MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, has announced the addition of six new team members across various sectors including human resources, workforce development, government relations, and public policy. This expansion aims to enhance the organization’s capacity to support local manufacturers in Central and Upstate New York.
Bill Brower joins MACNY as the director of public policy and community impact. With decades of leadership experience in higher education, philanthropy, and community development, Brower will collaborate with manufacturers, elected officials, educators, and community partners. His previous roles involved significant fundraising efforts, helping to raise hundreds of millions of dollars for institutions such as Hamilton College and SUNY Geneseo. He has a proven track record of connecting underserved populations to career pathways and technology training, making him well-suited to influence public policy in the region’s growing advanced manufacturing and semiconductor sectors.
In the role of government relations specialist, Courtney Kless will serve as a vital link between MACNY, its members, and government officials at all levels. Kless brings a background in editorial leadership and higher education, along with skills in strategic communications and relationship-building. She will advocate for MACNY’s policy priorities and engage stakeholders on issues affecting the manufacturing sector.
Adrianna Patzer, another new hire, will focus on workforce development as a workforce development specialist. She will support the growth of MACNY’s registered apprenticeship programs in the Central New York region. Her responsibilities will include promoting apprenticeship opportunities and providing technical guidance to address workforce challenges in emerging industries.
Following Patzer, Meriel Stokoe will also take on the role of workforce development specialist, specifically supporting direct entry pre-apprenticeship programs. Stokoe will work closely with employers and educators to enhance apprenticeship-aligned career pathways, ensuring robust participation from local businesses.
Joining the team as a workforce development specialist, Sarah Snyder brings a background in public health and government operations. Snyder will assist with pre-apprenticeship programming, utilizing her project management skills to facilitate program implementation and participant enrollment.
Lastly, Colette Emmons has been appointed as human relations manager. With over 15 years of experience in human resources within the manufacturing, healthcare, and insurance sectors, Emmons will oversee both strategic and operational HR functions. Her responsibilities will include recruitment, employee development, performance management, and compliance.
MACNY, a nonprofit organization with a history spanning over 113 years, aims to represent and support manufacturers throughout Central and Upstate New York. The recent additions to its team reflect the association’s commitment to enhancing workforce development and advocating for vital industry policies in the region.
