Wyoming Production Program Begins | News | So Good News

October 3 2022

The University of Wyoming and other partners last week launched a new program called CONNEX™ Wyoming designed to strengthen the state’s local and domestic manufacturing supply chain.

“We’ve opened the door to manufacturing opportunities in Wyoming,” said Mark Gordon, administrator of the inaugural event at L&H Industrial Park in Sheridan.

Through the CONNEX platform; Wyoming producers can better connect with each other; Finding local suppliers; Discover new business opportunities and manage their supply chain.

The platform is part of the national CONNEX Marketplace program, which is rolling out across the country to address manufacturing supply chain issues and create more manufacturing opportunities for US suppliers. The CONNEX Wyoming platform allows larger manufacturers to post information requests and quotes in the platform’s B2B Exchange Center and identify Wyoming suppliers that can meet their needs. Small and medium-sized Wyoming suppliers are improving their capabilities; equipment, processes; materials, can increase their discoverability based on signatures and more; This can lead to manufacturing opportunities in new markets.

“We’re in front of Northrop Grumman,” said Mike Wandler, CEO of L&H Industrial. One of our employees came across the CONNEX Marketplace, so we signed up and filled out our profile to see if we might be a good fit for Northrop. CONNEX called us and said we were a real match and Northrop wanted to meet us. Shortly thereafter, the first contracts were awarded to Northrop Grumman.

“Using CONNEX to connect buyers and suppliers is great for Wyoming. Because it’s too expensive to make phone calls only to have the door slammed in your face. Just knock on the door. It is an audience that truly cares about the diversity and growth of our Wyoming economy and provides resources like CONNEX to help that happen,” concluded Wandler.

CONNEX Wyoming is open to all small and large manufacturers in any manufacturing industry. Producers (verified as producers) must be approved to participate; Once they are approved, The program is free for Wyoming companies. This free access to the Wyoming Manufacturing Works office; UW The platform is supported by the Wyoming Business Council and the Wyoming Innovation Partnership.

“CONNEX Marketplace is another example of our commitment to providing Wyoming manufacturers with access to resources to ensure a productive, efficient and resilient manufacturing community,” said Steve Farkas, UW’s associate vice president for economic development.

CONNEX Marketplace technology was developed several years ago by i5 Services to connect the US manufacturing supply chain. It is now used by manufacturers and suppliers across the country to connect with each other and find new business opportunities. Wyoming is Florida; Kansas, Michigan, Missouri Oklahoma, Tennessee It is the ninth state to launch the CONNEX Marketplace platform, along with the West Texas region and Utah. In each state, It is managed by the state’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) office to provide a coordinated approach and training for users. In Wyoming, the MEP organization is called Manufacturing Works and is led by its director, Rocky Case.

Started with a free registration starter program for Wyoming manufacturers and suppliers. Those interested can register and get information at https://manufacturing-works.com/connex-wyoming/. They can email Case at [email protected] or call (307) 766-4812 with questions.

About manufacturing

Manufacturing Works, part of the UW’s Business Resource Network, is a member of the National Institute of Standards and Technology MEP National Network. The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive, proven solutions to U.S. manufacturers, driving growth and improving U.S. manufacturing. It is focused on helping small and medium-sized manufacturers deliver business results and thrive in today’s technology-driven economy.

About CONNEX Marketplace from i5 Services

Founded in 2015, CONNEX Marketplace brings together US manufacturers; equipment, suppliers and buyers; Based on deep data such as signatures and capabilities, accurate, A SaaS platform that connects to a searchable supply chain database. Manufacturers and suppliers can quickly post and respond to requirements; can visualize supply chain risk; Find qualified suppliers and find new business opportunities instantly.

About L&H Industries

Founded in 1964 and headquartered in Gillette, L&H Industrial is engaged in mining, oil and natural gas; It is a leader in technological innovations for customized manufacturing and comprehensive services for heavy industry applications in railway and other industries.

About the University of Wyoming Office of Research and Economic Development

The Office of Research and Business Development is responsible for faculty and staff at all seven colleges. Research UW’s outreach programs to staff and students; A center for linking technology transfer and economic development efforts; Research to increase state and private sector support; Link technology transfer and economic development efforts.