Focusing on the supply chain, CAVS-E and MMA-MEP held discussions and provided resources to Mississippi manufacturers at the most recent Best Practices event. Tonya McCall, CAVS-E director, introduced the Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network (SCOIN) program, a comprehensive network funded by NIST MEP supporting supplier scouting services and manufacturing ecosystems to stimulate the growth of the U.S. supply base. Billy Peacock, CAVS-E associate director, held a discussion on supply chain issues, opportunities, and best practices. Manufacturers participating in the event voiced their challenges and concerns regarding supply chain management and strategies. Sandy Crist, Executive Director of the Mississippi Manufacturers Association-Manufacturing Extension Partnership, shared information with the group about the CONNEX™ online supplier capabilities database and MMA-MEP's role in the national network to help grow the state's manufacturing industry. The CONNEX™ platform allows Mississippi manufacturers to search and find qualified regional suppliers by certifications, equipment, services, location, materials, and more, as well as locating new business opportunities and responding to requests and other unique needs posted by other manufacturers.
These continuous best practices events facilitate networking opportunities, enabling companies to share their most effective operational approaches with fellow manufacturers through on-site visits at manufacturing facilities.
