In the wake of a survey showing manufacturing companies are losing confidence in the state’s current business climate, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has launched the Manufacturing Council of North Central Massachusetts in an effort to enhance the organization’s support of the industry.
The council will be open to chamber members and non-members who desire to learn more about the manufacturing industry, according to a release issued by the chamber on Tuesday. Participants will have the chance to network with other individuals involved in the manufacturing sector, as well participate in tours of facilities and gain access to policymakers.
“The chamber has always been a strong champion of local manufacturing, advocating and supporting the industry in multiple ways,” Roy Nascimento, president and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, said in the release.
Manufacturing is the third largest industry in North Central Massachusetts, with a concentration of manufacturing companies twice the national average, according to the chamber. The 400 manufacturers in the North Central region account for 15% of the region’s total employment and one-third of all private wages.
The first meeting of the Manufacturing Council will be 8 a.m. March 26 at the Shirley facility of musical instrument manufacturer Burkart-Phelan.
