In a recent episode of the Manufacturing Executive Podcast, host Joe Sullivan sat down with Abby Smith, President and CEO of Team Pennsylvania, to discuss how the organization is bringing together public and private sector leaders to move manufacturing forward in the state.
Team Pennsylvania, a unique statewide public-private partnership, focuses on the long-term health of Pennsylvania’s economy, with manufacturing being a key sector. As Smith explained, “We’re co-chaired by whoever the sitting governor is and then also by a Pennsylvania-based CEO. And we have a big 50-person board that also is just in public-private partnership.”
One of the critical ways Team Pennsylvania supports manufacturers is by acting as a neutral broker and convener, connecting regional efforts at the state level and identifying areas where leadership and a common voice are needed. This collaborative approach led to the development of the PA Manufacturing Future tool, created by manufacturers for manufacturers.
“The resource is also designed for anybody to kind of come in and say, where am I? Where am I in this journey around technology integration at all different kinds of points?” Smith noted. “And then we tried to identify both where you are on that path and what might be needed in terms of that next step to get to the next step.”
The tool helps users assess their current level of technology integration, identify the next steps, and access case studies and regional resources. By making the tool accessible and inclusive, Team Pennsylvania aims to encourage the widespread adoption of advanced technologies across the state’s manufacturing sector.
Smith also addressed the challenges preventing small and medium-sized manufacturers from embracing these technologies, citing capital, talent, and the intimidation factor surrounding technology integration as common barriers. To help overcome these obstacles, Team Pennsylvania is working to redefine the concept of the “Factory of the Future” in a way that resonates with manufacturers of all sizes and types.
I think it’s important to make sure that we’re telling a story that’s as inclusive as possible creates like as big of a tent as possible so that any manufacturer can see themselves in the factory of the future as opposed to feeling like they’re on the outside of that.
For manufacturers outside of Pennsylvania, Smith offered valuable lessons, such as utilizing the PA Manufacturing Future tool as a resource, taking advantage of existing support programs, and finding partners to navigate the complex network of available assistance. She also stressed the importance of collaboration in advancing manufacturing, particularly when tackling challenges like decarbonization technologies.
“This is the kind of stuff that just cannot be tackled alone technology integration is our example just it’s not going to happen solo,” Smith stated. “And so when I say buddy it really is not just being a manufacturer and focusing on the four walls of your own operation but thinking about how do you become part of a larger community that is similarly focused on accelerating the growth of your particular operation your particular industry.”
As the manufacturing landscape continues to evolve, organizations like Team Pennsylvania serve as powerful examples of how public-private collaboration can drive progress and support the sector’s long-term success. By engaging manufacturers’ voices and working together to shape their economic future, these partnerships are paving the way for a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.
To learn more about Team Pennsylvania and access the PA Manufacturing Future tool, visit tpa.com.
