Florida MEP: Florida Manufacturing Extension Partnership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 2, 2008

For more information please contact:
Gene Lussier
Board Chair, Florida MEP
954-565-0047

FLORIDA MEP APPOINTS JULIE SONG OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION OF FLORIDA’S SPACE COAST TO ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CELEBRATION, FL - The Florida Manufacturing Extension Partnership (Florida MEP) has recently added Julie K. Song, director of business retention and expansion for the Economic Development Commission (EDC) of Florida’s Space Coast to its Board of Directors. In her position, Song develops and implements business retention and expansion programs for Brevard County, aimed at establishing and fostering relationships between local businesses and the EDC.

“Julie knows how to implement strategies for growth and prosperity that work for our local businesses,” said Gene Lussier, chairman of the Florida MEP Board of Directors. “She works hard at strengthening existing companies and ensures that public programs meet local business needs. She understands and embodies the values of the Florida MEP and we are pleased to have her as part of our team.”

“Julie brings a wealth of knowledge in the manufacturing industry to the Florida MEP Board,” said Lynda Weatherman, President and CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast. “With her broad experience, she will play a key role in advancing the goals of Florida MEP and assisting manufacturing companies with the support they need to move this industry forward.”

Song also serves as an EDC liaison with partner organizations, such as the Manufacturing Association of Florida Education and Workforce Committee, Small Business Development Center, Space Coast World Trade Council, and local Chambers of Commerce.

The Florida MEP is an affiliate of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the U.S. Department of Commerce. The national MEP is a network of manufacturing extension centers that provide business and technical assistance to smaller manufacturers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Through MEP, manufacturers have access to more than 2000 manufacturing and business “coaches” whose job is to help firms make changes that lead to greater productivity, increased profits, and enhanced global competitiveness. For more information on the Florida MEP program call 321-939-4000.

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