CONTENTS

08 FROM THE PRESIDENT

14 ECONOMIC INDICATORS

18 2025 CHAMBER SUPPORTERS

VOICE OF BUSINESS ------------------------------------

20  DAYTON RETURNS TO THE GLOBAL STAGE

24  LOCAL BUSINESSES, LOCAL IMPACT

28  GLOBAL IMPACT OF THE MANUFACTURING BELT

CHAMBER ACADEMY ----------------------------------

32  TRAINING TOMORROW'S REGIONAL WORKFORCE

34  INVESTING IN INNOVATION

38  LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

40  CHAMBER MEMBER SAVINGS

41 VOLUNTEERS OF tHE QUARTER

45  MEMBER SEARCH

SEE OUR PREMIER SPONSORS ---------------

INSIDE FRONT COVER: BUTLER TECH

BACK COVER: HOLLYWOOD GAMING

DAYTON TO HOST NATO OFFICIALS IN 2025

Last Year, Dayton’s Congressman Mike Turner, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, local government officials and business leaders gathered at the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce offices to announce the 2025 Spring Session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly will be held in Dayton, Ohio. NATO PA’s Spring Session hosted here will highlight the significant role that Dayton has and continues to play as an international peace agent and defense leader. 

Mike Turner has always been a steadfast representative of the 10th Congressional District, but he also leveraged his position with NATO to bring the Assembly here. As the past president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and current Head of the US Delegation, Turner is in a position to help support NATO as they play an increasingly critical role in peace and protecting the political, economic and security interests of all of its 32 member nations. There is no better place for NATO and the world to carry out this mission, than in Dayton, Ohio in 2025.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the end of the war in Bosnia by the signing of the Dayton Peace Accords, which were negotiated at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in 1995. Hosting the 2025 NATO Parliament Assembly in Dayton will commemorate the Peace Accords’ anniversary and put the eyes of the world again on our region. 

The NATO Parliamentary Assembly has not been in the United States for over 20 years when it was last hosted in Orlando, Florida.  Most recently the NATO spring sessions were held in Sofia, Bulgaria and Montreal, Canada.

When the NATO Parliamentary Assembly comes to Dayton over Memorial Day weekend this year, it will bring almost 1,000 international dignitaries, their staff and families, US Department of State officials, media and the attention of the world. The Dayton International Airport will receive travelers from around the globe; while local hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and retail stores will see a welcome Memorial Day weekend economic influx. Additionally, in February Congressman Turner announced that the world renowned Sarajevo Orchestra will be traveling to Dayton for this NATO event and putting on a “Concert for Peace” for the Dayton community.

There is also an intangible impact and experience that will occur for the international visitors here in Dayton. While these NATO events have been held in larger cities in the past, hosting the NATO assembly in Dayton will give participants insight and exposure to “Main Street USA” and the Midwestern values we live every day. NATO attendees will see and experience hardworking Dayton area businesses and people that are truly the heartbeat of America. They will see localized impact of their decisions; they will experience a community that has redefined itself and is realizing a historic economic revival. Everything we do as a community and every experience they have, will be a story they will take home.

Dayton will continue to be at the center of international peace, diplomacy and economic growth.

Chris Kershner

President & CEO

Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce

"Everything we do as a community and every experience they have, will be a story they will take home."

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

In This Edition

Cost of Living Index

Sales Tax Collections

Consumer Price Index

Residential Home Sales

Labor Force Participation Rates

Unemployment Rates

Meet our 2025 Chamber Supporters

•  Accuserve

•  Adare Pharma Solutions

•  Altafiber

•  Billerud

•  CenterPoint Energy

•  Charter Communications/Spectrum

•  City of Dayton

•  CityWide Development Corp.

•  Dayton Children’s

•  Dayton Freight Lines, Inc.

•  Deloitte

•  DHL Supply Chain

•  Energizer Holdings, Inc.

•  Henny Penny

•  Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway

•  Honda Development & Manufacturing of America

•  Huntington National Bank

•  Kroger Co.

•  LexisNexis

•  Montgomery County

•  Nidec Minster Corporation

•  Norwood Medical

•  PSA Airlines

•  Reynolds and Reynolds

•  Sheetz

•  Soin LLC

•  Taylor Communications

•  Trimble, Inc.

•  University of Dayton

•  United Church Homes, Inc.

•  WesBanco Bank, Inc.

•  Western Governors University

•  Wright State University

DAYTON RETURNS TO THE GLOBAL STAGE

Hosting the 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly

The Dayton region is no stranger to international affairs. The Dayton Peace Accords that ended the Bosnian War, signed in December 1995, are a landmark in international diplomacy and a defining moment in history. Negotiated at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the accords effectively ended the Bosnian War.

The choice of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base as the venue was no accident. Its relative isolation provided a neutral, secure environment conducive to intense negotiations, while its connection to U.S. military strength underscored the gravity of the discussions. The Dayton region became a symbol of reconciliation and the power of diplomacy.

In June 2024, Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10), head of the U.S. delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, joined by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Montgomery County Commissioner Deborah Lieberman and Dayton City Commissioner Chris Shaw, announced that Dayton will be the host city for the 2025 Spring Session of the Assembly during the Memorial Day weekend. Once again, the Dayton region will be on the international stage. In an era of globalization and complex geopolitical challenges, the Dayton region’s contribution exemplifies how local communities can influence global outcomes.

In October, following the announcement, venues were revealed. The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center and CareSource properties, key arts and business community regional leaders, will host the proceedings. The potential economic impact of such an occasion cannot be overstated. The effects range from tangibles such as boosts to tourism and hospitality, security, government and infrastructure investment, to intangibles such as increased exposure for the Dayton region and educational and civic engagement, not to mention the long-term networking opportunities to follow.

Any occasion such as this requires a symbol, an identifier, to mark the moment’s significance. In conjunction with the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Dayton Daily News, Congressman Turner’s office held a logo design contest. Many artists from the region submitted designs and Kim Swigart was chosen as the contest winner. Swigart is the founder and Chief Creative Officer of the Springboro ad agency Design Hive. Her design was officially unveiled to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly during their 70th annual session held in Montreal.

The legacy of the Dayton Peace Accords endures, both in the Balkans and within the Dayton region itself. The area has embraced its identity as a hub for dialogue and conflict resolution, hosting institutions and events dedicated to peacebuilding.

Hosting the NATO Parliamentary Assembly paves the way for future opportunities to influence and shape international affairs. As our region prepares to welcome the world again, it underscores the vital role local communities can play in addressing global challenges and strengthening bonds between nations.

"Hosting the NATO Parliamentary Assembly paves the way for future opportunities to influence and shape international affairs."

LOCAL BUSINESSES, GLOBAL IMPACT

Success Stories from the Dayton Region

By Marc Sheforgen

The Dayton region continues to prove itself as a hub for innovation and global connectivity, with businesses such as Yaskawa Motoman and Fuyao Glass America leading the way.

These companies are not only contributing to the regional economy but also enhancing Dayton’s reputation as a center for advanced manufacturing and logistics. Their stories showcase the transformative power of local resources paired with a global vision.

Yaskawa Motoman, a division of the global Yaskawa Corporation, stands as a leader in industrial automation. With more than 600,000 robots installed worldwide, the company’s Miamisburg headquarters serves as the robotic hub for the Americas. According to Steve Barhorst, President and COO, Yaskawa Motoman has thrived in the region thanks to Dayton’s unique logistical and educational strengths.

“From a logistics standpoint, being close to the I-70 and I-75 interchange definitely facilitates our operations,” Barhorst said. “We can ship our product pretty much anywhere with lower-cost truck freight.”

The proximity to strong local universities and career development centers has also been pivotal.

“We’ve built partnerships with institutions that have robotics programs, allowing us to bring in and grow local talent,” Barhorst noted.

Yaskawa’s recent growth highlights its commitment to the region. In 2024, the company doubled its Miamisburg manufacturing facility, adding 185,000 square feet of production space through a $20 million investment.

“With advancements in AI and the growing demand for automation, the market is poised for significant growth,” Barhorst said.

Since opening its Moraine facility, Fuyao Glass America has become a cornerstone of the Dayton region’s manufacturing economy. With an investment exceeding $1 billion, Fuyao’s 2.5 million-square-foot facility is the largest single-unit automotive glass manufacturing plant in the world. It serves leading automotive brands across the United States while creating about 2,500 local jobs.

“Fuyao’s presence in the Dayton region is more than an investment – it’s a testament to the strength of partnership and shared vision,” said Amy Lei, Vice President of Fuyao Glass America. “Our new $300 million smart glass production facility for electric vehicles further cements Fuyao’s position as a leader in cutting-edge automotive technology.”

The company’s success is built on collaboration with state and local organizations, including JobsOhio, the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Moraine, according to Lei.

“Strong partnerships have played a pivotal role in building an ecosystem that supports innovation and resilience,” Lei emphasized.

Moraine’s strategic location has also been a critical factor.

“With access to major transportation routes and proximity to key markets, we can efficiently serve global automotive customers,” Lei said. “This allows us to remain agile in responding to market needs.”

Together, Yaskawa Motoman and Fuyao Glass America embody the Dayton region’s potential as a global economic powerhouse.

“We’re very excited about the future,” Barhorst said.

Lei echoed that sentiment, saying, “Fuyao’s journey proves that when global vision meets local opportunity, extraordinary things happen.”

“Fuyao’s presence in the Dayton region is more than an investment – it’s a testament to the strength of partnership and shared vision."

GLOBAL IMPACT OF THE MANUFACTURING BELT

Innovation from the Dayton Region

By Marc Sheforgen

The Dayton region’s manufacturing hubs are driving global upply chains, as seen with such companies as Henny Penny and Midmark Corporation. By combining innovative manufacturing technologies, strong regional logistics and a commitment to quality, these businesses are setting a high standard for excellence in their industries.

Based in Eaton, Henny Penny has long been a cornerstone of the global food service equipment industry. The company’s reputation for quality and innovation has earned it partnerships with some of the world’s largest fast-food chains, relationships that span more than 40 years.

“Henny Penny’s products ship to more than 140 countries from the Miami Valley,” said Tim Crammer, Vice President, Manufacturing. “Our Dayton regional suppliers play a critical part in meeting the global demand for our products and help put this region on the map for food service manufacturing.”

Modern manufacturing technologies are central to Henny Penny’s success. The company integrates LEAN practices to drive continuous improvements and utilizes advanced automation to enhance both product quality and employee safety.

The company is also making strides in connected systems, transitioning from predominantly mechanical products to software-driven models.

“We’re making strong inroads for all of our products to be connected, which will fundamentally change our company,” Crammer said. “The tools and systems we build need to not only be connected but also work with a support system that’s predictive and reliable and minimizes any downtime for our customers.”

Midmark Corporation, headquartered in Versailles, brings more than a century of expertise to the medical, dental and veterinary equipment sectors. The company’s philosophy of “better care by design” reflects its commitment to creating innovative solutions tailored to customer needs.

“This means prioritizing design features that ensure a seamless customer experience, effective workflows and ergonomics that promote comfort and safety for both health care providers and patients,” said Rob Sackett, Chief Operations Officer at Midmark.

Midmark leverages state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies to stay ahead in the industry. Recent investments include automated panel bending lines and robotic welding systems that enhance precision and efficiency.

“By leveraging our deep understanding of traditional part bending, we have optimized the efficiency and precision of this advanced technology,” Sackett said.

Midmark’s location further strengthens its global impact.

“Our centralized location allows us to reach close to 50 percent of our customers within one day,” Sackett noted.

Immediate access to major transportation corridors such as I-70 and I-75 is a significant asset for Dayton-area manufacturers. This logistical advantage enables companies such as Henny Penny and Midmark to efficiently ship products nationwide and internationally, bolstering their roles in global supply chains.

By combining advanced manufacturing practices with robust logistical networks, Dayton’s manufacturing hubs continue to set a high standard for innovation and economic impact. From state-of-the-art automation to design-driven solutions, companies such as Henny Penny and Midmark Corporation are ensuring that the region remains a key player on the global stage.

Timothy Crammer, Vice President, Manufacturing,
Henny Penny

Rob Sackett,
Chief Operations Officer, Midmark

By combining advanced manufacturing practices with robust logistical networks, Dayton’s manufacturing hubs continue to set a high standard for innovation and economic impact.

Training Tomorrow’s Regional Workforce

Leveraging Local Colleges for Global Opportunities

By Marc Sheforgen

In today’s interconnected, global economy, businesses require workforce resilience and skill building to be globally competitive. Fortunately, colleges across the Dayton region are equipping students with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in careers that cross borders. From Wright State University’s robust international programs to Clark State College’s problem-solving curriculum, these institutions are paving the way for a workforce prepared to help future employers compete on the world stage.

Wright State University prides itself on fostering an international mindset among its students, regardless of their career paths.

“This is now a global economy,” said Susan Schaurer, Wright State’s Vice President for Enrollment Management. “The likelihood is that students will engage with people from all around the world.”

A significant asset to this mission is Wright State’s diverse campus community. With 13.3 percent of its student population coming from outside the United States, students have ample opportunities to engage with peers from different cultural backgrounds.

“Students don’t have to leave this campus to have global engagement,” Schaurer said. “We thrive on providing great opportunities for students across every major to engage with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.”

For students who wish to broaden their horizons further, Wright State offers robust study abroad programs. In 2023, approximately 170 students participated in these initiatives, exploring destinations such as London, Portugal and Japan.

“We’re preparing students not only for regional success but also for meaningful contributions to the global economy,” Schaurer said.

Clark State College takes a hands-on approach to preparing students for international opportunities. Nina Wiley, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, explained that the college’s applied programs are designed to meet the demands of dynamic global industries.

“Take cybersecurity, computer software development, human resources, logistics, industrial maintenance, laser material processing, graphic design, HVAC, or any number of other programs” Wiley said. “These offer the ability to build expertise in a dynamic and global economic environment.”

Collaboration with industry partners not only prepares students for local and regional opportunities but also equips them with skills that translate internationally. Beyond technical expertise, Clark State emphasizes universal problem-solving skills.

“The ability to build trusting relationships, communicate effectively and function as a team must accompany problem-solving abilities,” Wiley said.

Clark State also requires students to complete courses designated as “Global Awareness.” Adrienne Forgette, Vice President of Academic Affairs, explained that these courses span communication, social science and arts and humanities.

“Many general education courses have a communication component, and many social science courses emphasize understanding different cultures,” Forgette said.

By combining practical skills with a global perspective, Wright State and Clark State are not only serving local and regional needs but also preparing students to excel in an interconnected world.

“We’re ensuring that our students are ready to meet the challenges of a global economy head-on,” Schaurer said.

Adrienne Forgette, Vice President of Academic Affairs, Clark State College

Nina Wiley,
Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Clark State College

“We’re preparing students not only for regional success but also for meaningful contributions to the global economy."

INVESTING IN INNOVATION

Transforming the Dayton Region

By Marc Sheforgen

The Dayton region is poised for a technological revolution with the development of an innovation hub on the former Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Led by onMain, a partnership between Premier Health and the University of Dayton, this ambitious project aims to position Dayton as a leader in digital transformation and advanced technology – with the U.S. Air Force as its primary beneficiary.

The 38-acre site, acquired in 2017, is undergoing a transformation that will create opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry and government, all in service of advancing the Air Force’s digital transformation mission.

According to Brian Heitkamp, CEO of onMain, the project has evolved significantly over time.

“As we looked at the potential for this site, the strategy around digital transformation became a clear focus in 2023,” he said.

Central to this effort is the Digital Transformation Center (DTC), a planned five-story, 125,000-square-foot building designed to support the Air Force’s need for enhanced efficiency and nimbleness. The state of Ohio awarded $35 million through its Innovation Hub Program to fund the facility, with additional capital bringing the total project cost to $75 million.

The DTC, scheduled to open by early 2027, will feature cutting-edge tools, including augmented and virtual reality labs, prototyping spaces and podcasting studios.

“This space will bring together academia, private entities and the Air Force to address digital transformation needs collaboratively,” Heitkamp said.

The DTC is already making an impact through its temporary 8,500-square-foot space established in late 2023.

“So far, it’s been extremely effective in building momentum,” said Stacie Hoelscher, Director of the Digital Transformation Center.

With 25 industry members already engaged, the center is fostering partnerships that directly benefit the Air Force. These efforts led to $5 million in new project contracts and the creation of 11 new jobs.

“We’re seeing real, impactful change in just a year,” Hoelscher said.

The center’s mission extends beyond industry collaboration. By engaging students from the University of Dayton, Wright State University and Sinclair Community College, as well as K-12 students, the DTC aims to build a diverse and skilled workforce capable of meeting the Air Force’s evolving needs.

“In order to make digital transformation a reality, we need to remove barriers and bring new students into STEM fields,” Hoelscher said. “It’s about creating pathways for everyone.”

At its core, the innovation hub is designed to connect local entities and foster collaboration in a central space, all to support the Air Force’s digital transformation.

“We have a unique location surrounded by assets that make this project truly special,” Heitkamp said. “Our goal is to bring 90 to 100 companies into the building, spurring additional development across the 38 acres.”

The initiative represents a win-win for the region, combining cutting-edge technology with workforce development and economic growth.

“We want to put Dayton on the map as a digital center of excellence,” Hoelscher said, emphasizing the project’s potential to transform the region while helping the Air Force achieve its mission.

“We want to put Dayton on the map as a digital center of excellence."

LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

By Alexander Watts

Our Policy Priorities

The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering a thriving business environment in the region. Guided by our membership, our team of three registered lobbyists advocates for local, state and federal business-friendly policies, prioritizing our members’ needs. With input from committees, volunteer leaders and community partners, the chamber aims to position the Dayton region as a hub for business growth and innovation during the 2025-2026 legislative sessions with particular focus on five key areas.

The chamber seeks to reduce employment barriers by expanding education and job training programs. These efforts include reskilling and upskilling the current workforce while connecting students to in-demand Ohio careers. Key initiatives include advocating for childcare solutions to support workforce participation, increasing internships and apprenticeships and accelerating licensure for international talent. Additionally, the chamber supports increasing skilled worker visa quotas and retaining Ohio’s graduates through strategic incentives and branding efforts.

Promoting diversity and equity, the chamber supports minority, women and veteran-owned businesses by helping to improve access to funding and encouraging inclusive workplaces. Efforts include connecting employers with diverse talent pools, advocating for data-driven policy decisions and strengthening relationships with state and local governments to remove barriers to growth.

The chamber prioritizes reducing regulatory red tape and supporting tax reforms to simplify compliance and reduce burdens for businesses. Efforts also include support for reforms to occupational licensure, non-compete agreements and government price controls, along with promoting the revitalization of downtown areas through mixed-use developments.

Recognizing infrastructure’s role in economic development, the chamber champions utilities, transportation and logistics investments. Key projects include improving interchanges at Grange Hall and I-675, Wilmington Pike and I-675 and Millikin Road and I-75, as well as constructing a new bridge near the Brent Spence Bridge. Enhanced air service at Dayton International Airport and expanding SmartCities technology to further regional growth are also supported.

The chamber partners with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Dayton VA Medical Center to bolster the region’s appeal to service members, veterans and their families. Goals include prioritizing the acquisition of new missions, increasing access to funding for veteran entrepreneurs and improving resources for mental health and community integration. The chamber also supports expanding the DOD SkillBridge program and supporting Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) initiatives to align workforce development with defense needs.

The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce remains a steadfast advocate for economic growth, ensuring the region attracts businesses, talent and investments to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. The chamber’s complete Legislative and Regulatory Agenda can be found at daytonchamber.org.

Visit our website to learn more!

Chamber Member Savings

Your chamber membership could pay for itself – and then some. Take advantage of the buying power afforded to you as a chamber member with these valuable offers! Find more information at DaytonChamber.org.

Health Insurance for Small and Mid-Size Businesses;
Sole Proprietors

The chamber and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield have combined efforts to offer health, dental and disability insurance coverage to small and mid-sized businesses. These offerings come with competitive rates and comprehensive services from a large network of providers.

Office Supplies

Chamber members see significant savings on frequently used office supplies at Office Depot AND free next day delivery. Employees of member businesses can also get the same great discount when they shop at Office Depot, using their chamber discount card.

Energy Savings Program

Chamber members receive an exclusive discount offer from IGS Energy. Member businesses benefit from custom pricing that could save them hundreds on their energy bills. Member employees are also eligible for custom pricing at home.

Workers’ Compensation Discounts & Medical Management Solutions

Did you know that many alternative discounts are available to help reduce your annual Ohio workers’ compensation costs? Through the chamber’s workers’ compensation program, your organization can significantly reduce your workers’ compensation costs through a variety of alternative rating programs. Our program, administered by Sedgwick, offers you quality service and stability through the complex workers’ compensation environment.

Payment Processing

If you take credit cards for payment, you know how quickly technology changes. The Payroc model is simple: The best quality payment processing using personalized solutions and the latest technologies, paired with low prices. As a Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce member, Payroc will take a close look at how you’re currently processing payments, and provide a no-cost quote on a suggested solution. There’s nothing to lose, but you could gain savings and better service. Why not check it out?

Visit our website to learn more!