Glen Raven
Burlington
May 16, 2012 1:30 - 4:30 pm
Daimler Trucks
Mount Holly
June 26, 2012
1:30 - 4:30 pm
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"We enjoyed the affair and were surprised at the diversity of the manufacturers from across the state.Since the first meeting, we are now doing business with Flextronics' in Charlotte, NC. This is the start of a good thing."
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Asheville, NC-- Industries for the Blind (IFB) Asheville will host the next Manufacturing Makes It Real Network event sponsored by NC State University's Industrial Extension Service (IES) on September 27 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at 240 Sardis Road, Asheville. IFB Asheville, with headquarters in Winston-Salem, NC, is a nonprofit organization providing employment, training, and services for people who are blind or visually impaired.
"We are excited to host the Manufacturing Makes It Real network event; it gives us the chance to connect with other area manufacturers and exchange best practices. We get to see all the different products that are made in this area, and attendees will see how our employees who are visually impaired create excellent products," said Randy Buckner, director of operations for IFB Asheville.
The goal of network events is to expand understanding of the profound impact manufacturing has on the state's economy. These events also grow and strengthen the connections shared between businesses and manufacturers alike. At previous events around the state this year, hundreds of manufacturers and their friends traded business cards, shared stories, and discussed how they are now doing business as a direct result of connections made at these events.
All local manufacturers are invited to share their stories and show their products. The network event will include ample time for meeting and forming connections; this is the glue that strengthens the network and often leads to forming local supply chains. There will also be a plant tour. The event is public with free admission; please register online.
IFB Asheville produces poncho liners, flyers kit bags, staplers, and other items for the US government. They employ more than 100 people, 54 of whom are blind or visually impaired. About 75 percent of the direct labor in this facility is handled by people who are blind; these are the first jobs many of these employees have held.
Manufacturing Makes It Real Network background
The Manufacturing Makes It Real Network grew out of the demand from manufacturers to tell their stories to an enthusiastic audience. These stories and their products were experienced during the statewide Manufacturing Makes It Real tour hosted by IES during the week of September 27 - October 1, 2010.
The network was designed to continue that trend by promoting a positive image of manufacturing. It is supported by manufacturers who join as members and receive promotional benefits and easy access to IES expertise.
IES has worked since 1955 to advance manufacturing in North Carolina. Since 2006, IES provided more than $1 billion of value to the state's manufacturers, and created or retained more than 5,000 jobs.
The Manufacturing Makes It Real Network charter members:
NC State University Industrial Extension Service
Phone 1-800-227-0264
