WHEELING, W.Va. ‒ The West Virginia Manufacturers Association (WVMA) drew at least 200 people to Oglebay Resort in Wheeling May 1-2 for its 2023 Manufacturing and Energy Growth Summit (MEGS).

The conference featured a wide variety of presenters who discussed everything from nuclear energy and hydrogen storage to business recruitment and workforce development for the manufacturing industry.

“I could not be happier with how everything went this year. Over two days we heard from some of the most knowledgeable people in this country about what is happening in manufacturing and energy development in West Virginia,” WVMA President Rebecca McPhail said. “The progress being made to position this state as a true leader in an all-of-the-above energy policy is impressive and inspiring. And the opportunities to keep growing and diversifying our manufacturing base are seemingly endless. It’s an exciting time to be a West Virginian.”

Some of the featured speakers during MEGS included Dr. Brian Anderson of the National Energy Technology Laboratory, Samantha Beers from the US Environmental Protection Agency, Josh Young from the American Chemistry Council, plus representatives from the West Virginia Department of Economic Development and companies that are investing in West Virginia such as FORM Energy and Commercial Metals Company.

“The breadth and depth of information and caliber of speakers at MEGS this year was unparalleled,” McPhail said. “We learned howhigher education can create a customized workforce for an employer and how we can engage with federal agencies to improve our development efforts. We also heard incredible success stories about how West Virginia is winning the battle for new investment. At the same time, we were able to showcase the city of Wheeling and the beautiful Oglebay Resort to a multi-state audience.”

For more information about WVMEGS 2023, visit www.wvmegs.com.