PHILADELPHIA, PA - September 10, 2024 - The Philadelphia Flag of the Pennsylvania Talent Pipeline Program launched its 2024 to 2026 Team Kickoff at the Hilton Philadelphia at Penns Landing. Sponsored by Matt Sermon, Executive Director of Program Executive Office Strategic Submarines and Philadelphia Flag Sponsor, the event united key players in the defense manufacturing industry.

The Philadelphia Flag, encompassing central and southeast Pennsylvania, and central and southern New Jersey, represents a network of 76 manufacturers and defense-connected businesses. These companies are vital to the defense supply chain, providing products in steel, electronics, parts, and other critical areas.

The kickoff event, themed "We are bigger and better as a TEAM helping each other," emphasized collaboration, mutual support and commitment to the program. This aligns with the Talent Pipeline Programs pledge to fostering a strong, interconnected defense manufacturing ecosystem.

Each year, an employer partner is selected as a best practice model, receiving comprehensive tools to enhance talent acquisition and retention, ultimately strengthening their business. These models share their journey to inspire others. The event showcased the Best Practice Model Employers:

• 2023: Pennsylvania Machine Works

• 2024: Precision Custom Components

These leaders shared their inspiring journeys, past and present.

The "Teammate of the Day" recognition highlights Partners that are actively engaged and have made significant contributions in the Talent Pipeline Program between each milestone event as a token of recognition and appreciation.

• Mark Broich, Bearon Manufacturing

• Leslie DiNapoli, Superior Tube

Matt Sermon stated, "This kickoff event demonstrates the strength of our defense manufacturing community. By working together, we're not just improving individual businesses, but strengthening our entire regional defense industry."

The Philadelphia Talent Pipeline continues to enhance the region's defense manufacturing capabilities, ensure a skilled workforce, and foster industry collaboration.

For more information: dibtalentpipeline.com

About Philadelphia Talent Pipeline: The Philadelphia Talent Pipeline fosters growth, innovation, and collaboration in the defense manufacturing sector across central and southeast Pennsylvania, and central and southern New Jersey. By connecting manufacturers, facilitating best practices, and promoting teamwork, it enhances the region's competitiveness in the defense industry.

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