Bryant University given Manufacturing Partner award

Local trade group recognizes Bryant for helping Rhode Island companies grow globally.

On Saturday, November 3, Bryant University received the 2007 Manufacturing Partner award by the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association at the organization’s 7th Annual “Golden Moment in Rhode Island Manufacturing” gala at the State House. President Ronald K. Machtley accepted the award on behalf of the University.

“The Rhode Island Manufacturers Association salutes President Ronald K. Machtley and Bryant University as a manufacturing partner for their outstanding commitment to promoting comprehensive international trade, business programs, and services to Rhode Island companies seeking to grow and prosper globally,” the association wrote in a news release announcing the award.

The trade group specifically commended Bryant for the work of its John H. Chafee Center for International Business and for World Trade Day, an annual initiative that brings companies together to explore business opportunities overseas. Bryant’s 23rd Annual World Trade Day will take place in May on campus.

“This award is a testament to the hard work of everyone in the Bryant community to create an atmosphere for Rhode Island businesses that is conducive to successfully competing internationally,” says Machtley.

In an effort to connect businesses and provide the tools to help them compete globally, the Chafee Center sponsors regular seminars and workshops on campus, at client sites, and via the Web that are geared to help companies better understand the business landscape in foreign countries.

“The goal is to provide Rhode Island businesses with the tools to help them establish relationships that will breed success in international markets,” says Raymond Fogarty, director of the Chafee Center.

Bryant also offers many international opportunities for students through programs like the Sophomore International Experience, Study Abroad, and the Bryant-Lingnan Summer Exchange Program. “In today’s global environment, it is vital that we are equipping the next cadre of professionals with the skills to thrive in their personal and professional lives after graduation,” says Machtley.

Past winners of the Manufacturing Partner award included the New England Institute of Technology, the Providence Business News, and Rhode Island Governor Donald L. Carcieri.

Other winners recognized at the gala included Hodges Badge Co. Inc., Tiffany & Co., and Concordia Manufacturing. Governor Carcieri and First Lady Suzanne Carcieri served as honorary chairpersons for the fundraiser.

“Each of the winners has made major contributions supporting the resurgence and growth of manufacturing in Rhode Island,” says RIMA Chairman Al T. Lubrano, president of Technical Materials, Inc., a Lincoln-RI based manufacturer, in the release.

The Rhode Island Manufacturers Association represents more than 300 manufacturers employing more than 35,000 workers across the state. Founded in 1998, RIMA is committed to enhancing the ability of manufacturers to compete effectively and operate profitably in the global marketplace and addresses issues on behalf of manufacturers dealing with taxation, trade and technology, the environment, human resources, workforce development, and technology.