The 34-member Lawrence Mercer Manufacturers Coalition begins 2026 with growing momentum and a clear focus on strengthening the workforce pipeline for local manufacturers, says Julie Michael Smith, coalition manager.

A major milestone is the launch of Manufacturing Readiness, the coalition’s first signature preapprenticeship program sponsored by Butler County Community College, Smith says. The program began in February at BC3 Lawrence and BC3’s new Shenango Commons location. 

A cohort of jobseekers, recruited through partnering community-based organizations and county agencies, will spend four weeks of paid training to prepare for full-time, entry-level positions with ready-to-hire local manufacturers, she says.

The organization also plans to step up its member engagement efforts in 2026 through manufacturer forums that focus on workforce development topics, funding opportunities, and peer best practices.

The LMMC was established three years ago to bring together industry, education and workforce partners to address shared workforce challenges in Lawrence and Mercer counties, Smith says.  Membership growth remained a priority throughout the past year, adding to its ranks 21 new manufacturing, education, community and associate members, she says.  

In 2025, these partnerships translated into tangible progress, particularly as it relates to youth outreach and career awareness, Smith says. LMMC expanded its collaboration with Lawrence County School-to-Work, alongside longtime partner Penn-Northwest Development Corporation, on the What’s So Cool About Manufacturing West Central (PA) program. 

This program – a middle school video competition – strives to change students’ perceptions of manufacturing while producing creative profiles of regional manufacturing companies. Participation grew from seven schools to 12 across both counties.

The coalition also supported the Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship developed by Penn College of Technology, which enrolled 28 students. Several of those who completed the program secured immediate employment with local manufacturers. Plans are in place to expand the program into Mercer County this year, with more than 50 students expected to enroll.

“Entering the new year, the organization’s focus shifts from foundation building to program delivery and measurable workforce impact,” Smith says.