Blogs

FloridaMakes CEO and Board Members Named Among Florida’s Most Influential Leaders

By Amanda Starling posted 11-05-2025
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ORLANDO, FL — FloridaMakes is proud to announce that Kevin Carr , Chief Executive Officer, has once again been named among Florida’s most influential business leaders by Florida Trend magazine. The recently published Florida 500 list recognizes the 500 most influential executives across major industries in the state. According to Florida Trend , “this immense research initiative by the editors of Florida Trend has resulted in a personal, engaging look at the state’s most influential business leaders.” “It’s an honor to be recognized among such a distinguished group,” said Carr. “I’m incredibly proud of the work FloridaMakes and our association partners ...
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FloridaMakes Elects Chris Albert to Board of Directors

By Amanda Starling posted 10-30-2025
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ORLANDO, FL — FloridaMakes, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) for the state of Florida, is proud to announce that Chris Albert was elected to its Board of Directors on October 22, 2025, where he will represent the Southeast region of the state. Albert began his leadership journey as a Non-Commissioned Officer in the United States Marine Corps, leading a small team on high-stakes security operations in Iraq. After his military service, he pursued academic studies in political science and international relations, teaching and conducting research at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the University of Connecticut. In 2011, he co-founded ...
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Exciting News: KrellTech Wins Innovator of the Year 2025

By Amanda Starling posted 10-20-2025
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Florida Photonics member Krell Technologies, a leading manufacturer of precision polishing and inspection systems for photonic components, has been recognized as Innovator of the Year at the 2025 New Jersey Manufacturing Awards, hosted by the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP). The annual event brought together thousands of manufacturers, business leaders, and policymakers from across the state to celebrate excellence and innovation in New Jersey’s manufacturing community. The Innovator of the Year award honors KrellTech’s commitment to advancing photonics manufacturing through engineering excellence, creative problem-solving, and educational ...
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ILLUMUS Welcomes Barn Light Electric, Expanding Innovation and American Manufacturing Power

By Rachel Powley posted 10-09-2025
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Sanford, FL – ILLUMUS , a leader in innovative lighting solutions and parent company of GREEN CREATIVE and ILP , is proud to announce the acquisition of Barn Light Electric , a respected name in handcrafted architectural lighting. This strategic move strengthens ILLUMUS’s position in the market, rounding out its portfolio with a refined architectural focus to complement its commercial, industrial, outdoor and specification-grade product offerings. “With the addition of Barn Light, we’re bringing together exceptional talent, a deep architectural craftsman lighting heritage, and a shared commitment to innovation,” said Neil Yeargin, CEO of ILLUMUS. “Our ...
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FloridaMakes Announces 2025 Florida Manufacturer Apprentices of the Year

By Mariely Velez posted 10-08-2025
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FloridaMakes Announces 2025 Florida Manufacturer Apprentices of the Year Top apprentices to be honored at the MakeMore Manufacturing Summit on October 22. ORLANDO, FL - FloridaMakes is proud to announce the 2025 Florida Manufactur er Apprentices of the Year , recognizing 11 outstanding individuals for their commitment to excellence in manufacturing and workforce development. The honorees will be recognized during a special ceremony at the MakeMore Manufacturing Summit on Wednesday, October 22 at 5:30 PM at the DoubleTree Downtown Orlando in Orlando, FL. ...
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TEN MANUFACTURERS NAMED 2025 FLORIDA MANUFACTURER EMPLOYER OF CHOICE

By Mariely Velez posted 10-08-2025
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2025 TEN MANUFACTURERS NAMED 2025 FLORIDA MANUFACTURER EMPLOYER OF CHOICE Award recognizes manufacturers who rank among the top places to work based on statewide workforce excellence benchmarks ORLANDO, FL — FloridaMakes today announced the winners of the 2025 Florida Manufacturer Employer of Choice (EOC) Awards, recognizing manufacturers across the state that are building outstanding workplaces where employees can grow, thrive, and stay. Honorees will be formally recognized at the MakeMore Manufacturing Summit on October 22, 2025, in Orlando. 2025 Florida Manufacturer Employer of Choice Award Honorees ...
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MACF Welcomes New Executive Director, Candy Cole

By Rachel Powley posted 10-01-2025
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Manufacturers Association of Central Florida Appoints Candy Cole as Executive Director. Orlando, FL – October 1, 2025 – The Manufacturers Associati o n o f Central Florida (MACF) is proud to announce the appointment of Candy Cole as its new Executive Director. In this role, she will also serve as the Central Florida Regional Hub Director for FloridaMakes , the state’s official Manufacturing Extension Partnersh ip. Cole brings extensive leadership experience in business and community development, most recently serving as Executive Director of the Lake Nona Regional Chamber ...
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BOSS Laser Announces Sponsorship of Kennedy Space Center - Platinum Presenting Sponsor of the 4th Annual SmallSat Education Conference

By Rachel Powley posted 09-24-2025
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Contact: David Capece, Bake More Pies Phone: (813) 308-0300 E-Mail: info@bakemorepies.com FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sanford, FL, September 24, 2025 - BOSS Laser, a leader in advancing American-made laser cutting and engraving systems, is proud to announce its Platinum Presenting Sponsorship of the 4th Annual SmallSat Education Conference, held at the Center for Space Education at Kennedy Space Center. The event, taking place October 25 - 26 2025, brings together students, educators, and researchers to explore the future of space technology and innovation. The conference offers middle school, high school, and college students an unparalleled ...
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Smart Manufacturing Roadshow: Florida

By Patricia Velez posted 09-22-2025
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This nationwide event series brings CESMII representatives to cities across the country, connecting with small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs), Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs), and the broader manufacturing ecosystem. FloridaMakes is excited to share the latest advancements in Smart Manufacturing technologies, explore real-world applications, and discuss how these innovations can drive efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness. These half day events will focus on small and medium manufacturers (SMEs), integrators, and workforce development professionals. Attendees will have the opportunity to: Explore the latest ...
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Now Open: Nominations for the 5th Annual Bob Provitola Manufacturing Leadership Award

By Patricia Velez posted 09-12-2025
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Now Open: Nominations for the 3rd Annual Bob Provitola Manufacturing Leadership Award Fl oridaMakes Network Opens Nominations for 5th Annual Bob Provitola Manufacturing Leadership Award The award recognizes volunteer leaders who are making a positive impact within Florida’s manufacturing sector. Do you know a manufacturing leader who inspires, mentors, and makes a real difference in Florida’s manufacturing community? Now’s the time to celebrate them! The FloridaMakes is excited to announce that nominations are open for the 5th Annual Bob Provitola Manufacturing Leadership Award that celebrates ...
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FloridaMakes is Hiring: Marketing & Communications Manager

By Amanda Starling posted 09-08-2025
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FloridaMakes is pleased to announce an opening for a Marketing & Communications Manager . This role will be responsible for stewarding the FloridaMakes brand and ensuring consistent, high-quality communications across platforms and stakeholders. As the statewide, industry-led, not-for-profit partnership dedicated to strengthening and advancing Florida’s manufacturing economy, FloridaMakes works with manufacturers, industry associations, academic institutions, and government partners to drive workforce development, technology adoption, and supply chain resilience. The Marketing & Communications Manager will play a central role in telling the FloridaMakes ...
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FloridaMakes Welcomes Branden Patrick to Board of Directors

By Amanda Starling posted 09-04-2025
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ORLANDO, FL — FloridaMakes, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) for the state of Florida, is pleased to welcome Branden Patrick, Vice President and General Manager of Aer-Flo Environmental, to its Board of Directors. Patrick was officially voted in during the FloridaMakes Board meeting on July 23, 2025, and will serve as the board representative for the Sarasota-Manatee region. “Branden’s extensive experience in manufacturing operations and demonstrated leadership will bring valuable insight to our Board,” said Kevin Carr, CEO of FloridaMakes. “His expertise in operational excellence, innovation, and workforce development will enhance our efforts ...
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Join Our Team: Northeast Florida Regional Hub Director

By Amanda Starling posted 08-22-2025
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FloridaMakes is excited to announce an opportunity to join our team as the Northeast Florida Regional Hub Director . This leadership role is vital to advancing Florida’s manufacturing ecosystem, connecting manufacturers with resources, programs, and services that enhance competitiveness, drive innovation, and build workforce capabilities. As the Regional Hub Director, you will: Lead operational and programmatic performance for the Northeast Florida Hub. Build and strengthen relationships with manufacturers, industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and economic development partners. Drive regional business and program development, ...
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Sidus Space Announces Proposed Public Offering

By Rachel Powley posted 07-30-2025
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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sidus Space, Inc. (Nasdaq: SIDU) ("Sidus" or the "Company"), an innovative, agile space and defense technology company providing flexible, cost-effective solutions to government, defense, intelligence, and commercial companies around the globe, today announced that it intends to offer to sell shares of its Class A common stock (and/or pre-funded warrants (“Pre-Funded Warrants”) in lieu thereof) in a best-efforts public offering. All of the shares of Class A common stock (and/or Pre-funded Warrants) are to be sold by the Company. ThinkEquity is acting as sole placement agent for the offering. The Company intends to use ...
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FloridaMakes Surpasses $5 Billion in Economic Impact, Celebrates 10 Years of Manufacturing Support

By Patricia Velez posted 07-24-2025
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 24, 2025 FloridaMakes Surpasses $5 Billion in Economic Impact, Celebrates 10 Years of Manufacturing Support Orlando, FL – FloridaMakes announced today that it has officially surpassed $5 billion in total economic impact, marking a major milestone in the organization’s decade-long mission to strengthen and advance Florida’s manufacturing sector. The announcement was made during the organization's 10-year anniversary celebration at its Annual Board Meeting, highlighting the measurable success of its work with manufacturers across the state. As of Q1 2025, FloridaMakes has driven: $3.6 billion in total new ...
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Spring Webinar Dates Are Here!

By Frances Nevill posted 04-18-2025
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FloridaMakes and Partner Manufacturing Organizations Launch Spring Webinar Series to Boost Industry Competitiveness ORLANDO, Fla. — Several leading Florida manufacturing organizations have partnered to present a series of webinars designed to help state manufacturers address critical challenges and opportunities in today's dynamic business environment. The spring webinar series began last week and continues through May, covering essential topics from cybersecurity and tariff management to employee retention and state certification programs. "These targeted educational sessions provide Florida manufacturers with practical strategies to navigate the complex ...
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FloridaMakes Launches Employer of Choice Program to Help Manufacturing Workforce

By Frances Nevill posted 04-16-2025
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FloridaMakes Launches "Employer of Choice" Program for Florida Manufacturers The assessment program helps manufacturers become talent magnets in a competitive labor market. ORLANDO, Fla. — FloridaMakes launched its Florida Manufacturer Employer of Choice Assesasment, an innovative program aimed at helping manufacturers enhance their workplace practices to better attract and retain skilled talent. This cutting-edge assessment, offered at no cost, allows manufacturers to benchmark their operations against six key areas of workforce excellence: recruitment, employee development, compensation and benefits, financial wellness, workplace culture, and employee engagement. ...
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FloridaMakes Welcomes Nautique Boat Company's Kris Hanigosky to Board of Directors

By Frances Nevill posted 03-25-2025
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FloridaMakes Welcomes Nautique Boat Company's Kris Hanigosky to Board of Directors Manufacturing Leader Brings Over Two Decades of Operational Excellence to Florida's MEP Center ORLANDO, Fla. — FloridaMakes, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) for the state of Florida, today announced the appointment of Kris Hanigosky, Vice President of Operations at Nautique Boat Company, to its Board of Directors Hanigosky brings more than 20 years of manufacturing expertise to the FloridaMakes board, with significant experience in leading manufacturing operations, supply chain management, quality control, and engineering initiatives. His leadership has been instrumental ...
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Veteran's Program Powers Florida's Boat Manufacturing Sector

By Frances Nevill posted 03-18-2025
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 18, 2025 FloridaMakes, Chris-Craft, Orion Talent and Sarasota Manatee Manufacturers Association Collaborate on Veteran Apprenticeship Program Partnership addresses skilled labor shortage in Florida's boating industry ORLANDO, Fla.— FloridaMakes has joined forces with Chris-Craft, Orion Talent and the Sarasota Manatee Manufacturers Association (SAMA) to develop a comprehensive veteran-apprenticeship program addressing Florida's manufacturing workforce needs while supporting former military personnel. The multi-partner initiative leverages the Pathway to Career Opportunities Grant, enabling companies to recruit, ...
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Manufacturing Skills + Second Chances: How FloridaMakes + PRIDE's New Partnership Will Transform Two Critical State Needs

By Frances Nevill posted 02-26-2025
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 26, 2025 FloridaMakes and PRIDE Enterprises Form Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Florida's Manufacturing Workforce Five-year Initiative Will Create Manufacturing Career Pathways While Reducing Recidivism Through Skills Training and Job Placement ORLANDO, Fla.— FloridaMakes and PRIDE Enterprises announced today a five-year partnership aimed at expanding manufacturing workforce development opportunities and reducing recidivism in Florida through enhanced job training and placement programs. The partnership brings together FloridaMakes, Florida's official National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) ...
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