Sandy Kashmark, Executive Director of TSMA and Midwest Manufacturers Association (MMA), the central office, is stepping down from her position as Executive Director at the end of 2021. 
 
This leadership change signals a new era for all three associations. Kashmark has served TSMA, and later MMA, since 1991. Her tenure has included the early years of TSMA, the formation of the Arrowhead Manufacturers and Fabricators Association, MMA, and the Central Minnesota Manufacturers Association (CMMA). Her leadership has been invaluable to the success of all four organizations and will be deeply missed.
 
Association management has evolved over the last 30 years and continues to face new challenges. The manufacturing sector continues to need legislative advocacy, member education and networking, strategic partnerships, and lastly and most importantly, workforce development. The need for creative, progressive, effective workforce development initiatives for manufacturers is real and vital for the future of manufacturing.
 
At this pivotal time in the transition of MMA and the three associations, a sustainability committee was formed and is reviewing various leadership and management proposals and conducting a search for Kashmark’s successor. The committee is also reviewing staffing needs, including the possibility of developing a full-time workforce development position.
 
Underlying all decisions is the all-important question of what will our manufacturing members need to be successful in the coming years? Our passion for manufacturing will continue to guide us, including making difficult decisions for the greater good. Manufacturing is still the heart of American industry and a vital force in Minnesota’s economy.