RTMA Highlights Workforce Development at ASQ Rochester's ROC Excellence 2026 Conference

The Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) was honored to participate in the American Society for Quality (ASQ) Rochester Section's ROC Excellence 2026 Conference, where industry leaders, quality professionals, educators, and workforce practitioners gathered to explore strategies for strengthening organizational excellence and workforce readiness.

Invited by ASQ Rochester Section Chair Franklin Allen, RTMA Workforce Development Director Bill Rottenburg and Pre-Apprenticeship and Training Manager Ruth Thompson presented a featured session titled "Empowering the Workforce Through Apprenticeship Pathways."

The presentation focused on a challenge shared by manufacturers across the region and the nation: developing sustainable talent pipelines while maintaining operational excellence and quality standards.

Quality Begins with People

Manufacturers understand that quality is more than a process. It is driven by skilled, engaged, and well-trained employees. As workforce shortages continue to impact the industry, organizations are seeking innovative solutions to attract, develop, and retain talent.

During the session, RTMA highlighted proven workforce development models that help manufacturers build stronger pipelines while creating life-changing opportunities for job seekers.

Attendees learned how RTMA's flagship programs:

·         Real Life Rosies®

·         Advance2Apprenticeship

·         Registered Apprenticeship Programs

are helping introduce individuals from underrepresented populations and emerging worker groups to rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.

Through real-world examples and participant success stories, the presentation demonstrated how strategic workforce development initiatives can support both business growth and quality objectives.

Building Pathways to Manufacturing Careers

One of the key themes of the presentation was the importance of creating accessible entry points into manufacturing. Many talented individuals simply need exposure, training, and support to discover careers in advanced manufacturing. RTMA programs are designed to remove barriers, connect participants with employers, and create clear pathways toward long-term employment and advancement.

Conference attendees explored practical strategies for:

·         Addressing workforce shortages

·         Expanding talent pools

·         Enhancing employee retention

·         Increasing workforce diversity

·         Aligning training initiatives with organizational goals

·         Strengthening operational and quality performance

The discussion reinforced the idea that workforce development is not separate from organizational excellence. It is a critical component of achieving it.

Leadership in Workforce Innovation

Bill Rottenburg brought more than three decades of educational and workforce development experience to the session. Throughout his career, he has focused on creating meaningful connections between education and industry, helping students and workers gain access to career and technical training opportunities.

Ruth Thompson shared her passion for developing pathways into advanced manufacturing, particularly for underrepresented populations. As Program Director for RTMA's Real Life Rosies and Advance2Apprenticeship initiatives, she highlighted how targeted training programs are opening doors to life-changing careers while helping manufacturers meet critical workforce needs. Drawing on her experience as a Certified Corporate Trainer, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and Kaizen Facilitator, Thompson emphasized the connection between continuous improvement principles and workforce development strategies.

Strengthening the Region's Future

RTMA's participation in ROC Excellence 2026 reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to supporting manufacturers through innovative workforce solutions. As manufacturing continues to evolve, partnerships among employers, educators, workforce organizations, and quality professionals will play a vital role in ensuring the success of both individuals and businesses.

The conversations at ROC Excellence 2026 reinforced a powerful message: investing in people is investing in quality, innovation, and the future of manufacturing.

RTMA extends its appreciation to the ASQ Rochester Section, Chair Franklin Allen, conference organizers, and all attendees for creating a meaningful forum to share ideas, build connections, and advance excellence throughout the Greater Rochester manufacturing community.

Together, we can continue empowering the workforce and building the next generation of manufacturing talent.