• Dr. John Deskins, WVU

• Maribeth Anderson, Antero Resources, Moderator

As a historic energy state, West Virginia stands ready to capitalize on a massive increase in energy consumption in the United States as we have abundant and available natural gas. Given the critical connection between energy production and manufacturing, what is the future of energy production through natural gas in West Virginia as we work to achieve Governor Morrisey’s 50x50 energy plan to add 25 gigawatts in energy production here at home.

• Bob Milvet, Mountaintop Beverage, Moderator

While new companies are investing in West Virginia, existing companies are expanding their operations and finding greater success. Hear from representatives of manufacturers who have increased their footprint and employment during challenging times, and what lessons were learned that can benefit your company.

• Aaron Sporck, Huntington Bank, Moderator

With billions of dollars of economic development occurring in West Virginia, manufacturing in the Mountain State is poised for continued growth that will benefit our citizens for generations to come. Hear directly from economic developers and company representatives as to how they succeed in a changing and competitive environment to grow new businesses and expand existing employers in West Virginia. From finding investment to developing partnerships, this panel will give you the possible next steps to meet the needs of your business now and in the future.

• Derek Scarbo, Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center, Moderator

Data gleaned from a new Statewide Workforce Analysis will be shared during this presentation as well as hearing from members of the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing team about their successful work with apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship pipelines with both Career Technical Education (CTE) and Community & Technical Colleges (CTCs).

• Panelists to be announced.

While all of us want a healthier West Virginia, what does the national grassroots movement known as MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) mean for manufacturing? From products bans to changes in state and federal policies as to how businesses operate, MAHA brings a new uncertainty to markets, production and regulatory oversight.