MFG 21 GOALS
A Voice For Industry
Manufacturing 21 members know the barriers to industry expansion – and regional economic growth – have evolved over time, and the private sector shares a responsibility for responding to them.
Since 2004, MFG 21 has helped develop a creative response to workforce development challenges and is seeking support for university R&D programs, led by Oregon Governor Kulongoski. In 2006-2007, MFG 21 successfully advocated for major public investments funded through the Oregon Innovation Council, in Congress and in local communities throughout the region.
Ultimately MFG 21 plans to build the Northwest Center for Manufacturing and Infrastructure Engineering, an industry showplace for applied learning and innovation. The vision is to build the “front door” to the region’s industry, creating a showcase for existing innovation while becoming the go-to place for new concepts.
IDC/CH2MHill has developed a conceptual design for the center. An industry-led effort is underway to identify the center’s components and programs. Almost all of MFG 21’s activities to build capacity for workforce training and research and development are designed to form the building blocks necessary to create the center.
