Case Studies.

Southwestern Pennsylvania is home to a thriving manufacturing sector. In 2019, the industry in the region faced a significant dilemma. Over 70,000 job openings were available, but only about 30,000 job seekers were in the market. This workforce shortage meant increased competition for available talent and manufacturers struggling to find and retain skilled workers. It was clear that a collaborative, innovative solution was needed to bridge this gap and nurture a stronger manufacturing industry.

Catalyst Connection, a key regional stakeholder, took the lead in developing the MFG Works Summit. This annual event, coordinated with support from TrailBlaze Creative, was designed to be the premier manufacturing talent development event in Southwestern Pennsylvania and extending into neighboring states of Ohio and West Virginia.

The MFG Works Summit addresses a wide range of critical topics, including apprenticeships, candidate experience, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), employer branding, and innovative learning strategies.

TrailBlaze Creative played a pivotal role in supporting the MFG Works Summit. Their multifaceted contributions were integral to the summit’s success. They began by crafting the event’s name and visual branding, a strategic endeavor aimed at resonating with the target audience and effectively conveying the summit’s mission and significance.

In addition, TrailBlaze Creative took the lead in designing and developing an intuitive, informative website for the event. This digital platform serves as a central resource, connecting manufacturers, attendees, and speakers. Its user-friendly interface became a hub of information, enhancing the accessibility and engagement of the summit.

Moreover, TrailBlaze Creative’s marketing expertise and graphic design services played a pivotal role in promoting the summit. Their creative materials became powerful tools for generating interest and excitement around the event, effectively reaching a diverse audience. This holistic support from TrailBlaze Creative significantly contributed to the success of the MFG Works Summit.

The impact of the MFG Works Summit has been significant. With expertly curated discussions and workshops, it provides a space for manufacturers to collaborate on employer workforce needs and align them with the needs of the workforce. Attendees praised the event for its thoughtful planning and opportunities for learning from one another.

The MFG Works Summit has emerged as the premier manufacturing workforce development event in the tri-state region. By addressing critical challenges in manufacturing talent development and fostering collaboration, it has significantly contributed to nurturing a stronger, more vibrant manufacturing industry in Southwestern Pennsylvania and beyond.