Manufacturers across Northeast Ohio have been telling us the same story for years: finding people is hard. Finding the right people? Much more difficult.
Every open position means production slowing down, culture taking a hit, and growth getting put on hold. And in an industry where specialized skills are increasingly critical and competition for talent is fierce, manufacturers need partners who understand the full picture.
That's exactly why we're excited to announce our partnership with Rust Belt Recruiting as our newest cost-savings partner.
This is a strategic alliance designed to strengthen Northeast Ohio's manufacturing talent pipeline from every angle. And we couldn't be more fired up about what it means for the region!
Rust Belt Recruiting brings something every NEO manufacturer needs: deep regional expertise and a people-centered approach to recruiting that actually fits manufacturing culture. They understand what employers are dealing with because they work in this space every single day, right here in our hometown.
When you combine their recruiting and workforce expertise with our network of employer support services, something powerful happens. And we can’t wait to see where it goes!
Here's what we're building together:
For a high school student or a career changer, manufacturing can feel like an insider's game.
How do you even get started?
Where do you go?
Who do you talk to?
Am I the right fit?
How do I know what I don’t know?
We've been building those on-ramps for years through our workforce development programs. Now, with Rust Belt Recruiting as a partner, we have an even stronger connector linking people who are curious about manufacturing to employers who are ready to invest in them, train them, and help them build something real.
Companies are looking for people who fit their culture, understand their processes, and can grow with them. Job seekers are looking for careers that mean something.
Rust Belt Recruiting bridges that gap. Their screening, placement, and talent advisory work complements our programs in schools, pre-apprenticeships, incumbent worker training, and registered apprenticeships. The result? Better matches and manufacturing pathways that actually make sense.
Manufacturing is still one of the most powerful economic drivers in Northeast Ohio. When manufacturers thrive, entire communities feel the impact. When they struggle to staff up, everyone loses.
We also can’t forget how the future is upon us today. Automation. Robotics. Advanced materials. Data-driven manufacturing. The industry is evolving fast, and the workforce needs to evolve with it.
This partnership helps NEO prepare for tomorrow. Whether that means connecting young people to modern manufacturing careers or helping experienced workers level up their skills, we're focused on long-term workforce sustainability. Both of our organizations believe deeply in the power of partnership to build resilient regional economies where businesses stay competitive and communities grow stronger together.
This partnership is about helping our members stay competitive, grow their teams, and create workplaces where people want to stay and build a career.
Here's what Manufacturing Works and Rust Belt Recruiting have in common at our core:
Manufacturing changes lives, strengthens communities, and builds opportunity.
We've been working toward that mission from different angles. Manufacturing Works through workforce development and industry collaboration. Rust Belt Recruiting through people-first recruiting and talent solutions. Now we're combining forces to create even greater impact!
As Rust Belt Recruiting says, partnerships are the connective tissue that link education, career pathways, employer needs, and long-term workforce sustainability. We couldn't agree more.
You'll see more from this collaboration in the coming months. Joint initiatives and resources that help manufacturers recruit and retain exceptional people.
We're excited about what this partnership means for our members, for the talent pipeline across Northeast Ohio, and for the future of manufacturing in this region. Because when manufacturers have the right people in place, manufacturing works… for companies, for families, and for the communities we all call home.
Ready to learn more? Reach out to us or connect with Rust Belt Recruiting and let them know you're a member to see how this partnership can support your hiring and workforce goals.