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About GAM

We Represent Georgia's Manufacturers

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The Georgia Association of Manufacturers (GAM) is the only non-profit association in the state exclusively dedicated to manufacturers. We are manufacturing’s association of record, its advocate, its voice.

GAM was formed by industry, for industry. Originally formed as the Cotton Manufacturers Association of Georgia, in the century since we have responded to the needs of our members, updating not just our name, but the support we provide to this industry.

Our mission is to be “visible, vocal and vital," because we are driven to be seen and heard on the issues that matter most to our members.

Today GAM numbers over 150 companies, suppliers, and professional services firms. And we are growing. GAM companies include some of the smallest and largest in the state, giving us strength through diversity. Combined, our membership employs 200,000 people – roughly half the state’s manufacturing workforce.

We intervene in energy rate cases to keep the cost of power as low as possible for manufacturers. We advocate in the state legislature for fair legislation. We innovate workforce development solutions. We collaborate with local, state, and national government departments, along with leaders in education, technology, and the service providers needed by our industry. Fostering these relationships allows us to bring the best in innovation and collaboration to our members.

GAM is here to support our members and make sure Georgia continues to be one of the best states for our industry, because manufacturing matters.

Manufacturers Education Foundation

The Manufacturers Education Foundation (MEF) is an affiliate of GAM.  Since its inception in 1943 (as the Textile Education Foundation), MEF has provided several million dollars for scholarships, faculty support, research, recruitment, capital improvements, and machinery and equipment for the textile, carpet and consumer products programs at Georgia Tech in Atlanta and Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta. 

MEF currently provides scholarships and other support for Georgia Tech and the Technical College System of Georgia designed to benefit students pursuing careers to become apart of the next generation of Georgia's manufacturing workforce.

GAM Staff

Brittney (Foster) Hull

Vice President, Government Affairs

Clay Jones

Vice President and General Counsel

Stephanie Scearce

Vice President, Workforce Innovation

Cindy Thomas

Director, Operations and Membership Development

Rebekah Murray

Director, Engagement and Events

Robert A. Jones

Director, Marketing and Communications

Association Officers

Chair – Michael Edwards, Mannington, Calhoun (Executive Committee member)

Vice Chair – John Fluker, Grenzebach Corporation, Newnan (Executive Committee member)

President & CEO – Lloyd Avram

Vice President and General Counsel – Clay Jones

Vice President, Government Affairs – Brittney Hull

Vice President, Workforce Innovation – Stephanie Scearce

Director, Membership Development and Operations – Cindy Thomas

Director, Marketing and Communications – Robert A. Jones

Director, Member Events and Engagement – Rebekah Murray

Board of Directors

 

Terms Expiring in 2025

Stuart Countess – Kia Georgia, Inc., West Point

Mike Ecker – Ecker Textiles, Lawrenceville

Jim Kelleher – Mitsubishi Power Systems, Pooler

Patrick Lenz – Toyo Tire North American Manufacturing, Inc., White

Brad Powell – Hoshizaki America, Inc., Peachtree City

Todd Shail – Mohawk Industries, Calhoun

 

Term Expiring in 2026

Dee Barnes – Evans Tool & Die, Inc., Conyers

Eric Criss – GE Appliance, Lafayette

Josh Hall – Engineered Floors, Dalton

Jennifer McKay – Solmax, Pendergrass

Mark Bennett – Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Savannah

Daniel Richard – Irving Consumer Products, Dieppe, New Brunswick

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