News Release
Maryland Legislators and Manufacturers Invited to Connect Through Groundbreaking ‘Voices for Manufacturing’ Initiative
Oct 2, 2025
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — This fall, legislators across Maryland will have the opportunity to connect directly with local manufacturers through Voices for Manufacturing — a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at highlighting the value of manufacturing for individuals, communities and Maryland's future economy.
Following the Sept. 29 kick off, 13 additional Let's Talk: Community Conversations will take place statewide. These invitation-only gatherings are designed to build relationships, showcase manufacturing's impact and strengthen Maryland's economic future.
The collaborative effort, led by the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland (RMI) and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, has already garnered strong support from state leaders, including Senate President Bill Ferguson, House Speaker Adrienne Jones, Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Commerce Secretary Harry Coker.
"By connecting policymakers directly with manufacturers, we're paving the way for understanding and new opportunities," said Dr. Mike Galiazzo, President of RMI.
"Bringing public officials and manufacturers face-to-face is key to creating a shared vision for Maryland manufacturing," added Mary Kane, President & CEO of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce.
Strong Leadership Support
State leaders have voiced enthusiastic support for the initiative:
Senate President Bill Ferguson emphasized manufacturing's foundational role: "The manufacturing industry has long been the backbone of the Maryland economy by providing family sustaining careers while being vital links in worldwide supply chains and product development. As technology changes, advanced manufacturing in Maryland offers new and impactful ways for manufacturers to grow and build the State's economy."
House Speaker Adrienne Jones highlighted the sector's future potential: "Maryland's manufacturing industry is not just part of our economic past — it's central to our future. By investing in innovation, workforce development, and advanced technologies, we're building a stronger, more resilient manufacturing sector that creates good-paying jobs and keeps our state competitive on the global stage."
Comptroller Brooke Lierman stressed the importance of collaboration: "The future of Maryland's manufacturing sector depends on building bridges between the factory floor and Annapolis. When business owners share their real-world challenges and policymakers listen with open minds, we can create an environment where innovation thrives, jobs multiply and communities prosper."
Commerce Secretary Harry Coker noted Maryland's manufacturing legacy: "Maryland has a long, proud legacy of manufacturing, from steel production to shipbuilding to modern medical devices and more. This history gives us a strong foundation on which to build future economic growth, bring wealth to Maryland families, create jobs and opportunities, and strengthen our communities."
Community Conversation Schedule
The statewide series includes conversations across Maryland's diverse regions:
- Sept. 29 — Western Maryland Community Conversation at Hagerstown Aviation Museum
- Oct. 6 — Anne Arundel County Community Conversation at C Care USA
- Oct. 7 — Baltimore City Community Conversation at Baltimore Museum of Industry
- Oct. 15 — Carroll County Community Conversation at North American Millwright
- Oct. 28 — Upper Eastern Shore Community Conversation at Tanglewood Conservatories
- Nov. 4 — Lower Eastern Shore Community Conversation at Salisbury University Seagull Stadium
- Nov. 5 — Frederick County Community Conversation at Stulz
- Nov. 12 — Cecil & Harford County Community Conversation at Dunlop Boots
- Nov. 17 — Howard County Community Conversation at Maryland Innovation Center
- Nov. 18 — Allegany & Garrett County Community Conversation at Allegany County Complex Office
- Nov. 21 — Baltimore County Community Conversation at Pikesville Armory
- Dates to be announced: Community Conversations in Southern Maryland (Cove Point LNG), Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County.
The timing of the Community Conversations is especially significant, as several will take place during Maryland Manufacturing Month in October. Each year, Maryland’s governor issues a proclamation recognizing the industry’s achievements and contributions to the state’s economy. The month also aligns with national Manufacturing Day (the first Friday in October), when manufacturers across the country host tours, events, and educational activities to showcase modern manufacturing and inspire the workforce of the future.
What's Next
Following the community conversations, manufacturers will have opportunities to connect with their state-elected officials to encourage facility visits and ongoing collaboration in Annapolis. On Dec. 9, a Voices for Manufacturing breakfast event will share outcomes from the conversations and preview the 2026 legislative session.
A network of Voices for Manufacturing County Captains is actively rallying manufacturers across Maryland to participate in the initiative.
Registration Information
- Legislators: Register here
- Manufacturers: Register here
Please note: Community Conversations are limited to Maryland manufacturers, state and local legislators and invited guests.
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About the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland
Founded in 1990, the Regional Manufacturing Institute (RMI), a non-profit association, was created for manufacturers in the Baltimore Metropolitan area. Today, RMI of Maryland represents the interests of manufacturers statewide — providing programs, services, and advocacy. RMI represents the interests of manufacturers in every Maryland county — providing programs, services, and advocacy. RMI is dedicated to serving people, families, and communities by growing manufacturing. Jobs in manufacturing provide livable wages that contribute immeasurably to stronger families, communities and economic growth.
About the Maryland Chamber of Commerce
The Maryland Chamber of Commerce is the only statewide business advocacy organization and the leading voice for business in the state. Together with their 7,000+ members, they form a statewide coalition that is committed to ensuring that Maryland is attracting and retaining quality jobs, developing vibrant, sustainable communities and staying at the forefront of global competitiveness and economic prosperity.
