MVMC Founder Recognized at OMA Workforce Summit

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Brian Benyo, co-owner of Brilex Industries, was presented with the Dan French Legacy Award at the Ohio Manufacturers’ Workforce Summit in Columbus on Nov. 8. 

The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service and leadership on behalf of Ohio’s manufacturing community.

Benyo, founder of the Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition, was introduced by Dale Foerster, vice president of Starr Manufacturing, another founding MVMC company.

“[The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association] built its workforce strategy on the foundation that Brian, with his leadership, and the MVMC laid. It’s from that foundation that prepared and enabled OMA to have a structure to build the industry sector partnerships to receive the Good Jobs Challenge grant that we’ve been celebrating,” Foerster said.

A Model for the State

Benyo acknowledged OMA’s work in replicating MVMC’s vision and using it as a model across the state. He also commended the 13 MVMC founding members and MVMC staff for being a big part of the success.

“When I started this, it was as simple as recognizing there was nobody from Columbus riding in on a white horse to solve our workforce problems. We had an epiphany at that moment and had to come to grips with the fact that it was a local problem,” Benyo said.

He emphasized how being industry-led is the key to making the ISP model work.  

“Success is dependent on how well we, as manufacturers, take ownership in the workforce challenges in the community. It’s that simple,” Benyo said. “No one else can change the situation. The government and the state can give money, point us in the right direction, show models, but it’s up to the manufacturers to succeed.”

Investing in Capable Leadership 

At the end of his remarks, Benyo acknowledged MVMC Executive Director Jessica Borza.

“We could not have done what we did without her capable leadership. She’s a tremendous leader,” he said.

Benyo added that investing in capable leadership is necessary for companies and ISPs to succeed long-term.

“We’ve been blessed with the best.”

CREDIT: Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition.

Pictured at top: Brian Benyo, co-owner of Brilex Industries. (MVMC)

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.