MACNY Convenes Industry Leaders and Legislators at Annual Legislative Breakfast to Discuss Key Issues Impacting Manufacturers Across the State

Date: October 16, 2025

Yesterday, MACNY hosted its Annual Legislative Breakfast at the Doubletree Hotel in East Syracuse. In attendance were key stakeholders, industry leaders, and legislators. Distinguished panelists convened for a meaningful discussion on workforce, economic development, and energy issues — essential to Building Tomorrow, Together, through competitiveness, innovation, and growth in manufacturing.

Experts on the panel included:

  • Alberto Bianchetti, Regional Director of External and Customer Affairs, CNY, at National Grid
  • Susan Cole, State Government Affairs, Novelis North America
  • Joanne Fernandez, Director, U.S. State Government Affairs at Corning Incorporated
  • Vlad Gutman-Britten, Director, Policy & Analysis at New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)

“Manufacturers are the backbone of New York’s economy, and energy is central to their ability to remain competitive and grow,” said Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY. “Today’s discussion brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to address the challenges and opportunities we face around workforce, economic development, and energy policy. By working collaboratively with our elected officials, we can ensure that manufacturers continue to innovate, invest, and create jobs that strengthen communities across our state.”

The event also included a meet-and-greet with state and federal elected officials, a presentation on MACNY’s key legislative priorities, and an energy-focused panel discussion. The primary objective of this event is to share success stories and highlight legislative and policy issues impacting the manufacturing industry in Central New York and beyond.

For over a century, MACNY has provided the manufacturing sector with a collective and focused voice when advocating for pertinent issues. Its member-driven advocacy efforts help drive the statewide manufacturing agenda both in Washington and Albany, allowing its members to engage with and build valuable relationships with lawmakers, advance key policy issues through pro-manufacturing and business legislation and awareness, and support pro-manufacturing and business candidates throughout the state and federal election process.

To learn more about MACNY’s statewide advocacy efforts, visit https://www.macny.org/advocacy/.