2025 State-of-the-State of Manufacturing: Industry Unites to Champion Manufacturing in New Jersey
On May 22, 2025, New Jersey’s manufacturing community came together in force for the State-of-the-State of Manufacturing event, hosted by NJMEP and NJBIA. This year’s gathering was more than just another industry event; it was a critical moment to stand united and advocate for the future of manufacturing in New Jersey.
As economic and political uncertainty looms, and with renewed state support for NJMEP’s vital services and the industry as a whole at stake, this event became a platform for manufacturers to showcase their collective strength, resilience, and contributions to the state’s economy.
A Day of Advocacy and Industry Engagement
Held at the New Jersey State Capitol in Trenton, the event featured a robust agenda designed to connect manufacturers with legislators, policymakers, and fellow industry leaders.
The day began with a morning breakfast session, where participants networked with lawmakers, shared their experiences, and emphasized the need for continued investment in manufacturing. This was followed by a planning session, a committee hearing, and a Legislative Manufacturing Caucus meeting, providing an opportunity for manufacturers to express concerns, highlight achievements, and collaborate on strategies to strengthen the industry.
The atmosphere was one of unity, determination, and pride, as industry representatives voiced their unwavering commitment to keeping New Jersey at the forefront of American manufacturing.
As NJMEP CEO Peter Connolly reflected, “The sheer energy and engagement we saw today highlights the collective dedication of our industry. Together, we’re not just reacting to uncertainty, we’re shaping the path forward.” Both Connolly and NJBIA CEO Michelle Siekerka expressed their appreciation for the overwhelming turnout and the meaningful connections made throughout the day.
Partnering for Progress: The NJMEP-NJBIA Collaboration
The State-of-the-State of Manufacturing event was a testament to the power of collaboration that was made possible through “Manufacturing Counts”, the partnership between NJMEP and NJBIA. This joint effort underscores both organizations’ commitment to amplifying the voice of manufacturers and driving economic development in New Jersey.
“I like to think of NJBIA’s partnership with NJMEP as uber-partnership where both organizations contribute to the industry in so many ways,” said Michele Siekerka, CEO of NJBIA. “Together, we’re ensuring that manufacturing remains a cornerstone of New Jersey’s economy.”
This multi-faceted partnership reflects a shared vision of a resilient, thriving manufacturing sector in New Jersey, one that’s ready to tackle challenges and seize opportunities for growth.
Celebrating Innovation: The Coolest Thing MADE in NJ Winner
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the inaugural Makers Madness – Coolest Thing MADE in NJ award, celebrating manufacturing ingenuity and creativity. Geared Power, a Wayne-based healthcare technology innovator, was recognized for their groundbreaking BioGuard UVC product.
This PPE mask innovation utilizes UVC technology to neutralize viruses at the source, offering a significant advancement in preventing respiratory healthcare-associated infections. Geared Power CEO Gary Kellstrom was on hand to accept the award, which honored both his team’s ingenuity and the broader impact of New Jersey’s manufacturing ecosystem.
The Coolest Thing MADE in NJ contest not only celebrated exceptional innovation but also spotlighted the talent and determination that drives local manufacturers to push boundaries and solve real-world challenges right here in the Garden State.
For more about the winning product, visit Manufacturing Counts.
A Clear Message to Trenton
This year’s State-of-the-State event sent a resounding message to policymakers in Trenton: manufacturing matters.
One particularly powerful moment came from Lisa Montalbano, CEO of Employment Horizons, Inc., who emphasized the tangible value NJMEP brings to organizations like theirs: “NJMEP has had a significant impact on the success of our social business enterprise and the achievements of nearly 100 individuals in their roles. My thanks to Peter and the rest of the team for advancing our work.”
Manufacturers of all sizes and from every corner of the state came together to demonstrate not only the work that NJMEP provides through consulting, training, and support services but also the indispensable role the industry plays in driving New Jersey’s economy.
The atmosphere was charged with purpose. Attendees made it clear that the manufacturing sector is not just an important contributor to economic vitality, it’s essential to innovation, workforce development, and long-term sustainability. The stakes were high, and the community responded with determination, clarity, and unity.
By uniting as one voice, manufacturers, NJMEP, and NJBIA effectively reinforced the urgency of sustained support and strategic investment in the sector.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Foundation of Manufacturing
As we look back on this landmark event, it’s clear that the manufacturing industry’s strength lies in its people, its partnerships, and its shared commitment to progress. The conversations sparked, the connections forged, and the innovations celebrated will continue to fuel efforts to secure a prosperous future for New Jersey’s manufacturers.
While challenges remain—whether from global competition, economic uncertainty, or policy shifts—the industry has demonstrated its readiness to adapt, innovate, and lead. With the combined efforts of NJMEP, NJBIA, industry leaders, and dedicated manufacturers, the path forward is one of resilience and collaboration.
This year’s State-of-the-State of Manufacturing was a powerful statement of unity and purpose, showcasing the industry’s unwavering determination to ensure that manufacturing in New Jersey remains a driver of economic strength and community prosperity.