Collaboration in Action: Highlights from North Kingstown’s Manufacturers’ Forum
Manufacturers from across North Kingstown gathered on May 13, 2026, for a dynamic and solutions-focused conversation at the North Kingstown’s Manufacturers’ Forum, hosted by Polaris MEP in partnership with the North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce. Held at R&D Technologies, the event brought together industry leaders, public officials, and workforce development experts to tackle the real challenges facing local manufacturing—and to identify opportunities for collective progress.
From the moment attendees arrived for coffee and networking, there was a clear sense of shared purpose: strengthening North Kingstown’s manufacturing sector through open dialogue and collaboration. The forum centered on a critical question: What’s standing in the way of manufacturing success in North Kingstown—and how can we solve it together?
Panelists representing industry, government, and workforce development shared their perspectives on key issues, including infrastructure limitations, workforce shortages, and navigating available resources.
Moderated by Matt Watson of Polaris MEP, the discussion encouraged active audience participation, turning the session into a true exchange of ideas rather than a one-way presentation. Attendees raised concerns ranging from day-to-day operational hurdles—like logistics challenges—to broader systemic issues such as talent pipelines and regulatory navigation.
One of the most valuable aspects of the forum was the direct connection between manufacturers and decision-makers. Representatives from Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and the Department of Labor and Training were on hand to listen, respond, and share insights into available programs and initiatives. This dialogue reinforced the importance of aligning public resources with the evolving needs of manufacturers, ensuring businesses have the support they need to grow and remain competitive.
Workforce challenges emerged as a consistent theme throughout the discussion. From finding skilled labor to preparing the next generation for careers in manufacturing, attendees emphasized the urgency of building stronger talent pipelines.
“Teenagers do not know what manufacturing really is—we need to educate them on what manufacturing looks like and what opportunities are available,” said Julissa Disu, Director of Youth Career Readiness Programs at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. “Manufacturing isn’t just pushing buttons, it is also learning how to problem solve, how to adapt, and how to work on a team. That’s what we need to emphasize.”
Programs aimed at youth career readiness and skills training were highlighted as critical components of the solution, along with stronger partnerships between industry and educational institutions.
Beyond the panel discussion, the forum provided a valuable opportunity for manufacturers to connect with one another, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations.
“Collaborations across the Rhode Island region have been incredibly powerful,” said Daniela Fairchild, Chief Strategy Office at the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation. “Working together has allowed Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts to claim 10 percent of autonomous deals and sixteen percent of advanced materials over the past decade. That’s a lot of growth.”
These conversations underscored a key takeaway: while individual companies may face unique challenges, many of the obstacles are shared—and best addressed collectively.
As the forum concluded, one thing was clear: North Kingstown’s manufacturing community is committed to working together to overcome challenges and drive growth. By creating a platform for honest dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, events like this play a vital role in shaping the future of the region’s manufacturing sector. The conversations started here won’t end here. Instead, they will continue to inform strategies, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that manufacturers in North Kingstown have both a voice and a path forward.
To learn more about other Polaris MEP hosted events, including other manufacturers’ forums, click here.