Secretary Pritzker will tour Delaware manufacturers and will be featured guest at manufacturers roundtable discussion

Wilmington, DE – Governor Jack Markell, U.S. Senator Chris Coons, and U.S. Congressman John Carney (both D-Del.) will host U.S. Secretary of Commerce and member of President Obama’s Cabinet, Penny Pritzker to celebrate National Manufacturing Day on Friday, October 2. National Manufacturing Day is a growing movement dedicated to overcoming the industry’s shared challenges, encouraging careers in one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, and inspiring the next generation of manufacturers. The group will tour two of Delaware’s most creative manufacturers in the morning and will host a roundtable discussion at Hagley Museum.

Sen. Coons is co-chair and founder of the Manufacturing Jobs for America Initiative, a package of legislation that would help manufacturers grow and create jobs, and refocus Washington’s attention on the 11 million Americans still looking for work. The bills come from more than twenty senators from around the country, and center on four general themes: strengthening America’s 21st century workforce, opening markets abroad, creating the conditions necessary for growth, and expanding access to capital.

The tour will start at Newark-based Accudyne. Established in 1996, Accudyne designs and develops one-of-a-kind equipment and processes for each customer’s specific requirements. The tour will take guests through the design, fabrication, assembly, and testing phases of one of their products. Accudyne currently has 35 employees. The location of the second phase of the tour will be at fifth-generation manufacturer and woman-owned business, M. Davis. Founded in 1870 as a tinsmith shop, M. Davis today is a full-service industrial construction company, providing design and build, fabrication, engineering and maintenance for national and international clients in industries that include oil and gas, chemical, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical. Last year, the company earned $53 million in revenue, and their CEO, Peggy Davis Del Fabbro, received the Women’s Business Enterprise Star Award, honoring exemplary women business leaders, from the WBE National Council.

“To lead in the global economy, we must engage the next generation of workers and excite our youth about the potential of a career in manufacturing,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. “At the Department of Commerce, we created Manufacturing Day to help the public, and young people in particular, understand that manufacturers are innovative, inventive businesses, where workers develop and use the latest technology and build lasting, middle class careers. The commitment of our nation’s manufacturers to host events on Manufacturing Day provides Americans with a better understanding of modern manufacturing, and highlights the importance of a strong manufacturing sector to our nation’s long-term economic health.”

“I am looking forward to hosting Secretary Pritzker and her staff in Wilmington on National Manufacturing Day, and showing her how Delaware is leading the way on connecting manufacturers to new young workers,” said Sen. Coons. “Her work and advocacy on behalf of American manufacturing and her understanding of growing manufacturing jobs in Delaware and across the country is imperative in expanding our middle class.”

“We need to make things in America again to grow our economy and create jobs for the middle class,” said Congressman Carney.  “That’s why I helped introduce the Make it in America agenda in the House.  And why I’m glad Secretary Pritzker is visiting Delaware to mark National Manufacturing Day.  It’s a chance to recognize manufacturers doing great things in our state, and to focus on creating more manufacturing jobs to benefit consumers, support workers, and strengthen the economy.”

“Manufacturing Week provides an opportunity to both celebrate the important contributions of this industry, while reinforcing Delaware’s commitment to support its evolution, recognizing a strong manufacturing sector today looks different than in decades past,” said Governor Markell. “We are delighted to host Secretary Pritzker and showcase our ongoing efforts in this field.”

Your coverage is invited.

WHO:             Governor Jack Markell

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker

U.S. Senator Chris Coons

U.S. Congressman John Carney

WHEN:            Friday, October 2, 2015

Media should arrive at 9:00 a.m. ET

WHERE:           Wilmington, DE

RSVP:              Members of the press wishing to attend must RSVP to publicaffairs@doc.gov

SCHEDULE:

9:30 a.m.              Accudyne Systems tour

210 Executive Drive

Newark, DE 19702

11:25 a.m.           M. Davis tour with engineering students

200 Hadco Road

Wilmington, DE 19804

About Secretary Pritzker:

Secretary Pritzker is a key member of President Obama’s economic team, with 27 years of private sector experience. Since taking office, she has worked closely with the business community and helped advance the President’s priorities of expanding growth and opportunity for all Americans. Guided by conversations with more than 1,500 CEOs and business leaders, and over one-third of the Fortune 500 CEOs, Secretary Pritzker has developed the “Open for Business Agenda.” This bold strategic plan and policy blueprint  for the Commerce Department focuses on expanding trade and investment, unleashing government data for economic benefit, spurring innovation, protecting the environment—and executing these priorities with operational excellence as careful stewards of taxpayer dollars.

About National Manufacturing Day

Manufacturing Day℠ is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. Although Manufacturing Day officially occurs on the first Friday in October—this year is October 2, 2015—any day can be a Manufacturing Day.

MFG DAY addresses common misperceptions about manufacturing by giving manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coordinated effort, what manufacturing is — and what it isn’t. By working together during and after MFG DAY, manufacturers will begin to address the skilled labor shortage they face, connect with future generations, take charge of the public image of manufacturing, and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the whole industry.

Supported by a group of industry sponsors and co-producers, MFG DAY is designed to amplify the voice of individual manufacturers and coordinate a collective chorus of manufacturers with common concerns and challenges. The rallying point for a growing mass movement, MFG DAY empowers manufacturers to come together to address their collective challenges so they can help their communities and future generations thrive.

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Leading specialty chemical manufacturer establishes its home base in Wilmington

Wilmington, DE – Solenis LLC, a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals, has established its global headquarters in Wilmington, where it has plans to add up to 122 new full-time positions.

Solenis, which transitioned from a commercial unit of Ashland Inc. to a stand-alone company in 2014, will be adding well-paying IT, legal, sales, financial and other positions at its new 40,000- square-foot home off Beaver Valley Road. The company has 30 manufacturing facilities and employs 3,500 people in 118 countries across five continents.

“By adding much-needed, high-quality jobs and establishing roots here in Delaware, Solenis is making a major statement about our state’s workforce. Its commitment ensures they will be part of our economic growth and push to innovate in the future,” Gov. Jack Markell said. “We are proud to be the worldwide headquarters for this ground-breaking company.”

While the Solenis name might be new to some, the company has a rich history and diverse portfolio that has already established its position as a forerunner in its industry.

The company dates back some 94 years, as it has been known as Betz Laboratories, Drew, Stockhausen, Hercules and Ashland Water Technologies. It is now stands as one of just three industrial water treatment companies with a truly global footprint.

Its specialty chemicals service the pulp, paper, oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, bio- refining, power and municipal markets. It also focuses on process and water solutions, which helps customers increase production, lower costs, boost efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

On Tuesday, Solenis was approved for a Strategic Fund Performance grant in the amount of $1,084,200 for the creation of up to 122 new full-time positions and the relocation of five new full-time positions; as well as a Capital Expenditure grant in an amount not to exceed $16,197, based on 3 percent of qualified capital expenditures of $539,900.

“Solenis is proud to continue the rich heritage of specialty chemical companies headquartered in the state of Delaware. This Strategic Fund grant will help us grow our business and expand employment opportunities offered by Solenis in Delaware,” stated John E. Panichella, CEO and President, Solenis.

Alan Levin, Director of the Delaware Economic Development Office, said Solenis had other options, and could have easily relocated its headquarters and taken the jobs with it.

“The fact that they chose Delaware is a tribute to our state, our workforce, and the dedication of our elected leaders,” Levin said. “We believe that Solenis, as a stand-alone company and under the leadership of Mr. Panichella, has a bright future for future growth and success.”

About the Delaware Economic Development Office

The Delaware Economic Development Office is an executive state agency responsible for attracting new investors and businesses to the state, promoting the expansion of existing industry, assisting small and minority-owned businesses, promoting and developing tourism and creating new and improved employment opportunities for all citizens of the State. Visit dedo.delaware.gov.

About Solenis LLC

Solenis is a leading global manufacturer of specialty chemicals for the pulp, paper, oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, biorefining, power and municipal markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of process, functional and water treatment chemistries as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets and minimize environmental impact. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company operates 30 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of 3,500 professionals in 118 countries across five continents. For additional information about Solenis, please visit www.solenis.com.

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Company’s Hedwin Division will relocate from Baltimore to Newark

Newark, DE – Zacros America Inc. has announced that it will move its Hedwin Division, along with 154 manufacturing jobs, from Baltimore to Newark, bolstering the state’s efforts to attract innovative companies and grow job opportunities in key sectors for today’s economy, including manufacturing.

Hedwin was launched in Baltimore in 1946 and has been a pioneer in the packaging and containment industry. The company’s “Winstead Process” was developed for molten sheet thermoforming used to develop plastic heat-sealing and the company’s classic Cubitainer product line.

“The manufacturing sector of 2015 looks much different than the one of even a decade ago. Whether it’s a packaging and safety equipment maker in Seaford, a chicken processing plant in Milford or a pharmaceutical firm in Wilmington, Delaware is home to a wide variety of excellent companies that offer well-paying jobs and are poised for future growth,” Gov. Jack Markell said. “Hedwin has a long history of innovation, and we look forward to helping them continue to break new ground over the years to come.”

Hedwin is a global provider of flexible and rigid packaging solutions for cosmetics, food, flavoring, industrial medical, pharmaceutical and sanitary markets. In 2014, the company was purchased by Fujimori Kogyo Co. Ltd., a Japanese converter of flexible films and packaging. During the same year, Hedwin became a division within Fujimori’s subsidiary, Zacros America.

The company has distributors in 36 cities nationwide and works closely with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, one of its new neighbors in Newark.

“When we looked at potential sites for Zacros America, Delaware had the best workforce and the right location,” said Maurice LeCompte, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for the Hedwin Division of Zacros America. “We felt that Delaware wanted to promote manufacturing more than the other options we were considering. We also saw the greatest potential for a strong partnership with the state and its business community.”

On Monday, Zacros America was approved for a Delaware Strategic Fund Performance grant and a Capital Expenditure Grant for the creation of 154 new full-time permanent Delaware positions at its new location on Lake Drive in Newark.

“Adding jobs to the manufacturing sector will provide a major boost to, and help to diversify, our economy. What we really liked about Zacros’ Hedwin division is that they have the desire and the ability for future expansion,” said Alan Levin, Director of the Delaware Economic Development Office. “If and when Hedwin decides to add more jobs, they will be tapping into a workforce that is well-trained and well-prepared. And that’s one of the reasons why they chose Delaware.”

About the Delaware Economic Development Office The Delaware Economic Development Office is an executive state agency responsible for attracting new investors and businesses to the state, promoting the expansion of existing industry, assisting small and minority-owned businesses, promoting and developing tourism and creating new and improved employment opportunities for all citizens of the State. Visit dedo.delaware.gov.

About Zacros America Inc. Zacros America Inc. is a subsidiary of Fujimori Kogyo Co. Ltd., a Japanese converter of flexible films and packaging. In January 2012, the company opened an office just outside of Chicago, a central location that allows it to serve its North American customer base with utmost efficiency. In May of 2014, Zacros acquired the former Hedwin Corporation, now known as the Hedwin Division of Zacros America, Inc. The Chicago office currently handles all flexible film and pouch inquires, and the Hedwin Division handles all BIB inquiries. Visit www.zacrosamerica.com.

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Initiative would give high school students opportunity to earn professional certificates before graduation

Wilmington, DE – Proposing an opportunity to grow a vital part of our economy while giving more young people the best chance to reach their potential, Governor Markell today outlined an Accelerated Career Paths program that would allow high school juniors and seniors to obtain professional manufacturing certificates when they graduate. The Governor previewed the initiative in his State of the State address as part of his plans to give students a roadmap from the classroom to employment.

In highlighting the importance of the manufacturing sector, the Governor noted that manufacturing is responsible for about 40 percent of total U.S. output and employment, and for two-thirds of our private-sector research and development. In addition, the average wages in manufacturing are more than 16% higher than the average wages in the economy.

“To keep our economy growing, we must meet the needs of our manufacturing employers,” said Markell during an address at the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Legislative Brunch and Manufacturing Conference. “We often talk about our global competition for talent as though it’s mainly a competition for individuals who have pursued a college education. We assume “good jobs” require a traditional degree, but nothing could be further from the truth. Just as we provide specialized coursework for students transitioning to college, this program provides similar opportunities for those choosing an accelerated career path.”

Delaware’s Accelerated Career Paths program ensures high school graduates are ready to start a career on day one.

Delaware’s manufacturers embraced the idea of working with the State, Del Tech, and school districts on developing this innovative approach to career readiness for the youngest members of our workforce – thereby ensuring a pipeline of talent for their long-term workforce needs.

With partnership from Del Tech and the Delaware Manufacturing Association, the initiative will involve developing a two-year, comprehensive program in manufacturing technologies for Delaware high school juniors and seniors.  The program – which results in nationally recognized advanced manufacturing certificates, in addition to a high school diploma and even some college credits – allows students to attend classes at their home school part of the week, while spending the remainder at the community college getting hands-on training.

Students will attend classes in their homes schools and receive training on manufacturing equipment at Del Tech so they can get the hands-on training necessary to land that first job.

“So many of the best jobs available now are in technical fields requiring electrical, mechanical, and maintenance skills,” said Mitch Magee, chair of the Delaware Manufacturing Association. “These are jobs that pay very well, often better than entry-level jobs attainable with a college degree, and we must offer the opportunities to become certified for these positions.”

The Delaware Manufacturing Association and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership are working to help identify members willing to offer real world opportunities during the summer between junior and senior year. This effort recognizes that, whether it takes the form of hands-on work or job shadowing, direct exposure to the workplace is crucial. Students will spend about 200 hours over the summer practicing their skills in the workplace.

The manufacturing association has agreed to assist on three other fronts:

• Vetting the curriculum, both up front, and on an annual basis to ensure it keeps pace with the industry’s evolving needs in light of changing technologies and improved methodologies.
• Improving the image of manufacturing with the students, parents and educators through a variety of in-school activities and on-site events at the manufacturers’ facilities.
• Ensuring students who commit to this path will be rewarded for doing so by developing ways to better predict their hiring needs 2-3 years down the road, so that the current pipeline matches the future demand for skilled employees.

The effort is modeled after a partnership between Delaware Technical Community College and Red Clay Consolidated School District. That program brought in high school juniors in the fall of 2012 for more than 300 hours of training in carpentry, plumbing, electricity, and OSHA Construction Safety.

Enthusiasm around the manufacturing partnership idea resulted in two schools – William Penn and Del Castle – piloting a shorter version of the initiative this semester at Del Tech, where 16 seniors are taking an intensive course covering math, blueprint reading, electrical and mechanical fabrication, and other key skill areas.

“Accelerated career pathways allow high school graduates to start a career on day one, without the time and financial investment required to pursue higher education,” said Markell. “They are the right choice for many of our students, including some of our best and brightest, and we need to make sure that we provide the training and workplace opportunities these young people need to excel.”

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MILFORD – On December 7, U.S. Sens. Tom Carper and Chris Coons (both D-Del.) visited The Soap Fairy, a manufacturer of handcrafted soaps that takes part in the Small Business Administration’s State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Program. Nationally and in Delaware, exports are a growing part of the small business economy. The U.S. Small Business Administration supports this initiative through its Export Loan program and grants authorized by the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010, under the State Trade and Export Promotion Program (STEP).

The Delaware STEP grant was nearly $250 thousand last year and another $187 thousand has been authorized for 2013 to be used to help Delaware small businesses start or increase exports. The participants from 2012 have already identified opportunities for more than $3 million in additional sales.

“Exports create jobs in Delaware–that’s what this program is about,” said Governor Markell. “The STEP initiative provides efficient tools to help hardworking small business owners find new opportunities for growth. We’re excited to continue our partnership with the SBA and many local organizations.”

“Programs like this one that make it easier for small businesses to take advantage of global customers are important to our recovering economy,” said Sen. Carper. “The role of government is to create a nurturing environment for business growth, and this is a great example of the government providing small business with the tools to grow.”

“Small businesses like The Soap Fairy have access to growing international markets will help create good jobs and drive our economic recovery,” Senator Coons said. “Small Business Administration programs like the Delaware STEP grant are imperative to give the boost our small businesses need to expand into overseas markets.”

The STEP program aligns with President Obama’s National Export Initiative to double U.S. exports in five years – and in so doing, create two million jobs. The program provides federal government funding for 65 to75 percent of program costs, with states supplying the remainder.

The funding will support participation in foreign trade missions, sales trips, services provided by the Department of Commerce, website translations fees, design of international marketing media, trade show exhibitions, training workshops, and other critical export initiatives.

The SBA Export Loan program assists small businesses by providing a number of loan programs specifically designed to help them develop or expand their export activities.

Small businesses seeking assistance under the STEP program will find more information at http://itc.sos.delaware.gov/services/step.shtml and more information on the SBA Export loan program can be found at http://www.sba.gov/content/export-loan-programs.

Hear directly from more of the 2012 STEP participants in this video, produced by Mobius New Media: http://youtu.be/aYFrENBhS68.