ERIE – The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) will host a manufacturing leadership panel discussion as part of its 2025 Executive Speaker Series, starting at 8 a.m. Thursday, May 8, at the Association’s Conference Center, 2171 West 38th Street. Registration begins at 7:45 a.m. All media are invited to attend.

The one-hour program will bring together leaders from area manufacturers to share their perspectives on current trends in the industry, challenges and opportunities, and leadership strategies for navigating change and driving success. Panelists include: Jon DeArment, executive vice president of Manufacturing and Engineering at Channellock; J.R. Farrar, vice president and general manager of Eriez USA; Harris Halilovic, business unit manager – Aerospace and Defense, Parker Lord; and, Jim Novinsky, chief executive officer of Snap-tite Hose.

“Manufacturing is the backbone of the American economy,” said Association President and CEO Lori Joint. “We believe this panel will provide a unique perspective on manufacturing and the state of industry today.”

Over the course of the year, the MBA’s Executive Speaker Series will feature presidents and CEOs from regional companies in a variety of industries.

Cost for the May 8 briefing is $35 for MBA members and $60 for nonmembers. Breakfast is included. To register, visit mbausa.org.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in these presentations reflect the views and opinions of the presenter and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Manufacturer & Business Association or any of its officers and directors.###

The Manufacturer & Business Association (The MBA), founded in 1905, represents more than 2,000 member companies in 54 counties across the Commonwealth. The MBA is dedicated to helping employers face challenges by delivering services that lower the cost of doing business, ease the burden of compliance and increase productivity for its members. For more information, visit mbausa.org.