Crayola Receives Manufacturer of the Year Award
For Immediate Release
October 4, 2024
Breinigsville, PA – On October 3, 2024, at the Delta Marriott, the Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC) co-hosted the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum along with the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, Workforce Board Lehigh Valley, and Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation to bring together industry leaders, local officials, and community members in recognition of the importance of manufacturing and to honor innovation and collaboration within the manufacturing sector. This gathering, part of the nationwide Manufacturing Day celebrations, featured an engaging program focused on economic outlooks, workforce trends, and the vital role of manufacturing in driving regional growth.
“Manufacturing Day provides us with a unique opportunity to recognize the exceptional achievements of companies like Crayola, whose innovation and dedication not only enhance their industry but also uplift the entire community,” said Rich Hobbs, President and CEO of Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC).
The event commenced with a lively hour of networking, allowing attendees to connect, explore exhibits, and enjoy breakfast before the program began at 9:30 AM. Toni Ianelli, popular media personality and President and CEO of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce kicked off the event. Don Cunningham, President & CEO of LVEDC shared that Lehigh Valley GDP Tops $50 Billion, driven by manufacturing & innovation, attributing steady growth in manufacturing jobs and productivity due to the expansion of existing companies and the addition of new ones, attracted by our location, skilled workforce, and talent.
Gary Wapinski
Another highlight was the presentation of the Manufacturer of the Year award to Crayola, recognizing the company’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and community reinvestment. Rich Hobbs presented the award to Gary Wapinski, Vice President of Manufacturing & Logistics at Crayola, who graciously accepted on behalf of the entire Crayola team.
The event underscored the significance of manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley, where sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing continue to drive economic growth. As the community looks ahead, the collaborative spirit showcased at the Manufacturing Forum continues to play a crucial role in fostering a vibrant and resilient manufacturing landscape in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.
About Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC)
The mission of MRC is dedicated to serving manufacturers to enhance their productivity and technological advancements. MRC is part of the NIST MEP Network of national Centers in all fifty states and Puerto Rico. MRC is also a member of the Manufacturing PA Initiative which includes seven IRCs (Industrial Resource Centers) across the Commonwealth that are dedicated to serving the needs of small and medium size manufacturers throughout Pennsylvania. NIST MEP Centers like MRC are a hub for manufacturers to connect with government agencies, trade associations, universities and research laboratories, state and federal initiatives, and other resources to help them grow and innovate. For more information about MRC, visit https://www.mrcpa.org.
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Contact Information:
Patricia Felise | Media Relations
Manufacturers Resource Center
pat.felise@mrcpa.org | (610) 628-4640