Apr i l 201 8
BUSINESS
VOL. XXXI NO. 4 | APRIL 2018
MAGAZINE
A WILD, NEW BEGINNING 11TH ANNUAL PROGRAM NOW OFFERS MORE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN LEADERS
SPOTLIGHT Q&A:
WHY THE SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR ACUTEC PRECISION AEROSPACE
SPECIAL SECTION:
MBA HONORS MORE THAN 100 TRAINING GRADUATES
Many reasons. One choice. Access to the Region’s Only Transplant Program $300 Million Dollar Investment in the Erie Community World-Class Care Delivered at the Region’s Only Dedicated Women’s Hospital Highly Specialized Trauma Care Available 24/7 The only ranked hospital in Erie by U.S. News & World Report To learn more, visit UPMCHamot.org/Reasons.
Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
FEATURES FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE
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WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP Expanding influence and leading change
COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE
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11TH ANNUAL WILD Gannon SBDC’s Women in Leadership Development program gets a makeover to offer new educational opportunities for women leaders.
SPOTLIGHT Q&A | LEADERSHIP
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Elisabeth Smith, president and CEO of Acutec Precision Aerospace, shares her leadership experience and vision for the company, which employs more than 400 people in locations in Meadville and Saegertown, Pennsylvania, as well as an overflow facility in St. Stephen, South Carolina.
SPECIAL SECTION | PROFILES
DEPARTMENTS
SPECIAL SECTION
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BUSINESS BUZZ
EVENTS & EXTRAS
17
PEOPLE BUZZ
23
HR CONNECTION
25
LEGAL Q&A
WHAT’S NEW
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AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS
WORKPLACE TRENDS
GET ANSWERS
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Learn about some of the extraordinary women leaders and their inspiration.
EDITORIAL
From HR and computer to leadership and supervisory skills, see photos of the more than 100 graduates of the Manufacturer & Business Association training courses!
HEALTH MATTERS | RESOURCES
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READ ON THE GO! For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit mbabizmag.com
How to use tiered and narrow networks to control health-care costs. Kim Cepullio
LEGAL BRIEF | UPDATE
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Three obstacles that are standing in the way of women in the workplace. Lisa Smith Presta and Jamie Schumacher
ON THE HILL | REDISTRICTING Executive Editor Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org Contributing Writers Kim Cepullio Jezree Friend Lisa Smith Presta Jamie Schumacher
Feature Photography iStockPhoto.com Additional Photography iStockPhoto.com Casey Naylon
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Advertising Sales David Thornburg 814/833-3200 dthornburg@mbausa.org
Why Pennsylvania’s new congressional map is politics at play. Jezree Friend
Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. printcon@erie.net
On the Cover: Learn about what’s coming for this year’s Women in Leadership Development program in Erie. See page 4. Mission Statement: The Manufacturer & Business
Association is dedicated to providing information and services to its members that will assist them in the pursuit of their business and community interests. – Board of Governors
Manufacturer & Business Association 2171 West 38th Street | Erie, Pa. 16508 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 www.mbausa.org
© Copyright 2018 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.
mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2018
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EXPLORE EXPERIENCE EMBRACE ENGAGE EMPLOY
EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN TO FOLLOW THEIR CHOSEN CAREERS.
A non-traditional occupation is one in which women (or men) comprise less than 25% of the workforce. At ECTS, we encourage young women and men to explore their talents and follow their passion. Learn more at ect.org.
814.464.8601 info@ects.org
FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE
Women in Leadership
EXPANDING INFLUENCE AND LEADING CHANGE Although studies have shown that women make good leaders, they often don’t make it to leadership positions as often as they should. But there’s a number of reasons that businesses may want to see that they do.
According to an article in YourStory.com, the global average of women occupying leadership positions is pegged at 29 percent — a number that falls to 20 percent when it comes to senior-level management positions. According to
for recruitment. “You can’t grow diversity
of Acutec Precision Aerospace, about her
researchers, companies big on gender
if you’re not creating new ways of getting
own leadership journey at this growing
diversity are 40 percent more likely to
new perspectives into the building,” the
Meadville-based firm.
have sustained, profitable growth and
report finds.
70 percent more likely to have greater
In addition, we’ll examine some of
“Encourage leaders to seek different
the ongoing topics for women in the
perspectives for new projects and reward
workplace, as as well as the importance
These are the findings from the eighth
teams that harness inclusion of multiple
of mentoring and training for women
edition of the 2018 Global Leadership
perspectives to generate new ideas and
leaders, including the Manufacturer &
Forecast, an expansive research project
solutions. Provide high-performing women
Business Association’s highly sought-after
conducted by DDI, The Conference
with stretch assignments to continue
Women in Leadership class. The MBA is
Board, and EY, that surveyed from 25,812
building their skills and cross-functional
committed to providing employers — and
leaders and 2,547 human resources
knowledge,” it says.
their employees — with the tools they
leadership strength.
professionals at 2,488 organizations across 26 industries worldwide.
need to succeed! Visit www.mbausa.org to
In this edition of the Business Magazine, we’ll explore the topic of women in leader-
According to demographic data collected,
ship and the professional resources
women currently constitute only 29
that are available in the tri-state region,
percent of all leadership roles, most of
including the Gannon SBDC’s 11th annual
which are first-level management positions.
Women in Leadership Development
The study states that a healthy pipeline of female talent must be created by
learn more!
program on April 18 in Erie. We’ll also talk with Elisabeth Smith, president and CEO
evaluating the different channels leveraged
EMPOWER YOUR TEAM!
mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2018
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A WILD, NEW BEGINNING 11th Annual Program Now Offers More Educational Opportunities for Women Leaders The increase of women in the paid workforce has been one of the most significant changes in the economy in the past century. In the United States, according to an article published in the Harvard Business Review, women’s participation in the labor market has nearly doubled, from 34 percent of working age women (age 16 and older) in the labor force in 1950 to almost 57 percent in 2016.
For the past 11 years, the WILD program has been helping to empower professional and enterprising women with the knowledge, energy and passion that will help them attain and enhance their leadership goals.
In fact, in the United States, research shows that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15 percent more likely to outperform competition. Growth in women-owned businesses has outpaced the overall increase in new businesses by 1.5 times. According to recent statistics, the share of female CEOs of Fortune 500 companies topped 5 percent for the first time in the first quarter of 2017, with 27 women heading major firms. General Motors, headed by Mary Barra, is the largest U.S. company with a female chief executive. Barra is the first female leader of an automaker in the world. And, with the right leadership and development opportunities, such as the Gannon University SBDC’s Women in Leadership Development program, the potential for more women leaders will continue to grow.
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APRIL 2018 • mbabizmag.com
Maggie Horne
“It is a celebration that recognizes, supports and promotes women in business through women helping women,” states Gannon SBDC Director Maggie Horne, MBA, CVA. “WILD is an opportunity to network, provide leadership opportunities and show support for each other.”
This year, the WILD is getting a makeover of sorts in an attempt to provide more focused programing for its attendees. “It’s a new beginning of WILD,” explains Horne. “Although we are still keeping many of the core elements, we’re approaching it a bit differently based on the feedback we’ve gotten over the past two years, so that people will be able to take advantage of all of our educational sessions.” The 2018 event, which kicks off at 11 a.m. April 18 at the Ambassador Banquet and Conference Center in Erie, will feature keynote speaker and former Pittsburgh TV personality Darieth Chisolm sharing her personal and professional journey.
True Performers make every minute of every visit count. Christine Brocious, CRNP Fulton County Medical Center True Performer
As part of our True Performance program, we’re helping nurse practitioner Christine Brocious keep her patients healthy. Using our data, she’s able to uncover gaps in care. This allows her to be more proactive, such as scheduling retinal exams before diabetic patients even walk in. Because of practitioners like Christine, to date, this program has avoided $180 million in emergency room visits and hospital stays.*
There’s value in that. See how True Performance is helping providers improve care through data and incentives. Download the ebook at HighmarkTruePerformers.com.
True Performance results:
13% fewer emergency room visits 16% fewer hospital admissions $180 million in costs avoided *Based on reduction in hospital costs for patients with True Performance doctors compared to those without from January 2017 to July 2017. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
SPOTLIGHT Q&A | LEADERSHIP
The Sky’s the Limit for Acutec Precision Aerospace Today, there are many women business leaders who have proven themselves to be uniquely qualified for piloting their companies’ workforces and strategies — including those in the tri-state region. Here, Elisabeth Smith, president and chief executive officer of Acutec Precision Aerospace Inc., a privately held, woman-owned aerospace and power generation firm, shares her leadership experience and vision for the company, which employs more than 400 people in locations in Meadville and Saegertown, Pennsylvania, as well as an overflow facility in St. Stephen, South Carolina. Acutec has been a big part of your life. Tell us how the company got its start and the influence of your father, Rob, who took over the reins in 1994. Acutec is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and my father is a big part of that, but not from the beginning. He was an initial investor, and then he moved back as head of sales and marketing. He actually started at Firestone tires, so he was in Akron for awhile and traveled around the world while he was head of marketing for certain divisions at Firestone. He comes from a tractor tire background, which was not a common switch over to manufacturing. So, he actually learned blueprint reading while on the job and took it over when previous owner of Acutec founded ChipBLASTER. In the early ‘90s, Acutec was a company of about 17 people and supplier to LORD Corporation that became an aerospace company. We changed our name to Acutec Precision Aerospace from Acutec Precision Machining to reflect the fact that we’d grown beyond just machining. You have an interesting career and education journey. Tell us more. We moved to Meadville when I was 12, but as a teenager, it wasn’t my aspiration to live in the same town as my parents. I went off to college outside Philadelphia to become a labor economist, so my major was actually in mathematical economics. I worked in economic litigation consulting after college and, it turns out, that the company I worked for had an aerospace and defense practice. That’s where I really fell in love with
aerospace and realized I could really make a difference from the inside. From that point on, I decided to go to grad school, and that’s where I had all the intention of coming back to Acutec. I went to the University of Michigan, got an MBA in manufacturing operations, and I was in the operations leadership program at United Technologies Corporation (UTC), rotating between divisions, really understanding what the customer expectations were. I was on the Black Hawk final assembly line, and it was a really cool place to work. But, at the time, there was very little connection to what the operators were actually doing, so that really influenced a lot of what I’ve been doing since I joined Acutec in 2013. Presently, Acutec is one of the world’s leading privately owned aerospace and power generation components firms with a worldwide customer base and sales of approximately $80 million annually. Please explain the products and services you provide. Acutec makes components that are on almost every fixed wing and rotorcraft platform out there. We make products that go into dynamic systems primarily. Vibration dampening, rotor systems, engine power generation, fuel and air control, hydraulic actuation avionics, landing gear, braking systems, rod ends and bearings for actuation systems — pretty much everything except structural stuff.
company. It provides manufacturers with an analytics platform, or dashboard, which allows for the display of real-time data based on their current ERP systems, so that they can have the latest and greatest information to make better decisions. What would be your advice to young women who may be considering careers in manufacturing that would help them succeed and lead? Have confidence in yourself and make sure that you’re not holding yourself back. The second thing is find a female mentor. I had a fantastic mentor, Audrey Brady, at Sikorsky/ UTC. She was the head of final assembly and flight operations, so she covered the entire final join of the aircraft to hangar and flight testing. She really helped me with that confidence, identifying opportunities to improve, and having those one-on-one conversations in career development. One of my goals is making sure that we have promotion opportunities within Acutec for women and are attracting women. Right now, I think we have more female machinists than we’ve ever had in the past, and that really excites me. What is your vision for Acutec’s future? We want to be the employer of choice in the region and to be the most respected supplier in the entire aerospace industry. For more information about Acutec Precision Aerospace, visit www.acutecprecision.com.
We also have a software development company called Lojic, which is a full-service software development and services
mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2018
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at ease “Marquette really made us feel comfortable with such a big step. They took the time to make everything easy to understand and put us at ease. And, by working with a local bank, when I have questions I can talk to a person I know, who knows me and knows my business.”
Alice DeGeorge, owner
PRESQUE ISLE PRINTING SERVICES
Banking approvals in days, not weeks. Support you can expect when the unexpected happens. People who understand opportunities are fleeting and make yours a priority. Business bankers who don’t define success between the hours of 9-5 any more than you do. Confidence. It’s a difference you can expect when your decision is made locally, by the area’s only hometown-headquartered bank.
Be Mpowered.™
HEALTH MATTERS | RESOURCES
Clearing Up The Confusion: How to Use Tiered and Narrow Networks to Control Health-Care Costs
of tiered or narrow networks is to lower costs for employers and members. Some plans also seek to improve patient outcomes by incentivizing its preferred providers to provide coordinated care and achieve certain quality metrics. For example, a shared saving arrangement ties provider payment amounts to the ability to stay within budget while meeting quality standards. 2) Is there an adequate pool of providers for the patient population? Normally, this isn’t a problem, but employers need to be careful here. For example, some narrow networks offered by some insurers may not include providers who offer highly specialized care. For some patients, especially those with complex health conditions, such restrictions can be problematic.
Kimberly Cepullio is the president of UPMC Commercial Products for UPMC Health Plan, which is an affiliate company of the UPMC Insurance Services Division. The other integrated partner companies of the Insurance Services Division include: UPMC WorkPartners, UPMC for Life, UPMC for You Advantage, UPMC for Kids, Community Care Behavioral Health, LifeSolutions, EBenefit Solutions, and Askesis Development Group. If you’re an employer, chances are you’re looking for ways to control health-care costs, yet still provide high-quality coverage to your employees. Health insurance plans with restricted networks are becoming an increasingly popular option for businesses looking to curb rising employee premium costs. When done right, they can save money without sacrificing quality. However, limited networks can confuse even the most astute employer — not to mention employees. Here are some questions to ask as you weigh the choices for your health plan: What’s the difference between narrow networks and tiered networks? In a narrow network, a health insurance carrier contracts with select doctors and hospitals that charge lower prices or have a track record of quality. By steering a greater volume of business to these providers, insurers can negotiate lower prices. The savings are passed on to employers and their employees in the form of lower premiums.
The tradeoff for lower premiums is less choice for members. A variation of the narrow network is a tiered network, which offers a potential compromise. In this plan design, members have access to a broad network of providers. Within this broad network, health-care providers are ranked based on cost — and quality. Differing cost-sharing arrangements drive members toward certain providers. Members have the lowest cost share when they receive care from Level One providers. Their out-of-pocket costs are higher when they see providers in other levels. This type of plan lets your employees decide whether to incur higher costs to see their preferred provider or have a lower cost share and see the network’s preferred providers. What kinds of questions should employers be asking when considering narrow networks? 1) Does the network encourage improved patient outcomes? The main objective
3) How well do your employees understand their options? Many members choose a plan with a narrow network because of the lower premiums. People may not understand the tradeoff between choice and price. Make sure your insurer has a communication plan to explain what it means to choose a narrow network. Before committing to a plan, employees should be able to search for doctors in the network they’re considering to see if their doctor accepts that plan. In general, including a tiered network plan among your insurance offerings to your employees is a smart move. It incentivizes employees to seek medical care at preferred or low-cost tiers. That’s a good thing for them and for you. The key is to not limit the employee’s ability to get the care he or she needs from the provider that is in the best position to provide that care. Therefore, it is especially important that employees with unusual or complex medical conditions take extra care when it’s time to select a tiered plan. Once they choose their plan, their complex condition may force them to pay a higher cost to have that condition treated at a non-preferred provider. Again, this is why communication is key to making wise choices. For more information about tiered and narrow networks, visit the website www.upmchealthplan.com.
mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2018
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MacDonald Illig is proud to support women in leadership. Move McDonald Illig here
Pictured: Attorneys Jenna Bickford, Lydia Horan Caparosa, Jennifer Hirneisen, Kimberly Oakes, Lisa Smith Presta and Jamie Schumacher. Not pictured: Attorney Laura Popoff Stefanovski.
MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP 100 State Street, Suite 700, Erie, pa 16507 814-870-7600 www.MacDonaldIllig.com
Women in the Workplace: Facing the Same Challenges Generations Later
LEGAL BRIEF | UPDATE
paying wages to any employee at a rate less than paid to employees of the opposite sex for equal work. Equal work is defined as work of substantially equal skill, effort and responsibility, under similar working conditions. While the Act was passed more than 50 years ago, a recent “Status of Women in the States” report from the Institute for Women’s Policy Research gave Pennsylvania a C+ in the category of Employment and Earnings. Statewide, the median annual earnings of men were $12,000 higher than those of women, and a woman earned 76 cents for every dollar a man earned. In February 2017, the state Senate addressed this inequity by approving a bill that more clearly defines the factors upon which varying wages may be based and prohibits employer policies that prevent employee discussion of wages. To-date, however, no further action has been taken by the legislature.
Lisa Smith Presta is a trial attorney and Chair of the Litigation Department at MacDonald Illig. Her experience includes the handling of complex, multiparty litigation involving commercial disputes, breach of contract claims, employment matters and health-care services.
Jamie R. Schumacher is an associate in the Litigation Department at MacDonald Illig where she concentrates her practice in the areas of commercial litigation, employment litigation, and insurance defense. She is also a member of the firm’s Marketing Committee and Emerging Technologies/Copyright & Trademark Practice Team.
In a 2015 Thomson Reuters Foundation survey of more than 9,500 women ages 18 to 64 living in a G20 country, women identified the three top challenges encountered in the workplace: 1) work-life balance; 2) equal pay; and, 3) harassment. Work-Life Balance: Are Work-Life Programs an Answer? In the survey, only 45 percent of women ages 35 to 64 felt confident about juggling the competing demands of career and personal life. Among American women, only 36 percent believe they can have a baby without damaging their careers. Work-life balance is particularly important to Generation X and Millennials, many of whom seek greater control over their personal time. As a result, “work-life programs” have developed as an alternative to the traditional 9-to-5 schedule. Examples include
flex-time, telecommuting, discretionary leave, job-sharing and shift-swapping. Properly designed and consistently implemented work-life programs can provide employers a competitive edge in attracting and retaining a diverse, productive workforce. If poorly planned or administered, however, such programs can backfire and become a source of managerial resistance, employee morale issues and legal exposure since such programs can implicate certain federal and state employment laws. To reduce risk, disseminate clear policies and procedures, document decision-making, regularly train managers and human resources, and consult employment-law counsel in the planning stage and throughout implementation. Equal Pay: Pennsylvania Gets a C+ Pennsylvania’s Equal Pay Act prohibits
Harassment: #WillItBringChange? In the 2015 Thomson Reuters survey, nearly one-third of G20 women stated they had been harassed at work, and more than 60 percent did not report it. The #MeToo movement began on October 5, 2017 and became a globally recognized campaign 10 days later when victims of sexual harassment were encouraged to tweet the words “me too.” In the first month, #MeToo was tweeted more than 2.3 million times in 85 countries. Just three months later, #MeToo was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year, recognizing sexual harassment and assault as one of the most important stories of 2017. While shedding light on a dark corner, #MeToo also has caused confusion and anxiety among some employees in the workplace. It should be understood that unlawful harassment takes place when: 1) enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of obtaining or continuing employment; or 2) the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile work environment. Prevention is the best tool to eliminate harassment in the workplace. Employers must consistently communicate that such unwelcome conduct will not be tolerated and should establish an effective grievance process with training for both supervisors and employees. Employment-law counsel can assist in this effort. For more information, contact Lisa Smith Presta at 814/870-7656 or lpresta@mijb.com or Jamie Schumacher at 814/870-7613 or jschumacher@mijb.com. mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2018
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The good news is you can still speak to a live person. The better news is modern technology has enabled us to offer so much more to simplify life for today’s busy professionals.
That was then… This is NOW!
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CELEBRATING WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP 105 Poplar Street Erie, PA 16507 Toll free: 888.776.2661 Office: 814.459.2000 Fax: 800.382.7329
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APRIL 2018 • mbabizmag.com
. . n e m o W leading the way Charlotte Rerko, MSN, RN Chief Executive Officer, Achievement Center Master in Nursing Administration Board Certified in Psychiatric Nursing What is your favorite inspirational quote and why? “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou At the Achievement Center, our mission is to maximize the potential of children. Making children feel important, empowered and included is crucial and we strive to make that a possibility every day.
Katrina Vincent Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Real Estate, Erie County Redevelopment Authority MPA from Gannon University BA in Politics from Messiah College What is your favorite inspirational quote and why?
”Leadership is the ability to guide others without force into a direction or decision that leaves them still feeling empowered and accomplished”- Lisa Cash Hanson, Snuggwugg CEO. I feel that truly good leadership is not about micromanaging, it’s about giving you’re staff the necessary tools to think for themselves. My leadership approach is that you get back what you give and that a good leader creates future great leaders!
Janet Dennen
Vice President of Marketing & Procurement, Curtze Food Service BA in Political Science Pennsylvania State University – Behrend College What experience set you on your career path?
I come from a family that has a passion for food, and I was lucky enough to have been given an opportunity at a company in the food business that allowed me to embrace that passion and combine it with practical business sense and honest hard work. I was naïve to the business side of the restaurant industry, as most people are. I was a server at a club, finishing college and looking to make some money for grad school when I accepted a job at Curtze Food Service as a buyer. What seemed like a quick stepping stone ended up being a 26-year career with a successful company that has grown into its 140th year in business. I have been fortunate to have been given the opportunity over the years to have a voice that is heard and an opinion that is considered. My leadership philosophy has always been, “Lead by example, and always be candid.” Both will earn you respect and keep you on solid ground.
Mary Jane Antoon Administrator, Shriners Hospitals for Children - Erie RN, MSN, NEA-BC, FACHE What is your favorite inspirational quote and why?
During a nursing leadership development session on emotional intelligence in the 1990’s, I learned the Platinum Rule™, “Do unto others as they would like done unto them.” in other words, treat others as they want to be treated. We all learned the Golden Rule and many seek to live by it. The Platinum Rule includes the feelings of others and shifts the focus of our relationships to understanding what drives others. It also helps us to recognize our options for interacting with others. The Platinum Rule™ has been such a positive influence in my professional life and has helped me to build bridges with people of any style in just about any leadership situation.
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RECOGNITION OF WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
CUSTOMER SERVICE LEADERSHIP TEAM
JULIE DANIELS
VALERIE BUREK
JILLIAN MISTEROVICH
Manager, Customer Service, Aerospace & Defense Years of Service: 5
Manager, Customer Service, Performance Materials Years of Service: 13
Manager, Customer Service, Industrial, Oil & Gas Years of Service: 13
What experiences set you on your career path? I grew up in a family owned restaurant business. I was waiting tables and rolling meatballs before I could talk. Through those years I learned what it meant to have passion, make sacrifices and, most importantly, the significance of customer satisfaction in any business. I loved the feeling of building relationships and providing not just a meal, but an experience. I would like to thank my family for raising me in an environment where tenacity was learned and hard work was expected; these principles became the foundation for my success.
What experiences set you on your career path? I have always enjoyed analytics, problem solving and people. The first time I found resolution for a critical customer issue – I knew I was hooked! A customer-facing, service-oriented career provides the perfect challenge. I’m an “It takes a village” believer. This includes friends, family, co-workers, mentors/educators and God. My parents taught me the value in goals, education, hard work and service. They all have made me who I am today.
What experiences set you on your career path? I’ve had the opportunity to work with a host of great leaders at LORD. They’ve motivated me to take risks and empowered me to make decisions. I’ve felt supported and encouraged, which has helped me grow in my leadership role. I’m afforded the opportunity to meet new people and learn from their experiences. I have a very supportive family and I’m lucky to work with colleagues who have similar work ethics.
STEM LEADERS
CASEY HEDLUND
MEGAN AGRAFIOTIS
Senior Scientist Years of Service: 6
Operational Excellence Site Leader Years of Service: 11
What experiences set you on your career path?
My parents gave me my first set of K’Nex, and I was hooked. We knew pretty early my passion was in science and engineering. While applying after graduation, I came across an open position in the Materials and Process Engineering Laboratory at LORD Corporation. I spent a few months working with a senior formulator, Jim Halladay, and I found myself hooked on rubber formulating. It provides an intrigue and a mystery that speaks to my curiosity.
CYNTHIA REID
I grew up participating in science fairs, Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science and other hands on STEM activities which were very influential in my decision to pursue a technical degree. Additionally, my father supported our family through his job in a titanium processing mill so I recognized the value of manufacturing careers from a young age. As a result of these exposures, a technical career in manufacturing was a natural fit for me. I am now thankful that I get to participate in a variety of STEM activities throughout the area.
PEGGY LAUGHLIN
Staff Engineer Years of Service: 37
What experiences set you on your career path?
What experiences set you on your career path?
Staff Engineer Years of Service: 20
My high school science teacher had applications for a weeklong Women in Engineering camp to which I applied, as encouraged by my mother. My parents drove me and two other girls from Pennsylvania to the upper peninsula of Michigan that summer for the event. Before that, I had no idea that engineering was a career. I was hooked after the first day! I thought all areas of engineering were intriguing and chose mechanical engineering because it seemed to me to be the most universally applicable discipline.
What experiences set you on your career path?
In elementary and high school my math and science teachers were not only great teachers, but they also encouraged me to pursue higher level classes. They helped build my confidence and belief that I could pursue whatever interested me. I attended an all-girls high school, which also bolstered my confidence in an environment where girls were the leaders, speakers, scholars, athletes and artists. My mother taught me that everyone had to be able to support themselves and left no doubt that this was only attainable through hard work and education.
www.lord.com
BUSINESS BUZZ | WHAT’S NEW D&E MACHINING CELEBRATES 25TH YEAR
Corry, Pennsylvania-based D&E Machining, Ltd. recently held a special luncheon to commemorate the company’s 25th anniversary in 2018. In conjunction with the companywide celebration, D&E President Frank Polanski also recognized employees who are celebrating milestone service anniversaries, including 10, 15 and 20 years or more. D&E Machining is an AS9100 and ISO 9001:2015 certified, fully integrated supplier of make-toorder CNC machined components and assemblies for the aerospace, defense, transportation, power generation, medical and material handling industries. The company, founded in 1993, is located at 150 Industrial Drive. For more information, visit www.demachining.com.
MANUFACTURING EXPO SCHEDULED FOR MAY 10
The Manufacturing Advanced Expo is scheduled for noon to 5 p.m. May 10 at the Ambassador Conference Center. According to organizers, the free event will showcase the latest manufacturing technology for regional manufacturers. More than 30 exhibits will feature and demonstrate the latest innovations, including collaborative robots, machine safety, energy saving solutions and more. The day will also include educational sessions on technology solutions to improve processes and operations. Presentation topics will include: •
Milling strategies to improve profitability
•
Reduce set-up and increase utilization
•
Applying collaborative robots to repetitive operations
•
Machine vision
•
Traceability
•
Developments in multi-tasking
The event is hosted by Northwestern PA Chapter of National Tooling and Machining Association (NWPA-NTMA) and Northwest Industrial Resource Center (NWIRC), with NEFF as the premiere sponsor. Registration is required at http://nwpantma.com/meetinginfo.php. For more information, contact Tami Adams at tadams@nwpa-ntma.com.
D&E Machining celebrated its milestone 25th anniversary with a special luncheon in Corry, Pennsylvania.
KNOX LAW GARNERS MAJOR RECOGNITION
Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. has received national and regional rankings in 10 practice areas by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® for the 2018 “Best Law Firms” list. The Erie-based firm received a National Tier 3 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law and Public Finance Law. Its metropolitan rankings for the Pittsburgh region include a Tier 1 ranking in four practice areas: Commercial Litigation, Land Use & Zoning Law, Public Finance Law, and Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers. Its metropolitan rankings also include a Tier 2 ranking in the Pittsburgh region for four practice areas: Employment Law – Management, Health Care Law, Litigation – Bankruptcy, and Real Estate Law. Its Tier 3 metropolitan rankings for the same region include Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, as well as Labor Law – Management. Firms included in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. To be eligible for a ranking, a firm must have a lawyer listed in The Best Lawyers in America®, the oldest and most highly respected peer review guide to the legal profession worldwide. Nine Knox Law attorneys are included on this list for 2018. For more information, visit www.knoxlaw.com.
NORTHWEST COMMITS TO ERIE’S FUTURE WITH $2.5M DONATION
Northwest Bank is dedicated to helping the newly created Erie Downtown Development Corporation (EDDC) in its mission to make downtown Erie a destination to live, work and play. In addition to an initial $2.5 million investment, the bank also announced that it has committed to an additional contribution of $50,000 a year over a three-year span, starting in 2018.
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“Erie’s a great city, and we’re thrilled to give back by donating to the EDDC,” notes Jim Martin, Northwest’s Erie Region president. “We believe these funds will help give the EDDC the jumpstart they need in their revitalization efforts. We’re honored to be a part of the exciting changes that are happening in Erie.” The goal of the EDDC is to help Erie grow through strategic initiatives aimed toward fueling economic growth through real estate development in downtown Erie. Northwest, a community bank, is dedicated to helping local organizations like the EDDC through volunteerism, community giving and endorsements. “As a local bank with a strong connection to the Erie community, this commitment to the EDDC’s mission was an easy decision,” notes Martin. “We believe that part of being a good citizen is getting involved with our community and helping it thrive.” “We are so pleased to have Northwest Bank join others in support of revitalizing our downtown,” said Tim NeCastro, chair of the EDDC board and CEO of Erie Insurance. “Northwest Bank is a strong community leader. Their commitment will go a long way to helping us achieve our mission.” The Erie Downtown Development Corporation (EDDC) is a newly founded, privately funded nonprofit led by a group of business and community leaders working together in the name of transformational change. Northwest Bank operates 164 full-service offices and nine, free-standing drive throughs. Founded in 1896, Northwest offers a complete line of personal and business banking products including employee benefits, investment management services, insurance and trust. For more on the EDDC’s mission or Northwest Bank, visit erieddc.org or www.northwest.com.
SAINT MARY’S HOME OF ERIE ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS
Saint Mary’s Home of Erie, a Continuing Care Retirement Community, recently announced three new appointments. Kim Figurski has been appointed director of Human Resources. She attended Mercyhurst University, where she studied accounting and human resource management. Figurski is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Human Resource Management Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania (HRMA). She previously served as the human resources director at Medicor Associates, Inc. Stacy J. Kemmler, CPA, has been appointed controller. She attended Clarion University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She is a certified public accountant and previously served as a controller for more than 17 years. DeAndra Ward, BSW, has been appointed director of Adult Day Services. DeAndra received a Bachelor of Social Work from Mercyhurst University. Ward also holds a medical records certificate, is a certified nursing assistant and has crisis response training. She previously served in medical records for Saint Mary’s East.
EHCA APPOINTS DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, RETENTION AND ENGAGEMENT
Lisa Graff has joined the staff of Erie Homes for Children and Adults Inc. as director of education, retention and engagement. Her responsibilities include supervising employee education and staff development opportunities. Graff has worked as Lasik coordinator at Laser Eye Surgery of Erie, executive director of Big Brothers and Sisters of Crawford County, high school coordinator for Tri-State Business Institute, and fundraising/community director for March of Dimes in Erie. She serves as a board member at Family Service of Northwest Pennsylvania and as president-elect of the Rotary Club of Erie and as an advisory board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie County. Graff earned her bachelor’s degree from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania.
NIAGARA THERAPY, LLC WELCOMES OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST Jessica Crofford has joined Niagara Therapy, LLC from Dodd Rehabilitation Hospital in Ohio. As an occupational therapist, she has advanced training and specialty skills in Interactive Metronome Therapy, Kinesiotape interventions, Functional Electrical Stimulation and behavior management. Crofford attended Ohio State University for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in occupational therapy and brings extensive experience to the Niagara Therapy, LLC rehabilitation team for the care of clients with neurological impairment.
CNB PROMOTES CHIMERA TO ASSISTANT CONTROLLER
Michael Chimera has been promoted to assistant controller at CNB Financial Corporation in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, and its affiliated companies.
In his new role, Chimera will function as a bank officer, and he will be responsible for internal and external financial reporting for CNB Financial Corporation, which includes 43 branch offices in Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York. Chimera also will supervise members of the Finance and Item Processing departments. Chimera started his career as a universal associate at ERIEBANK, a division of CNB Bank, in 2011 and has since graduated from the Management Training Program. After graduation, he received the position of staff accountant and was later promoted to accounting manager. Chimera also has been chosen to participate in the CNB Leadership Institute Class of 2019, a formalized training curriculum to develop future leadership. He attended the Pennsylvania State University where he obtained a B.S. in both accounting and finance.
G.W. BECKER, INC. NAMES OPERATIONS MANAGER
Hermitage, Pennsylvaniabased G.W. Becker, Inc., a custom design manufacturer of overhead cranes in North America, has announced that Chris Wilson has been hired as operations manager.
PEOPLE BUZZ | AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS THE ERIE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION APPOINTS NEW BOARD TRUSTEES
The Erie Community Foundation has announced the addition of three new trustees to the board: Charles G. Knight, III, CPA, founding partner and managing principal of Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company, P.C., Sarah Hagen McWilliams, community volunteer and philanthropist, and James R. Walczak, Esq., partner of MacDonald Illig Jones and Britton, LLP. Knight was the principal in charge of Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company, P.C. accounting and auditing services since the firm’s inception through 2008. On November 3, 2008, the firm named him managing principal, succeeding Jim Schaffner. He earned his B.S. degree in accounting from Gannon University. He became a certified public accountant in 1984 and a certified valuation analyst in 1999. McWilliams graduated with a B.A. in art history from Wittenberg University in 1988. She went on to earn a master’s degree in clinical social work from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and worked for several years in a clinical capacity with adult survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Ohio. Walczak earned a B.S.F.S. from Georgetown University and a Master of Laws (Taxation) from Georgetown University Law Center. He also obtained a Master of Arts from the University of Denver and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Denver College of Law. Walczak acts in the capacity of general counsel for a number of business, nonprofit and governmental organizations, providing legal advice on corporate, transactional and tax matters. ECF’s new trustees join Clemont R. “Cle” Austin, Rev. Dr. Donald L. Baxter, Jr., Maryann C. Yochim Flaherty, William M. Hilbert Jr., Timothy M. Hunter, Lynn M. McBrier, Esq., Deborah W. Murphy, CFP®, Dionne Wallace Oakley and David M. Tullio as members of the board.
After serving in the U.S. Naval Submarine Force for seven years, Wilson began his manufacturing career in purchasing and production. After earning his EMBA, he became a product and engineering manager and then finally appointed to director of Engineering for a global leader in the material testing equipment industry. He provides 23 years of senior leadership in all aspects of technical and manufacturing operations.
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AL’S AWNING SHOP INC. 1721 West 26th Street Erie, PA 16508 Phone: 814/456-6262 Website: www.alsawning.com Manufacturer of custom canvas awnings and textile industrial products; residential and commercial. Family owned and operated for over 75 years. BREAKIRON JEWELERS 4026 Pine Avenue Erie, PA 16504 Phone: 814/825-2647 Website: www.breakironjewelers.com Purveyor of Fine Diamonds and Gemstones, Creator of Custom Jewelry Designs and Wow Moments, Highest Quality In-House Jewelry Repair. CASSA FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC 4510 Peach Street Erie, Pennsylvania 16509 Phone: 814/923-6024 Website: www.CassaFamilyChiropractic.com Patient Specific Chiropractic Care Certified DOT Medical Examiner Be healthy...Be you. CMIT SOLUTIONS OF ERIE 204-A West 11th Street Erie, PA 16501 Phone: 814/806-2637 Website: www.cmitsolutions.com/erie A full-service IT support and consulting firm specializing in managed IT, security, and data backup and business continuity services. ERIE AUDIOLOGY, INC. Allison F. Keenan, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology 2550 West Eighth Street Erie, PA 16505 Phone: 814/833-9533 Website: www.erieaudiology.com Comprehensive diagnostic hearing and tinnitus evaluations, high performance digital hearing systems, hearing conservation and musician services.
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GLASS GROWERS GALLERY Art & American Crafts Since 1974. 10 East 5th Street Erie, PA 16507 Phone: 814/453-3758 Website: www.glassgrowersgallery.com Since 1974, we feature Regional Fine Art & American Crafts. Jewelry, Pottery, Blown Glass, Paintings, Photography, Sculpture and more. Specializing in Awards, Art Acquisitions & Glass Commissions. GRAPEVINE LAUNDRY AND LINENS 4523 West Ridge Road 2826 State Street Erie, PA 16506 Erie, PA 16508 Phone: 814/217-9288 814/217-9288 Website: www.grapevinelaundryandlinens.com A Dry Cleaner and Linen Rental Company specializing in party linen rentals for all your special events with two locations to better serve you. INNER BALANCE PILATES 2503 West 15th Street Suite 5 Erie, PA 16505 Website: www.ibpilates.com Erie’s first and only boutique-style Pilates studio. KEYSTONE RESEARCH CORPORATION 3823 West 12th Street Erie, PA 16505 Phone: 814/836-9295 Website: www.ksrc.biz A research and organizational development company providing expertise to organizations, enabling them to link research, policy and practice and build their capacity for performance excellence. MOORE RESEARCH SERVICES, INC. 670 West 36th Street Erie, PA 16508 Phone: 814/835-4100 Website: www.moore-research.com A market and opinion research company that specializes in qualitative and quantitative research to help clients better understand new and existing products and services.
ATHENA PowerLink® is a business mentoring program designed to increase the growth and profitability of women owned businesses. More than 160 professional men and women from the region volunteer their time and expertise to help navigate women business owners through the hurdles and barriers that impact professional growth, which include gaining access to new networks, mentors, best business practices and staff/employee management issues. For more information, visit www.athenaerie.org!
NURTURINSE COUNSELING & WELLNESS Melissa Sulkowski, R.N., M.A., L.P.C., Owner melissasulkowski@gmail.com 1741 West 26th Street Erie, PA 16508 Phone: 814/455-1301 Website: www.nurturinse.com Providing quality care in a holistic setting and offering peaceful resolution to disputes, one family at a time.
SHEAR DELIGHT SALON & DAY SPA 4348 Iroquois Avenue Erie, PA 16511 Phone: 814/898-1877 Website: www.sheardelighterie.com Customizing our guest experiences, one guest at a time…Bringing out the Beauty in the world. Helping our guests to “Be” their best! TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS 4202 Peach Street Erie, PA 16509 Phone: 814/833-2301 Website: www.drivingneeds.com We have been “Meeting all of your DRIVING NEEDS since 1997.” We provide Professional Driving Lessons, Occupational Therapy Driving Rehab, PennDOTCertified Driving Tests, and expanding soon to offer full-service Notary/Title/Registration Services!
PROVIDER RESOURCES, INC. 153 East 13th Street Suite 1400 Erie, PA 16503 Phone: 814/480-8732 Website: www.provider-resources.com Provider Resources, Inc. (PRI) is dedicated to supporting the healthcare community with compliance, integrity, and quality issues through education and efficient, innovative processes.
THE UPS STORE 2501 West 12th Street Erie, PA 16505 Phone: 814/836-1877 Website: www.theupsstorelocal.com/5155 “We do more than shipping.” The UPS Store Yorktown Center specializes in full-service professional printing. Offering banners, business cards, brochures, flyers, invitations, 50/50 tickets, and so much more.
RELISH STUDIO & GIFT GALLERY 3835 West 12th Street Erie, PA 16505 Phone: 814/836-1827 Website: www.relishinc.com Relish, a locally grown and woman owned business. Featuring original, handmade gifts and jewelry with a coastal feel. Great customer service and friendly smiles are our way of doing business.
VERIFY SERVICES, LLC P. O. Box 246 Waterford, PA 16441 Phone: 814/796-2236 Website: www.verifyservices.net We offer auditing and management services to businesses, to find savings on your telecom, cellular, natural gas, and electric utility services. Our expense management team finds savings that fall directly to your bottom line.
SANDCILLE SPA The Shops at the Colony Plaza 2640 West 8th Street Erie, PA 16505 Phone: 814/456-7400 Website: www.sandcille.com A full-service spa specializing in wellness through relaxation with manicures, pedicures, massage, facials, and other services.
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Solutions designed around your business. A greater degree of confidence. At Northwest, we’ll work with you one-on-one to pinpoint opportunities. We’ll learn about you, your operation and your vision. Through this 360o perspective of your business, we cancustomize solutions to take you where you want to go. 1-877-672-5678 | northwest.com
Cash Management
Celebrating Northwest Women in Business Leah Manino
Vice President Commercial Lender leah.manino@northwest.com
Anita Kuchcinski
Vice President Commercial Lender anita.kuchcinski@northwest.com
Katie Ruffa
Vice President Commercial Lender katie.ruffa@northwest.com
Jackie Ksenich
Business Banker jacqueline.ksenich@northwest.com
Financing Insurance Investments† Benefits
Jen Stewart
Assistant Vice President Cash Management Advisor jennifer.stewart@northwest.com
Michele Cavalier
Corporate Senior Vice President Senior Trust Executive michele.cavalier@northwest.com
Northwest Bank, a subsidiary of Northwest Bancshares, Inc., has operating units that use the Northwest Bank owned trade, logo and/or services marks “Northwest Advisors” and “Northwest Insurance Services” to provide investment and wealth management, insurance services and employee benefit plans. Trust, fiduciary and retirement services are offered through Northwest Bank’s Trust Department. † Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. The investment products sold through LPL Financial are not insured Northwest Bank deposits and are not FDIC insured. These products are not obligations of Northwest Bank and are not endorsed, recommended or guaranteed by Northwest Bank or any other government agency. The value of the investment may fluctuate, the return on the investment is not guaranteed, and loss of principal is possible. Northwest Bank, Northwest Insurance Services and Northwest Advisors and LPL Financial are all separate entities. Investment and insurance products: (I) are not deposits or other obligations of, nor are they guaranteed by, Northwest Bank or its operating units; (II) are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other agency of the United States or by Northwest Bank or its operating units; and (III) are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of value. Only deposit products offered by Northwest Bank are Member FDIC.
ON THE HILL | REDISTRICTING
Politicians in Black Robes Jezree Friend is the Association’s government relations representative and is responsible for developing legislative priorities and strategies; encouraging membership grassroots activities; and lobbying on behalf of a pro-growth, pro-business agenda. Contact him at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or jfriend@mbausa.org. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has created a new congressional map after a January 22 ruling on allegations of unfair districts due to gerrymandering. This happened after the Court decided none of the seven maps presented by the legislature, executive and citizen groups met their guidelines. Generally, gerrymandering is considered a political issue rather than a legal one, so there is no need for judicial involvement. In other words, although gerrymandering may, objectively, not be “fair” for some groups, it’s not illegal per se. However, given the timing of events and how they were carried out, the creation of PA’s new map has put the Court in the driver’s seat of what appears to be politics at play. Consider this: The PA Supreme Court gave the legislature a mere two-week timeline to create a new map and acquire approval by the governor. A successful agreement, given these
parameters, would be nothing short of historic and taught in college government classes as a political anomaly. Additionally, the Court’s hired gun, Stanford law professor Nathaniel Persily, was brought in on January 26 to draw the new map. For those keeping track, that’s four days after the ruling and two weeks before the legislature’s deadline. The matter becomes increasingly suspicious since majority opinion on the matter was not filed until February 7. If you’re counting, that’s two days before a new map was due. It provided no guidelines for an acceptable map other than it needed to be, “compact and contiguous, while containing roughly the same number of citizens.” One could argue the Court is setting us up for failure and the disingenuous nature of the timeline speaks for itself. This purposeful ambiguity and unrealistic timing were clear indicators of approaching unconstitutional actions. If the Court was not operating as a political actor, how has the previous map been in play for three election cycles without challenge? The Court even defied its own order by dividing communities and districts unnecessarily. Their obligation is to test the map against legal standards, just as it did when it approved the 2011 map. However, the Court wrote the law and self-determined its constitutionality. Given the Court’s actions, this is no longer a political problem but a legal issue. The Court blatantly usurped legislative authority as defined in Article
1 Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, which states, “The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof... .” The sequence of events and actors who implemented the new map, has led legal scholars to assert constitutional overreach and a violation of the established checks and balances. Two separate lawsuits opposing the new map were filed in federal court. Supporters of the new map continued to implore a disregard for constitutional protections and maintained the decision based on emotion. A common argument included a call to subjective fairness with complete contempt for the process. The law matters, and constitutional safety nets were established to prevent these precise actions. On the afternoon of March 19, the day before U.S. House nomination petitions were due, a federal three-judge panel hearing the first lawsuit, which was brought on by eight U.S. Congressmen, refused to issue a preliminary injunction. Mere hours later, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered the final blow. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito ruled the application for a stay would not be heard by the land’s highest court. It’s official, the map created by Pennsylvania’s judicial branch will remain — at least until the next census in two years. The lesson to be learned: Voting matters. Elections have consequences. And, yes, even your vote counts. mbabizmag.com • APRIL 2018
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LORD - uploaded
HR CONNECTION | WORKPLACE TRENDS SURVEY: MEN SEE WORKPLACE DIFFERENTLY THAN WOMEN DO
Most men think gender bias in the workplace is less prevalent than a new study shows it is, and they’re also less likely than women to prioritize an even playing field, reports the Chicago Tribune.
The report was recently published in the 2017 Women in the Workplace study, conducted by McKinsey & Co. and LeanIn.org, the group founded by Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg. The study shows that almost half of men think that women are well-represented among the company’s top ranks, even though on average, only one in 10 senior leaders is female. Only a third of women agree.
Why Women Should Lead
Despite the challenging results of the study, which culled data from more than 200 companies and 70,000 employees, some executives and corporate leaders say they see positive change ahead.
Women are wired for leadership. Studies show females are naturally more participative, relational and empowering than their male counterparts. With these qualities being more in demand in today’s complex workforce, it’s not surprising that women who earn leadership positions do well.
“We do see tremendous evidence that leadership is hungry for diversity,” said Susan McLaughlin, a partner at executive search firm Pierce Consulting Partners and board chair of C200, a Chicago-based leadership group for women in business.
In a recent Zenger Folkman 360-degree study of 16,000 leaders, women were perceived to be more effective than their male counterparts in 12 of 16 leadership competencies and nearly every field, including male-leaning areas such as operations, information technology and sales. According to the study, the perceived effectiveness gap also existed at all levels of leadership. In fact, the higher women climb through the ranks, the wider the spread.
Sixty-three percent of men and 49 percent of women say their company is doing enough to improve gender diversity in the workplace, according to the McKinsey study.
With females comprising 47 percent of the total workforce, one may expect that the numbers of men and women in leadership roles would also be equal. However, only 3 to 4 percent of CEOs, 14 percent of senior executives, 26 percent of vice presidents and 30 percent of managers are women.
DATA SHOWS MILLENNIAL WOMEN ARE DOMINATING JOB MARKET
According to a report in Inc.com, in recent years, millennial women have surged ahead of many of their male counterparts when it comes to the job market.
Why this gap exists is debatable. Some argue poor selection and promotion practices, while others point at the lack of opportunities beginning in childhood. While these areas should be explored and addressed, another obstacle was highlighted in a 2012 McKinsey study. The findings revealed that the desire for advancement was less in women than men, both for single-step advancement (69 percent women, 74 percent men) and for C-level leadership roles (18 percent women, 36 percent men).
A recent U.S. Census Bureau analysis shows that as more young women obtained college degrees, delayed having children and joined the workforce, they edged out millennial men for better-paying jobs. More than a third of young women today have a college degree or higher compared to less than a quarter of young women in 1975. And 57 percent of them have full-time, year-round jobs now, compared to just 46 percent in 1975.
Some believe that women’s self-elimination has been caused by a lack of self-efficacy— one’s belief that he or she can influence events in a situation or task like leadership. However, by addressing its four sources — mastery experience, modelling, feedback from others and psychological response — self-efficacy can be increased. Practically speaking, women can increase their self-efficacy by participating in leadership training and coaching, establishing mentoring relationships with effective women leaders and increasing their emotional intelligence. One of the easiest first steps is registering for a course, such as the MBA’s Women in Leadership. This daylong course provides attendees leadership education and skills while discussing how to get the most out of a mentoring relationship and effective networking techniques. To learn more or to register, visit www.mbausa.org!
Meghan Waskiewicz has taught traditional and adult students for the last decade at the Manufacturer and Business Association and formally at Mercyhurst University where she served as assistant professor and chair of the Communication Department. She is currently a partner at The Waskey Group.
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LEGAL Q&A | GET ANSWERS CAN WE OFFER DIFFERENT BENEFITS TO DIFFERENT EMPLOYEES?
Yes. Employers have discretion when designing their benefit plans and can make eligibility distinctions. These differences should only be based on a bona fide employment-based reason and applied to all similarly situated employees. Examples of employment-based reasons include tenure, full/ part-time status, exempt/nonexempt status or geographic location.
DO WE REALLY NEED AN EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK?
Having an employee handbook is strongly recommended, regardless of company size. Wellcrafted employee handbooks are the foundation for effective HR management and compliance and can be a highly effective way to reduce your organization’s risk for failure to comply with appropriate laws and regulations. A handbook sets expectations by explaining to your employees what you expect of them and what they can expect of you. It provides general guidelines for employees to operate under, promotes treating employees with fair and consistent practices, and describes employee benefits.
DOL Revises Unpaid Internship Test Since 2010, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) used a six-factor test to determine whether an intern was an employee. Only if an intern satisfied all six factors could the intern be unpaid. This test was firmly applied by the DOL and led to many lawsuits challenging employer classification of unpaid interns.
IF AN EMPLOYEE RESIGNS WITH TWOWEEKS’ NOTICE AND WE TELL THE EMPLOYEE TO LEAVE PRIOR TO THE END OF THAT PERIOD, ARE WE OBLIGATED TO PAY THE EMPLOYEE FOR THE FULL TWO WEEKS?
On January 5, the DOL replaced the six-factor test with the “primary beneficiary” test that several federal appeals courts have adopted. This new test requires a determination of whether the employer or the intern is the primary beneficiary of the relationship. If the employer is the primary beneficiary, the intern must be paid, but if the intern is the primary beneficiary, the intern may be unpaid. The new test includes consideration of the following factors: • Both parties understand that the intern is not entitled to compensation. • The internship provides training that would be given in an educational environment. • The intern’s completion of the program entitles him or her to academic credit. • The internship corresponds with the academic calendar. • The internship’s duration is limited to the period when the internship educates the intern. • The intern’s work complements rather than displaces the work of paid employees while providing significant educational benefits. • The intern and the employer understand that the internship is conducted without entitlement to a paid job at the internship’s end. The primary beneficiary test is more flexible than the 2010 six-factor test because, under the primary beneficiary test, no single factor is dispositive. Instead, and as noted in the DOL’s updated Fact Sheet #71: Internship Programs Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), “whether an intern or student is an employee under the FLSA necessarily depends on the unique circumstances of each case.” However, employers are cautioned that, while the new test is less stringent, unpaid interns, no matter how willing they are to work for free, are not a substitute for paid employees.
Generally no, but it is good business practice to pay them. Employers often have legitimate reasons for wanting an employee to stop working immediately, such as concerns about security or reduced productivity.
There are two important reasons to pay for the two weeks. First, telling the employee to leave after giving notice can turn a voluntary resignation into an involuntary termination, likely making the employee eligible for unemployment compensation benefits. Second, from an employee relations standpoint, terminating employees on the spot when they give their two-weeks’ notice sends a negative message to other employees. If other employees give notice as requested, they may be terminated immediately, so it is unlikely they will provide advance notice of resignations in the future.
Tammy Lamary-Toman, JD, PHR, SHRM-CP, is vice president and employment counsel for the Manufacturer & Business Association.
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EVENTS & EXTRAS | RECOGNITION CEREMONIES
2017-2018 Training Graduates The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) recently held a series of luncheons to recognize the graduates of its HR and professional development training programs. Visit www.mbabizmag.com for complete photo coverage and www.mbausa.org for information on upcoming MBA training courses.
HR Essential Certification Series — Erie
From left: Rachael Bombardier, Polymer Molding Inc. and Robyn Hopper, Manufacturer & Business Association HR specialist and trainer.
HR Essential Certification Series — Erie
From left: Ed Barrett, Charter Plastic, Inc.; Heather Sayers, Family Services of NWPA; Kathy Fenstermacher, Provider Resources, Inc.; and Manufacturer & Business Association HR Specialist and Trainer Robyn Hopper.
HR Essential Certification Series — Erie
HR Essential Certification Series — Erie
From left: Manufacturer & Business Association HR Specialist and Trainer Robyn Hopper and Jayme Turos, Erie Insurance Group.
Lean/Six Sigma — Erie
From left: Jessica Holder and Eric Henneberry, The Plastek Group, and Ray Davis, Manufacturer & Business Association instructor.
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Front row, from left: Wendy Grafius, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine; Kathy Weing, Erie Insurance; Jayme Turos, Erie Insurance; Kelli Kaliszewski, Medical Associates of Erie; Jennifer Tsudy, Manufacturer & Business Association HR specialist and trainer; and, Diana Wilkosz, Peters’ Heat Treating, Inc. Back row, from left: Kerry Lewis, Sepco-Erie; Amy Godwin, Pipeline Systems Inc.; Angela Calkins, Hanes Erie, Inc.; Holly Kightlinger, Meadville Forging Company; Cindy Grzegorzewski, Erie Forge and Steel Inc.; and, Suzanne Ross, Gaudenzia Erie, Inc.
Lean/Six Sigma — Erie
From left: MBA Instructor Ray Davis and Charles Doritty, AirBorn.
Leadership for Team Leaders — Erie
Front row, from left: Curtis Quiggle, Superior Tire & Rubber Corp.; Eryn Schaefer, Whole Foods Cooperative; Tammy Learn, Heatron Inc.; Debbie McMichael, Whole Foods Cooperative; Danielle Miklovic, Heatron Inc.; Linda Lyons, Whole Foods Cooperative; and, Sara Shadle, Heatron Inc. Second row, from left: Terry Molek, Betts Ind.; Jonah Hordusky, Superior Tire & Rubber Corp.; James West, Polymer Molding; Brian Kerns, Erie Bronze & Aluminum; Kris Willis, Fostermation, Inc.; Ben Bowman, Whole Foods Cooperative; and, Tiffany Bess, Seaway Manufacturing Corporation. Back row, from left: Ron Grant, Betts Industries; Anita Sundean, Whole Foods Cooperative; Ashley Canby, Rehrig Pacific; Justin Tapper, Whole Foods Cooperative; Kimberly Manno, Heatron Inc.; Melanie Lingenfelter, Heatron Inc.; Joe Kisiel, Modern Industries, Inc.; Sheri Taylor, Heatron Inc.; Candy Vinopal, Betts Industries Inc.; and, Beau McKown, Superior Tire & Rubber Corp.
Computer Software Specialist — Erie
Front row, from left: Christine DiLuzio, Manufacturer & Business Association; Amber Gabel, Ainsworth Pet Nutrition; Brittney Skrzypczak, Glenwood Beer; and, Lori Spizarny, Millcreek Township School District. Back row, from left: John Milewski, Kane Innovations; Anne Pettinato, Chivers Construction; and, Jennifer Hewitt, Millcreek Township School District.
Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Meadville
Front row, from left: Anna Jacinto, Molded Fiberglass Tray; John Beers, C&J Industries; Paul Gorlowski, Silgan Plastics; Corrina Woods, Youth Alternatives of Oil City; and, Tami Boylan, Active Aging. Back row, from left: Don Kurhan, Molded Fiberglass Tray; Joe Peters, C&J Industries; Frank Shields, C&J Industries; Richard Chase, Darrold English and Shawn Gerow, Greenleaf Corporation; and, Michael Pisano, Ellwood Steel.
Leadership for Team Series — Erie
Front row, from left: Michelle Russin and Patty Tufts, AirBorn; Heidi Prindle, Modern Industries; Phyllis Reese, LCBA; Ashlee Root, Medicor Associates; and, Cynthia Carr, Associated Clinical Laboratories. Back row, from left: Pam Parmerter, AirBorn; Douglas Brown, Signal-Tech; Lisa Depane, Associated Clinical Laboratories; Patrick Farnham, EPC Powder Manufacturing; Lora Ormsbee, Associated Clinical Laboratories; Derek Walsh, Industries Sales & Mfg; and, Mary Pohl, Associated Clinical Laboratories.
Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Erie
Front row, from left: William Snyder, Ridg-U-Rak Inc.; Adam Boyd, Ridg-U-Rak Inc.; Brian Brooks, PHB Inc.; and, Bruno Zaffino, Erie Water Works. Back row, from left: Kathy Chandley, Medicor Associates Inc.; Kimberly LeCorchick, Marquette Savings Bank; Theresa Jordan, Stairways Behavioral Health; and, Amanda Gardner, Medicor Associates Inc.
Certified Supervisory Skills Series — Erie
Front row, from left: Joe Swiderski, Rehrig Pacific; Ken Monnolly, Cristal; Alan Brewer, Superior Tire & Rubber Corporation; Ken Sweeney, Heatron Inc.; Kyle Fiolek, PHB Inc.; and, David Turner, Accudyn Products Inc. Front row, from left: Aleisha Thomas, Tendto Credit Union; Jennifer Brownlee, Community Blood Bank of Erie County; Sara Macerata, Community Blood Bank of Erie County; Norman Platz, PHB Inc; Brandon Lewis, Polymer Molding Inc.; and, Jessica Holder, Plastek Industries Inc.
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A TRUSTED PARTNER Serving our members’ energy needs since 2009! Judy Rosatti Manufacturer & Business Association EnergyAdvisors Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 jrosatti@mbausa.org
CONFIDENCE That It’s Done Right
In the event of a major loss, your insurance policy could be your most important asset. “When it comes to insurance…we feel we finally have a company which actually analyzes every year what we need…versus one that just rubber stamps an updated old policy and wants us to play golf.” Jay Baker, President Jamestown Plastics, Inc.
“The Bloomstines”
Commercial, Industrial & Institutional Property, Liability & Workers’ Compensation Insurance Agents Lloyd’s London Correspondents and Correspondent Brokers Worldwide 123 West 9th Street Erie, PA 16501 814-452-3200 www.imcerie.com e-mail: john.bloomstine@imcerie.com
The right choice for generations...
Four Affiliated Locations
Upcoming Chapter Events/Tours: F U N E R A L H O M E S & C R E M AT O R Y, I N C .
April 24, 3-5pm at Wendel August Forge- Grove City June 28, 3-5pm at Presque Isle State Park- Erie For more information: Sarah Brooks at sbrooks@tcfpe.org www.womeninmanufacturing.org
Easy Pre-planning / Free Assistance
Karen Burton Horstman Supervisor 814-454-4551 BurtonFuneralHomes.com
Leaders In Quality And Service Since 1876
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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ERIE, PA PERMIT #199
When the happiness of your employees depends on the network of your health plan, choose us.
The success of any organization depends greatly on the health and happiness of its employees. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right health coverage. With UPMC Health Plan, your employees get affordable in-network access to the doctors and hospitals they trust. And you get a health plan that makes sense for your company. Call your producer or visit www.upmchealthplan.com/employer
Network
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Choose the Best UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the J.D. Power 2016-2017 U.S. MemberHealth Plan Studies. 2017 Study based on 33,624 total responses from 8 commercial health plans in Pennsylvania measuring experiences and perceptions of members surveyed January 2017 - March 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. 2017 Best Doctors listing, Best Doctors, Inc. Go to upmchealthplan.com/BEST