As Florida’s manufacturing landscape evolves, regional associations play a critical role in advocating for the industry, developing talent pipelines, and promoting innovation. In this issue, we asked two of those leaders: Lake Ray, President of the First Coast Manufacturers Association (FCMA) and Jessica Lovatt, President of the Volusia Manufacturers Association (VMA) to share their insights on the state of manufacturing in their areas. Together, they offer a snapshot of the sector’s top challenges, opportunities, and what lies ahead.

Lake Ray
President, First Coast Manufacturers Association

What do you see as the top priorities for manufacturers across Northeast Florida over the next few years?

That one’s really pretty straightforward. I think it’s the workforce. The workforce is changing, and it has to change. We have the traditional workforce that most people think about when they think of manufacturing—heavy plants, dirty processes. But a lot of our manufacturing isn’t like that anymore. The wire company isn’t. The fan company isn’t. As we go into the fourth industrial age—digital platforming, artificial intelligence—our workers need a mix of traditional skills and tech knowledge. You can have a great career in manufacturing. Many of these positions pay six figures a year. Most people don’t know that.

How is FCMA helping develop the workforce of the future?

We have a Workforce Committee dedicated to working with schools and colleges to help develop curriculum and promote two paths—one toward higher education and one toward technical training. There’s a great program where Johnson & Johnson brings high school students in as interns. Some of them get hired while earning degrees.

We also have our Leadership Academy. A lot of people are promoted into leadership roles without ever being trained to lead. We’ve had over 1,000 people go through it. We’re helping workers—from the line to plant management—communicate better and understand what success looks like. 

Are you concerned about AI and automation replacing workers?

We’ve heard that before. When computers came along, everyone said they’d take jobs. But now people are working at home, living better lives. AI is the next evolution. Every industrial age has improved our standard of living. Yes, AI will change the job landscape, but it will also create new opportunities. The challenge is how we adapt and keep our creativity sharp. That’s where the value of people really comes in.

What impact have supply chain disruptions had on your members?

When COVID hit, it exposed the soft underbelly of manufacturing—our vulnerability. But necessity is the mother of invention. We’ve seen people pivot, come up with new ways to create and source. We’re seeing that now in batteries and hydrogen. And while supply chain will continue to be an issue, technology—AI, sensors, better logistics—will help us stay ahead of it.

Are you seeing more reshoring?

Yes. It’s been happening, but it’s picked up speed. The cost of labor used to be 60% of the total cost. Now it’s closer to 30%, sometimes even 10%. With energy and materials playing a bigger role—and with our workforce, energy reliability and distribution systems—it makes sense to bring things back. Our biggest challenge is the same as our biggest opportunity: the workforce.

Looking ahead, what gives you the most optimism?

This might sound a little corny, but I think people are being valued more. Not as tools, but as essential to our future. In manufacturing, you’ve got to value your people. I think we’re entering a new age where we stop putting people into molds and start recognizing everyone’s talents. Whatever your background, we all want a better life. Manufacturing offers that. And I think more people are starting to see it.

Jessica Lovatt
President, Volusia Manufacturers Association

How have supply chain challenges affected your members?

Supply chain challenges have always been there for our manufacturers. Anytime you take a raw item and turn it into a usable product, there will always be challenges. Most raw materials are commodities and exist in a volatile market all on their own. Some of these issues get exacerbated when there is a weather issue like a tsunami or earthquake or hurricane in the region where the materials are mined. Tariffs can also complicate things. Most of our manufacturers look to source their materials domestically to alleviate that issue, but even the tiniest bump in the supply chain can have massive ripple effects. We’re in constant talks with our members and get together with experts in those fields to combat the stresses.

What are you seeing in workforce recruitment and retention?

Our manufacturers are always looking for skilled employees, and once they get them, they do everything to keep them. Manufacturing has the unique place in the market where you get to work with your hands as well as your mind to create some of the most incredible things we use every day. Our employees’ individuality is what makes our plants great. We celebrate them every year at our annual awards banquet.

Programs like FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education) and partnerships with Daytona State College have been growing. What’s working well—and what’s next?

FAME is fantastic because it merges education and industry. DSC is an invaluable partner in this endeavor and has been wildly successful. I want to see this program start in kindergarten, so we have a dedicated pipeline of students being exposed to all their options in life.

How are your members approaching technology and innovation?

Our members are constantly looking to grow in any way they can. Automation, sustainability efforts and improved production systems are all pillars of every one of our members. We offer meetings on each of these pillars regularly to help our members become better, faster and stronger.

Is there renewed interest in reshoring or domestic production among Volusia manufacturers?

For sure. Every manufacturer would love to go to their neighbor for their needs. It’s simply good business.

What makes Volusia County a strong place to manufacture—and what gives you hope for the future of the sector locally?

I believe VMA is a key factor in making Volusia County a strong place to manufacture. Every single day I am awarded the privilege to see what we make here and how we are growing. This sector of our economy has a 1 to 4 yield for our community, and that’s why I know these wonderful, caring companies are the best place to be.