In 2024, federal investments in regional and local manufacturing are pouring in at an unprecedented level. However, communities and practitioners are concerned that without inclusive solutions, those workers that stand to benefit the most will not enter quality career pathways in the sector. Since 2020, UMA has helped communities create the conditions to ensure that workers are able to thrive by uniting workforce development practitioners, education and training institutions, manufacturing companies, and community-based organizations to jointly pursue approaches that increase racial and gender equity in manufacturing.

Our network spent an intimate, day-long, and solutions-forward Convening discussing how their and other communities are approaching the workforce challenges presented by this moment in time – regardless of federal investment. Attendees heard from peers and national practitioners, and had ample time for discussion and co-creation of solutions with each other. We came out of the day connected to new approaches, ideas, and people that can inspire work in your own place.