Spring is here and with it comes new growth and new opportunity. Strengthened by yet another season, CMMA continues to thrive, expand and deliver meaningful impact for members and partners. We’re a vibrant mix of new and sustaining members, we’re a strong assembly of manufacturers, distributors/suppliers and professional services.

Let’s start with something to be proud of… Central Minnesota is a manufacturing stronghold, our region is especially well known for our expertise in food processing, printing, furniture manufacturing, machinery, heavy equipment manufacturing and much more!

In today’s competitive labor market, there are fantastic opportunities in manufacturing and now is a great time for new workers, as well as workers looking for a career change, to start without having to invest significant time and money into higher education. High school students and recent graduates are excellent candidates to begin a career in manufacturing. Employers and school districts can increase awareness of the wide variety of manufacturing careers and help high school students gain skills. Check out the CMMA K12 Navigator to learn how you can join in and benefit from this easy-to-use workforce development tool.

There are ongoing challenges to address and overcome together. Recruitment and retention of existing workers are important in the heated labor market in Central Minnesota and supply chains are at the top of manufacturers list of concerns. These issues can challenge stability and growth, CMMA is working to help solve these issues and create solutions.

We’re always open for tour and meeting topic suggestions and recommendations. If your manufacturing company is willing to open your doors to our group for a tour, please let us know, we’d be happy to make arrangements with you.

Looking for ways to be further involved in CMMA? A strong organization is created by the engagement of all members and functional committees.  CMMA members are strongly encouraged to serve on one or more of the following committees: Programs, Marketing, Membership, Government Relations, Workforce or Golf. To the extent possible, committee meetings are held via conference or Zoom calls with follow-up communication via email to minimize the time commitment for our members. Let us know of your interest, we’ll get you connected!

Our annual CMMA Golf Social fundraiser is June 14. Proceeds from this annual event support the CMMA Foundation which distributes scholarships and grants to support youth manufacturing programs in the region. Anyone may sponsor or participate in the annual CMMA Golf Social. Participation in this golf social directly impacts the strength of the CMMA Foundation and the future success of manufacturing in our region. Since its inception in 2008, CMMA has provided over $130,000 in support of workforce development and career awareness!

CMMA. Coming together, working and learning together and succeeding together!

In service,
Les Engel
CMMA President

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Winter 2022 Letter from Les


Hello to all our CMMA members and friends!

I hope this message finds you well and prospering in your professional and personal pursuits. It’s always an opportunity to share a few CMMA thoughts and upcoming events with you. I hope to share my pride and excitement about our organization and the greatness we achieve together!   

First off, we’re doing well in all aspects of our organization and yet always seeking and learning ways to improve. Our membership is strong and growing. We are a diverse group with strong representation from our manufacturing community, in addition to a wide variety of interested stakeholders. We continue our goal to engage, inform, educate, connect and inspire all members to deliver value on your investment in CMMA. We are focused on member education, workforce development and legislative advocacy for the betterment of manufacturing interests in central Minnesota.    

Second, I am pleased to announce Rachel Lolmasteymaugh as the new Executive Director of MMA, CMMA, AMFA and TSMA. Rachel hails from Sartell and was a CMMA member prior to taking the position. Please help us welcome Rachel!  Read more about her here. 

Third, please register to attend the valuable upcoming events, including

• February 16.   Marketing for Manufacturers Series – Websites your 24/7 Salesperson
• February 22.   New member orientation
• February 24.    CMMA General Meeting – How to Survive an Active Threat/Shooter Situation
• March 4.          Webinar: Employer Health Plans
• March 16.        Marketing for Manufacturers Series – Topic TBA
• March 24.        CMMA General Meeting – Topic TBA