LIA looks to bolster Long Island’s manufacturing workforce

Members of the Long Island Association’s Manufacturing and Trade Committee gathered at the business organization’s Melville headquarters last week to discuss workforce development for the region’s manufacturing sector.

Local manufacturing companies, not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions and government agencies, at a roundtable discussion, advocated for strategic investments and policy enhancements in education, technology and workforce development programs to boost the industry in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

“Long Island has a legacy of a booming manufacturing sector, and while it is still thriving, the LIA realizes that the manufacturers face significant challenges with hiring and having a stable workforce, and partnerships are critical to ensure their continued growth,” Matt Cohen, LIA president and CEO, said in a news release about the meeting.

The roundtable discussion comes at a time when Long Island’s manufacturing sector plays a significant role in the region’s economy, employing more than 70,000 people. With a focus on hiring and retention challenges, the committee discussed strategies that include partnerships with K-12 and higher-education institutions, technical training and funding opportunities to support and implement these strategies.

“The only way we can grow our economy is by creating new jobs, which is the best type of social program,” LIA Board Chair Larry Waldman, said in the news release.

“I want to thank everyone who joined the LIA … to inform our advocacy so we can continue to support manufacturing companies on Long Island,” Waldman added.

“Ensuring a steady talent pipeline is integral to the prosperity of manufacturing companies on Long Island,” Dorith Hakim, CEO and president of CPI Aero, LIA board member and committee cochair, said in the news release. “Our strategy includes educational partnerships, leveraging funding, and training the future leaders of our companies.”

In addition to Hakim, the LIA Manufacturing and Trade Committee leadership includes the co-chair John Costanzo, senior advisor of Purolator International; and co-vice chairs, Brian Herrington, vice president of External Affairs and Foundation of Scotts Miracle Gro and John D’Addario, CEO of D’Addario & Company.