2025 Kentucky Manufacturers Day at The Capitol

In February, we were proud to participate in Kentucky Manufacturers Day at the Capitol, where industry leaders, legislators, and advocates came together to discuss the key challenges and opportunities facing Kentucky’s manufacturing sector. This annual event provides a crucial platform for manufacturers to engage directly with policymakers, ensuring that the voices of industry leaders are heard at the highest levels of state government.

Throughout the day, our CEO, Mike Buckentin, and our CIO, Vijay Kamineni, had the opportunity to meet with state legislators and Governor Andy Beshear to discuss the impact of manufacturing on Kentucky’s economy and workforce. These conversations reinforced the importance of collaboration between industry and government to drive innovation, workforce development, and economic growth.

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MI2 CEO Mike Buckentin[/caption]

"Manufacturers Day at the Capitol is an invaluable opportunity to ensure that Kentucky’s policymakers understand the needs and priorities of our industry," said Mike Buckentin, CEO of MI2. "At MI2, we are committed to advancing innovation and strengthening Kentucky’s position as a leader in metals manufacturing. Engaging with the Kentucky Legislature and Governor Beshear allows us to advocate for policies that will support metals innovation, workforce development, supply chain excellence, and access to reliable, affordable energy — key drivers of our members."

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Governor Andy Beshear[/caption]

A press conference was also held at the State Capitol, where MI2 joined Kentucky Association of Manufacturers leaders and executives, along with Governor Beshear, to highlight the significance of manufacturing in Kentucky and announce the kickoff of the KAM 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky Tournament. This tournament celebrates the vast array of products crafted across the state and the hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians behind them.

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Kentucky Manufacturers Day Press Conference with Governor Beshear[/caption]

Following this impactful day at the Capitol, we wrapped up with the Kentucky Industry Legislative Reception, co-hosted with our partners at Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Kentuckians for Better Transportation (KBT), Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED), AGC of Kentucky, and World Trade Center Kentucky. This event brought together industry stakeholders, policymakers, and key decision-makers to continue the conversations from earlier in the day. We were honored to hear from Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman, who spoke about the importance of supporting Kentucky’s manufacturing and business community.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to advocating for policies that support manufacturing growth, job creation, and a strong economic future for Kentucky. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important day—we look forward to continuing this momentum throughout the year!

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Manufacturers Day Legislative Reception[/caption]