At A Glance: MI2's First Two Years

MI2 launched two years ago, marking the beginning of a journey to position Kentucky as a leader in metals innovation and sustainable manufacturing. Through partnerships, groundbreaking projects, and a focus on talent development, MI2 has achieved several milestones that highlight its commitment to driving progress in the metals industry. Here’s a look back at some of the key accomplishments from the past two years.

MI2 began with the collaboration of eight metals companies and the Kentucky government, hosting its inaugural retreat at Western Kentucky University (WKU). This gathering set the tone for a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities within the metals sector.

Talent and Workforce Development

Recognizing the need to build a robust pipeline of future talent, MI2 launched several initiatives aimed at attracting and developing the workforce:

• Talent & Workforce Attraction Projects: Engaging K-12 students to inspire interest in metals-related careers.
• Partnership with UofL College of Business: Facilitating metals-focused class projects to connect academia with industry needs.
• First Metals Collaborative with the Kentucky Chamber Talent Pipeline Management Program: A coordinated effort to align workforce strategies across the industry.
• KentuckyWORCS Pilot Workforce Solution: An innovative program that earned MI2 a U.S. Department of Energy prize, highlighting its impact on workforce development.

Industry Leadership and Collaboration

MI2 has fostered a culture of collaboration by connecting industry leaders, government officials, and academia:

• Metals Industry Guide: Published in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, this guide serves as a comprehensive resource for stakeholders.
• Metals Executive Roundtable: Hosted in Frankfort with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to address critical industry topics.
• 2023 Factory of the Future Conference: Held in Louisville, KY, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in manufacturing technology for the Kentucky metals manufacturing industry and downstream manufacturing customers.
• First-Ever Kentucky Industry Conference: Partnering with GAME Change and the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM), MI2 brought together 450 attendees to discuss the future of the metals industry.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives

MI2 spearheaded projects that prioritize innovation and environmental sustainability:

• Waste Heat Capture and Non-Diesel Fork Truck Pilot Projects: Collaborating with member companies to explore cleaner energy solutions.
• Clean Energy Plan: Initiating a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop a roadmap for clean energy adoption in the metals industry.
• GAME Change Circular Economy Initiatives: Partnering with the University of Kentucky (UK) to promote sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Nationwide Metals Innovation Searches: Conducting two searches to identify and support innovative solutions for the metals sector.

As MI2 reflects on two years of progress, it remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen Kentucky’s position in the global metals industry. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and workforce development, MI2 is set up for a successful year three.