DETROIT, February 18, 2009 – The Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights (MRCC) will host a Michigan Economic Solutions Summit on Thursday, March 19, 2009, at JW Marriot, 235 Louis Street, NW, in Grand Rapids. This is the third in a series of conferences, which began last year in an effort to strengthen partnerships among labor, industry, health care and government.
The Michigan Economic Solutions Summit provides a forum to share ideas and concerns, to discuss issues and develop the solutions that will keep Michigan businesses viable and competitive, even in a down economy.
“We are all aware that our economy is in crisis,” said Doug Buckler, executive secretary/treasurer of the MRCC. “But the MRCC has the means to help Michigan businesses survive in this challenging time. Our members can provide the competitive edge that’s needed now. We represent some of the most highly-trained workers in America.”
Previous Summit event, held in June and September 2008, focused on Michigan jobs and labor concerns. More than 200 people attended in September, doubling in size from the first Summit held in June. The March conference promises to draw an impressive crowd to Grand Rapids as it continues the important dialogue the MRCC has successfully started and brings together a new group of experts to address issues related to energy, health care and infrastructure needs throughout the state.
The event kicks off at 7:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast at the hotel. At 8 a.m. speakers will take to the podium. Grand Rapids Mayor George K. Heartwell will offer opening remarks. Scheduled guest speakers also include:
L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive
Jim Lewis, Executive Engineer, Consumers Energy
Dean Birkmeier, Senior Principle Engineer, Stryker Corporation, Medical Division
Brian Calley, 87th District, Michigan House of Representatives (R)
Christopher Swartz, Vice President, Entergy (Palisades) Nuclear Plant
A keynote address is set for 11:30 a.m. and the event will conclude with lunch. Those interested in attending may RSVP online at www.hammer9.com/rsvp. Attendees will receive complimentary valet parking at the hotel, as well as a discounted room rate. Mention the conference to receive a discount.
