MACNY held its Annual Legislative Breakfast at the Doubletree Hotel in East Syracuse, bringing together industry leaders, stakeholders, and legislators to discuss issues affecting manufacturers in New York State. The event featured a panel discussion on workforce, economic development, and energy, with a focus on maintaining competitiveness and fostering growth in the manufacturing sector.
Panelists included Alberto Bianchetti, Regional Director of External and Customer Affairs for National Grid in Central New York; Susan Cole, representing State Government Affairs at Novelis North America; Joanne Fernandez, Director of U.S. State Government Affairs at Corning Incorporated; and Vlad Gutman-Britten, Director of Policy & Analysis at the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).
Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY, addressed the importance of energy to the manufacturing sector. “Manufacturers are the backbone of New York’s economy, and energy is central to their ability to remain competitive and grow,” Wolken said. “Today’s discussion brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to address the challenges and opportunities we face around workforce, economic development, and energy policy. By working collaboratively with our elected officials, we can ensure that manufacturers continue to innovate, invest, and create jobs that strengthen communities across our state.”
The breakfast also included opportunities for attendees to meet with state and federal elected officials, a presentation on MACNY’s legislative priorities, and an energy-focused panel. The event aimed to highlight both success stories from the sector and key policy issues affecting manufacturing in Central New York and throughout the state.
MACNY has represented the manufacturing sector for over 100 years, advocating on behalf of its members at both the state and federal levels. The organization’s advocacy efforts help shape policy agendas in Washington and Albany, promote pro-manufacturing legislation, and support candidates aligned with industry interests. More information about MACNY’s advocacy work can be found at https://www.macny.org/advocacy/.
