Manufacturing remains a driving force in Northeast Ohio, accounting for nearly half of the region’s economy. As the industry evolves—adopting advanced technologies and navigating challenges like labor shortages and global economic pressures including tariffs—what lies ahead?
Join the Akron Press Club for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Ethan Karp, president and CEO of MAGNET (Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network), to explore how manufacturers in Akron and across the region are innovating and preparing for the future. An audience Q&A will follow the presentation.
Dr. Karp will provide insights on:
- The economic outlook for Akron and the region
- How manufacturers are adapting to workforce and technology shifts
- The role of innovation in staying competitive
About the Speaker
As president and CEO of MAGNET, Dr. Ethan Karp has helped manufacturing companies grow through technology, innovation, and talent development. A national voice on the future of American manufacturing, he contributes regularly to Forbes.com and has appeared in numerous media outlets. He serves on numerous boards, including Cleveland/Cuyahoga County Workforce Development, American Small Manufacturers Coalition, Cleveland Leadership Center, MidTown Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland Jewish Publication Company and the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland. Prior to joining MAGNET, he worked with Fortune 500 companies at McKinsey & Co. Dr. Karp holds a Ph.D. in chemical biology from Harvard University and undergraduate degrees in biochemistry and physics from Miami University.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. – Doors open and buffet luncheon begins; 12 p.m. – Program
Location: Goodyear Hall, 1201 East Market Street, Akron
Parking: Free parking available at the lot on the corner of Goodyear Boulevard and East Market Street
Cost: $35 per person; $210 for a table of six
Reservation deadline: Noon, Friday, May 2, 2025
Payment: Check only, accepted at the door
Cancellations: Must be received at least 48 hours before the event to avoid charges
For questions or reservations, email akronpressclub@gmail.com.
The Akron Press Club was founded in 1971 to promote a free press and serve local journalists and public relations professionals. The group has a rich heritage of offering newsmakers a forum to discuss issues of the day at Press Club luncheons and speaking events that are open to the public. The club also funds scholarships for journalists and public relations students. Visit www.akronpressclub.org for information.