The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce today announced the launch of the Manufacturing Council of North Central Massachusetts to enhance the Chamber’s support of the manufacturing industry and the regional economy.

The Council, which is open to Chamber members and non-members working or interested in learning more about the manufacturing industry, will provide knowledge, resources, and support to create a stronger and prosperous manufacturing sector in North Central Massachusetts.

“The Chamber has always been a strong champion of local manufacturing, advocating and supporting the industry in multiple ways,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “I believe that our strong advocacy and support of the manufacturing industry is one of the things that helps set our Chamber apart. From hosting manufacturing tours to publishing a manufacturing directory and supporting workforce efforts for the industry, the Council is a natural extension of our work and reflects our commitment to supporting and growing this important sector of our economy.”

While the economy in North Central Massachusetts is diverse, the region has a rich and proud manufacturing history, and continues to play an integral role in the regional economy. Manufacturing is the third largest industry in North Central Massachusetts, with more than 400 manufacturers in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and electronics. It also accounts for 15 percent of the region’s total employment and one-third of all private wages paid in the region. North Central Massachusetts is unique in that manufacturing in the region is twice as concentrated when compared to the U.S. average.

Council members will have the opportunity to network with peers, participate in tours of manufacturing facilities to learn best practices, attend quarterly meetings featuring experts in the industry, gain exclusive access to policy leaders, and collectively advocate for the industry. Additionally, connections to workforce and talent leaders, as well as the eligibility to participate in the Chamber’s CEO Manufacturers’ Roundtable Program, will be offered.

There is no fee to join the Council for Chamber members, however fees related to meetings or programming may apply, depending on the program.

The first meeting of the Manufacturing Council of North Central Massachusetts is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. at Burkart-Phelan, Inc, located at 2 Shaker Road, #D107

Shirley, MA. Christine Nolan, director, Massachusetts Center for Advanced Manufacturing, and acting hub program director, Northeast for the Microelectronics Coalition, will be the featured speaker at the March meeting. In addition, Lillian Burkart, founder and president, Burkart-Phelan, Inc., will provide an overview of the company and a tour for attendees.

Coffee and continental breakfast will be provided. There is no cost for Chamber members to participate. Non-members are welcome to attend for a $35 registration fee.

To register, please visit www.northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600 ext. 235. Pre-registration is required, space is limited.

For more information about the Council, contact Roy Nascimento at 978.353.7600, ext. 225.

Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | North Central Massachusetts Economic Development | Manufacturing Council of North Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts Innovation