January/February 2020

January/February 2020 | bxjmag.com

ACCELERATED MANUFACTURING NextGen Integration in

Airport Development

Digital Innovations Continue to DRIVE LOGISTICS EXPANSION OPPORTUNITIES CALIFORNIA • INDIANA • IOWA ONTARIO, CANADA:

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ABOUT THE CRDC Our region is one of the largest per capita manufacturing centers in the United States.

Centrally located in the Midwest along the Mississippi River, dozens of manufacturing companies have chosen this area for access to three Class-1 Railroads (UP, CP and BNSF), several interstate trucking routes and local barge operations. Clinton County is home to Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), LyondellBasell, Nestle Purina Pet Care, Custom-Pak, West Rock, Guardian Glass and many others. Three business parks currently have land available and all of them are located in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts.

Clinton County also has two federal Opportunity Zones, which offer attractive benefits to new investors.

PHOTO: MISSISSIPPI RIVER AT RIVERVIEW PARK CLINTON, IOWA

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CONTACT ERIN M. COLE (563) 242–4536 ecole@clintondevelopment.com WWW.CLINTONDEVELOPMENT.COM/BUSINESS

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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FEATURES

INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: U.S. Airport Development Money is in place and projects are on schedule for new airports and airport expansions as both domestic and international travel continues on a blistering pace

By David Hodes

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EDITORIAL SERVICES EDITOR IN CHIEF Lee Hurley | lhurley@latitude3.com CONTRIBUTORS David Hodes Joe Crowe Loyd McIntosh CREATIVE DIRECTOR Clint Cabiness

INNOVATION AND STRATEGIES: Logistics More digital innovations converge to accelerate deliveries, from containers to stores to more targeted distribution locations

By David Hodes

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Alan Reyes-Guerra 205-949-1618 | areyes@latitude3.com

INDUSTRY INSIGHT: Advanced Manufacturing Nearly every industry is benefitting from new technological discoveries, data analytics and other processes used in today’s accelerated manufacturing world

By David Hodes

EDITORIAL OFFICE Latitude3 Media Group, LLC 2300 Resource Drive Birmingham, Alabama 35242 Tel: 205-949-1618 | Fax: 205-949-1601 OPERATIONS Jennifer Pentecost Whitley jpentecost@latitude3.com ONLINE MEDIA ASSISTANT Sonia Buchanan sbuchanan@latitude3.com SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES & REQUESTS 205-949-1618 or www.bxjmag.com CORPORATE OFFICE PRESIDENT Trent R. Boozer EDITOR IN CHIEF Lee Hurley

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INDUSTRY

OUTLOOK

U.S. Airport Development B Y: D AV ID HO D ES

Money is in place and projects are on schedule for new airports and airport expansions as both domestic and international travel continues on a blistering pace

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he aviation system in the U.S. contributes 12 million jobs and $1.5 trillion annually to the economy, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), making it one of the country’s most valuable assets. Healthy and robust state of airport development is a key indicator that the U.S. continues to be able to keep up with the growing demands, even some that have grown as a result of surges of new business development that could not have been predicted just ten years ago. ..................................................................................................

One example of new airport capacity needs is the new primary airport that opened in October in North Dakota, replacing an existing commercial service airport built in 1947 in Williston, North Dakota, where airlines and general aviation there were running into capacity issues because of regional economic growth from oil and natural gas production.

Oil production in North Dakota surged to nearly 42,000 barrels in September, 2019, alone, putting the state in the position as the second largest oil producer in the country, behind only Texas, and 30,000 more barrels than the state

produced during the same period in 2010. Population doubled over the last ten years.

The recently opened Williston Basin International Airport, the newest in the country, cost $273 million and was financed with $106 million from the FAA, $55 million from the state and $112 million from bonds supported by airport revenue.

But there are more airport development plans in place across the country.

One of the proposed new primary airports to help meet future aviation demand, the Chicago South Suburban Airport, would be the third major airport in the region and is designed to be a cargo-only facility. It is expected to be completed in December, 2020.

The National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) has identified six other proposed new airports, two primary and four nonprimary, that are anticipated to be developed and open over the 5-year period covered by a report to Congress covering 2019 to 2023 developments..

According to the NPIAS report, there are 610,796 pilots, 213,050 active general aviation aircraft, and18,203 air carrier aircraft using 19,627 landing areas, including private use (closed to the public) and public-use (open to the public) facilities.

The majority of airports in the national airport system have adequate airport capacity and few delays. However, there are airports that consistently experience delays, and a small percentage of airports that are seeing growing constraints in

the terminal and landside areas. Those concerns are being addressed.

Since 2000, infrastructure projects at 23 major airports have provided airports with the additional capacity to accommodate over 2 million additional aircraft operations each year, according to the NPIAS. Another element that will help in making airports more efficient are NextGen (next generation) improvements, including automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADSB), which functions with satellite rather than radar technology to more accurately observe and track air traffic, and is scheduled to be in place in most airports by January 1, 2020; and system-wide information management (SWIM), which aggregates multiple sources of aviation data and shares it through a single access point.

The FAA says that this NextGen integration will cost $32 billion by 2030. Right now, the integration already provides $1.6 billion in benefits to airlines and the traveling public. Over the next 15 years, they estimate NextGen will produce an additional $11.4 billion in benefits.

One example of NextGen at work: In Atlanta, Delta Airlines reported saving 60 gallons of fuel per flight by using more efficient descent procedures designed under NextGen. Aircraft descend continually to the runway with engines idle, as opposed to descending in a stair-step fashion and using the engines and burning fuel to power up at each level-off point. X

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INDUSTRY

OUTLOOK

AIRPORTS that have nurtured a flurry of recent tenant expansions at the airport.

• Honda Aircraft Company recently announced a $15 million wing manufacturing plant that it will build at the airport.

• HAECO Americas recently completed construction of a 250,000 square-foot maintenance and repair hangar at the airport, which represents a $65 million investment.

• At its Mid-Atlantic Hub, FedEx is growing its overnight cargo operations, adding more flights and hiring hundreds of additional workers.

Piedmont Triad International Airport Poised to add New Tenants, Create More Jobs Located in the heart of North Carolina, the Piedmont Triad International Airport is at the center of an aerospace boom that has transformed the region into a job-rich location for aircraft manufacturing. logistics, aircraft parts supply and aviation repair and maintenance.

Companies such as FedEx, Honda Aircraft Company, HAECO Americas, Cessna, Purolator Advanced Filtration, Collins Aerospace, Honda Aero and Triumph Aerospace are providing thousands of jobs to skilled aviation workers. Nearly 200 aerospace companies are located in the Piedmont Triad, a 12-county region that includes the cities of Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem.

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At the center of this aerospace activity is the Piedmont Triad International Airport. The airport’s central East Coast location and state-ofthe-art facilities make PTI a catalyst for commercial and industrial development.

Home to more than 50 companies and 6,000 employees, the airport infuses an estimated $6 billion into the local economy each year.

“The airport supports innovation, the regional leadership supports business and the Piedmont Triad is a wonderful place for our associates and their families to live and work,” said Michimasa Fujino, president and CEO of the Honda Aircraft Company. The company has its World Headquarters located at the airport.

The positive chemistry created by the combination of airport, business and local political leadership has resulted in extensive infrastructure improvements

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The growth among airport tenants has created a greater demand for aerospace workers, a demand that is being met by an aggressive North Carolina Community College system that emphasizes careers in all facets of aerospace and custom-trains workers to individual company specifications.

“The Piedmont Triad Airport Authority believes that the future of North Carolina Aerospace resides in the Piedmont Triad,” said Kevin Baker, the airport’s executive director. “The Authority has taken action to support its growth.”

To keep pace with the growth of its tenant operations, the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority continues to add infrastructure and make improvements to the airfield. The airport’s main parallel runway is being renovated and the airport has recently broken ground on a $61 million, 180-foot Air Traffic Control Tower, which is projected to be commissioned in 2022.

More to the point, the airport is making room for new tenants. The airport has acquired land for future development. Work proceeds on a new taxiway, soon to be completed, which will connect the main airport campus to more than 800 acres of airport property located across Interstate 73.

“When aerospace industry needs a place to land, we will be ready,” Baker said. “We are ready.” X ...........................................................................

Visit LandatPTI.com to learn more.

INNOVATIONS & STRATEGIES

Logistics B Y: DAV ID HO D ES

More digital innovations converge to accelerate deliveries, from containers to stores to more targeted distribution locations

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he science of logistics – and that is really what it is becoming more and more today – represents a deeper dig into the data analytics gathered with each movement of cargo or a package, helping to create ever-better algorithms to solve the simplest but most pressing issue of the industry: How fast can the customer get exactly what they ordered? ....................................................................................................

To answer that question, scientific discovery has created leading edge applications.

For example, one emerging technological innovation in the industry is augmented reality (AR), a process dependent on access and use of more and more data, and a recent innovation that is being used in many industries (such as health care) around the world.

Today, 24 percent of all AR glasses shipped went to logistics buyers in 2017, indicating the critical importance of getting even the most advanced technologies to work in an industry that is literally reshaping the delivery landscape.

WAREHOUSING UPGRADES One company exploring the applications of AR is DHL, one of the world’s largest logistics companies that delivers over 1.5 billion parcels a year. AR for DHL can 8 |

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INNOVATIONS & STRATEGIES

LOGISTICS

be used in warehousing operations; transportation optimization; last-mile delivery; and for enhanced value-added services.

For example, in the picking process for warehousing operations, which represents about 20 percent of all logistics costs according to DHL, a worker can use an AR device instead of a slower, more costly paper-by-paper approach for real-time information on the location and movement of packages.

Other AR development comes from systems by Knapp, SAP, and Ubimax, which are currently being field tested, and consist of mobile AR systems such as a head-mounted display (HMD), cameras, a wearable PC, and battery packs that provide enough energy for at least one work shift.

The AR vision picking software offers real-time object recognition, barcode reading, indoor navigation, and seamless integration of information with the Warehouse Management System (WMS). A key benefit of vision picking

Logistics: The DHL Parcelcopter over Lake Victoria in a flight trial to deliver medicines. is its provision of hands-free intuitive digital support to workers during manual picking operations.

By using a system like this, each worker can see the digital picking list in their field of vision and – and with the help indoor navigation capabilities – see the best route, reducing their travel time

by efficient path planning.

Using automated barcode scanning capabilities, the system’s image recognition software can check whether the worker has arrived at the right location, and can guide the worker to quickly locate the right item on the shelf.

DHL also reports that AR devices could help by replacing the need for printed cargo lists and load instructions.

At a transfer station, for example, the loader could obtain real-time information on their AR device about which pallet to take next and where exactly to place this pallet in the vehicle.

The AR device could display loading instructions, with arrows or highlights identifying suitable target areas inside the vehicle.

Robots to assist in package picking are becoming commonplace, along with other autonomous machines such as the Knapp Open Shuttles, that communicate with each other to transport packages wherever they are needed inside a warehouse.

WHAT THE CUSTOMER WANTS A McKinsey and Company report, “Supply Chain 4.0,” found that customer expectations are growing as a result of the online commerce trend of the last few years which has led to increasing service expectations, with a trend towards further individualization and customization that drives the strong 10 |

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growth of and constant changes in the stock keeping unit (SKU) portfolio.

The online-enabled transparency and easy access to a multitude of options regarding where to shop and what to buy drives the competition of supply chains.

To build on these trends and cope with the changed requirements, supply chains need to become much faster, more granular, and much more precise.

The report determined that supply chains need to master “microsegmentation,” which is the granularization of the supply chain into hundreds of individual supply chain segments based on customer requirements, and find ways to mass-customize supply chain offerings.

systems and autonomous vehicles.

One example comes from DHL, with a logistics solution to bring deliveries right to the urban consumer’s car. A pilot project between DHL and Volkswagen worked with 50 Polo VW’s that were used as mobile parcel lockers, and provided “in-car delivery” for select customers.

A similar pilot was also conducted in partnership with Smart in Stuttgart,

showing the potential for scalability.

DHL also recently added their drone, “Parcelcopter,” to send and receive packages. A total of 130 shipments were sent over a distance of five miles – a trip that would take 30 minutes by car, but took the Parcelcopter only eight minutes.

Amazon developed a fully-electric autonomous delivery system – Amazon Scout, the size of a small cooler – that

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THE LAST MILE Probably the biggest focus today in logistics, responding to the microsgementation concept, is the so-called “last mile” of the logistics process, where many innovations are being focused.

Last mile logistics is the least efficient stage of the supply chain and makes up 28 percent of the total delivery cost, according to a white paper authored

by Italian logistics engineers. To be successful, it requires a daunting level of work involving individual city and state public policy, coordination of “smart city” traffic management processes and sensoring, plus other details about pricing and package access.

To that outlook, DHL adds that there are other last mile factors to consider in three core areas: localizing delivery networks enabled by enhanced capabilities in predicting consumption, providing flexible delivery solutions to guarantee convenience, and addressing cyclical cost concerns by reimagining seasonal demand.

Nevertheless, getting the product to smaller and smaller, more focused and more connected, distribution centers (or even storage lockers within smaller businesses) has been a key step in upgrading the logistics process, and incorporates developments along other new technological transportation innovations, such as Uber-like delivery

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The Port of Davisville has been instrumental in the development of the offshore wind industry, including the first wind farm in the United States.

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INNOVATIONS & STRATEGIES

LOGISTICS

Amazon Air’s operation launched in 2016. A main Amazon air hub at the Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport will open in 2021.

rolls along sidewalks at a walking pace. The Scout began delivering packages to customers in Snohomish County, Washington, in January, 2019.

THE BIGGER SHIPPING PICTURE In the larger picture of logistics, there are disrupters taking more and more of the market share with technological developments and better uses of data analytics as the basis for an assetless business model (where a business owns fewer capital assets compared to the value of its operations, essentially having less stuff in order to create more value) that lets them compete with a much lower cost base.

As noted in a report by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), “The Digital Imperative in Container Shipping,” Amazon has obtained a license to operate as an assetless cargo forwarder between China and the U.S. in a disruptive positioning that offers a unique competitive advantage for the company.

There are other technology-based startups gaining traction.

For example, Flexport, a freight forwarder, has, of October 2017, attracted more than $200 million in venture capital investment.

Flexport is not alone in attracting venture capital. In the past six years, more than $3.3 billion has been invested in digital startups in the shipping and logistics sector.

Big shipping operations like this have been typically been slow to adopt new digital technologies basically because the industry had not been as challenged in the past (with

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e-commerce demands specifically) as it is today.

The BCG report speculated about an online booking platform that would let a customer receive instant quotes on containers to be shipped – an Internet-of-Things innovation that could become a distinct competitive advantage. “However, providing instant quotes for container shipping is complicated, especially for journeys entailing intermodal transport,” the report stated. “It requires a robust underlying IT infrastructure with, at a minimum, frequently updated price sheets that account for different permutations of services and allow for intermodal quotations.”

Leading container freight carriers are already working to improve the online experience. For example, my.maerskline. com is a portal that provides Maersk’s customers with one-stop access to online quotes, remote container management, and container tracking.

In response to the complications of shipping efficiencies, in November, Maersk created a fourth-party logistics (4PL) concept with one of their partners, where the 4PL logistics provider takes third-party logistics a step further by managing resources, technology, infrastructure and other logistics providers serving the client to design, build and provide customized supply chain solutions.

Traxens, a cargo logistics startup, offers embedded sensors to monitor cargo within its “smart containers.” Embedded sensors continuously measure and record shocks to the crates during

UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH

A picker at work in an Amazon fulfillment center shipping, which can be crucial to delicate shipments such as electronics. Throughout the container’s journey, data is continuously sent over global cellular links to the Traxens cloud-based platform for analysis. Any sudden impact or acceleration is time-stamped, geo-located, and communicated instantly.

All of the major logistics operators in the U.S. have expanded rapidly.

For example, since 2005, FedEx Ground has opened 17 new hubs featuring advanced material-handling systems, and expanded or relocated more than 500 local facilities.

Over the past six years, FedEx Ground added more than 36 million square feet (the equivalent of 1.3 square miles) to its network, including the opening of nine new automated hubs and nearly 60 automated stations.

Amazon, the gorilla in the room of logistics, has more than 175 fulfillment centers and more than 150 million square feet of space worldwide, with more than 100,000 robotic units working alongside thousands of employees.

The company is looking to dominate the logistics industry, according to an article in Business Insider. It’s air-cargo network, which launched in late 2015, already consists of 40 Boeing 767s, with 10 more to deliver this year and in 2020.

The Motley Fool reports that, because Amazon is now using its own fleet, FedEx and UPS could lose billions of dollars.

Amazon is already responsible for about half of all e-commerce conducted in the U.S. and analysts forecast U.S. online sales will exceed $1 trillion by 2025. X

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Four aluminum domes, each created using innovative friction stir welding processes, are seen in this overhead view of the Marshall Space Flight (picture courtesy NASA).

Advanced Manufacturing B Y: D AV ID HO D ES

Nearly every industry is benefitting from new technological discoveries, data analytics and other processes, used in today’s accelerated manufacturing world

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he landscape of manufacturing in the U.S. is continuing down the road of more automation, more use of and application of advanced analytics due to the huge amount of data being generated, all with the hopes that these actions will not upset the balance of available workforce but in fact provide more opportunities for growth in niche markets or new businesses that have sprung up precisely because of this change. .............................................................................................

Employers and workforce developers are watching carefully what is coming out of the nation’s think tanks, as applications using more advanced research become operative and new tools such as the cloud in advanced manufacturing become more and more vital to the success of business in this country.

FOCUS ON ADVANCED MANUFACTURING IN THE U.S. According to a July, 2019, McKinsey Global Institute report, “The Future of Work in America,” an analysis of 315 cities and more than 3,000 counties shows that the United States is a “mosaic of local economies” with widening gaps between them. The report found that 25 large cities with high-growth hubs, home to 96 million, are responsible for most of the country’s growth over the last century.

Smaller cities have older workforces, higher employment and lower levels of education, leaving a sort of middle ground of cities – approximately 96 million people - both of which will struggle somewhat to keep up or find jobs in a job market that has become more and more automated using more data generated by digital technology (especially in backroom operations and other office jobs) in an evolution that applies to advanced manufacturing as well.

A GE report showed that, today, advanced manufacturing accounts for 13 percent of jobs in the U.S. and contributes $3.1 trillion to the economy.

The McKinsey report identified fifty locations in the U.S. that are home to approximately three percent of the population, and are considered the country’s manufacturing hubs, some showing signs of steady growth (such as Greenville, South Carolina) and some declining (such as Springfield, Ohio).

NASA has developed replication techniques, the machinery, and materials to In fact, manufacturing accounts for 20 replicate electro-formed nickel mirrors. percent or more of employment in 460 counties in the U.S. The report also found that the next wave time, with the greatest demand by the automotive industry, of automation will affect occupations across the country, according to statistics from the International Federation of displacing many office support, food service, transportation Robotics (IFR); and aerospace, using more nanotechnology, and logistics, and customer service roles. which, when combined with advanced technology, allow more flight efficiencies because of the use of lighter materials for MORE EFFICIENCIES, LOWER COSTS, BROADER both commercial aircraft and space craft being designed now.

APPLICATIONS According to the National Institute of Standards and Advanced manufacturing techniques combined with Technology (NIST), new examples of advanced manufacturing big data analytics is beginning to allow companies to make techniques currently being used include: intelligent decisions based on real-time data. This actionable data will lead to faster turnaround times for manufacturing and • Additive manufacturing, which is a technique called cold lower costs. spraying that involves blasting metallic particles through Three industries that are among the biggest beneficiaries of a nozzle at high speeds, binding particles together to advanced manufacturing include electric vehicles, where sales form shapes. This creates a part by building materials grew by 60 percent in 2016, led by robots in the Tesla factory layer by layer through the control of a computer. at its Fremont plant; robotics, where, in 2015 the number of Because the end result is a high precision replica of an industrial robots sold worldwide surpassed 240,000 for the first original design, there is less waste during the production bxjmag.com

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

NASA engineers monitor a robot heating advanced composite materials to form the skin of a composite tank.

process, which saves money for the manufacturer. Recent advancements have enabled additive manufacturing to become more affordable, and it is anticipated to become a common option for smaller manufacturers.

• The Internet of Things, or a workplace where connected equipment will be able to communicate via the Internet, and computerized manufacturing machinery will be able to “talk to each other” and send/receive notifications about operating conditions. Once a problem is detected, a notification is sent to other networked devices so the entire process can be automatically adjusted. The end result is reduced downtime, improved quality, less waste and lower costs. This technology has already led lead to the development of new types of positions for the manufacturing workforce: the data analyst, the data architect, the chief digital officer, worker experience designer, the digital manufacturing engineer.

• Micro manufacturing, where tiny electronic circuits are printed by laser printers. This could lead to desktop manufacturing plants that “print” the circuitry for a wide array of electronic devices, according to an article in the New York Times.

• Ford Freeform Fabrication Technology (F3T), where a piece of sheet metal is clamped around its edges and 16 |

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formed into a 3D shape by two stylus-type tools working in unison on opposite sides of the sheet metal blank.

Similar to a digital printer, after the computer-aided design (CAD) data of a part are received, computer-generated tool paths control the F3T machine to form the sheet metal part into its final shape to the required dimensional tolerances and surface finish. F3T has the potential to allow for greater personalization options, adding the ability for buyers to customize vehicle bodywork. F3T is also expected to have broad applications outside of the automotive industry, including use in the aerospace, defense, transportation and appliance industries.

That project is part of a three-year, $7.04 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to advance next-generation, energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Led by Ford, other collaborators include Northwestern University, The Boeing Company, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Penn State Erie.

ADJUSTING WORKFORCE FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY JOBS At the same time, this new technology-based economy will continue to create jobs, particularly roles in healthcare, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, and business services.

The challenge here is changing the skills of the manufacturing workforce, which is really the starting point of growth in the advanced manufacturing operations.

According to the McKinsey report, it is possible to turn this period of technological change into an occasion to create more rewarding jobs and build better learning systems and career pathways. “What lies ahead is not a sudden robot takeover but a period of ongoing, and perhaps accelerated, change in how work is organized and the mix of jobs in the economy,” the report concluded.

Many large corporations have already found ways of getting advanced manufacturing workforce in place with specialized programs. Examples include Toyota’s Advanced Manufacturing Technician program, which integrates a two-year technical degree program with paid part-time employment; and Georgia’s Quick Start program, a state-funded program that provides customized workforce development training at no cost to qualified businesses, covering industries such as advanced manufacturing and biosciences.

There are also online learning programs, like Udacity, that offers “nanodegrees” in data science, programming and cloud computing.

Udacity began as an experiment in online learning, when Stanford instructors Sebastian Thrun and Peter Norvig offered their “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence” course online to anyone, for free. Over 160,000 students in more than 190 countries enrolled.

“We know that the skill requirements for working in advanced manufacturing are rising and a lot are specialized,” Dr. David Hart, director of the Center for Science, Technology and Innovation Policy at George Mason’s Schar School of Policy and Government, says. “Our system hasn’t ever been all that good at keeping up on this kind of thing. You look at Germany

and Japan that have well established systems for transitioning from school into the workforce in a relatively seamless fashion.

So we have a challenge there,” he says.

“It’s something where states and the federal government have to work together, with the university system and community college system being a part of that. These sectors are not all that good in working together.”

THE FUTURE FOCUS The U.S. has typically been the leader in advanced manufacturing around the world, but that lead has been showing signs of erosion over recent years. “What is new is that China is pushing in a very powerful way, and targeted all the major high tech sectors,” Hart says. “Whether they can pull it off (gaining leadership in advanced manufacturing) is a different question. But I do think it’s a different scale of challenge than what we have seen before from countries like Japan.”

What is promising is that some of the high technology used in automotive manufacturing can also be used into other industries, such as aerospace, and vice versa. “The digital opportunity can lead to spillovers in unexpected directions because some of the tools are very generic,” Hart says. “I think we are at the beginning of that process. And I would expect to see some unexpected synergies. I think it’s important for the U.S. to be at the forefront there.”

Hart says that he thinks advanced manufacturing businesses have to have a global perspective these days. “I think you should be thinking about digital innovation and what the opportunities are there, and thinking about policy and how that is going to affect you, like with tariffs and taxes,” he says.

“There are some pretty profound impacts from these policies. I think you need to have an eye on all of those areas.” X

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CALIFORNIA:

Global Economy, Intelligent Investment

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019 was another tough year for California wildfires. Over 6,872 fires have been recorded according to Cal Fire and the US Forest Service, totaling an estimated of 253,321 acres of burned land as of November 24. And though according to Wikipedia this loss has caused over $163 million in damages, the state continues to grow at a strong clip even as national Gross Domestic Product growth slowed. Estimates continue to put the Golden State as the 5th or 6th largest economy in the world and it’s not too difficult to see why. Diversity is a keystone of this incredible economy from agriculture and technology to tourism and film. ...................................................................................

According to PRnewswire.com visitors spent $140.6 billion in the state with over 11 billion going to state and local taxes.

To deal with a state and economy as large and complex as California, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) was created to serve as California’s single point of contact for economic development and job creation 18 |

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efforts. GO-Biz offers a range of services to business owners including: attraction, retention and expansion services, site selection, permit streamlining, clearing of regulatory hurdles, small business assistance, international trade development and assistance with state government.

The quantities and diversity of agricultural products grown in California, including fresh fruits and vegetables, wine grapes, nuts and grains generate nearly $50 billion in revenue. According to the UCLA Anderson Review, California’s tech sector has been continually growing which helps highlight a key reason its economy remains stronger than the nation at large. Companies like Apple, HP, Intel, Cisco and Oracle are a few examples of this growth.

And of course California continues to be a major U.S. center for film, television and related entertainment industries, especially in Hollywood and Burbank. The CA Film and T.V. Tax Credit Program provides well over $300 million annually to encourage film and television production in the state.

In terms of education and an intelligent work force, five of the top 25 Universities are in California.

While the state has long had difficult issues to contend with such as drought, earthquakes and wildfires the resilience of its people and the beauty of its land continues to bring about a healthy and productive economy.

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CALIFORNIA: IRVINE

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Orange County is poised for continued economic expansion. While a historic “handshake” agreement has been made on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, volatile national politics paint a picture of economic uncertainty. Yet, the nation continues to experience economic vitality and both California and Irvine continue to be well-poised for economic stability and growth.

With Irvine’s strong medical technology, bio-medical, ophthalmology, technology, manufacturing, and communication sectors predominantly in the mix, Orange County overall offers some of the nation’s highest wages with a mean of $27.70 compared to nationally at $24.86. Companies worldwide recognize the county for this along with a sustainable workforce and available office space as they consider expansion to the region. Recently, Irvine has welcomed several U.K. tech companies including Oneclick AG, 11Health, Forte Medical, along with Vincit California from Finland by way of Silicon Valley and ProTempo from New Zealand.

To that point, Irvine has been recognized as the fifth top American City of the Future, among comparably sized cities in the nation, by a leading foreign direct investment publication.

The future looks bright. Irvine’s fastest-growing population for more than a decade has been the 21-34 age group, a prime life stage for career advancement and family formation.

The Irvine Mast Plan’s vision for a sustainable balance of homes, businesses, jobs, education, and the preservation of natural open space, parks, and trails position Irvine to lead the way for sustainable economic growth well into the future. For more information, visit www.irvinechambereconomicdevelopment.com

CALIFORNIA: MORENO VALLEY

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When luxury electric auto manufacturer Karma Automotive selected a new site for its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in 2017, executives knew there was only one choice: the City of Moreno Valley, California. This year, Karma invested $100 million to rebrand its Moreno Valley facility to the Karma Innovation and Customization Center (KICC), which will house production of the 2020 Revero.

Situated in the Inland Empire, one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, Moreno Valley is only an hour away from Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties and less than three hours to Nevada, Arizona and Mexico.

At an annual growth rate of 5%, Moreno Valley’s population of 214,000 is booming. 2.3+ million people live 20 |

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within a 20-mile trade radius.

Moreno Valley led the region in absorption of more than 8.4 million square feet of new industrial corporate facilities in the past two years. The newly-approved World Logistics Center offers an additional 40.6 million square feet – the largest business park campus in California.

Riverside County’s hospital headquarters is located in Moreno Valley, along with Kaiser Permanente. Both campuses are expanding their facilities to meet strong regional demand.

The housing market is booming, too. More than 7,000 single and multi-family units are under construction.

Three colleges – the University of California, Riverside, California Baptist University and Moreno Valley College – attract more than 40,000 students each year.

Moreno Valley offers a host of incentive programs, including electric rate discounts through its City-owned electric utility, a unique business concierge service, unparalleled plan check turnaround time, Foreign Trade Zone designation, and a Time and Materials program.

The City also developed the “Hire MoVal” program, which offers incentives for local hire, including recent graduates and veterans. The Employment Resource Center offers free workforce recruitments, employee training, business consulting and workshops.

Moreno Valley’s ideal location, business friendly atmosphere and motivated workforce are why Karma Automotive and so many Fortune 500 companies have made it their home. For more information, visit www.

MorenoValleyBusiness.com or call (951) 413-3460.

CALIFORNIA: CITY OF ONTARIO

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The City of Ontario, located in Southern California, continues to create development opportunities and urban lifestyle districts that provide sustainable places to live, work and play. Just 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, the City of Ontario is ideally situated as the gateway to Southern California.

At the center of the City is the Ontario International Airport, which is the fastest growing airport in the United States. Major airlines including Alaska, American, China Airlines, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest and United, offer daily passenger service through the airport’s two busy terminals, and plans are in place to add a third terminal as traffic continues to increase. UPS and FedEx hubs are located at the Airport, making Ontario one of the top markets for outbound cargo shipments in the nation.

Ontario is centered on a transportation corridor that extends throughout Southern California and across the

AEROSPACE is in our DNA

Boeing China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) Edwards Air Force Base Lockheed Martin Mojave Air and Space Port National Test Pilot School

In the Greater Antelope Valley, we don’t just talk about space travel— we make it happen.

Northrop Grumman U.S. Air Force Plant 42

Every day, more than 30,000 people go to work here pushing the envelope in aerospace specialties like jet propulsion, flight test, engineering and precision manufacturing.

It’s no wonder we’re home to a world-class space port, or that Northrop Grumman will be developing the next-generation stealth B-21 bomber here.

Ridgecrest Bakersfield

Randsburg

TEHACHAPI MTNS

California City Tehachapi

Mojave Edwards Boron EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE

So, come shoot for the stars with us and be part of the exceptional aerospace synergy in the Greater Antelope Valley.

Barstow

Rosamond

Lancaster Lake Elizabeth

Palmdale Littlerock

Santa Clarita Valencia

Acton

Lake Los Angeles

Pearblossom

Newhall

Burbank

Los Angeles

Pomona

PACIFIC OCEAN

Anaheim

SoCalLeadingEdge.org info@SoCalLeadingEdge.org | 661.722.6566

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continental United States and sits 45 miles from the two largest ports in the country. Ontario provides strategic access to the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach through its interconnected freeway and rail systems. The Ontario Opportunity Zone is an ideal location for opportunity fund investments, utilizing privately sourced funds into eligible economic development and community reinvestment projects. Ontario also offers the advantage of being in the Foreign Trade Zone, which allows companies to reduce the costs associated with International Trade. The ability to increase international sales, realize greater importing and exporting opportunities, and succeed in global markets is often a deciding factor for location, relocation and expansion in Ontario.

The mass of freight transport – via both rail and road – run through the City of Ontario. Three major interstates crisscross the City and the surrounding area: Interstate-15 from San Diego to Las Vegas and beyond; Interstate-10 from west coast to east coast; as well as State Route 60 for easy regional access.

Ontario is looking ahead, and its leaders and residents know that the future of any city lies in its healthy economy and sense of community. Ontario is the ideal place for companies to do business and the ideal place for residents to live, work, play.

To find out more about the advantages of doing business in Ontario, California, visit ontariothinksbusiness.com or call 909.395.2005. You can also follow @OntarioEDA on Twitter.

CALIFORNIA: SACRAMENTO

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A new home for Major League Soccer (MLS), means new homes for businesses and thousands of residents in California’s capital city as the largest infill development in the United States kicks off. The project will double the size of Greater Sacramento’s downtown core and change the skyline of the city.

The announcement that the Sacramento Republic Football Club will become the latest MLS franchise was celebrated with 22 |

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a large scale event that drew tens of thousands of Greater Sacramento fans to the streets. There’s a lot for the national business community to be excited about as well. The new $300 million soccer stadium will anchor a massive urban development that will offer thousands of square feet of office space and housing aimed at attracting tech firms and young, skilled talent.

The 244 acres of historic land known as The Railyards once served as the western terminus of the 1860s Transcontinental Railroad. It will soon be a thriving mixed-use community, offering a walkable and bikeable live, work, play environment that is an express train ride away from the heart of the San Francisco innovation hub.

The development will include up to 700,000 square feet of retail, a 900,000 square foot hospital, a hotel, a museum, an intermodal transit hub and up to 5 million square feet of Class A office. The stadium will accommodate 20,000 attendees and will produce entertainment events year-round. Health giant Kaiser Permanente is building a 14 story state-of-the art hospital with 240 beds to serve the city. New businesses such as fast scaling tech firms looking for modern open floor plans can set up shop in one of the new two-story buildings built from sustainable materials. High-density housing will offer 10,000 units including studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments.

The development will encourage green modes of transportation with shaded walkways, multiple bike lanes and easy access to light rails and Amtrak. Sacramento International Airport, which offers more than 170 non-stop flights to 40 national and four international destinations daily, is just a 10-minute drive away.

Partnering with private investors, the City of Sacramento is supporting the project in a big way. City leaders know the MLS franchise will change the economic trajectory of the city for decades to come. It is another reason why the Greater Sacramento region is so attractive to the coveted millennial and Gen Z talent, with an abundant pipeline of educated professionals already in the region, as evidenced in a joint report by GSEC and CBRE, entitled The Greater Sacramento Talent Story.

Soccer is the second most popular sport among 18-34-year-olds according to a recent Gallup poll and the sport will only increase interest in the Greater Sacramento region, which already ranks third in the U.S. for the most net millennial net migration, according to a 2018 Smart Asset study.

The City of Sacramento worked hand-in-hand with Sacramento Republic FC investors, collaborating to draw MLS to the region. In order to get the ball rolling faster, the City of Sacramento is contributing an upfront investment of $33 million.

The loan will be paid back in the form of tax reimbursements dollar for dollar.

The development will be a new buzzing hub of activity for the

YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER

707-565-7170 141 Stony Circle, Ste. 110 | Santa Rosa, CA 95401

www.SonomaEDB.org

EXPANSION

OPPORTUNITIES

Greater Sacramento region, attracting regional fans, visitors, new residents and new businesses. Major construction of the stadium will launch in spring 2020.

For more information on the Greater Sacramento Economic Council: selectsacramento.com/ greater-sacramento-talent-story/

CALIFORNIA: SONOMA COUNTY

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An hour north of San Francisco lies beautiful and charming Sonoma County.

There are magnificent thousand-year-old trees, endless golden beaches and glorious jagged cliffs towering over the Pacific Ocean. Not to mention 60,000 gorgeous, undulating acres of vineyards.

It’s easy to see why the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently ranked this as one of the top 20 counties in the U.S. for climate and scenic beauty. To all this beauty, add a relaxed, west-coast vibe and you start to see why U.S. News and World Report recently ranked Sonoma County as one of the top 100 metropolitan places to live in the U.S. But don’t let all the beauty and laid-back charm fool you.

This isn’t just a paradise for surfers, wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and artists.

FOR BUSINESS, IT’S PRETTY HARD TO BEAT AS WELL. Sonoma County’s major industries of hospitality, agriculture, manufacturing and healthcare are thriving, says Lauren Cartwright, Communications Coordinator for the Sonoma County Economic Development Board. But several emerging sectors are coming on strong as well. “Craft beverages, outdoor recreation, and specialty foods are showing promise for continued growth over the next few years,” she explains.

Photo by Paige Green Photography

C A LI F O R N IA 951.413.3460 | www.morenovalleybusiness.com | edteam@morenovalleybusiness.com

21st

20,000

JOBS created in 6 years

213,914

2,342,656

Inland Empire ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING REGIONS

IN THE US

TRANSPORTATION

SERVED BY

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MILES

20-mile radius population

Moreno Valley Population 2020

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square

largest city in CALIFORNIA

4.55% annual growth

RATE

Home to numerous

Fortune 500

AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES

CALIFORNIA STATE ROUTE 60 | INTERSTATE 215 METROLINK CHARTER & CARGO FLIGHTS FROM MARCH INLAND PORT AIRPORT INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS FROM ONTARIO AIRPORT

Photo by Paige Green Photography

All told, over 25,000 businesses large and small call Sonoma County home, including a diverse roster of national and worldwide leaders.

Keysight Technologies, a leading manufacturer of test and measurement equipment and software for the telecommunications, aerospace, defense, computer and semiconductor industries, is based in Santa Rosa and employs 1300 locally and over 10,000 worldwide.

Amy’s Kitchen, one of the nation’s top brands of natural

and organic convenience foods including frozen entrees and canned soups, with facilities in both Petaluma and Santa Rosa, as well as a first-of-its-kind drive thru in Rohnert Park.

This innovative family-owned business, which employs nearly 1,900, including 1,000 locally, is currently expanding into healthy fast food.

Sonoma County also boasts an abundance of creative businesses including for profit enterprises and nonprofit arts and cultural organizations. These entities produce artistic products and serve the creative needs of the broader business community. The Engine is Red is a national creative agency with offices in three cities across the country, headquartered in Santa Rosa. Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center is a world class performing arts hall that presents touring performances and residencies. And individual artists’ work is easily accessible through six art centers, weekly Farmer’s Markets, dozens of festivals and fairs, and local artists’ co-ops.

With some of the most affordable housing costs – as well as a low cost-of-doing-business – compared to the rest of the San Francisco Bay Area, it’s no surprise that young start-ups are discovering Sonoma County as well. Nerdwallet.com recently ranked the cities of Healdsburg and Sonoma in the top 20 places to start a business. And the County has also

123,000+ 123,000+ AS ONE OF THE LEADERS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE CITY OF ONTARIO CONTINUES TO ELEVATE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BETTER SERVE THE NEEDS OF OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY.

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WITH THREE MAJOR FREEWAYS, TWO RAILROADS AND THE ONTARIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, ONTARIO IS THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR YOUR BUSINESS TO THRIVE.

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been recognized as one of the top 10 places for supporting Minority-Owned Businesses and Latino Entrepreneurs.

Employers appreciate Sonoma County’s well-educated workforce. The County was recently ranked as one of the top 55 metropolitan regions in the United States for most-educated residents by Wallethub.com thanks to its top-rated K-12 schools and a variety of innovative charter schools, as well as several excellent institutions of higher education including Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University.

Sonoma County’s tremendous quality of life naturally benefits from the world-class culture of the San Francisco Bay Area, while still maintaining its agricultural heritage and rustic charm, and its own dynamic arts scene, including a multitude of art galleries, museums, and community art centers. If you value sustainable business practices, a skilled workforce and a quality of life second to none, then Sonoma County is a great place to locate or expand a business. For more information: SonomaEDB.org or SonomaCountyConnections.org.

80 in Northern California’s scenic golden hills of Solano County.

Vacaville has a rich history going back to 1851. In that year, Juan Manuel Vaca sold his share of a Mexican land grant to William McDaniel, with one condition: that one square mile of the new township be called ‘Vacaville.’ The rest is history as they say.

CALIFORNIA: VACAVILLE

Vacaville was incorporated in 1892. With a high-quality of life and access to good quality higher education, the city has primed itself for economic opportunities. University of California, Davis sits 16 miles to the east of Vacaville, while University of California, Berkeley is located 35 miles west.

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The City of Vacaville lies almost midway between the state capital city of Sacramento and San Francisco along Interstate

Sometimes the address says it all.

Irvine was master planned to be an economic powerhouse.

Strategic location. Strong Life Sciences, IT and Advanced Manufacturing industry clusters. High quality of life. Dynamic, educated workforce. Inspiring diversity. Business oriented governance. 21st century university and college connections.

12TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR:

SAFEST CITY IN AMERICA (population over 100,000) - Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Irvine businesses are thriving. Grow with us.

36 Executive Park Suite 100, Irvine, CA. 96214

949.660.9112 • irvinechambereconomicdevelopment.com 26 |

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California, Davis sits 16 miles to the east of Vacaville, while SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S GAVEA_BusExpJournal.qxp_Layout 1 11/16/18 8:22 AM Page 1 University of California, Berkeley is located 35 miles west.

LEADING EDGE Additionally, Solano Community College recently launched a ................................................................................ four-year biotechnology program. The workforce in Vacaville is highly skilled to meet the qualifications for many biotechnology jobs.

Biotechnology and life sciences remain at the forefront of Vacaville’s economy. The City of Vacaville is in the process of creating a Biotech/Life Science Initiative as part of the Economic Vitality Strategy for the City of Vacaville.

This initiative will aim to identify goals and opportunities for the biotech/life sciences industry in Vacaville. Presently, Vacaville is home to approximately ten life science companies, and is home to one of the largest life science companies in the world, Genentech.

Headquartered Boeing in South San Francisco, Genentech has a number of A vast land of opportunity lies just an hour outside of Los China Lake Naval manufacturing facilities, including Air one in Vacaville.

Other Weapons Station (NAWS) Angeles. Known as Southern California’s Leading Edge, this pharmaceutical companies have headquarters in Vacaville group of high desert communities has been famed for its Edwards Air Force Base include RXD Nova Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson and aerospace prowess for nearly 70 years. Supersonic travel, the Lockheed Martin Novici Biotech.

Space Shuttle, and advanced stealth technology were all born In addition to biotech, Vacaville Mojave continues to gain here. NASA astronauts train here and now commercial space Air and Space Port flight is being pioneered here. But today, they’re also showing traction with companies in the food processing, logistics National Test Pilot School the world that they have the right stuff when it comes to and advanced manufacturing industries. Thistle Foods In the Greater Antelope Valley, developing advanced materials, building clean transport announced in 2019 their primary ready-to-eat and packaging Northrop Grumman we don’t just talk about space travel— systems, crafting high-precision parts, generating fresh, green facility would be located in Vacaville. A driving force for we make it happen.

U.S. Air Force Plant 42 energy while adding value to innovative agricultural products.

Thistle’s move to Vacaville is the access to agricultural land, With easy access to keypeople transport corridors, goodthe rail Every day, more than 30,000 go to work here pushing proximity to San Francisco and a high quality of life that exists envelope in aerospace jetseaports propulsion,within flight test, service, and three of specialties America’slike top a sevenin Vacaville. engineering andit’s precision manufacturing. ty-mile radius, no surprise that they’ve found favor with Vacaville continues to thrive with its beautiful many firms. space Global traders It’s nodistribution wonder we’reand homelogistics to a world-class port, or thatenjoy surroundings. The current population is 102,000 and was Ridgecrest the tax and tariff advantages of their Tradestealth Zone.

Northrop Grumman will be developing the Foreign next-generation recently identified by SmartAsset as one of America’s Top B-21 bomber here.

The Leading Edge puts 21 million Southern Californian’s at 25 most livable mid-sized cities. Only one of four California your doorstep, the Western U.S. within a day’s drive and new California City So, come shoot for the stars with us and be part of the exceptional cities identified in the rankings. VisitorsTehachapi have plenty to do Pacific Rimsynergy opportunities ready to explore. aerospace in the Greater Antelope Valley. while visiting Vacaville. This includes the Vacaville Premium Their enterprising group of business-savvy cities also understand how to help companies succeed. They’ve cut Outlets which is home to dozens of well-known retailers Lancaster such Palmdale red tape and work to fast-track projects so you can get going as Abercombie & Fitch, Adidas, DKNY, Kay Jewelers, Movado, quicker, with less worry and lower cost. Their business facilNine West and Van Heusen. Presently, about seven million ities cost about 65% less than those found in Los Angeles or visitors are attracted to the facility every year from Germany, Los Angeles San Francisco. Labor costs are also lower, yet their workforce SoCalLeadingEdge.org Italy, Japan, China and other nations. is info@SoCalLeadingEdge.org highly trained and motivated. | 661.722.6566 And for businesses, Vacaville simply cannot be beaten.

The Greater Antelope Valley Economic Alliance is the With great proximity to Sacramento and San Francisco, public/private partnership that facilitated business growth Vacaville has many of the amenities of much larger cities but and opportunity within their 3,000 square-mile region. Take at considerably less cost. As more people realize the overall time to discover the amazing opportunities found along importance of quality of life, the city’s population continues Southern California’s Leading Edge. Call 661-722-6566 or visit to grow. www.socalleadingedge.org for more information. X

AEROSPACE is in our DNA

Bakersfield

Randsburg

TEHACHAPI MTNS

Mojave

Edwards Boron

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE

Barstow

Rosamond

Lake Elizabeth

Littlerock

Santa Clarita

Valencia

Acton

Lake Los Angeles

Pearblossom

Newhall

Burbank

Pomona

PACIFIC OCEAN

Anaheim

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IOWA:

A State of Opportunity

I

owa is the number one place to find a job in 2019 according to Zippia, MarketWatch reports.

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The report used criteria including home prices, median income, year-over-year improvement in income and unemployment rates to determine the best labor market in the country. Iowa came in first in home-to-income ratio, tied for first in unemployment and ranked 30th for income. Rankings used data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (iowaeconomicdevelopment. com). The Hawkeye state boasts low operational costs, a probusiness climate and an educated labor force combining to 28 |

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make Iowa a great locale for both job-seekers and new business opportunities.

Some of the industries contributing to that job market demand have been ag-tech and animal research as well as the burgeoning technology market. Des Moines is also known as an insurance hub and ranked one of the fastest growing cities in the country.

Iowa dominates the country in agriculture, owning the number one position in corn, soybean, egg and pork production.

The state’s fertile land, low cost of doing business, transportation infrastructure and workforce have attracted nearly every major food brand to set up significant operations. 36 of the largest 100 food manufacturers have operations in Iowa, including global

And the Future Ready Iowa program has the goal of ensuring that 70 percent of Iowa’s workforce has education or training beyond high school by 2025.

IOWA: BOONE COUNTY

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companies like Barilla, Heinz, Hormel, Nestlé, Tyson and Quaker Oats covering breakfast to dessert (thisisiowa.com) Iowa’s larger bustling cities and vibrant small towns offer a tangible and positive quality of life. Wide-open spaces, changing seasons, natural environment, clean drinking water and air quality add to the sense of well-being of Iowans Two business development programs supported by the state that are encouraging growth are Iowa’s Targeted Small Business (TSB) program and Future Ready Iowa. TSB is designed to help women, individuals with minority status, service-connected disabled veterans and individuals with disabilities overcome some of the hurdles to start or grow a small business in Iowa.

Qualified businesses may receive loans with favorable interest rates, and benefits for state of Iowa procurement opportunities.

It has been said that good things come in threes. If that’s the case, then the city of Boone hit the motherlode in the past year.

It all started when the Iowa Economic Development Authority certified a new rail-served industrial park, included the title of “Most affordable Small Town in America” by Realtor.com, and completed the trifecta with Insurify naming the community the “Best Up and Coming Housing Market” in Iowa later that spring. The city of Boone sits in the heart of the Iowa heartland – where its rural roots are juxtaposed against a growing small business, commercial and industrial community and the most vigorous trend of new housing starts it has seen in the past thirty years. The community boasts a population of just over 12,500 and its close proximity to the larger community of Ames/Iowa State University and the Des Moines metro offer a laborshed opportunity to fill almost any skills need.

In March of 2019 the certification of the 150-acre Boone Industrial Park (Phase II) site was an aggressive approach by the Boone County Economic Growth Corporation to re-enter an arena of industrial development it had not participated in for some time. Executive Director Kurt Phillips said, “I knew we had the perfect spot for a small site, a greenfield area immediately north of our current park. We’re not that far from the I-35 and I-80 corridor and US Highway 30 so access to key transportation routes is there. With the site already served by our local short line railroad and fed by Union Pacific Railroad’s transcontinental freight service it made sense to pursue the certification requirements through the state of Iowa and Quest Site Solutions”.

Best known for its rich railroad history, Boone County also has a reputation as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise making it a prime spot to live and grow a business. For more information: Kurt R. Phillips, IOM Executive Director Boone County Chamber of Commerce/ Boone County Economic Growth Corporation o: 515.432.3342 | c: 515.298.1253 e: director@booneiowa.us a: 903 Story Street, Boone, IA 50036

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IOWA: CARROLL COUNTY

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When hearing of west central Iowa, the impression of most is row crops, livestock and small rural communities.

While agriculture is a key component, it only represents about half of the Carroll County economy. Companies in several industry sectors have found Carroll County a prosperous home.

The components to success include low-cost reliable power, a robust fiber network, abundant natural gas and a workforce with a superior work ethic.

The Carroll County business community consists of numerous independent and home-grown companies. Recognizable names including a strong Fortune 500 presence: American Home Shield, CoreMark Midcontinent, Inc. dba FarnerBocken Company, Collins Aerospace, Pella Windows and POET Biorefining just to name a few.

One of the most recent additions to the Carroll County family of manufacturers is Templeton Rye Distillery, a $27 million project in Templeton Iowa, home to the distilling

“Our Shovel’s ready.

Let’s go!”

“Boone Industrial Park –

Phase II Certified Site offering 150 greenfield acres with rail access” Contact: Kurt R. Phillips, Executive Director o: 515.432.3342 | c: 515.298.1253 e: director@booneiowa.us | a: 903 Story Street, Boone, IA 50036

www.GrowBooneCounty.com 30 |

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and bottling of rye whiskey, along with a museum on site to celebrate the rich history of the whiskey and community.

Carroll County boasts a strong presence of value-added agriculture facilities. You will find companies whose products are distributed internationally.

From firetrucks to popcorn, Carroll County products are known throughout the world.

Carroll is home to a campus of Des Moines Area Community College and is located in close proximity to Iowa State University, providing access to the Digital Manufacturing Lab. The Lab is a collaborative partnership, powered

by Alliant Energy in partnership with ISU’s Center for Industrial Research and Service. Graduation rates in Carroll County exceed 95%, with students earning dual credit while in high school to be well prepared to enter the workforce.

All of these assets, led by progressive community leaders, make Carroll County, Iowa an ideal option for growing companies. More information on Carroll County, its communities and its business climate can be found by visiting the Carroll Area Development Corporation website: carrollareadev.com

IOWA: CLINTON

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Upon arrival in the Greater Clinton Region, the feeling of optimism and potential are palpable. Economic and community development are priorities for the wide range of stakeholders who collaborate to get things done. Here, every company and prospect is treated like a VIP with direct and immediate access to decision makers. “Our number one priority is to accommodate our businesses’ needs regardless of their size,” said Erin M. Cole, President and CEO of the Clinton Regional Development Corporation. “In the Greater Clinton Region, each company is valued and appreciated. We go out of our way to leverage all local, state and federal resources for the benefit of our employers.”

The Greater Clinton Region is a bi-state territory that straddles the Mississippi River. It offers economic opportunities in both Clinton County (Eastern Iowa) and a portion of Whiteside County (Northwest Illinois). Its prime Midwest location along U.S. Route 30 is in close proximity to I-80 and I-88, with Chicago less than three hours away. The region is served by 3 Class 1 railroads and barge transportation is available on the Mississippi River. The Greater Clinton Region’s top-notch location has attracted a wide range of industries already, from chemicals processing to agricultural processing and from consumer products to pet food.

Within the Greater Clinton Region, there are three business parks available for development, all of which are located within TIF districts. The Lincolnway Industrial Rail and Air Park (Rail Park) is a State of Iowa Certified Site for heavy industry and currently houses several innovative biofuel and manufacturing facilities. The Lyons Business and Technology Park (Tech Park) is a fastgrowing site for light industrial and back office operations. On the Illinois side, the Fulton Industrial Center is a prime location for both heavy and light industrial

operations, which also benefit from the park’s Enterprise Zone status.

Two new businesses are breaking ground this fall, one in the Lyons Tech Park and the other in the Rail Park. Cole says: “We are pro-actively attracting new businesses involved in advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, logistics/ warehousing, food and beverage production (including distilled spirits) and back office operations.” Abundant available land outside of the 500-year floodplain, generous incentives, and the addition of two federal “Opportunity Zones” in Clinton, IA is making it easier to entice new investment into the region.

In order to retain and attract new businesses, a community must have an adequate, reliable workforce. This is made increasingly possible by the “Home Base Iowa” program, which offers generous housing incentives to U.S. military veterans who move to Iowa.

Furthermore, if a veteran moves to Clinton

County, then the County offers additional tax and housing incentives, which has resulted in a 500% increase in military veterans settling here over the last three years. In 2019, Clinton County launched a new student loan payback program that is residency-based and can be used as a free recruitment tool by any local employer.

Come visit us and witness all that the Midwest has to offer—hard-workers, extensive transportation options, high quality of life, low cost of living, and welcoming people who genuinely care about their community! Call us today about your project-specific questions.

For more information: Clinton Regional Development Corporation, 563.242.4536, clintondevelopment.com X

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ONTARIO:

Supporting a Strong, Innovative Economy

O

ntario is one of the 13 provinces and territories of Canada and is located in east-central Canada. It is Canada’s most populous province accounting for 38.3 percent of the country’s population, and is the second-largest province in total area. Ontario is home to the nation’s capital city, Ottawa, and the nation’s most populous city, Toronto, which is also Ontario’s provincial capital. Ontario’s workforce exceeds six million. The region’s economic plan is to provide jobs, opportunity and prosperity for all Ontarians. .....................................................................................

Located within a day’s drive of more than 40 percent of North America’s population, Ontario is home to one of the largest manufacturing sectors in North America, making it one of the top economic leaders on the continent. This central location, along with its competitive business costs and skilled workforce, make it attractive for industries including tourism, aerospace, automotive, chemical and biochemical, financial services, food and beverage manufacturing, life sciences, information technology and 32 |

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mining. Companies with significant operations in Ontario include Accenture, AIG, BASF, Labatt and Siemens.

Rapid changes in technology and globalization are reshaping Ontario’s economy. The $650-million Business Growth Initiative is the government’s new economic strategy to fast-track Ontario’s knowledge-based economy by tapping into its creativity, education and skills. Also the future of intelligent transportation is being built in Ontario. Between Detroit and Ottawa lies a 500-mile corridor with expertise in connected and autonomous vehicle technology, artificial intelligence, connectivity, cybersecurity and quantum computing.

Ontario offers funding, programs and federal tax incentives to help hire and train employees for employers in business, not-forprofit or public-sector organization. About 67 percent of Ontario residents between 25 and 64 have completed post-secondary schooling at one of the 20 public universities and 24 colleges located throughout the province.

ONTARIO: AJAX

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Reminders of the town of Ajax’s proud history as home to Defence Industries Limited, which provided supplies for the Allies in the Second World War, abound and provide a

Where Innovative Leadership connects industry with talent and technology to compete globally.

Ajax Council on location at Safran - Ajax, Ontario

ajax.ca/business

Your guide to investing in Middlesex County.

A prime location with affordable land prices, educated workforce, multi-level government support and key quality of life elements. Middlesex County checks all the boxes for site locators and corporate managers. Find out how a savvy corporate community is already investing, building, and benefiting from the region’s outstanding opportunities.

Ship Anywhere from Here Middlesex County is a rich rural-urban landscape in the heart of southern Ontario complete with all the must haves for multi-nationals or local businesses looking to expand or upgrade facilities.

If your company relies on ‘on time’ deliveries, you’ll appreciate the access to three border crossings within a two hour drive. Our 401 and 402 series highways are vital in transporting goods to destinations across the globe. Rail and air transport are locally available with both Canadian National and Canadian Pacific traveling through the County and the London International Airport offering a central location for both cargo and people. Also located about an hour from here is port access to the Great Lakes’ shipping channels.

The municipality’s ‘prepared-to-do-business’ approach is credited as one of the many reasons why companies such as Bonduelle North America, Gray Ridge Eggs, Catalent Pharma Solutions (Molnar Park), Armatec Survivability (DaVinci Park), Ideal Pipe and most recently Algonquin Bridge (Thorndale Park) call Middlesex home. The Glencoe and Thorndale Business Parks are Ontario Investment Ready Certified Sites and have set the bar for being ‘business ready’ by achieving this elite ranking. Risk reviews can be reduced and construction time advanced with the upfront work of gathering property information, mapping, and already completed environmental, heritage, archaeological, and species assessments. Companies prospecting for the optimum mix of location, (including attractive property priving) and additional amenities, really strike it rich in Middlesex.

Smart Help Available With a population of 410,966, the City of London is Canada’s 11th largest city, which serves as an advantage to Middlesex given the access to established economic sectors, and the many graduates from Western University and Fanshawe College. Both education institutions rank high as leaders in research and public/private partnerships so it’s no wonder why Stats Canada (2016) identified Middlesex County residents as possessing education levels higher than the national average.

The Perfect Work-Life Balance The quality of life in Middlesex is enhanced by the celebration of arts and culture and the vibrant shopping and entertainment options. As well, short commutes, traffic that moves, fresh air, safe spaces, and active living options can all be accessed by families in our intimate communities. This is a place where front porches are used, street hockey is played, and children walk to school. Come see for yourself why businesses call Middlesex ‘home.’

Strengthen the Business Community As per the County’s economic development plan, there are eight strategically located business parks with a mix of private and municipal ownership for companies to plant their roots. Middlesex County’s recent growth patterns reflect positively on how firms are responding to what they find.

Get on the highway to success by taking a closer look at investing in Middlesex County. We appreciate your business.

investinmiddlesex.ca

X

Middlese

actly right for your business

NewburytSouthwest MiddlesextAdelaide MetcalfetStrathroy-CaradoctNorth MiddlesextLucan BiddulphtMiddlesex CentretThames Centre

We appreciate your business

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storied backdrop to the community’s bright future in the world of technology, talent and innovation.

Business Team Ajax

As the Town bridges and integrates its history with the future, here are 5 reasons innovative leadership is the Ajax Advantage:

5. Community building A sense of community is one reason companies choose Ajax for their new or expanded locations. From park clean-ups to toy drives, Ajax Council jumps at opportunities to engage the community. For example thousands of toys were collected from several businesses in support of kids for the holidays. Next was Jurassic Park East as Ajax Council invited the entire community out to support the Toronto Raptors.

Ajax Council was out again with a drive that collected 10,000 pounds of food for Feed the Need. Rounding out Council’s first year of community building were the Global Cyberlympics, Better Business Expo, and many resident celebrations.

ONTARIO: CLARINGTON

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1. Renewed focus on economic development Ajax Council has had significant impact on economic development within its first year together. The message is clear: economic development is a top priority, as it encompasses all areas of the TOWN OF AJAX that have an impact on creating jobs, supporting local businesses, growing talent and learning new technologies.

2. Business outreach and growth From large employers to start-up entrepreneurs and residents with ideas for innovative economic development, TOWN OF AJAX Councilors set out on their mission to speak and share their vision through events, site tours, grand openings and one-on-one meetings.

3. Building relationships Relationships, both at the political level and grassroots level, are key to moving strategies forward. Ajax Councilors began their relationship-building mission immediately upon election in October 2018. From engaging staff and supporting both of Ajax’s Business Improvement Areas to ‘drop-in’ business visits, each member of Ajax Council has been building valued relationships and having a lot of fun along the way.

4. Supporting workforce and technology Ajax Council’s economic development priority is rooted in supporting the local workforce and preparing people and businesses for new technologies. The mandate: determine how Ajax can help merge humans and technology – AR, VR, Cybersecurity, AI, drones and robotics – in industries such as logistics, advanced manufacturing and aerospace. The result: the Innovation Village project that launched in September 2019.

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Construction well under way at the Toyota Canada Inc. site.

Sights are on the Municipality of Clarington as a place to call home. In the last few years, dollars have been spent on infrastructure projects totalling over $14 billion, these include Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment project, Highway 407 East Extension to Highway 35/115, Port Granby environmental remediation project and proposed GO Transit Lakeshore East line extension to Bowmanville.

Clarington’s total building permit values also continue to increase year after year. With a population fast approaching 100,000 and expected to increase by more than 45% by the year 2031, people and businesses are making a commitment to secure their future in Clarington.

According to the Municipality of Clarington’s 2018 Growth Trends Review report, Clarington’s total building permit values increased by 11.3 percent from $379.6 million in 2017 to $422.6 million in 2018. Residential building permit values rose by 4.0 per cent in 2018, rising from $330.3 million to $343.4 million.

The value of non-residential building permits in 2018 increased by 60.3 percent from $49.4 million to $79.1 million. Clarington is one of the fastest-growing municipalities within Durham Region. Over the past 15 years, Clarington’s share of building permit values in Durham has more than doubled, rising from 10 per

Clarington Board of Trade and Office of Economic Development

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cent to over 20 per cent. In 2018, the total value of building permits in the Region of Durham was $2.06 billion, an increase of $98 million from the previous year. The Municipality of Clarington contributed approximately a quarter of that total value.

Over 1 million square feet of industrial space for various users will be constructed in the next 18 months. Construction of the Toyota Canada Inc. 350,000 square foot eastern Canada Parts Distribution Centre is well underway in east Bowmanville. A $40 million investment and bringing more than 100 jobs, they are projected to be in operation by April 2020.

The spring of this year, East Penn Canada announced Clarington will be the location for their new distribution centre headquarters.

They have plans to construct a 200,000 square foot facility south of Highway 401.

Clarington is becoming the foundation for cannabis innovation.

Currently, there are four Health Canada Federally Licensed Producers in the community. Six additional cannabis licensed holders are in various stages of development. It is anticipated this industry will represent over 1,000 skilled jobs including those involved in cultivation, extraction, research & development and product development.

In June, Ontario Power Generation (OPG) announced its plan to build a new corporate campus in Clarington which will be consolidating its operations, fostering collaboration and

Work.

Life.

Balance.

ONTARIO, CANADA

· Strategic Location · Ranked top 10 for competitiveness

· Largest manufacturing

workforce in Northern Ontario

· Announced smart energy

projects will result in the most reliable and cost competitive electricity in Ontario

investsaultstemarie.com For information contact Nevin Buconjic at n.buconjic@ssmedc.ca 705.759.5928

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innovation. Plans are to build this campus by 2024. The facility will accommodate staff from 15 existing locations across the Greater Toronto Area and Niagara Region, bringing over 2,000 jobs to the Clarington community. OPG has created a positive economic imprint in Durham Region, supplying 34 per cent of clean, safe, reliable energy to Ontario for 30 years. Clarington is excited to encourage economic spin-off and benefits are realized in the community.

By 2024, the city will have welcomed over 4,000 new employees to the community! This is the time to be part of Clarington’s growth!

ONTARIO: SAULT STE. MARIE

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Built on steel, power generation and forest products, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario has a long and proud history of manufacturing and harnessing the natural resources in the area.

Today, Sault Ste. Marie remains a leading producer of steel, forest products, renewable energy and much more. Sault Ste. Marie boasts a highly developed advanced manufacturing sector, cuttingedge forest research, world-leading lottery & gaming expertise with the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation and growing smart energy opportunities and expertise.

Strategically located at the heart of the Great Lakes, on the USA border with Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie offers a lower cost of doing business, access to quality talent and expertise, as well as affordable land and real estate.

Ranked in the top 10 globally for competitiveness in KPMG’s Competitive Alternatives Study, Sault Ste. Marie offers access to government incentives for manufacturing, technology, innovation, infrastructure and more.

We are home to advanced manufacturing and industry such as Algoma Steel, Tenaris Algoma Tubes, Arauco North America, Main Filter and Heliene (solar panels).

With our existing renewable energy production, and Canada’s first community-wide smart grid and largest battery storage project underway, Sault Ste. Marie will offer the most reliable, resilient and cost competitive energy in Ontario.

10-minute commutes. 15 minutes to nature. Modern facilities and infrastructure. Our quality of life and business climate make Sault Ste. Marie the perfect choice. X

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INDIANA:

Engineers and Automobiles

B

oasting one of the most strategic locations in the U.S., a diverse and growing population, and an advantageous economic and political environment, Indiana is the economic engine of the Midwest. Perhaps known to the masses as a largely rural state with one central urban center, Indianapolis, the Hoosier State is, in reality, a forward-thinking state when it comes to economic development. ...................................................................................

According to statistics provided by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Indiana currently ranks second in the nation in business infrastructure, fourth in the nation for the cost of doing business and is among the top five states in the U.S. for business in 2019.

Agriculture remains a key sector in Indiana, accounting for $31.2 billion to the Hoosier state annually. However, Indiana is a bourgeoning state for many industry sectors, including aerospace, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and automotive manufacturing. Today, Indiana claims the secondlargest automotive sector in the nation measured by both gross bxjmag.com

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domestic product and overall production. Indiana’s automotive sector is also responsible for the direct employment of more than 125,000 people statewide.

Indiana’s life sciences sector is home to close to 1,700 companies employing 55,000 people, ranked second in the nation for worldwide exports totaling $8.2 billion, a $78 billion annual economic impact to the state. Aerospace and aviation is an important growth sector in Indiana. Since 2013, many respected aerospace businesses have announced plans to invest more than $900 million in the state and create more than 1,200 new jobs. Currently, Indiana is home to more than 34,000 engineers, 46% above the national average and the sector boasts an average Wage of $89,000, double the state average.

State leaders understand spurring economic activity is not enough on its own to continue to attract investment, spur entrepreneurship, and convince top talent to relocate from other locales. Through the state’s Regional Cities Initiative, Indiana leadership is helping communities reimagine themselves into attractive destinations to live, work and play.

In the first phase of the Region Cities Initiative plan, three Indiana regions each received $42 million in matching funds to help develop projects to enhance and enrich the arts, culture, recreation, innovation, and connectivity in cities large and small throughout the Hoosier state.

INDIANA: HENDRICKS COUNTY Across the United States, many industries are experiencing the same phenomenon: Extremely low unemployment and a shift because of industry 4.0. Technology disruption leaves many wondering what the next big change will bring about.

In Hendricks County, Indiana, the story is the same.

Sharing a western border with Marion County, where the bustling city of Indianapolis is located, Hendricks County currently sits at a population of just over 160,000.

We house more than 50 million square feet of supply chain and distribution in our suburban community. This makes up about 20% of our private industry, and unemployment is below the national average, at 2.8%. In Hendricks, the supply chain industry struggles with hiring and retaining employees. Again, not news to most of the country.

However, most of the country does not have one asset that Hendricks County does. The Hendricks Logistics Sector Partnership (HLSP if you’d like).

The HLSP was given a large grant from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development to take the logistics industry in Hendricks County and turn it into a 40 |

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glamorous career path that everyone would be clamoring to follow. Out of our top 5 employer partners, no one has a turnover rate above 48%. Where most supply chain employers in Hendricks would claim more than 100% turnover, these 5 employers are no longer being reactive to the unemployment issue, but proactive. Each makes a difference in their four walls by training management and entry level employees alike to embrace company culture and to show support and respect across the board.

Local employers also worried about the technology shift forcing them to layoff employees. A partnership between the HLSP and a local Universities addressed this issue head on.

A 16 week Industrial Maintenance program trains individuals currently in entry level positions with the skills to become well paid industrial maintenance technicians. In Indiana, a change like this can increase a persons’ wage $30,000 per year or more. Learning this type of information not only put employers and employees minds at ease, it also gave that local University a mega contract with Amazon.

Collectively, the things that the HLSP has learned and the unbreakable partnerships they have built throughout the county have put them in the ideal position to welcome industry leaders from all over the U.S. to quaint, but not sleepy, Hendricks County, Indiana for the inaugural Supply chain Education and Exposure (SEE) Conference. We are not only the “Crossroads of America”, we are putting ourselves on the map as the “destination location” for technology.

The SEE Conference, March 12th and 13th of 2020, will bring in both buyers and suppliers of supply chain technology to Indiana. From software integration to equipment technology, attendees will find out how this shift is impacting employers, operations, and ultimately a companies’ bottom line. Learn about industry 4.0 through keynote speakers, workshops, an exhibition hall, Robotic Playgrounds (my personal favorite), and intimate networking. The wins are abundant and up to you to embrace.

If you’d like to be a part of the conference, as an exhibitor, sponsor, or an attendee, visit www. theSEEconference.com for more information, including a registration link, or contact Lora Steele at lora@hcedp.org.

We look forward to welcoming you to Hendricks County, Indiana. X

Located in the heart of North Carolina, at the center of the East Coast, the Piedmont Triad International Airport has created more than 25,000 jobs, contributes $6 billion annually to the local economy and has attracted global brands such as Honda Aircraft Company, HAECO Americas, FedEx Express, and Cessna/Textron. And with 1,000 acres ready for development, we’re just getting started.

Visit LandatPTI.com to learn why your next big move should be to the Piedmont Triad International Airport, the Center of North Carolina Aerospace.

1000A Ted Johnson Parkway, Greensboro, NC 27409

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336.665.5600

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FlyfromPTI.com