio and southwestern New York. That is our mission — the heart of all we do!

Still, I would be remiss if I didn’t talk about the importance of leadership
in achieving these goals. As you know in your own organizations, leaders
— at every level — are integral to a company’s overall business success.
No role is too small or insignificant to effect real change — and real results. It’s been said that you are only as strong as your weakest link, and effective leaders recognize this, knowing the success of the team and organization depends on everyone’s contributions.

At the Association, I have had the pleasure of working with truly phenomenal business leaders and staff. They recognize that business is hard work but it’s also about working smart, and placing value on effort and performance first. As we all know, there are no shortcuts to success.

That’s why in this year’s Annual Report, it is exciting to showcase not only our Annual Event speaker Retired U.S. Navy Admiral William McRaven about taking command in leadership, but so many of our local leaders about their lessons in leadership and what it means to them.

Finally, as we look forward to this year’s Annual Event and MFG Day celebration on October 13, I hope that you will take the time to really enjoy reconnecting with colleagues and friends. We have finally set sail from the storm, and the horizon has never been brighter!

Best regards,
Steve Jones,
MBA Chairman