|
Want to see a web copy of this email? Click Here |
|
|
September News from WEDC |
|
September has been a month of progress across Wayne County, with major highlights in our food sector, manufacturing, and business connections. Here’s what’s new: |
|
|
|
|
Manufacturing Month Spotlight: Akron Brass
|
|
In honor of October being Manufacturing Month, we’re celebrating a remarkable safety milestone at Akron Brass Company.
On September 9th, Akron Brass Company celebrated over 1,000 days without an OSHA Recordable workplace injury at their foundry location in Wooster, Ohio. |
|
|
|
This milestone is a testament to the culture of dedication, vigilance, and teamwork supported by leadership, production, operations support, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) and maintenance, who all put safety first every single day. The foundry team’s unwavering commitment to safety, attention to detail, clear procedures, regular communication, and care for one another is a powerful example of what’s possible when safety is not just a priority, but a shared value.
“I’m very proud of the team and the cultural approach that’s taken around safety,” Site Leader Andrea Russell said. “It’s a collaborative, ongoing effort that’s a testament to the culture at Akron Brass.”
Akron Brass Company, a part of IDEX Corporation, has been in business over 100 years and manufactures firefighting nozzles, valves, monitors, electronics and integrated solutions for the fire and safety industries. |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Wayne County Food Sector Growth |
|
Wayne County is one of Ohio’s top food and agriculture hubs, employing over 2,000 people and home to major employers like Daisy Brand, Frito-Lay, Gerber Poultry, Prairie Farms, Morton Salt, and The J.M. Smucker Company. Generations of farmers, a strong agribusiness base, and research at The Ohio State University CFAES' Wooster Campus keep the county competitive in a changing food economy. These strengths are highlighted in a new industry report on the sector’s current impact and future opportunities.
|
| Read the Article → |
| Read the Full Report → |
|
|
|
 |
Getting to Know Lisa Gunnels |
|
This month, we’re spotlighting Lisa Gunnels, the new Director of Wayne County Job and Family Services and a member of WEDC’s Advisory Council. With 25 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry and five years at JFS, Lisa brings both business and community-focused leadership to her role. She’s passionate about building strong partnerships, supporting families, and strengthening Wayne County’s resilience. |
| Read the Article → |
|
|
 |
New BizConnects Webpage
|
|
We’re excited to share our new BizConnects webpage, a hub for program information and resources. Local businesses are encouraged to explore the page and schedule their next BizConnects meeting with Phil.
|
| Visit the Page |
|
 |
October B4B: Location Change
|
|
Don’t miss our upcoming Briefings for Business event on October 14, 2025, now at the White Oak Event Center, 1319 N Millborne Rd., Orrville.
|
| RSVP |
|
|
Wayne County Hosts Team NEO’s NODE Event |
|
|
|
On September 26, Wayne County welcomed Team NEO’s NODE meeting at The Ohio State University CFAES Wooster Campus, spotlighting Ohio’s growing food sector.
A panel moderated by Tim Derickson (JobsOhio) featured Rebecca Singer (CIFT), Karl Kelby (Prairie Farms), and Leon Wengerd (Green Field Farms), two of whom proudly represented Wayne County. Attendees heard how innovation and infrastructure are fueling agribusiness growth and explored CFAES’ cutting-edge research facilities.
Take a look at some photos from the visit! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Together, we’re building a stronger Wayne County. |
|
Whether you're expanding, hiring, or just getting started, the Wayne Economic Development Council is here to support your business journey.
|
| Reach Out! |
|
|
|
|
