Manufacturing Caucus Hosts 7th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at Polar Park

TE Connectivity of Medway, Massachusetts received the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the 7th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held in the DCU Club at Polar Park in Worcester. 

TE Connectivity was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  “TE Connectivity was one of 55 manufacturers and honorees from across the state who are truly ‘making it’ in Massachusetts, exemplifying how government and industry can work together to have a meaningful impact on society,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), who nominated TE Connectivity. “For more than 75 years, TE Connectivity has helped to solve tomorrow's toughest challenges with advanced connectivity and sensor solutions. Their solutions power electric vehicles, aircraft, digital factories, and smart homes as well as enabling life-saving medical care, sustainable communities, efficient utility networks, and the global communications infrastructure. These represent great contributions to the Massachusetts economy and ecosystem and I was delighted that we could honor TE Connectivity’s work.”

Left to Right  -    State Senator Eric P. Lesser (D-Longmeadow), Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus, TE Quality Manager Sid Jayaraman and State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus

The Legislature, under the leadership of Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka, has spearheaded several major economic development packages which focus on improving the renaissance of manufacturing, with the goal of making Massachusetts the best place to build things. 

Rep. Roy noted during his opening remarks that Massachusetts is an ideal ecosystem for manufacturing. “Our world class universities, highly skilled workforce, availability of venture capital, and strong government support all come together to create a pro-business atmosphere that fosters a system that encourages manufacturing,” he said.

The event was the state’s 7th Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony hosted by the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Sponsored by MassMEP and MassTech Collaborative, this was the second time the event was held in the DCU Club at Polar Park. 

Group photo of the awardees and legislators at Polar Park, Worcester

Christine Nolan, Director for the Center of Advanced Manufacturing and Kathie Mahoney Killam, President and CEO of MassMEP offered remarks at the ceremony.  In addition, House Speaker Ronald Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka and Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Michael Kennealy addressed the audience via pre-recorded video.  

After the successful event Rep. Roy added, “Manufacturing output here is at its highest level in history and accounts for about 11 percent of the state’s economy. It is the sixth largest employment sector here and $26 billion in manufactured goods are exported from the Commonwealth each year.  We celebrated some truly great companies who make our economy roar and contribute to those statistics. We offer heartfelt congratulations to all the outstanding Manufacturers who were honored for excellence.”

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

Visit TE Connectivity online to find out more about what they do ->     https://www.te.com/usa-en/home.html

State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy receives John “Jack” Healy Leadership Award

The Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP) presented State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) with the John “Jack” Healy Leadership Award in the DCU Club at Polar Park in Worcester on May 20th.  The award ceremony was part of MassMEP’s  ‘Manufacturing Your Future i4.0,’ an event for Massachusetts manufacturers to come together and take a deep dive through the components of Industry 4.0, along with a view of SMART Manufacturing, and the chance to learn about the importance of building a roadmap in I4.0 to remain competitive and see direct impacts to the bottom line. 

Representative Roy received the award in recognition of his dedication to and support of Massachusetts Manufacturing.  Currently the House Chairperson of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities & Energy, he is also the House-Chair of the Manufacturing Caucus, which promotes and encourages “Making It” in Massachusetts.   

State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy

 
“I was honored, humbled, and deeply touched to be the recipient of the Jack Healy Award from MassMEP,” said Representative Roy.  “Under the leadership of Speaker Ron Mariano, Massachusetts has assembled an unparalleled support system and is fully committed to a thriving manufacturing sector. I have been delighted to play a small role in the efforts to help companies make it in Massachusetts and look forward to seeing more moving here.” 
 
 “No one deserves this award more than Representative Roy,” said Dennis Leonard, Chairman of the Board, MassMEP.  Representative Roy’s efforts have fostered innovation and created opportunities for economic growth in Massachusetts. He has been a steadfast supporter of the MassMEP, requesting funding for the program every year. We as a manufacturing community are in a better place because of him.”

L-R: Rep Roy, Mark Schmit of NIST and Tom Andrellos of MassMEP

In 2016, MassMEP created the John “Jack” Healy Leadership Award to recognize excellence within manufacturing companies and honor individual manufacturing leaders who are shaping the future of global manufacturing. This award is in honor of MassMEP's former President and leader, John "Jack" Healy. Jack was the leader of MassMEP from 1997-2016. During his tenure he changed the way manufacturing is perceived and was often referred to as the "Voice of Manufacturing." His role with MassMEP and his passion for the industry were the catalysts in shaping the direction of manufacturing in Massachusetts. 
  
Past recipients of the John “Jack” Healy Leadership Award include Speaker Robert DeLeo and Congressman Jim McGovern. 

Manufacturing Caucus Hosts 6th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at Polar Park

AirLoc Corporation of Franklin, Massachusetts was nominated for the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the 6th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held in the DCU Club at Polar Park in Worcester. 

AirLoc was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).  

For over 60 years the AirLoc name has stood for high-quality products in the areas of vibration isolation engineering, structure-borne noise control and precise machine leveling.  James Aimone III, Vice-President of Operations, accepted the award on behalf of the company.

L-R,  Senator Eric P. Lesser (Co-Chair of the Caucus), James Aimone III, AirLoc's VP of Operations and Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.

“The Legislature, under the leadership of Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka, has spearheaded several major economic development packages which focus on improving the renaissance of manufacturing, with the goal of making Massachusetts the place to build things,” said Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  

6th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held in the DCU Club at Polar Park

“Massachusetts is an ideal ecosystem for manufacturing. Our world class universities, highly skilled workforce, availability of venture capital, and strong government support all come together to create a pro-business atmosphere that fosters a system that encourages manufacturing. And our state is home to world-class makers of everything from machinery to biopharmaceuticals to jet engines.”

The event was the state’s 6th Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony hosted by the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  In past years the yearly event has been held at the State House in Boston.  Last year due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the event was ‘Reimagined’ and was held via a webinar.  Sponsored by MassMEP and MassTech Collaborative, this year’s ceremony was held in the DCU Club at Polar Park.  In all, 71 companies were recognized for truly “making it” in Massachusetts.

Lt. Gov addresses the audience

Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Michael Kennealy, and Mr. John Killam, President and CEO of MassMEP offered remarks at the ceremony.  In addition, House Speaker Ronald Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka addressed the audience via pre-recorded video.  

After the successful event State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) stated, “Manufacturing output here is at its highest level in history and accounts for about 11 percent of the state’s economy. It is the sixth largest employment sector here and $26 billion in manufactured goods are exported from the Commonwealth each year.  We celebrated some truly great companies who make our economy roar and contribute to those statistics. We offer heartfelt congratulations to all the outstanding Manufacturers who were honored for excellence.”

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

For more about AirLoc visit their webpage -> https://www.airloc.com/us/home.html

 

new webpage to explore -> Industrial History New England

"This new website is a celebration of New England as a landscape of work and innovation and a portal for exploring the American birthplace of a revolution that triggered the most profound set of social and environmental changes in human history."

Shared from Twitter:   https://t.co/A6zJj5rzrU

Explore the web page -> https://industrialhistorynewengland.org/

new webpage -> Industrial History New England

Cold Chain Technologies in the news

 

"Cold Chain Technologies ("CCT"), a leading global provider of reusable and single-use passive thermal packaging solutions for the shipment of temperature-sensitive products for the life sciences industry, has announced the opening of a new facility in Lebanon, Tennessee, a critical site to support the needs for COVID-19 vaccine distribution.

As part of this nationwide expansion to meet the growing demands of global vaccine distribution, the new 255,000+ square feet cold chain facility, complete with Koolit refrigerant manufacturing and work cells for CCT's KoolTemp EcoFlex (CCT's market-leading reusable thermal packaging solution), is fully equipped to support the temperature-sensitive supply chain requirements of the COVID-19 vaccine with the industry's broadest portfolio of single-use and reusable systems for parcel and pallet shipments scalable to vaccine temperature needs."

Read more of the press release
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cold-chain-technologies-opens-facility-dedicated-to-the-distribution-of-the-covid-19-vaccine-301179360.html

"Cold Chain Technologies ("CCT" or the "Company"), a leading global provider of advanced reusable and single-use passive thermal packaging solutions for the shipment of temperature-sensitive products for the life sciences industry, announced today that Anthony (TJ) Rizzo has been promoted to Chief Commercial Officer, and Amardeep (Amar) Chahal has joined the Company as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Development.

While serving in several roles of increasing responsibility, most recently as Senior Vice President, TJ has made significant contributions to the growth of CCT over the last 15 years—both in the United States and through international expansion in Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. He has been instrumental in leading the development and deployment of CCT's global reusable and sustainable strategy as well as an active collaborator with our channel partners to deliver the cold chain capabilities needed to safely and efficiently deploy the COVID-19 vaccine. As a founding member, and current Chairman, of the ISTA Pharma Committee, TJ is well respected in the cold chain industry and is extensively involved in industry collaboration and the best practice development groups PDA, ISTA, and others. "

Read more of the press release

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cold-chain-technologies-welcomes-new-leadership-in-alignment-with-its-global-growth-strategy-301183269.html

They were also named one of the Manufacturing Award winners for 2020 by Senator Becca Rausch. The full listing of companies can be found in the commemorative magazine.

https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1303531-2020-massachusetts-manufacturing-awards/7?

Contollo Mass Manufacturing, also based in Franklin, was one of the recipients as well.  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/11/manufacturing-caucus-hosts-fifth-annual.html

one of the Manufacturing Award winners for 2020 by Senator Becca Rausch

Manufacturing Caucus Hosts Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony ‘Reimagined’

Contollo MA Manufacturing of Franklin, Massachusetts was nominated for the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony during a virtual ceremony. Contollo was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin). Contollo supports the medical industry with products manufactured in the United States and has helped keep the community safe in battling COVID-19.

In Latin, Contollo means to bring together, and this is what exactly the manufacturer has done during the pandemic. At the beginning of the pandemic, the founders were able to see the desperate need for personal protective equipment and were able to repurpose an old factory and start production within six weeks.  

A team of state and local officials, led by Rep. Jeff Roy and Franklin Town Council Chair Tom Mercer, worked with the company to get the infrastructure and permitting in place to begin production in just six weeks. Contollo now produces over 60,000 gowns a week and has created 50 new jobs. 

L to R, Mr. Bob Vozzella, (Chief Operating Officer) Mr. Peter Berzin (Chief Executive Officer) and Representative Jeffrey N. Roy

As part of its commitment to the community, Contollo has donated thousands of PPE Gowns to several local fire departments and Milford Regional Medical Center to aid in addressing the pandemic. 

“This year, more than ever, making it in Massachusetts has taken on a new meaning because of the commitment and endurance of our manufacturers,” said Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  “Massachusetts manufacturers have proudly adapted and pivoted in response to the pandemic, producing desperately needed Personal Protection Equipment and other vitally important products in response to the pandemic.”

“It has been incredible to watch as Massachusetts manufacturers have stepped up to support the fight against COVID-19, pivoting their operations to create PPE and other critical supplies that protect our healthcare workers and help businesses open safely,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “We applaud all the companies and small businesses recognized this year, and our administration looks forward to continuing to partner with the Legislature to support the skills training, equipment and infrastructure needed for continued sector growth.”

Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony ‘Reimagined’

The event was the state’s Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony sponsored by the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Although the event is usually held in the State House, this year it was ‘Reimagined’ thanks to MassMEP holding the ceremony via a webinar.  In all, 52 companies were recognized for truly “making it” in Massachusetts and each will be featured in a commemorative magazine.

Representative Roy, Senator Eric P. Lesser (Co-Chair of the Caucus), Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Michael Kennealy, House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, Senate President Karen E. Spilka and Mr. John Killam, President and CEO of MassMEP offered remarks at the ceremony. 

“It is always a pleasure to recognize the efforts and milestones in innovation each year with my fellow Manufacturing Caucus Co-Chair Representative Roy,” said Senator Lesser. “In the early stages of the pandemic, many of the manufacturers recognized today went above and beyond to help their communities and assist in the fight against the virus by producing PPE, testing components, and connecting people with vital resources. This award is one way to thank them for the impactful and innovative work they’ve done and will continue to do.”

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.
 

Ceremony: https://www.facebook.com/MassMEP/videos/348913272880008

Commemorative magazine: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1303531-2020-massachusetts-manufacturing-awards/0?

 

FM #270 Talk Franklin with TA J Hellen, A Tracey 5/15/20 (audio)

FM #270 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 270 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my "Talk Franklin" conversation with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and Marketing and Communications Specialist Anne Marie Tracey. We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about

• Finance Committee budget hearings
• Town Council meeting Wednesday; four presentations (Animal Control Department, Franklin Food Pantry, SAFE Coalition, Metacomet Emergency Communication Center (MECC))
• Department Spotlight on Building and Inspections
• The first production at Contollo Mass Manufacturing

And close with a recommendation to catch the Prince “Purple Rain” concert from 1985 streaming this weekend only on YouTube

The recording runs about 50 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Jamie and Anne Marie    https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/H1mDhYL7




--------------

The Town of Franklin COVID-19 Portal page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/coronavirus-information-portal

Prince concert link https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv3mNSNjuWldihk1DUdnGtw

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!
------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

among the first PPE gowns coming off the machine at Contollo Mass Mfg on Friday, May 18, 2020

Contollo Mass Manufacturing begins operations

From the news:




https://twitter.com/boston25/status/1261415066328395776

“No one thinks you need less than 14 days, let’s put it that way”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Key indicators about the COVID-19 outbreak in Massachusetts have for the first time moved in an encouraging direction for several days straight, Gov. Charlie Baker said Tuesday, but as other states are opening up economic activity, officials here still want to see at least two weeks of steady progress.

Ten percent of the new tests reported Monday came back positive, the lowest daily rate since late March when Massachusetts had roughly half the testing capacity. The number of patients actively hospitalized because of the highly infectious virus has also moved on a downward slope in recent days.

While Baker said the state has now seen “for the first time, a few days in a row, the right kinds of trends,” he hinted that a phased reopening of closed businesses cannot safely take place unless the patterns continue.

“We’re still very much in the fight against the virus, but it’s encouraging, I think, for everybody to see progress, given how much hard work and how much sacrifice has been invested in this,” Baker told reporters after he toured a manufacturing facility in Fall River. “As we come to the other side of this and start to determine next steps for going forward, we need to see these numbers continue to fall.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200505/baker-seeing-right-kinds-of-trends/1

Video link for Gov Baker update 5/05/20  https://youtu.be/HXPo_Rg1Hso

"factory plans to produce three levels of medical gowns"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The previously-vacant Clark-Cutler-McDermott Company building in Franklin will be brought back to life next week when it starts producing its first round of personal protective equipment (PPE).

“It’s coming along - they’re getting very close (to starting production),” said Town Council Chairman Tom Mercer of the factory building on Fisher Street, which will begin production of medical gowns on Tuesday or Wednesday.

The facility, which has the potential to make more than 100,000 gowns weekly for first responders and hospital workers throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island, will deliver its first batch of gowns to Milford Regional Medical Center.

The factory expects to receive its last materials on Monday to begin production, but likely won’t start operating at full capacity immediately, said Mercer."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200502/franklin-factory-to-begin-producing-ppe-next-week

The scale house in the rear of the Clark Cutler McDermott site

 

Manufacturing Caucus hosts Fourth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony

Plansee USA Company in Franklin, received a Manufacturer of the Year Award at the Fourth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony at the State House. The company is a leading manufacturer of heat resistant metals. An international, private company with facilities in Europe and the United States, Plansee has seven U.S. production sites employing 1,100 employees. 

In Franklin, Plansee occupies 62,000 square feet and specializes in machining and fabrication of Molybdenum and Tungsten products. Plansee holds more than 2,000 patents worldwide and serves clients from the development of prototypes through the manufacturing of products. Some important Plansee products include shielding for high temperature furnaces, components for x-ray tubes and CT scans and components used for the manufacture of LED chips and transistors. Plansee was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).

“We recognized 78 manufacturers who have had an impact on our economy, created jobs, and are contributing to the renaissance of manufacturing in our state,” said Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy (D - Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus. "Massachusetts is positioned to be number one in manufacturing in the United States, and these companies are all a large part of our success story. And I am delighted that we had the opportunity to honor them and showcase their innovative and revolutionary manufacturing capabilities and products. Plansee exemplifies the greatness of manufacturing in Massachusetts, and was very deserving of the award. The company has been expanding and growing and offers great career pathways in the Franklin area.”

The Award Ceremony was the state’s Fourth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony sponsored by the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus. Along with Plansee USA, 77 manufacturers were recognized for truly “making it” in Massachusetts. The ceremony honored the manufacturers and showcased their innovative and revolutionary manufacturing capabilities and products. The event included companies who make specialty and custom tools, decorative glass, baby products, marine robotics, gaskets, vacuum and cryogenic equipment, headwear apparel, custom scoliosis and spinal orthotic fabrication, medical devices, plant-based bioplastic products, and even chicken nuggets and fresh milled flour.

Representative Roy, Senator Eric P. Lesser (Co-Chair of the Caucus), Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Michael Kennealy, House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and Ms. Brooke Thomson, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs at Associated Industries of Massachsuetts (AIM) offered remarks at the ceremony.

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

“Manufacturing is a critical part of our Commonwealth’s innovation economy, and the ‘Made in MA’ companies recognized today show the regional diversity of this sector,” said Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Mike Kennealy. “Through programs like the Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2) and the Advanced Manufacturing Training Program, the Baker-Polito Administration has partnered with the legislature to support and invest in manufacturing across Massachusetts.”

"Whether it's building the components for solar panels, advanced batteries, or cutting-edge medical devices, Massachusetts is home to some of the world's most cutting edge manufacturers. This industry is also growing and desperate for workers, and today's celebration is meant to recognize the companies and organizations hiring and growing in every corner of our Commonwealth." Said Senator Eric P. Lesser (D-1st Hampden & Hampshire Senate District).

Representative Roy with Plansee USA

Plansee Company History

The company under the name of American Electro Metal Corp. was incorporated in the state of Maryland on October 27,1939 by Dr. Paul Schwarzkopf, a pioneer in powder metallurgy and founder of Plansee in Reutte, Austria. Demands in the lighting industry and material developments to support the U.S. Industry during and after WWII contributed to increased business activities with refractory metals. As a result the company changed its name to Schwarzkopf Development Corp in 1955 and established a warehouse and sales cooperation in Holliston, Massachusetts in 1970. 

The company continued to undergo rapid growth which resulted in the investment into machining and fabrication of refractory metals in the 1980s. To enhance the company's focus on high- tech applications, the company changed its name to Schwarzkopf Technologies in 1991. Limited space and further increase in business activities led to the decision to build a new production facility with a square footage of 62,000 in Franklin, Massachusetts in 1996. With the full integration into the Plansee High Performance Materials (HPM) division and as part of a global operating company, Schwarzkopf Technologies changed its name to Plansee USA at the end of 2007.

For more about Plansee USA, visit their web page
https://www.plansee.com/en/about-us/production-sites/usa/plansee-usa.html

Plansee USA in Franklin, MA

Tri-County RVTHS Grand Opening of the Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing Center - Mar 1, 2019

The Grand Opening of the Newly Renovated Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Center was recently celebrated on Friday, March 1, 2019.

The newly renovated Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Center at Tri-County includes a state-of-the-art hands-on learning environment with advanced manufacturing technology including machinery for cutting, fabricating and designing of metal parts with extremely high precision, down to the thousandths of an inch. 

Grand Opening

There are 3-D printers that some students have used to make plastic chain mail that may also be used for NASA purposes on the inside of spacesuits, along with robotics equipment. Students engage in the design, prototyping and manufacturing of products and devices providing them with opportunities to solve real world design problems, engage with industry standard technology, and transform concepts into reality. All aspects of the innovative training environment prepare graduates with the skills and knowledge to enter the workforce or pursue a college education in Engineering.

Tri-County RVTHS Grand Opening

Partial funding for the Engineering Lab’s Advanced Manufacturing equipment, which mimics the workflow of a real commercial manufacturing operation, was provided by a portion of a Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant.

Congressman Joe Kennedy III, Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Ashland, State Rep. Jeff Roy, D-Franklin, State Rep. Betty Poirier, R-Bristol, State Rep. Brian Murray, D-Milford, and Senator Paul Feeney, D-Bristol and Norfolk, along with many area employers spent the afternoon walking through the new facility amazed of the progress being made. During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Kennedy, holding a small metal plate made by students to commemorate the occasion, said this is what the future looks like.

Official Citation

“To see the technology that is now here, to see the cooperation and collaboration of local businesses, to understand the skills that are being transferred to folks that are as young as freshmen, to build robots that have a better free-throw percentage than I have is amazing,” Kennedy said, pointing to the latest robot made with parts from the new lab. “I took a wood-shop class and I couldn’t figure out how to use a saw, and to be able to do this kind of work, it’s pretty incredible.”

During the ceremony, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Senate presented Tri-County’s Superintendent-Director, Stephen Dockray, with an Official Citation in recognition of the school’s Grand Opening event.

The newly renovated Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Center will expose students with access to a more real-world advanced curriculum with better computers and programming resulting in being skilled in a multitude of engineering and manufacturing fields.

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

Tri-County Metal Fabrication Students Build Battering Rams for the Massachusetts State Police

When a hostile situation occurs, speed of entry may be the most important aspect to gain control and ensure optimal safety. Tactical entry equipment, also known as Battering Rams, allow police to quickly gain access to both criminals and to victims during rescue operations. Yesterday, the Massachusetts State Police Special Operations - STOP Team received thirteen one-man Battering Rams designed and fabricated by students in the Metal Fabrication career program at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School.

The initial project was to design a lighter and smaller Battering Ram that could be used by a single police officer and could be easily transferred via a police vehicle. Under the direction of Robert Pierangeli, Tri-County Metal Fabrication Instructor, students Robert Corcoran, a senior from North Attleboro and two juniors, Trevor Walsh of Plainville and Bruce Farrand of Wrentham, were asked to work on the project as they are American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welders.

“We are pleased to have partnered with the Massachusetts State Police to design and fabricate the Battering Rams,” said Cathie Rebelo, Director of Vocational Programs. “This project has given our metal fabrication students valuable hands-on experience in reinforcing their existing skills while working with new technology with the added value of helping the community.”

Tri-County Metal Fabrication Students Build Battering Rams for the Massachusetts State Police

The students began the project by making an initial prototype according to the specifications and measurements provided. Once it was finished, they sent photos to their contact at the Massachusetts State Police for feedback. Updated specifications were sent back to the students who then made it to the dimensions required including adding special hand guards. 

The students used a CNC Plasma Cutter to cut the half-inch steel plates for the face of the Ram and quarter-inch steel plates for the back of the Ram to seal it off. They had to cut out the hand guards to match the type of handles that were needed. Then they tack welded the prototype. Once approved, the students moved forward with producing the Battering Rams.

“The Tri-County School District would like to thank the Massachusetts State Police for providing our students with such a rich and innovative project,” said Stephen Dockray, Superintendent-Director. “We continue to look for opportunities from our state and municipal agencies that will give students the valuable real-world experience in their curriculum.”

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

"Breweries are being well-recognized for being an economic catalyst"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"For the second year in a row, a MetroWest brewery has been honored as Manufacturer of the Year. 

On Tuesday, during a ceremony at the Statehouse, the House Manufacturing Caucus named Medusa Brewing Company one of 59 Manufacturers of the Year. 

State Rep. Kate Hogan, a Democrat from Stow whose district includes Hudson, nominated Medusa for the award. 

“It was a complete honor – a total surprise,” said Medusa co-founder Keith Sullivan. “Kate was very proud of us being a brewery on Main Street. We’re doing a lot of good work helping the ground grow and reinvesting in it.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181031/hudsons-medusa-brewing-tapped-for-manufacturer-of-year

Medusa Brewing Company

Manufacturing Caucus Hosts Third Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony

MGB Company in Franklin, received a Manufacturer of the Year Award at the Third Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony at the State House. The company which specializes in the manufacturing of precision screw machined parts for the electronics, military, aerospace, medical, telecommunications, and automotive industries, was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).

Representative Roy with MGB US Inc

"MGB excels in innovation in the medical, electronics and military markets, and it is great that it has chosen Franklin as the home for its American facility," said Rep. Jeffrey N, Roy (D Franklin). "We know that the company is well positioned to grow and is looking to expand its operations, bring in more equipment, increase production, and hire more employees in Franklin. So I was please to nominate MGB because of its contributions to the sector and its commitment to Massachusetts."

The Award Ceremony was the state's Third Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony sponsored by the Legislature's Manufacturing Caucus, Along with MGB, 58 manufacturers were recognized for truly "making it" in Massachusetts. The ceremony honored the manufacturers and showcased their innovative and revolutionary manufacturing capabilities and products. 

The event included companies who make furniture, jewelry, handcrafted electric bicycles, precision screw machined parts, marble and granite, custom paper, flutes and piccolos, precision machined parts for aerospace, and even hummus and peanut butter.

members of the Manufacturing Caucus and award winners

Representative Roy, Senator Eric P. Lesser (Co-Chair of the Caucus), Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Jay Ash, Senate President Karen E. Spilka, and House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo offered remarks at the ceremony.

In the News: What are 'American cars'?; 4th of July celebrations mapped

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The most American-made cars may not be made by the most American car brands. 

Four out of the top 10 most American-made vehicles of 2018 are made by Japanese brand Honda, according to the annual report from Cars.com. 

“It’s part of the globalization of automotive manufacturing,” Cars.com Executive Editor Joe Wiesenfelder said in a phone interview. “The brand on the vehicle isn’t the only part of the equation of what makes it American.” 

The Honda Odyssey, for instance, is built in Lincoln, Ala., and is made with 75 percent domestic parts. Compare it with Buick, which is considered to be as American as the red, white and blue in its badge: the Buick Envision crossover is manufactured in China with only 2 percent domestic parts, said Wiesenfelder."

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http://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20180623/list-of-top-american-made-cars-drives-home-some-surprises

"Fourth of July celebrations begin at the end of June and carry on through Wednesday, July 4, with parades, barbecues, fairs and fireworks. 

Here is a map of activities from the North Shore to the Cape, whether you plan to stay close to home for the holiday weekend or will spend the weekend at the beach. Zoom in to take a look at what is happening in your area and click on each icon to learn more about the event."

Franklin's 4th of July schedule can be found online  https://www.franklin4th.com/

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Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant awarded to Tri-County

Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School is pleased to announce it has been awarded $119,326 from the Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant to expand the Advanced Manufacturing component of the Engineering program.

After finishing one phase of the engineering technology plant expansion, Tri-County is now remodeling a third shop area to further broaden its Advanced Manufacturing program. This expansion will also enhance adult manufacturing courses offered through a partnership with Wentworth Institute of Technology.

The Skills Capital Grant Program awards grants to support vocational/technical training, upgrades and expansion of career technical education, and training of high-quality career pathway programs that are aligned with regional economic and workforce development priorities for in-demand industries.

Tri-County was among 35 educational institutions in Massachusetts that were recently awarded workforce skills capital grants. The competitive grants are awarded to educational institutions that demonstrate partnerships with industry, as well as align curriculum and credentials with businesses’ demand, in order to maximize hiring opportunities in each region of the state.

“Manufacturing is the fourth largest economic sector in this region today,” said Superintendent Stephen Dockray. “We are extremely thankful and proud to have been awarded this grant. It will allow us to train our students using the latest equipment and technology so they have the best possible training and knowledge to be successful in the job market.”

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant awarded to Tri-County

Manufacturing Caucus Hosts Second Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony

Two area manufacturers, Dell Technologies and E.Parrella Company, Inc. (EPCO), each received a Manufacturer of the Year award at a State House ceremony on Tuesday. The companies were nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy and State Senator Karen E. Spilka.

The Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus hosted its Second annual Manufacturing award ceremony to recognize 53 manufacturers that are truly making it in Massachusetts. The ceremony honored the manufacturers and showcased their innovative and revolutionary manufacturing capabilities and products. The event included companies who make electronic storage systems, spheres, badges, network devices, bicycles, textiles, and even beer.

Lieutenant Governor Karyn E. Polito, Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Jay Ash, Senate President Stanley C. Rosenberg, and House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo offered remarks at the ceremony.

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

“The manufacturing sector in Massachusetts has gone through significant changes throughout our history but has always been able to adapt to the changing nature of our economy. The Senate has always shown our support through workforce development, investments in innovation, and job creation. The fifty-three award winners today are true leaders in our economy,” said Senate President Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst).

“The House is proud to support workforce development programs, initiatives that weave together innovation industries with the manufacturing sector like the UMass Innovation Voucher program, and MassMEP,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo (D-Winthrop). “The manufacturers recognized today represent the lifeblood of Massachusetts’ economy. They’ve demonstrated that it’s possible to be an enduring force in their local communities while also working to ensure that manufacturing is a responsive, inclusive and dynamic sector. I thank them for their leadership and look forward to continued collaboration.”

“Manufacturers in Massachusetts create high-quality, high-value goods, and are at the forefront of adopting new technology and innovative production techniques,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash. “Our administration is eager to continue working with employers, educational institutions and workforce development organizations to create a highly-skilled workforce, and partner with our colleagues in the legislature to support this critical industry.”

“We recognized 53 manufacturers who have had an impact on our economy, created jobs, and are contributing to the renaissance of manufacturing in our state by truly making it in Massachusetts,” said Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy (D - Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus. 

"Massachusetts is positioned to be number one in manufacturing in the United States, and these companies are all a large part of our success story. And I am delighted that we had the opportunity to honor them and showcase their innovative and revolutionary manufacturing capabilities and products.”

“Dell EMC and EPCO are shining examples of manufacturing innovation in our community, successfully creating exciting products and boosting our local economy,” said Senator Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Encouraging workforce development, job creation and innovation are important priorities for me as a legislator, and I thank these two companies for their leadership and partnership in these areas.”

(L to R) State Rep. Jeffrey Roy, Pat Kent, and Paige Fetzer of Dell Technologies

Dell Technologies serves a key role in providing the essential infrastructure for organizations to build their digital future, transform IT and protect their most important asset, information. Dell employs over 1,200 employees in Franklin and close to 9,000 statewide. The company has added $2.2 billion GDP and has paid close to $1 billion to Massachusetts suppliers. In addition, its Massachusetts employees have donated $7.3 billion and volunteered 26,000 hours.

Legislators to Host Manufacturing Roundtable - Oct 12

As part of Manufacturing Month in Massachusetts, Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) is hosting a Manufacturing Roundtable at the Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin, Massachusetts on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 9:00am. Some thirty-five manufacturers, legislators, state officials and advocates are slated to attend.

The Tri-County Manufacturing Roundtable will be an opportunity for manufacturing companies to discuss partnering with manufacturing leaders and local schools to ensure that their companies have the right tools and highly trained workforce they need to grow. Manufacturing of today involves employees that are highly trained in technology, programming and innovation.

The discussions will be led by Ira Moskowitz, Director of Advanced Manufacturing Programs at the Innovation Institute at MassTech, which manages the Commonwealth’s investments in the Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2) program, and John Killam, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP). 

M2I2 aims to help Massachusetts manufacturers adopt innovative new technologies and promotes job growth through cross-collaboration among companies, universities, national labs, government, incubators, accelerators and other academic and training institutions. Under Killam’s direction, MassMEP has played a key role in securing training grants for manufacturers, as well as preparing potential employees for careers in the field of manufacturing.

“Manufacturing is vitally important to the Massachusetts economy,” said Representative Roy. “It is the sixth largest employment sector here, and we are constantly looking to innovative solutions that can help our economy grow. We know the area provides competitive salaries for workers and advances the development of revolutionary products. Collaboration between manufacturers, community colleges, technical high schools and regional workforce boards is a way we can continue to develop talent and increase production.”

According to the recently launched Manufacturing in Massachusetts website (http://www.mamanufacturing.com/), 10.1% of the Commonwealth’s total economic output is tied to manufacturing and $26 billion in manufactured goods were exported from the Commonwealth in 2016 alone. Roughly 250,000 employees work in the manufacturing sector in Massachusetts, comprising 7.8% of the total workforce in the state.

Rep. Louis Kafka (D-Sharon), Rep. Paul McMurtry (D-Dedham), Sen. Richard Ross (R-Wrentham), Rep. Elizabeth Poirier (R-North Attleborough), and Rep. Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) are also expected to participate.

These efforts are supported by the Legislature’s bipartisan Manufacturing Caucus which serves as a link for legislators cutting across issues that affect the manufacturing industry. Formed in August 2014, the Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees, encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources, and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors. The Caucus is co-chaired by Rep. Roy and Sen. Eric Lesser (D-Springfield).

October is MA's Manufacturing Month