AOMC facility opening has the area excited about the future

AOMC Director, James Ruble; Board Member, Ralph Workman; President, Linn Yost; and Program Director, George Bilokonsky cut the ribbon to officially open the Manufacturing Support Center.

On June 6th, the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers' Coalition (AOMC) officially opened a new manufacturing and business support center with a ribbon cutting ceremony, speakers, and a tour of the building and equipment.

The Manufacturing Support Center (MSC) is located in the Broughton Industrial Park (Building 23) on Route 821 in Marietta, Ohio. The center will provide customized training programs and help companies innovate and provide technology that companies can utilize. The MSC will also provide additional resources to aid in the growth of manufacturing in the region.

Over 200 people attended the opening ceremonies including representatives from Governor Mike Dewine, Senator JD Vance, and Representative Bill Johnson. Recognition certificates from each of their offices were presented during the ceremony. Senator Vance's Representative quoted the Senator saying this was a "new era of innovation."

Washington County Commissioner, Charlie Schilling was also in attendance. “This is an amazing opportunity for Southeast Ohio and Washington County,” said Schilling. “I see a partnership and building a workforce from within.”

The long-term goal is for the work of AOMC to extend beyond the Southeast Ohio region. “We want to serve as conduit for industry and education”, said AOMC President Linn Yost. “Our name is a misnomer—we want to build out our community beyond the six counties we currently serve.