April 2019 Business Magazine

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OCTOBER 2019 – ANNUAL REPORT – AD OPTIONS: Company Profile Rate: $1,890 Profile Space Deadline: THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Roberts Companies Headquarters: 5501 Route 89 Phone: 814/347-1300 or 1-800-955-4087

Rise With Roberts

Capabilities Warehousing | Roberts offers uniquely customizable solutions for clients that have temperature sensitive products, strict deadlines and large or small shipments, both globally and nationwide. Roberts currently has a multitude of meticulously maintained, pest-controlled and heated space facilities for food grade products in Erie County, Pennsylvania. All facilities including New York locations, conveniently located off Interstate 90, are equipped with a bar code data collection system providing directed pick and pack location assignment, real-time inventory capability and a first in-first out (FIFO) management system.

Seize the Bay!

Profile Materials Deadline: WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2019

North East, PA 16428

History Founded in 1978, the Roberts Companies were built on a foundation of asset-based local, regional and over the road (OTR) units capable of running the lower 48 states and eastern Canada with a compliment of warehouse/distribution/ cross dock space in Western PA and Western NY. Roberts has a vast pool of resources and professionally trained staff to provide customers with full Supply Chain Solutions. Roberts provides consistent on-time service to clients through sophisticated management systems, strong client relations and a commitment to excellence. Office locations are in Erie and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Harford, Connecticut and Charlotte, North Carolina to support its business across the globe.

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www.robertstrucking.com www.rise-logistics.com Kirk Hill is the president and chief executive officer of Roberts Companies.

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#Rising Up Next…

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• Breathtaking views and amazing sunsets • Award-winning hotels and first-class modern convention center • 392 sleeping rooms connected to 128,000 square feet of combined meeting space

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Logistics | Roberts logistics solutions allows customers to reduce, measure and control transportation expenditures. The company works to maintain costs while providing customized invoicing, auditing and dedicated services to support customer business activities.

Contact us for more information or for reservations.

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BUSINESS

VOL. XXXII NO. 4 | APRIL 2019

MAGAZINE

WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE BARBER NATIONAL INSTITUTE’S DR. BARBER-CAREY SHARES HOW VISION, OPPORTUNITY CAN IMPACT BUSINESS, LEADERSHIP AND LIFE

SPOTLIGHT Q&A:

GANNON SBDC GEARS UP FOR MORE WILD EVENTS

SPECIAL SECTION: MBA CELEBRATES TRAINING GRADUATES

True Performers know small changes add up to big savings.

As part of our True Performance program, we’re helping Dr. Rhoneise Barnett-Smith deliver higher quality of care for less. Like when we alert her to better prescription alternatives that are easier for patients to take — and afford.

Because of doctors like Rhoneise, to date, this program has avoided $260 million in hospital costs while helping countless patients save on quality care.*

There’s value in that.

See how True Performance is helping providers improve care through data and incentives. Download the ebook at HighmarkTruePerformer.com.

Rhoneise Barnett-Smith, MD United Medical Clinic True Performer

True Performance results:

11% fewer emergency room visits 16% fewer hospital admissions $260 million in costs avoided *Based on reduction in hospital costs for patients with True Performance doctors compared to those without from January 2017 to December 2017.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

FEATURES FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE

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Women in Leadership Expanding influence and leading change.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

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Women in the Workplace Maureen Barber-Carey, Ed.D., executive vice president of the Barber National Institute, shares how vision and opportunity can impact business, leadership and life.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | LEADERSHIP

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DEPARTMENTS

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BUSINESS BUZZ

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PEOPLE BUZZ

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HR CONNECTION

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HR Q&A

WHAT’S NEW

EDITORIAL

SPECIAL SECTION & EXTRAS 25 EVENTS NETWORKING AND MORE

LEGAL BRIEF | COURTS

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AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS

WORKPLACE TRENDS

READ ON THE GO! For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit mbabizmag.com

Contributing Writers Eileen Anderson Stacey Bruce Matt Cuomo Lisa Smith Presta Jamie R. Schumacher

Feature Photography iStockPhoto.com Additional Photography Barber National Institute Casey Naylon Karen Torres iStockPhoto.com

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David Thornburg 814/833-3200 dthornburg@mbausa.org

The Women in Business Employee Network Group highlights the Erie chapter and members at LORD Corporation.

SPECIAL SECTION |

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On the Cover: Learn about the Association’s upcoming IMPACT Women in the Workplace Luncheon on April 11, featuring keynote speaker Maureen Barber-Carey, Ed.D. of the Barber National Institute.

See page 4 for full story.

Association is dedicated to providing information and services to its members that will assist them in the pursuit of their business and community interests. – Board of Governors

Learn about the new inspiration that is coming with new representation in state government – the 44th District’s Valerie Gaydos.

Eileen Anderson

PROFILE | WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Advertising Sales Frank Mehler 814/833-3200 fmehler@mbausa.org

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Mission Statement: The Manufacturer & Business

What makes Ruth Bader Ginsburg notorious?

Lisa Smith Presta and Jamie R. Schumacher

ON THE HILL | LEGISLATURE

GET ANSWERS

Executive Editor Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org

Maggie Horne, director of the Gannon SBDC, shares what’s in store for the upcoming Women in Leadership Development (WILD) event on May 2 in Erie and April 4 in Mercer County.

TRAINING GRADUATES

Join the MBA in celebrating the recent graduates of its HR, professional development and computer training courses!

Manufacturer & Business Association 2171 West 38th Street | Erie, Pa. 16508 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 www.mbausa.org

© Copyright 2019 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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MAY 21ST, 2019

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APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

Women in Leadership

FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE

EXPANDING INFLUENCE AND LEADING CHANGE Most Americans agree that men and women are equally capable when it comes to key qualities and behaviors that are essential for top leaders in business and politics. Yet, there is still progress to be made for women in senior executive and board positions — where their influence can make an even greater impact.

Consider this: Research has shown that the increase of women in leadership is helping businesses to thrive in unprecedented ways.

• The 2018 Delivering Through Diversity report from McKinsey & Company notes that companies in the top quartile on executivelevel gender diversity worldwide have a 21-percent likelihood of outperforming their fourth-quartile industry peers on earnings before interest and tax. McKinsey has also found that $12 trillion could be added to global GDP by 2025 by advancing gender equality.

• The 2017 Gender Equality Scorecard from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) also shows that representation of women across all management categories has grown consistently since 201314. More than 43 percent of management appointments in 2016-17 went to women.

• Additionally, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15 percent more likely to outperform competition.

• Growth in women-owned businesses has outpaced the overall increase in new businesses by 1.5 times — a win-win for the economy.

In this edition of the Business Magazine, we’ll explore the many ways that women leaders are expanding influence and leading change, as well as the resources that can assist them and the organizations they represent.

First, we’ll talk with Maureen BarberCarey, Ed.D., of the Barber National Institute and our April 11 IMPACT Luncheon speaker, on how vision and opportunity can impact business, leadership and life. We’ll also hear from Maggie Horne, director of the Gannon SBDC, on the Women in Leadership

Development (WILD) events planned in Erie and Mercer County.

Plus, don’t miss our HR article on how to identify employees with “high potential” or this month’s On the Hill article about the inspiration coming from new representation in the state legislature, specifically Representative Valerie Gaydos of the 44th District.

In this month’s magazine, the Manufacturer & Business Association is also celebrating the many graduates of its professional training programs, which can help your team attain its leadership goals. To learn more about the many programs and resources available at the Association, visit www.mbausa.org.

EMPOWER YOUR TALENT!

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE Barber National Institute’s Dr. Barber-Carey Shares How Vision, Opportunity Can Impact Business, Leadership and Life When it comes to influential women in the workplace, there are many names that come to mind. But, in Erie, Pennsylvania, there is one particular organization whose founder paved the way for not only special education but also the creation of a premier employer in the Keystone State.

For those who have been touched by its programs, it’s hard to imagine a time before the Barber National Institute. A time when community based services for individuals with disabilities were virtually non-existent in Erie.

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Dr. Barber-Carey also has a son on the autism spectrum and writes a blog, “All About AutismBNI” in which she shares her insights and inspirations from both a professional and personal view.

At a time when women are taking on more substantial roles in the business world, Dr. Barber-Carey is an example of strong female leadership and vision. Her role as an initiator, representative and connector have proven to contribute to the Institute’s organizational success.

She has embraced Dr. Barber’s vision, but also has seized opportunities and forged her own path. Here, she discusses how both vision and opportunity can impact business, leadership and life.

Erie educator and assistant school superintendent Dr. Gertrude A. Barber was certainly instrumental in changing all that. In 1952, with the help of a group of dedicated teachers and parents, she established the first classroom for children with developmental disabilities.

Opportunity Calls

Over the course of more than 60 years, the school Dr. Barber founded would help “make dreams come true” for thousands of children and adults with disabilities and their families across the state of Pennsylvania. Today, the Barber Institute, which is also one of Erie County’s largest employers, is recognized for its prescriptive programs for those with autism, intellectual disabilities and behavioral challenges, employing approximately 3,000 people statewide.

“Looking back,” she says, “I chose the Barber Center because I enjoyed working with children and, at 13, I thought it would be the best place for me.”

Counted among the Barber Institute’s team of difference makers is Executive Vice President Maureen Barber-Carey, Ed.D. Over her 30-year career, she has been responsible for spearheading the development of programs for children with autism and has served on numerous committees and task forces directed at improving services for children across the state.

“Aunt Gertrude,” as she calls Dr. Barber, also helped her navigate along the way. “She suggested, ‘Go to graduate school and select the best graduate school for special education. Get a lot of hands-on experience, and then, decide what areas you want to pursue,’ ” recalls Dr. Barber-Carey. “For me, it was deciding that I wanted to work with children with a number of different kinds of abilities and that I wanted to work with various age groups.”

APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

As Dr. Barber-Carey tells it, she was just 13 years old when her professional journey actually began.

Her family believed in volunteering and community service, and in their home, that meant either giving back by serving as a candy striper at the local hospital or helping out at the Barber school.

Turns out, she was right. During her college years, Dr. Barber-Carey continued to volunteer at the Center, which she says was a great opportunity that gave her a great deal of hands-on experience to springboard to her future career. “In my junior year, I began to think about my next step. Well, I looked back to all my years of volunteering and working at the Barber Center and realized that special education was, in fact, my calling.”

Dr. Barber-Carey earned a master’s degree from the University of Missouri and a doctorate in education from Columbia University, and immersed herself as a classroom aide, teacher, supervisor and director throughout a long career with the Barber National Institute and the Erie School District.

“After I taught in the district for special education for about five years, I decided it was time to move on into management administration, so (Aunt Gertrude) recommended some steps. One was to become a first-line administrator, then a special education supervisor, so I pursued certification for that. Then, I came back and fulfilled various administrator roles here at the Barber Institute.”

The Importance of Mentoring

Numerous studies show the impact that mentorship can have on female leaders during their careers. According to a recent KPMG Women’s Leadership Study, 67 percent of women reported that they learned the most important lessons about leadership from other women. Eighty-two percent of professional working women believe access to and networking with female leaders will help them advance in their career.

For Dr. Barber-Carey, it was Dr. Barber who showed her what it meant to be a leader, becoming an invaluable mentor.

“If you think back, how she began was being a psychologist in the Erie School District, and, over those years, she had moved into administrative roles, including assistant superintendent and then president here at the Barber Center. I saw the steps that she went through in that process, always establishing, first and foremost, her goal of providing to children and adults with disabilities the very best, allowing them and their parents to have their dreams come true.”

“As part of my vision, I always ask, ‘What can we do to be able to provide the very best for children and adults?’ ” Dr. Barber-Carey continues. “Aunt Gertrude was one who truly believed that creativity and innovation are key. She was always most open to hearing about new potential programs or new opportunities.”

In the 1990s, Dr. Barber-Carey remembers talking to Dr. Barber about seeing more children diagnosed with autism — at a time when there was very little resources for them. “I said to her, ‘We don’t have the skill sets to be successful with that.’ And, she basically replied, ‘Well, come back to me and tell me what you need to do in order to get those skill sets.’ ” She did — and with a whole plan for the staff to pursue continuing education and travel and observations in the best programs of the country. “Today, I model myself after that, that I’m always so excited when staff come to me and say, ‘We think we can do some things better, and this is how we go about doing it.’ ”

Traits of a Strong Leader

Thirty years ago, Sally Helgesen wrote a groundbreaking book, The Female Advantage: Women’s Ways of Leadership, which studied some of America’s most successful female leaders. In her research, Helgesen found that women leaders often place a high value on relationships, direct communication, putting themselves at the center of the people they lead, are comfortable with diversity and are skilled at integrating their personal and professional lives.

Dr. Barber-Carey exemplifies many of these traits. She says she was raised to see that her opportunities were limitless, and she applies that to her work, as well. She’s also a strong believer in working with a team. “I think that it’s my responsibility as a member of the team to demonstrate to them what I wish to see. And, for me, I truly have a real passion and enthusiasm for what I do,” she says.

Despite her busy schedule, Dr. Barber-Carey says that one of the keys to successful leadership is also investing in oneself. She is a firm believer in exercise and making time to spend with the important people in her life. She also plays the piano and is an avid reader. She is currently reading Maria Shriver’s book, I’ve Been Thinking, a collection of inspirational thoughts, prayers and reflections on the meaning of life.

“I find them very, very helpful. Reading them really recharges me,” she says. “It’s just as important to take that time for yourself as it is to be sitting behind a computer answering emails.”

Inspiring Others

The Barber National Institute is one of Erie’s largest employers with thousands of employees across the state. According to Dr. BarberCarey, motivation plays a very important role in both employee satisfaction and retention, and the opportunity to lead.

“Recognizing achievement is one of the most powerful elements for inspiring leaders,” she says. “I think when people know that their work is truly valued, they stretch themselves, and they’ll contribute their best efforts.”

For her, recognition can be as simple as a smile to a staff person or writing a thank-you note. “It’s one thing to send a quick email, but it’s another thing to take the time to sit down and write a note to a staff person and send it to their homes, saying I was impressed with their work,” she says.

Another way the Institute supports its staff is with informal mentorship and providing other ways to advance or expand their career paths — be it working with a child at the Institute or moving into a residential program or adult services program in Erie or at the Institute’s other locations, such as Pittsburgh or Philadelphia.

Dr. Barber-Carey also believes in fostering a learning-friendly environment by offering financial support for continuing education and encouraging staff to present at conferences helps encourage others to become leaders.

“We’re always encouraging our staff. We refer to ourselves as the Barber Institute family,” she says. “I care about their successes both personally and professionally, and it’s one of those ways that you can recognize people and you inspire them to move in new directions.”

At the Barber National Institute, Dr. Barber-Carey is certainly proud of the legacy — and impact — begun by Dr. Gertrude A. Barber that continues today.

“When I look back to Dr. Barber starting in 1952 with 10 children in an empty classroom with a volunteer teacher, and I think where we are now, our mission remains the same. We have been able to reach out and to help so many more children, adults and their families. We smile when we say Dr. Barber’s watching over us. She’s so happy that she sees where we are today, and she’s proud of us.”

The Manufacturer & Business Association, in conjunction with the MBA Business Magazine, Barber National Institute and sponsors Highmark and Northwest Bank, will present the Women in the Workplace: How Vision and Opportunity Can Impact Business, Leadership and Life from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursday, April 11, at the MBA Conference Center, 2171 West 38th Street in Erie.

To learn more or to register, visit www.mbausa.org.

In business, the best advice Dr. Barber-Carey says she ever received was the ability to recognize that change is constant. “It is not my role to prevent it, but to work with that change and to be adaptable, and to think strategically as we plan to change,” she says. “I would also say that, in business, to venture into areas that conform with your mission, and, in doing so, only pursue ventures that you know that you can provide at the highest quality possible.”

BUSINESS MAGA ZINE

She also believes in maintaining a positive outlook and surrounding herself with positive people. “The very best positive people,” she stresses. “Seek those people to be a part of your team both in your personal life and in your professional life, as well.”

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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MAY 2, 2019 8 am - 2 pm Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Karla Wludyga

Donna Reese

Leadership & Marketing Breakout Sessions Speakers: Dr. Karinna Vernaza, Bryan Whittington, Tiffanie Page-Collazo and Mike Richwalsky Registration - 7:30 am Cost: $75 (Tables of 10 available) Includes speakers, breakout sessions, breakfast and lunch

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WILDCONF.ORG

gusbdc@gannon.edu

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www.pcmsi.com CELEBRATING WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP 6

APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

SPOTLIGHT Q&A| LEADERSHIP

Gannon SBDC Gears Up For More WILD Events Hosted by Gannon University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the annual Women in Leadership Development (WILD) Conference offers an opportunity to empower professional and enterprising women with knowledge, energy and passion. Here, Maggie Horne, Gannon SBDC’s director, shares what’s planned for the 2019 event on May 2 in Erie and the April 4 event in Mercer, Pennsylvania.

The WILD Conference has been a great educational opportunity for women leaders in the tri-state region for 12 years now. What’s planned for the Erie event on May 2?

Our theme for this year is inspiration.

The speakers and breakout sessions are designed to inspire conference attendees both personally and professionally. The program for this year’s conference includes Karla Wludyga, opening keynote speaker, four breakout sessions and Donna Reese, closing keynote speaker.

Tell us more about the keynote speaker and what guests can expect to hear.

Both of our keynote speakers are known to the Erie community. Keynote speaker Karla Wludyga, who managed communications for the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland and was director of Leadership Cleveland, kicks off the program with an inspiring message of growing in leadership and confidence, while keynote speaker, Donna Reese, closes the program with her personal and professional story of finding inspiration within yourself to overcome challenging situations.

What are some highlights of the Erie event, such as the annual Legacy Award winner?

There will be a twist to our Legacy Award tradition this year. It has been decided that we will honor the legacy of longtime SBDC Senior Business Consultant John Snyder, who recently passed away. John worked in the background for 11 years to make sure WILD was a success and we look forward to honoring his legacy.

The Gannon SBDC also will be hosting a WILD Conference in Mercer County. Tell us about the second location and what’s happening.

We kicked off WILD About Mercer last year with great success! This year, the theme is technology and will feature Google speaker Randi Penfil.

Programming includes digital marketing tips and techniques and a panel discussion. The event will be held on April 4 at the Park Inn in West Middlesex.

Why do you believe there is such a strong need for women leadership events today?

Women continue to face challenges in reaching their personal and professional goals. We continue to need positive

role models, as well as a learning environment that addresses those challenges in a realistic and solutionbased approach. With the balance of inspirational speakers and programming, WILD strives to be a part of the solution — and an inspiration to woman leaders.

How can people register or learn more about the WILD events?

Follow us on Facebook @ WILDGannonSBDC and @ WILDAboutMercer. Registration and information also can be found online at wildconf.org.

Is there anything you would like to add?

I’m often asked if there is still a need for an event such as WILD, and I think there is. While women have made great strides in many areas of endeavor, there’s still much progress to be made. That’s where leadership and inspiration come in. With those qualities and with the strength of shared energy, we hope to make a better world.

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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WOMEN LEADING THE WAY.

MacDonald Illig. The bench-strengh to deliver.

Representing Fortune 500 corporations, small businesses, public entities, nonprofit organizations, families and individuals, the attorneys of MacDonald Illig have the experience and depth to effectively and efficiently handle all of your legal needs. From complex litigation to important business transactions, we partner with you to deliver strategic results.

MacDonald Illig A T T O R N E Y S

100 State Street, Suite 700 Erie, PA 16507 (814) 870-7600

www.MacDonaldIllig.com

LEGAL BRIEF | COURTS

What Makes the Supreme Court’s Ruth Bader Ginsburg Notorious?

• In Weinberger v. Wiesenfeld (1975), Ginsburg successfully argued that a gender-based distinction of the Social Security Act unlawfully discriminated against a widower by denying him the same survivor’s benefits while caring for minor children as it would to a widow.

• Craig v. Boren (1976) was the landmark decision that established a new standard — “intermediate scrutiny” — for classifications based upon gender. Oklahoma’s law denied the sale of beer to individuals based upon gender (female age 18, male age 21).

This was ruled unconstitutional.

Lisa Smith Presta is a trial attorney and Chair of the Insurance Litigation Department at MacDonald Illig. Her experience includes the handling of complex, multiparty litigation involving commercial disputes, breach of contract claims, fiduciary obligations, and professional services. She is also a member of the firm’s Commercial/General Litigation Practice Group and Labor & Employment Practice Group.

Jamie R. Schumacher is an associate in the Litigation Department at MacDonald Illig where she concentrates her practice in the areas of commercial litigation, employment litigation, and insurance defense. She is also a member of the firm’s Commercial/General Litigation Practice Group and Labor & Employment Practice Group.

On the subject of the 2015 book Notorious RBG and the 2018 biographical drama On the Basis of Sex, many can agree — men and women, conservatives and liberals — that 85-year-old Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s current status as a “hip, contemporary icon” was unexpected. But maybe it shouldn’t have been. Appointed in 1993 as only the second female justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Ginsburg has been fighting the odds for decades.

Harvard Law Review and, after moving to New York City with her husband and young family, graduated from Columbia Law School in 1959, first in her class.

A product of a low-income, working class neighborhood in Brooklyn, Ginsburg made her way to Harvard Law School, where she was one of eight women in her class of 500. The women were chided by the Dean for taking the places of qualified males.

Undaunted, Ginsburg became the first female member of the prestigious

Ginsburg encountered discrimination while seeking employment after graduation and spent much of her legal career as an advocate for gender equality — for both sexes. She participated in numerous cases before the Supreme Court, including: • Reed v. Reed (1971) came before the Court because the Idaho Code stated men must be preferred over women when naming administrators of estates. The Court held that the Fourteenth Amendment prohibited this differential treatment because it denied equal protection.

• Duren v. Missouri (1979) came before the Court because Missouri law permitted women to be exempted from jury duty upon request.

Ginsburg argued this led to systematic exclusion of women from jury pools, which were then not representative of a defendant’s peers. The Supreme Court agreed.

As a judge, Ginsburg generally favors caution and moderation. She is considered part of the Supreme Court’s moderateliberal block, presenting a strong voice in favor of gender equality and the separation of church and state. In 1996, she wrote the Court’s landmark decision in United States v. Virginia, ruling that the state-supported Virginia Military Institute could not refuse to admit women.

In December 2018, Ginsburg underwent cancer surgery. She is currently cancer-free and returned to the bench in February.

Ginsburg’s husband Martin, a tax attorney, died of cancer in 2010. She described him as her biggest booster and “the only young man I dated who cared that I had a brain.”

Married for 56 years, they were said to be quite different: Martin gregarious and entertaining, while Ruth was serious and shy. About their successful union, Martin was once quoted: “My wife doesn’t give me any advice about cooking, and I don’t give her any advice about the law.” The day after Martin’s death, Ginsburg was at work at the Supreme Court for the last day of the 2010 term.

Notorious, indeed.

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APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

WOMEN IN BUSINESS “My advice for women in business today would be to define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules and build a life you’re proud to live. If there is something you really want to do, believe in yourself and keep moving forward because success will come. And lastly, pay it forward and help others to achieve success.”

Julie Wilson Chief Financial Officer

“Banking is an industry that has traditionally recognized women. I feel extremely fortunate to have built a career at Marquette, where my contributions are both recognized and valued. The fact that my career has provided an opportunity to help make our community a better place has been very rewarding.”

“It never occurred to me that I had what it takes to have such an exciting and successful career in banking.

I have always felt like I have a voice here. Hard work pays off. Management recognized my potential and believed in me. And, throughout the years I have had a steady upward career path.”

“Marquette has given me the opportunity to not only reach my own potential as a leader, but more important, an opportunity to help others reach their full potential.

It’s important to me that Marquette recognizes the contributions women make and values employees as their greatest asset.”

Kelly Montefiori Chief Operating Officer

Lisa Lopez Senior Vice President of Deposit Operations

Stella LaPaglia Senior Vice President of Human Resources

BUSINESS BUZZ | WHAT’S NEW ANDOVER BANK CELEBRATES REBRANDING

Andover Bank recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its Zimmerly Road branch in Millcreek Township, Pennsylvania. The bank is putting the finishing touches on an 18-month rebranding process.

At 135 years old, Andover is focusing on the future with plans for a facelift bank officials say will make it look better than ever.

A new logo was introduced along with a new website and signage.

Steve Varckette, president and CEO of Andover Bank, stated, “We really looked at how we were operating and we revamped the bank from the inside out, starting with services, standard product line and upgraded the technology side of things.”

Andover Bank serves customers in northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit www.andover.bank.

LORD CORPORATION HITS BILLION-DOLLAR MILESTONE

LORD Corporation reached the $1 billion sales mark in 2018 for the first time in its 95-year history.

The global provider of both rubber-to-metal bonding technologies and adhesives had a strong 2018 to help achieve the milestone. Most notably, LORD broke ground on an $80 million project to expand its Saegertown, Pennsylvania facility by 2023 and opened a $12 million site in France.

It also inked the biggest contract in company history, a deal with Boeing to produce an auto-throttle module for cockpit control within its aircrafts. Lord’s electromechanical motion control technology played a vital part for Boeing.

“The whole team takes a lot of pride in this accomplishment,” CEO and President Ed Auslander said. “Being a billion-dollar company is just one milestone in our journey. We have many other goals to achieve coming up, but this is something I’m proud of. I’m proud of our team and our customers connecting to collaborate on new solutions and many making the impossible real.

It’s a great accomplishment.”

LORD said over the last five years it has experienced growth within key industries like aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and industrial thanks to its ability to pivot toward customer needs. Specifically, the company has invested to capture growth within electrification — a trend that has impacted multiple core industries, especially automotive — through its thermal management technology.

Based in Cary, N.C., the 95-year-old firm employs more than 3,000 in 26 countries. It operates 19 manufacturing facilities, including three in northwest Pennsylvania, and 10 research and development centers.

For more information, visit www.lord.com.

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APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

Bank officials celebrate the rebranding of Andover Bank with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

ELLWOOD GROUP TO ACQUIRE MCINNES ROLLED RINGS

ELLWOOD Group, which is based in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, is purchasing McInnes Rolled Rings, an Erie business that produces seamless carbon, alloy and stainless-steel rolled rings.

McInnes will be a wholly owned subsidy of ELLWOOD, but the company will continue to operate independently. Operations will proceed without interruption during the acquisition and beyond, according to a news release.

ELLWOOD said the purchase fits the company’s strategy to “provide world-class problem solving, quality metals and custom-engineered components for critical applications around the world.”

McInnes CEO Tim Hunter and his management team will continue to lead the business.

“We have a great team in place,” said Hunter.

“ELLWOOD’s investment enables us to continue to develop our people, technology and equipment right here in Erie, expanding our ability to meet our customers’ needs.”

The transaction was set to close on March 31.

For more information, visit https://ellwoodgroup.com.

ERIE GIVES NONPROFIT REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

According to the Erie Community Foundation, Erie Gives nonprofit registration is now open for eligible nonprofits online at https://www.eriegives.org/register.

What makes a nonprofit eligible?

• Must be a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization • Must serve Erie County • Must have an Agency Endowment with The Erie Community Foundation OR be a member of The Nonprofit Partnership.

All organizations must register online by Friday, July 26, 2019 in order to participate in Erie Gives 2019.

Erie Gives began in 2011 in honor of The Erie Community Foundation’s 75th anniversary. Erie Gives 2019 will take place on August 13, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

During this 12-hour period of online giving, a portion of the prorated match pool will be added to each donation made.

For more information, visit https://www.eriecommunityfoundation.org.

TECHNIPFMC AWARDED A LARGE CONTRACT FOR EXXONMOBIL REFINERY EXPANSION PROJECT

TechnipFMC has been awarded a large reimbursable contract by ExxonMobil for detailed engineering, procurement and construction for the recently announced crude expansion project in Beaumont, Texas.

The awarded scope covers the addition of four new units — atmospheric pipe still, kerosene hydrotreater, diesel hydrotreater and benzene recovery at ExxonMobil’s Refinery.

The new units of this expansion project will be integrated into the existing facilities at the refinery. The expansion will optimize the facility by giving ExxonMobil the flexibility to run lighter crudes.

Nello Uccelletti, president of TechnipFMC’s Onshore/Offshore business, stated: “We are pleased to have been awarded this contract by our long-term client, ExxonMobil. We look forward to bringing our global project execution capabilities, extensive U.S. Gulf Coast execution experience and leadership in the refining sector to this significant refinery expansion project for ExxonMobil.”

TechnipFMC operates facilities around the world, including a facility in Erie, Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit https://www.technipfmc.com.

PEOPLE BUZZ | AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS

ERIEBANK PRESIDENT APPOINTED TO STATEWIDE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

David Zimmer, president of ERIEBANK, has been appointed to the Pennsylvania Bankers Association Lending Advisory Committee. As part of the Government Relations Council of the Association, the advisory unit reviews and recommends proactive legislation in respective areas, on behalf of member banks, to the Government Relations Policy Committee. Zimmer will serve a three-year term.

Front row, from left: Reed Manufacturing’s Kim Henderson and Katelynn Guerini.

Back row, from left: Nick Eades and Isaac Howard.

REED MANUFACTURING ANNOUNCES PROMOTION, NEW HIRES

Reed Manufacturing (REED) in Erie, Pennsylvania recently announced that Kim Henderson has been promoted to materials manager. With REED since 2017, Henderson previously served as inventory control/production planner. According to the company, she will keep with her present duties and will take on additional responsibility for inventory control and process improvements that will enable REED to continue to take care of customer needs.

Isaac Howard and Nick Eades also have joined REED as full-time product development engineers. Both Howard and Eades are recent graduates of Penn State Behrend with mechanical engineering technology (MET) degrees. Eades interned with REED since 2017. They will be working on new products and product enhancements for the full REED line.

In addition, REED announced that Katelynn Guerini, a student at Edinboro University, has joined the company as a marketing intern.

Reed Manufacturing, which has been a custom manufacturer of pipe tools and vises, was founded in 1896 by Carl Reed and purchased in 1902 by Reuben Wright. The company continues to be operated by his descendants: fifthgeneration members of the Wright family.

KNOX FIRM NAMES MCCORMICK AS SHAREHOLDER

Frances A. McCormick has been named a new shareholder of Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. in Erie, Pennsylvania.

McCormick focuses her practice in the areas of business and tax law, estate planning and administration, business succession planning and real estate. She joined Knox Law in 2013.

An Erie native and graduate of Villanova University, she earned her law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law and her MBA from

Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business.

Prior to joining Knox Law, she worked in the tax department of Deloitte & Touche LLP and at an international real estate firm, for which she served as managing director of its Middle East operations in Qatar.

She is a board member for Erie Homes for Children and Adults (EHCA) and the Erie County Bar Association (ECBA) and an Advisory Board Member for the Mercyhurst University Walker School of Business and Communication.

Additionally, the Honorable Sean J. McLaughlin (ret.) has returned to Knox Law, where he will focus his practice on alternative dispute resolution, including mediation, arbitration and early neutral evaluation in both federal and state courts.

McLaughlin brings nearly 40 years of diverse experience to his practice, including 19 years as a federal judge, five years as general counsel of Erie Insurance Group, a Fortune 500 company, and one year as a federal court law clerk. He also has 13 years of private litigation practice at Knox Law, during which time he concentrated in civil litigation, including both insurance defense and plaintiff matters.

McLaughlin served as a United States District Court Judge from 1994 through 2013, completing his tenure as chief judge. He also served as chair of the District Court’s Court Governance Committee, as chair of the Court’s Long-Range Planning Committee, and as chair of the Magistrate Judges Committee. In 2012, he was appointed by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. to serve on the United States Judicial Conference Committee on Court Administration and Case Management.

In addition, Zimmer has also been appointed as the Pennsylvania Bankers Association’s Direct Contact Banker (DCB) for the 3rd Congressional District.

The Contact Banker Program is an organized effort to allow local bankers to personally present the banking industry’s views on issues to their legislators. Contact Bankers are bankers who volunteer to develop and maintain close contacts with their elected officials.

Pennsylvania Bankers Association, located in Harrisburg, is the state’s major banking trade association representing a large, diverse membership. The association provides government relations representation on behalf of the industry in Pennsylvania and offers extensive continuing education programs for bankers.

A native of Erie, Zimmer is a graduate of Cathedral Prep. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, graduating cum laude with a major in finance from Clarion University. He also is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Bankers Association Central Atlantic School of Banking at Bucknell University.

Zimmer is active in a number of community, civic, and charitable organizations in the Erie area. He is currently the chairman of the Erie-Western PA Port Authority, Erie County Revolving Loan Fund board member, Erie Downtown Development Corporation Executive Committee board member and treasurer, Erie Downtown Equity Fund board member, and Athena Powerlink Governing Body board member. Additionally, he serves as a Hamot Health Foundation board member, UPMC-Hamot board member, and member of Hamot Health Foundation’s Board of Corporators.

ERIEBANK, a division of CNB Bank, is a $3.1 billion bank, servicing communities within northwest Pennsylvania and northeast Ohio. .

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. has served businesses, governmental entities, nonprofit organizations, insurance companies, financial institutions, individuals and families for 60 years.

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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WE TAKE A 36 -DEGREE VIEW OF YOUR BUSINESS—SO YOU CAN KEEP RUNNING IT. As a small business owner, you don’t have time to wonder whether your business banking strategies are all working together properly.

But we do. With Northwest 360, our team becomes an extension of yours. So your business gets smarter—and your focus stays where it belongs.

That’s how we’re increasing the value of you.

Learn more about Northwest 360 at www.northwest.com.

Celebrating Northwest Women in Business!

Leah Manino

Jackie Ksenich

Anita Kuchcinski

Jen Stewart

Katie Ruffa

Michele Cavalier

Vice President Commercial Lender leah.manino@northwest.com

Vice President Commercial Lender anita.kuchcinski@northwest.com

Vice President Commercial Lender kathryn.ruffa@northwest.com

Business Banker jacqueline.ksenich@northwest.com

Assistant Vice President Cash Management Advisor jennifer.stewart@northwest.com

Corporate Senior Vice President Senior Trust Executive michele.cavalier@northwest.com

16 offices to serve you in Erie County 1-877-672-5678 | www.northwest.com Bank | Borrow | Invest | Insure | Plan Northwest Bank, a subsidiary of Northwest Bancshares, Inc., has operating units that use the Northwest Bank owned trade logo and/or service marks, “Northwest Advisors” and “Northwest Insurance Services” to provide investment and wealth management, insurance services and employee benefits plans. Trust, fiduciary and retirement services are offered through Northwest Bank’s Trust Department. Only deposit products offered by Northwest Bank are Member FDIC. Investment and insurance products: (I) are not deposits or other obligations of, nor are they guaranteed by, Northwest Bank or its operating units; (II) are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other agency of the United States or by Northwest Bank or its operating units; and (III) are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of value.

ON THE HILL | LEGISLATURE

New Representation Brings New Inspiration 44th District’s Gaydos Ready to Fight for Pro-Business Legislation

Eileen Anderson is the director of government relations for SMC Business Councils, which recently merged with the Manufacturer & Business Association and is based in Cranberry Township. Contact her at eileenanderson@smc.org or 412/342-1606.

Editor’s note: The Pennsylvania Legislature began this year with a record number of female lawmakers. The 63 women now serving in the House and Senate make up a quarter of the state’s 253 lawmakers during the 2019-20 legislative session. The 50-member Senate now has 12 women, half from each party. The 203-member House has 51 female lawmakers (22 Republicans and 29 Democrats). To celebrate the Business Magazine’s “Women in the Workplace” issue, we are highlighting one of those recently elected lawmakers, a pro-business legislator who understands the issues that businesses are facing today.

Valerie Gaydos was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in November. Businesses across the state should be thankful that she ran and was hired by the voters of the

44th District. The District is located in Allegheny County, just outside Pittsburgh, the county seat.

In an MBA Supervisory Skills class, I learned that those who interview people for jobs make the decision to hire within the first several minutes.

Such was my meeting with Gaydos.

Within two minutes, it was apparent that she is a force to be reckoned with. Her candidness, confidence and business acumen were immediately apparent. She wasn’t one of life’s spectators; she’s someone who faces challenges head on.

During our discussion, I could see her inner core of steel, not shiny, hard stainless, but a core with a rough surface, nicked, but still malleable, formed by her personal and business experiences. She cared for her husband who died of lung cancer, and then later — a nine-year career interlude — for her mother with Parkinson’s. For Gaydos, now is the right time. She is primed, sleeves rolled up, and ready to fight the good fight when she could have just as easily taken another path.

Gaydos says she understands the state’s problems and will tackle them. She has demonstrated her leadership skills in arenas where women are the minority. She has been a businesswoman for 25 years and has a proven track record of building businesses. In 1994, Gaydos started her own company, from the ground up, and went on to invest in successful start-up companies.

As an angel investor, she has helped small businesses succeed and create jobs. Women comprise only 22 percent of angel investors, according to a 2017 Harvard Business School report, “New Study Sheds Light on Angel Investors in the U.S. Economy,” and Gaydos is proud to be among them.

Gaydos supports pro-business issues and is well-positioned having been assigned to the Education, Commerce and Health Committees. She will fight for policies that attract new jobs and residents to Pennsylvania. Her core beliefs: • Lower taxes to enable PA to remain competitive. We have one of the lowest caps on Net Operating Loss (NOL), a huge issue for start-ups.

• Reduce paperwork and regulations.

Mandates on employers are part of the reason why many employers face wage constraints.

• Affordable health-care options are needed, including pooling of small businesses to purchase lower cost health insurance policies.

Gaydos was forced to close her own business after several years of skyrocketing premiums.

• Support educational initiatives that prepare students, our future workforce, with skills needed by business.

With her depth of experience and a mental toughness reminiscent of the “Steel Curtain,” Gaydos is a welcome addition in the state Capitol and to the constituents she represents. mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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HR CONNECTION | WORKPLACE TRENDS RESEARCH FINDS MBA DEGREE BENEFITS WOMEN IN BUSINESS Recent research shows that there are obvious financial benefits to women earning a Master in Business Administration degree — and it’s worth noting.

According to research gathered by the Forte Foundation, a consortium dedicated to launching women into successful careers, companies with higher numbers of women in leadership roles reap numerous benefits. Among these are the higher returns associated with a more gender-diverse workplace, such as a 66-percent higher return on invested capital, and a 53-percent higher return on equity.

Opticians, Optometrists and Ophthalmologists: What’s the Difference?

With an MBA on her resume, statistics show that a woman has the potential to earn pay gains at graduation of 35 percent, with those payouts improving at the five-year mark, where a woman stands to earn 55 percent more than her pre-MBA salary. Over her career, a woman with an MBA could earn more than $3 million she otherwise would not have earned without her MBA.

It’s a new year and you’re looking to schedule your yearly eye exam (this should be part of your routine annual health screening). Do you schedule an appointment with an optician, optometrist or an ophthalmologist? Each specialty plays an important and unique role in eye care, the level of training and expertise is different for each provider.

Let’s break them down in more detail.

Opticians Opticians are the specialists to fit patients for lenses, frames and contact lenses.

These professionals undergo in-depth training and ongoing certification to perform their job adequately. Things like eye shape/size and head shape/size are important factors of proper fitting. An optician will use the prescription written by an optometrist or ophthalmologist in ordering the proper lenses. However, they are not licensed to diagnose or treat eye diseases, nor do they write prescriptions for vision correction.

Professor J. Gerald Suarez, of the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, says that with the rise of self-made female billionaires (currently at 56, up from 42 in 2016, according to Forbes), certain patterns are forming to give insight into how successful women run businesses. “Women tend to be innovative from a pragmatic point of view,” says Suarez, adding that women also tend to reinvest in their businesses.

Optometrists Optometrists are primary health-care doctors of the eye, who provide comprehensive eye exams, looking for both health and vision concerns. They’re able to prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct refractive errors. In addition, they’re able to prescribe certain medicines to correct eye problems and diseases.

STUDY: WOMEN ARE STARTING 1,821 NEW BUSINESSES PER DAY Women-owned businesses with revenues of more than $1 million increased 46 percent compared to 12 percent for all U.S. businesses in the last decade — an impressive feat were it not for the fact What to Consider that these businesses make up only 1.7 percent of all women-owned firms.

As you would when choosing any other doctor, consider the following: The stats are part of the latest annual • Proximity. Is the doctor you’re selecting near to you?

State of Women-Owned Businesses report, commissioned by American • Reputation. Sometimes a personal referral can help narrow down your choices. Ask Express, which also found that women family and friends if they have an eye doctor they would recommend. own 12.3 million businesses in 2018, or 40 • Do you need a doctor with evening and weekend appointments? Be sure the office percent overall. The report also estimates hours will work with your schedule. that women are starting about 1,821 new U.S. businesses per day, a significant uptick from an average of 952 between 2012 and 2017. The overall number of women-owned businesses have surged Matt Cuomo 3,000 percent since 1972.

Ophthalmologists Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who have specialized experience in surgical and medical procedures. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery. They can diagnose all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses.

is the vice president of Sales and Sales Support at Vision Benefits of America (VBA). He also developed and now teaches continuing education courses about the vision health industry. For more information about VBA, visit https://www.vbaplans.com.

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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HR Q&A | GET ANSWERS I HAVE AN EXEMPT EMPLOYEE TAKING INTERMITTENT FMLA (FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT). CAN I DEDUCT THEIR PAY FOR TIME AWAY? Leave taken under FMLA may be unpaid. If an employee is otherwise exempt from minimum wage and overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) as a salaried executive, administrative, professional or computer employee, providing unpaid FMLA-qualifying leave to such an employee will not cause the employee to lose the FLSA exemption.

This means that under regulations currently in effect, where an employee meets the specified duties test, is paid on a salary basis, and is paid a salary of at least the amount specified in the regulations, the employer may make deductions from the employee’s salary for any hours taken as intermittent or reduced FMLA leave within a workweek, without affecting the exempt status of the employee.

WHAT MUST AN EMPLOYER PROVIDE TO WORKERS WHO NEED TO EXPRESS BREAST MILK IN THE WORKPLACE? All employers covered by the FLSA, regardless of the size of their business, are required to comply with the nursing mother provision. However, employers with fewer than 50 employees are not subject to the FLSA break time requirement if the employer can demonstrate that compliance with the provision would impose an undue hardship.

Whether compliance would be an undue hardship is determined by looking at the difficulty or expense of compliance for a specific employer in comparison to the size, financial resources, nature or structure of the employer’s business.

Employers are required to provide a reasonable amount of break time and a space to express milk as frequently as needed by the nursing mother, for up to one year following the birth of the employee’s child.

The frequency of breaks needed to express breast milk, as well as the duration of each break, will likely vary. The space provided by the employer cannot be a bathroom, and it must be shielded from view and free from intrusion by co-workers or the public.

How Do You Determine Who Is ‘High Potential’?

The most important part of a succession plan is determining and developing your organization’s future leaders. The goal is to develop a pool of employees for a wide range of executive or management positions.

If you were to target a certain few employees for specific positions, you would run the risk of your plan being derailed in any number of ways — for instance, an employee slated for a specific position could decide to leave for another opportunity, leaving you without a “Plan B.” By steadily developing a pool of employees, you eliminate the risk of having no one ready to step up when the time comes.

When determining which employees to develop, it is important to remember that just because an employee is a high performer in his current position, it does not automatically translate that he will be a high performer in an upper level position. The level of complexity increases the higher up the ladder you go. Different positions require different attributes. Generally, 3 percent to 5 percent of your total employee population will be your high potential group. This is the group you want to target for development in your succession planning process.

Identifying your high potential people requires an assessment process, considering such factors as work history, performance reviews, training and initiative in taking on new projects, among others.

You should take into account which positions may need to be filled sooner. Then, determine which employees you may want to put on the “fast track” to be ready to fill these positions. These positions will be more specifically geared to certain people, because of the time frame involved. This is more along the lines of “replacement planning” than “succession planning” because the need is more immediate.

By putting sufficient time and effort into the process of developing the right employees for the most suitable position for them, you may be able to avoid situations like this. By taking great care in the process, it can be a win-win situation for everyone.

Stacey Bruce, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the director of HR Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200 or sbruce@mbausa.org.

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APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

The

Partner

for your business is a credit union.

Checking accounts to credit and debit cards Commercial, real estate and SBA loans Complete line of payment acceptance options Erie FCU has everything your business needs. Whether you’re starting out small or thinking big...We’ve got your back.

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Insured by NCUA Loans subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required.

MBA Ad 0218.indd 1

2/11/19 3:35 PM

INNOVATIVE THINKERS Whether you are starting or growing a business, attorneys at Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. can help. We understand the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small business owners.

We share your passion and have the legal tools necessary to help you succeed. With a broad-based team approach, we can leverage individual attorney strengths to ensure that you benefit from our collective experience in a cost-effective manner.

No matter where you are in the process, let our innovative advice guide you.

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Erie | North East | Pittsburgh | Jamestown, NY 814-459-2800 | www.kmgslaw.com

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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RECOGNITION OF WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

WOMEN IN BUSINESS EMPLOYEE NETWORK GROUP

Photo above is from a plant tour at the LORD facility for the members of Women in Manufacturing.

In March 2018, the Women in Business Employee Network Group (ENG) launched worldwide, with each location hosting its own chapter. At LORD Corporation, ENG’s mission is to promote a culture that empowers women — and employees who work with women — through education, support and enrichment opportunities. This network will lead to the global success of LORD and all employees through professional and personal development.

Globally, LORD plans on successfully executing the ENG through subcommittee groups such as professional development, social outings, touring, networking and community outreach.

Committees, such as these, will provide opportunities to our global employee base, including networking events, organic mentoring, community involvement, informal training and professional advancement.

This year, the Erie Chapter plans on hosting Lunch and Learns to focus on professional development and growth.

The group also is involved in the Bethany Outreach to prepare applicants for future career opportunities. In addition, local subcommittees will be sponsoring networking and mentorship opportunities for employees to grow their relationships and continue planning their futures at LORD.

Photo above is from a Hygiene Packet Drive to benefit students at McKinley Elementary School, LORD’s partnership school in Erie.

WOMEN in BUSINESS MEMBERS

MEGAN BURROWS

JACQUELINE MASEK

Quality Technician Years of Service: 7

Senior Production Planner Years of Service: 4

What career opportunities led you to your current role?

What career opportunities led you to your current role?

ASHLEY REITH

KATIE COLPO

Senior Program Manager Years of Service: 8

Product Design Engineer, Aftermarket – Rotary Wing Years of Service: 3.5

What career opportunities led you to your current role?

What career opportunities led you to your current role?

When I started at LORD as a production operator, I trained in many areas of my department, but spent most of my time working in inspection. After five years on the production floor, I decided that an opening in the testing department would be a great place to gain experience. Shortly after joining the test department, my manager presented me with opportunities to expand my role beyond testing. I’ve been shadowing our Test Engineer, working with Quality Engineering and completing training such as Six Sigma Yellow Belt.

During my first year at LORD, I completed time studies and worked as a planner/buyer before becoming a manufacturing engineer in Aerospace production. After gaining knowledge on the shop floor, I joined the Aerospace New Product Introduction (NPI) team as a manufacturing and costing engineer. Thanks to LORD’s Aid for Education program, I went back to school while still working and completed my master’s in business administration in two years. With a technical background and a knowledge of business and leadership, I applied for a position as a program manager on our Industrial team and have been in this role since the fall.

I had the opportunity to begin my career at LORD through multiple summer internships. Upon graduation, I was hired into a two-year rotational program consisting of four, six-month assignments in different locations and departments. This opportunity allowed me to grow a strong network of colleagues throughout LORD and to gain knowledge over a wide range of the business. Since this rotational program, I have completed my master’s in business administration while working in our New Product Introduction (NPI) team as the Production Planner. I am currently in the NPI planning role and the Women in Business Leader for the Erie facility.

The path to my current role at LORD Corporation began through a scholarship/internship program I learned about while I was still pursuing my mechanical engineering degree at Penn State Behrend. I had the opportunity throughout my final three years of college to explore several different areas within engineering at LORD and to be mentored by many knowledgeable engineers. In my current role, I continue to value the mentorship of the experienced individuals I interact with every day.

www.lord.com

SPECIAL SECTION | RECOGNITION CEREMONIES

2019 Training Graduates The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) recently held a series of luncheons to recognize the graduates of its computer, HR and professional development training programs. Visit www.mbabizmag.com for complete coverage, as well as information on upcoming MBA training courses.

HR Essential Certification Series — Advanced — Erie

From left: Tim Rowe, Whole Foods Cooperative, and Robyn Hopper, aPHR, MBA HR generalist and trainer.

HR Essential Certification Series — Level I — Erie

From left: Jennifer Tshudy, PHR, MBA HR generalist and trainer, and Stacey Hellmann, St. Martin Center.

HR Essential Certification Series — Advanced — Pittsburgh

From left: Jennifer Decker, SBHB Logistics, LLC and Cindy Cullen Rapp, Central Electric Cooperative Inc.

HR Essential Certification Series — Advanced — Meadville

Front row, from left: Susan Shorts, Viking Tool and Gage Inc.; Valerie Wagner, Servis One, Inc.; and, Joie Alden, The Matric Group.

Back row, from left: Heather King, Kronospan and Kristina Artman, Advanced Cast Products.

HR Essential Certification Series — Advanced — Erie

From left: Rachel Gilmore, George J. Howe Company; Saundra Szymanski, Great Lakes Metal Finishing; and, Robyn Hopper, aPHR, MBA HR generalist and trainer.

Computer Software Specialist — Erie

HR Essential Certification Series — Level I — Erie

From left: Crista Kennelley, F3 Metalworx, Inc.; Desmond Kane, Gaudenzia Erie, Inc.; and, Jennifer Tshudy, PHR, MBA HR generalist and trainer.

HR Essential Certification Series — Level I — Erie

From left: Sara Wurst, Verify Services, LLC; Abby Merryman, InnovaTel, LLC; and, Jennifer Tshudy, PHR, MBA HR generalist and trainer.

HR Essential Certification Series — Level I — Erie

From left: Tim Rowe, Whole Foods Cooperative; Jenette Swigart, Polymer Molding Inc.; and, Jennifer Tshudy, PHR, MBA HR generalist and trainer.

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APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

Front row, from left: Nichole Miller, Barber National Institute; Belem Fraire, Plastek Industries Inc.; Heidi Prindle, Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Trudy Robbins, Plastek Industries; and, Erika Lee Herrmann, Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Back row, from left: Rita Butler, Plastek Industries, Janice Kasbee, C & J Industries; Denise Lipinski and Pamela Kruszewski, Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center; and, Janice Wonner, Plastek Industries.

Lean — Six Sigma — Erie

Front row, from left: Jim Rowe, Erie Insurance Group; Ray Davis, MBA instructor; and Steve Wisniewski, Brian Wilking, Matthew Mangus, Christopher Pecoraro, Joe Sambuchino and Jen Markiewicz, Erie Insurance Group.

Back row, from left: Hannah Forsgren, Deneen Hughes, Kim Caravaglia, Jillian Kondzielski and Megan Campbell, Erie Insurance Group.

Leadership for Team Leaders — Erie

Leadership for Team Leaders — Erie

Front row, from left: Staci Faulhaber, Erie Insurance Group; Therese Duckett, LORD Corporation; and, Lyndsy Wise, Verify Services.

Back row, from left: Jasmin Alic, Essentra Components; Storm Miller, Signal Technologies Inc.; Geoff Kowalczyk, DBC Remodeling & Construction; and, Brian Carney, Eriez Manufacturing Company.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Erie

Front row, from left: Jason Brown, Erie Forge and Steel Inc.; Steve Courson and Mike Bonavita, Betts Industries Inc.; Nick Burrows, Saint Mary’s Home of Erie; Steve Jackson, Plastek Industries, Inc.; David Mountain, Corry Manufacturing Company; Jake Trubic, Whirley Industries Inc.; Shane Craig, SJL of Pennsylvania; and, Jason Kisko, Corry Manufacturing Company.

Back row, from left: Jerry Holes Jr., Viking Plastics; Troy Magee, Parker Hannifin Corporation; Nibardo Munoz, Plastek Industries, Inc.; Jason Pluta, Accudyn Products Inc.; Nanci Martin, Corry Manufacturing Company; Kelly Yost, Alicia Wieczorek and Erica Maxumczyk, Marquette Savings Bank; and, Patrick Carson, Plastek Industries, Inc.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Meadville

Front row, from left: Steve Proper, Greenleaf Corp.; Mindy Redding, Marquette Savings Bank; Darla Musulin, C & J Industries; LaVica Charboneau, MFG Tray; Roberta Lowrie, Franklin Housing Authority; Jarrett Stevens, Tapco Tube Co.; and, Kathleen King, MFG Tray.

Back row, from left: Blake Docter, Greenleaf Corp.; Owen Parker, Deist Industries; Cody Braun, Greenleaf Corp.; Kyle Jones, MacLean-Fogg Components Solutions; Austin Scere, Tapco Tube Co.; and, Richard Daugherty, Franklin Housing Authority.

Front row, from left: Austin Fitzgerald, Betts Industries Inc.; Shawn Ryckman, Jamestown Coating Technologies; Evan Dougherty, PHB Inc.; Andrew Miller, Jamestown Coating Technologies; Jeffrey Markham, Lake Erie Biofuels LLC; Randy Reigh, Deist Industries Inc.; Tom Spetz, Whirley Industries Inc.; and, Randy Cyphert, Protective Industries Inc. Back row, from left: Denny Dornhoefer, Essentra Components; Archie Cullen, Deist Industries Inc.; Angie Gaus and Michelle Eynon, Jamestown Coating Technologies; Sue Ross, Gaudenzia Erie, Inc.; Heidi Boser, American Refining Group, Inc.; Ashley Rhoades and Bobbi Engstrom, Whirley Industries Inc.; Charles Matters, Deist Industries Inc.; and, Jake Christy, Jamestown Coating Technologies.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Erie

Front row, from left: Jason Harris and Martin Dolecki, Plastek Industries Inc.; Adam Freeborough, Eriez Manufacturing Company; Bryan Bach, National Fuel; Nick Gaston, Eriez Manufacturing Company; Chris Brocious, Swanson-Erie Corporation; Matthew Wisotzky and Gary Snyder, National Fuel; Patrick Brown, The Electric Materials Company; and, Steven Albers, Corry Manufacturing Co. Back row, from left: Bob Holby, Corry Manufacturing Co.; Kevin Reynolds, D & E Machining Ltd.; Dustin Walk, RGS Products Inc.; Alex Grabowski, Port Erie Plastics Inc.; Michelle Flores, Plastek Industries Inc.; Al Hefner, Plastikos Inc.; Chris Lange and Jeremy Hedderick, LORD Corporation; Julie Glover, Corry Manufacturing Co.; and, Victoria Rowan, and Jamar Arrington, Plastikos Inc.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Erie

Front row, from left: Adrianna Holben, C&J Industries Inc.; Sherry Herring, Plastek; Traci Lippert, C&J Industries Inc.; Lorena Mendez, Plastek; Katlyn Baideme, NW Rural Electric Coop; Kosette Clark, Marquette Savings Bank; and, Antonia Estrada, Plastek.

Back row, from left: John D’Onofrio and Justin Denham, Plastek; Clarrisa Schneider, NW Rural Electric Coop; Chay Le, Plastek; Vince Dragone, Signal Technologies Inc.; and, Bill Draghi, D & E Machining Inc.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Erie

Front row, from left: Rick Swartzfager, Essentra Components; Brandon Miles, Corry Forge Company; Richard Courtney, Plastek Industries; Bryan Colish, Erie Water Works; Ray Zemcik and Marc Longstreet, Erie City School District; Josh Waid, Erie Plating Company; Mark Parshall, Erie Forge and Steel Inc.; and, Freddie Gregory, Accuride – Erie.

Back row, from left: Christopher Munoz, Advanced Cast Products; Carrie Applequist, Reed Manufacturing Company; Belem Fraire, Chuck Stevens and Lorena Mendez, Plastek Industries; Tika Timsina, Erie Plating Company; Mike Fields, Acutec Precision Aerospace Inc.; Alan Sturgis, Erie Bronze & Aluminum; and, Ed Miller, Warren Steel Products, Inc.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series – Pittsburgh

Front row, from left: Christopher Hugus, E. H. Schwab Co.; Bert Vogt, Penna Flame Industries; Eileen Anderson and Kim Flowers, Manufacturer & Business Association; Rob Bubb, Penna Flame Industries.

Back row, from left: Walt Bell, Ellwood Mill Products; Tony Reda, Ellwood City Forge; and, Mark Bennett and Rob Safko, Filtech Inc.

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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APRIL 2019 • mbabizmag.com

HOURS Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

EVENTS & EXTRAS | NETWORKING & MORE

The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) strives to keep its members informed on the most current business issues affecting employers in the region. For more information about upcoming events or to view the MBA’s photo gallery, visit www.mbausa.org. rer & alist and trainer at the Manufactu Robyn Hopper, aPHR , HR gener & Law mes attendees to the HR Lunch Business Association (MBA), welco iation’s Conference Center in Erie. briefing on March 13 at the Assoc

HR professionals from across the region attended the Lunch & Law in March. The next Lunch & Law briefing is set for June 12. Details to come .

Attorney Mark Kuhar of the Knox Firm was the guest speaker at the MBA’s HR Lunch & Law to discuss the topic of “Leading Internal Investigations.”

Upcoming Chapter Events/Tours: June 20, 2019 - 3:00pm at Carrie Blast Furnace, Pittsburgh - Tour & Networking Stay Tuned for the Western PA WiM Conference coming this Fall!

For more information contact Amanda Iverson (amanda@thompsonfab.com) www.womeninmanufacturing.org

mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2019

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