Midwest National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME) Partner Convening
Post-Event Recap
Original Event Date: April 1, 2026
Midwest NNME Partner Convening
Building Momentum for Midwest Manufacturing and Microelectronics
Welcome & Framing: Midwest Workforce Collaboration
Opening remarks by Dr. Patrick Rouse, VP of Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering and Applied Science at Ivy Tech Community College, provided context and objectives for why continued collaboration across the Midwest manufacturing and microelectronics workforce ecosystem remains important.
EXCELERATE-ME Midwest Node: Proposal Overview
Overview of the EXCELERATE-ME NNME proposal, provided by Scot McLemore, Vice President for the Office of Talent Strategy at Columbus State Community College, included Year 1 strategies, envisioned outcomes, and opportunities for partner engagement if a Midwest Regional Node is awarded.
Regional Model Spotlight: Ohio Manufacturing Workforce Blueprint
Jessica Borza, Managing Director of Workforce Services at the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association and John Sherwood, Director of Talent Strategy at JobsOhio provided a presentation on the Ohio Manufacturing Workforce Blueprint; an ongoing statewide, industry-led initiative with collaboration across industry, education, and government partners; as well as how its pillar framework aligns with national and regional workforce priorities.
Industry Panel: Perspectives on Workforce Challenges & Opportunities
Moderated by Greg Mlynar of Lorain County Community College, industry panelists Mindy Murdock of Intel, JR Gaines of Kurt J Lesker Company, and Andrew Berger of Indiana Manufacturers Association shared their perspectives on: workforce outlook, how that outlook is guiding current initiatives and strategies, and their thoughts on opportunities for stronger coordination across the Midwest ecosystem.
What’s Next: Closing Question & Answer Session
In conclusion, next steps were discussed for continued collaboration, highlighting best resources and opportunity sharing, and all questions from attendees were answered.
Event Materials
Event Presentation Slides
Event Recording