Since the COVID-19 pandemic reached Maryland in March, business owners in almost every industry across our state have been hit hard with a myriad of unprecedented challenges, and our Manufacturing community has been no different. Whether the barrier has been difficulty in securing financial assistance from the state or federal government; managing a workforce that was unprepared to work at home or satisfy new safety regulations; being unable to obtain necessary PPE; or being forced to stop operations all together, it feels like manufacturers have had to hurdle a new obstacle almost every day.
Throughout this time, MD MEP has remained open and committed to supporting the Maryland Manufacturing community as we navigate these rough and unchartered waters. In April, we launched our Manufacturer Q&A Webinar series to keep our local manufacturers up to date on the ever-changing regulations and protocols impacting operations, and to provide the guidance and resources needed to overcome these challenges.
To date, we have hosted 10 discussions, during which our team and expert guests have advised hundreds of manufacturers on topics including:
- The financial resources available for manufacturers and how to access them;
- Implementing best practices from OSHA, the CDC, and Maryland Department of Labor to protect employees and operate safely;
- Protecting networks from new cyber threats created by employees working remotely;
- Modifying operations and establishing protocols to re-open safely
Today, while a decline in new infections in Maryland has led to a loosening of statewide restrictions and allowed many companies to re-open, many other states are still seeing a sharp rise in new cases, which continues to challenge our supply chains, customer base and workforce. As we move forward, we can expect the industry to continue to adopt many changes, including new staffing methodologies; new procedures to conduct hiring, onboarding, and training virtually; emerging new markets for re-shoring; new diversified supply chain strategies; and the need to ensure a constant domestic supply for essential items.
As we all adjust to this “new normal” way of operating, MD MEP continues to work closely with our federal and state partners to help align resources and programs for manufacturers. Our webinar series will return this summer with a focused approach to help you share information, ask questions and explore topics of interest related to key areas of your operations.
In addition, we continue to offer:
- The Maryland Manufacturing Network Supplier Portal, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Commerce, to connect local manufacturers who are producing PPE and other critical items with buyers in need.
- The COVID-19 Back to Business Playbook, offering best practices for Maryland Manufacturers to resume operations safely.
- Multiple training programs to ensure your leadership and staff are equipped with the skills and strategies needed to be effective and successful. We can provide training virtually, and even custom design a program to meet your specific needs.
- Operational development support to help with re-structuring of your staff, and strategic support to help you plan for the workforce of the future.
- Assistance with HR issues and achieving and maintaining compliance.
- Guidance in developing new business strategies to ensure your business continues to grow and thrive.
“Our Manufacturing community has risen to the challenges presented by COVID-19. Although we understand there is still a long road to travel before we can say this pandemic is truly behind us, we know that Maryland manufacturing and our manufacturers will emerge stronger, more resilient and positioned for opportunities into the future,” said Mike Kelleher, Executive Director, MD MEP. “Through this, MD MEP will be here to support you. I encourage you to contact us for assistance with any challenge or concern you are experiencing.”
To learn more about any of our resources, please call us at 443-343-0085 or email us at info@mdmep.org.
