Bringing Policy to the Shop Floor: Senator Holly Schepisi Joins Manufacturing Roundtable
In a state where manufacturing drives economic growth, legislative dialogue is more important than ever. That’s why the recent Manufacturing Industry Roundtable with Senator Holly Schepisi, focused on New Jersey’s Legislative District 39, was a critical moment for manufacturers and policymakers alike.
Hosted at Triangle Manufacturing and organized by the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP), the event brought together local business leaders and their state senator to address the real-world issues impacting North Jersey’s industrial base, from workforce shortages to regulatory hurdles.
Spotlight on Legislative District 39
Northern New Jersey’s District 39 is home to hundreds of manufacturers, from precision shops to large-scale employers. While these companies bring economic vitality to the region, they also face shared challenges—chief among them: attracting, developing, and retaining talent.
This roundtable created a space for those concerns to be voiced directly to the people who can affect change. Senator Holly Schepisi, known for her commitment to business-friendly legislation and practical workforce policy, joined the discussion to make sure the industry’s voice is heard in Trenton.
Workforce Development: Top of Mind, Top of Agenda
The heart of the roundtable centered on workforce development; a challenge echoed across nearly every corner of the state. Moderated by NJMEP’s Director of Marketing and Communications, Michael Womack, the session included a panel of experts offering grounded perspectives on the talent pipeline.
Panelists included:
- Senator Holly Schepisi
- Larry Banks, NJMEP Director of Workforce Development
- Jeff Meister, NJMEP Senior Account Manager
The conversation explored more than just hiring—it covered upskilling existing employees, integrating new technologies, and building inclusive workforce pipelines.
Attendees stressed the growing gap between available jobs and qualified applicants, especially in trade-based roles. Discussions focused on both short-term fixes and long-term strategies, such as:
- Expanding partnerships with public-private partnerships, vocational-technical schools, and community colleges.
- Creating clearer on-ramps for young professionals into modern manufacturing careers.
- Strengthening workforce development programs that are tailored to regional needs.
NJMEP highlighted the role it continues to play in providing tailored training, certification programs, and on-site consulting that can immediately improve workforce readiness.
Cutting Through the Red Tape
Navigating regulatory hurdles was another central focus. Manufacturers emphasized the need for clarity and consistency when it comes to compliance, permitting, and labor policies. Senator Schepisi acknowledged the complexity manufacturers face and expressed support for finding common-sense reforms that reduce unnecessary burdens without compromising safety or standards.
Participants shared stories about how current policies impact their operations, from lengthy permitting processes to inconsistencies between local and state agencies. The conversation underscored the value of having open channels of communication with lawmakers who can advocate for smarter, more efficient legislation.
Practical Resources and Legislative Insight
The roundtable wasn’t just about voicing concerns; it was also a forum for sharing tangible resources. Senator Schepisi provided updates on legislative efforts aimed at supporting employers, including grant programs, training incentives, and regulatory adjustments currently in motion.
NJMEP’s team outlined how their consulting and workforce services are already supporting companies across the district, with tailored upskilling programs, compliance guidance, and even facility design solutions that allow businesses to grow more efficiently.
Advocacy That Drives Action
The roundtable’s success demonstrated the power of direct industry-government collaboration. Through these events, NJMEP ensures manufacturers across New Jersey have the chance to shape the policies that affect them.
Senator Schepisi emphasized that feedback from local businesses is essential in creating legislation that works in the real world, not just on paper.
What’s Next?
NJMEP remains committed to giving manufacturers not only a voice, but a seat at the table.
Stay tuned for more updates as regional roundtables continue, elevating the voice of New Jersey manufacturing and driving meaningful policy conversations across the state.