As we move further into 2026, I continue to be inspired by the energy and engagement of our AMFA members and partners. February was a powerful reminder of what makes this association so impactful — strong relationships, shared purpose, and a collective commitment to advancing manufacturing education.

On February 2nd, we gathered for our annual Beverage Tasting event. It was a fantastic evening of connection and conversation, and I want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who sponsored and attended. Your support made the night a tremendous success and provided a great opportunity to connect ahead of the CTE Jamboree the following day. Events like this strengthen our network and reinforce the collaboration that drives our mission forward.

The CTE Jamboree once again proved to be a highlight of the year. We are proud to host this event annually, bringing together educators and industry leaders to strengthen the bridge between classrooms and careers in manufacturing. The mission of the CTE Teacher Summit and Jamboree is to connect Northeast Minnesota manufacturers with Career and Technical Education teachers, providing firsthand insight into modern manufacturing environments, career pathways, and the skills students need to succeed. By fostering these partnerships, we help equip educators with real-world knowledge they can bring back to their students — ultimately building a stronger, more prepared workforce pipeline. Thank you to all who participated and helped make this year’s event such a success.

We look forward to gathering again at our upcoming March meeting hosted at ME Elecmetal. This meeting provides another valuable opportunity to connect, share updates, and engage directly with fellow members while learning more about the host organization and its role in our manufacturing community. We encourage everyone to attend and participate.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that our Annual Golf Social will return on June 4th at the Legends at Giants Ridge. This event continues to be a favorite among our members, offering a relaxed and enjoyable setting to build relationships while supporting a meaningful cause. Be sure to take advantage of the early-bird registration rate and explore sponsorship opportunities, all of which directly support our Educational Fund and the important work it allows us to do throughout the year.

We are also continuing to welcome sponsorships for the MADE HERE Expo. Sponsorship spaces are limited, and this event remains a powerful platform to showcase manufacturing in our region while supporting AMFA’s educational initiatives. We encourage you to secure your spot and be part of this impactful event.

Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement. Together, we are strengthening manufacturing, supporting educators, and investing in the next generation of our workforce. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.