FIRST COAST MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION

2023 First Coast Manufacturers Association Accomplishments This year has been exciting for FCMA as companies continue to emerge from the longer-term impacts of the Covid shutdown. Businesses are growing in strength and production while things return to near normal levels. The softened participation in Association events, had a complete reversal this year as attendance returned at our events. We want to share some highlights from this year at FCMA. The second Roundtable event gave insight on the banking crises, artificial intelligence and continued supply chain issues. Participation grew as we provided information on key policy and business issues. Our Symposium participation increased over 20% over last year with topics on future business interactions in a digital age, the new workforce approach employment, topped with a panel discussion lead by Congressman Arron Bean on supply chain, economic outlook and supply chain. Government policies continue to create opportunities and challenges. We had a great year working through our partnership in FloridaMakes by providing policy changes in the legislature, laying the groundwork for increased resources and grants for our members in 2024. FCMA continues providing workshops and committee action to identify changes in policies, mandates and legislation as a resource for managing these issues. Currently, we are monitoring potential impacts of increased energy cost and emerging policy pertaining to carbon emissions. We anticipate energy and carbon emissions will continue to have key financial impacts to operational costs. This year we continued to have multi participation options for in-person and virtual meetings, remaining focused on in-person meetings to create network opportunities. Our Leadership Academy courses were very active this year, including Professional Progress which returned to help personal interaction skills and develop relationships skills. Plans are underway for next year's classes. I hope you will plan to participate in these outstanding programs. The Legislative days were held this year after a three-year pause giving our members the opportunity to meet legislators and discuss important statewide matters. Plans are underway next year to participate with FloridaMakes to join with manufacturers around the state in our legacy event. The annual golf outing held in May was near capacity. Excellence in Manufacturing annual awards program to recognize our manufacturers, partners and employees was held in October. We hosted almost 350 participants as we enjoyed recognizing our manufacturers' accomplishments throughout the year. Plans are already underway to make next year's event even bigger and better. This year's success was also visible in our Lunch with Lake and Lunch with Clay (Yarbrough), giving members opportunities to socialize and network. We are looking forward to closing our year out with our Holiday Party with a special venue at the Igloo. Thanks to all who have supported and participated with our Association. Please take a moment to renew your membership so can continue to serve you. With kind regards, Lake Ray III