In an effort to expand our footprint, American Testing is looking in new directions and testing new waters. Over the last 5 to 6 years, we’ve seen a spike in requests from the northeast Ohio area. This fall we decided to exhibit at the I-X Center in Cleveland. This was a two-day design & contract manufacturing show/expo. The weather was perfect, which always helps with attendance, and the floor traffic was steady. Since this was our first show in Cleveland, almost everyone we met could be considered a new prospect. Additionally, we were able to visit with some of our existing customers from that area.

We also participated in The Ohio Defense Forum. This event was created by Congressman Mike Turner and is in its fourth year. After attending last year’s event, we decided to exhibit this year. American Testing partners with various customers on defense contracts as well as working directly with prime contractors and the federal government, so having a presence at the forum was a no-brainer.

Ohio is home to ten military installations and plays a vital role in our national security. The speakers included Congressman Turner; Senator Rob Portman; Jeff Hoagland, President & CEO of the Dayton Development Coalition; and various top military and government decision makers from these installations. Forum discussions included the challenges facing our military, such as cyber security, budgets, and spending.

Additionally, Ohio is looking at new hiring methods and processes to find the skilled personnel needed for next generations. The Ohio Defense Forum opens up a new dimension in networking for the Ohio military installations. This forum also gave us the opportunity to meet, thank, and shake some of the hands of the individuals that work hard every day to protect our nation!