About

The Volusia Manufacturers Association (VMA) was founded in 1980 by manufacturers for manufacturers.  We provide information, education and networking opportunities to help manufacturers grow and succeed.  We are made up of companies that range in size from one employee to over 500. There are companies with CEO’s, presidents, plant managers, CFO’s an HR managers and companies whose owners do it all. We have members willing to share their expertise in manufacturing operations, purchasing, international trade, human resources, marketing and more.  VMA makes connections.  Connections that help you grow your business.
•You and your staff can attend any of the over 60 programs we offer.  Here you will hear cutting edge information, meet members doing what you are doing or want to be doing; you can sell your products and services; learn how to streamline your systems; find vendors; grow professionally.
•You will learn the latest in legislative changes in HR at the Human Resources Division meetings; discover the techniques to increase productivity in Lean Manufacturing at the Manufacturing Excellence Division workshops; and connect with the purchasing and material managers to find the best deals through the Materials Division.    
We are a recognized force in the growth and economic well-being of our area. All companies engaged in manufacturing in Volusia and Flagler counties and the region are invited to join the VMA. We are the only trade association focused on the success of local Florida manufacturers.  VMA is directed by well-known and highly regarded manufacturers and business people.
VMA is a corporate membership organization and maintains a 70/30 ratio of manufacturer to associate members. Associate members, or non-manufacturers, are an important part of the effort of VMA to encourage our members to buy locally.  As a member of the VMA you have access to all the programs and services designed for your success.
Florida Manufacturers are encouraged to work with all of our members to facilitate the growth and expansion in our Florida manufacturing efforts.
VMA offers information, education and networking opportunities to help local businesses grow and succeed with over 60 programs each year.  
•Monthly general membership meetings with emphasis on Business Growth
•Bi-Monthly Division Meetings
◦Human Resources (addresses specific HR issues)
◦Manufacturing Excellence  (focuses on lean manufacturing)
◦Materials Division (member collaboration for costs savings)  
•Monthly Plant Tours
•Small Manufacturers Expo  
•Connect Locally (outsource guide to find capabilities, what companies outsource, excess capacity, certifications, and Small Business qualified vendors)
•Quick Take Surveys (members share their expertise)
•Web-based Wage and Benefit Survey ~ local, timely, web-based
•Education Link
•Intern and Co-op Contact List
•Resume and Job Opening Service
•Legislative Liaison
•Awards Program to recognize the best in the area’s manufacturing
◦“Manny” ~ life-long achievement in manufacturing
◦Manufacturer of the Year ~ top manufacturing company
◦Best Practices ~ exceptional practices in a particular business area
◦Exporter of the Year ~ most expertise in the international market
◦Member of the Year ~ Karl Schiller Memorial Award
◦Friend of Industry ~ Lois Fifer Memorial Award

Aims and Objectives

Mission: To provide information, education and networking opportunities for the manufacturers in Volusia County and the region.

Provide a forum to exchange information.

Encourage interaction between members and seek to improve business practices and manufacturing methods.

Examine legislation proposed by national state, county and city officials. Advise members how their business will be directly or indirectly affected so appropriate action can be taken.

Publish a directory of member services so local sources can be utilized when applicable.

Support quality education at all levels and seek programs which will provide job skills needed.

Develop a public relations program to increase public and private sector awareness of industry’s contribution to the economy.

Develop industrial relations projects to enhance management /labor cooperation.