CIFT and the Ohio MEP
As someone who has had the privilege of working across a wide range of industries—from International Communications, University Education, and Automotive Distribution to UX design, and now as part of the food and manufacturing sector with CIFT—I’ve been blessed to see firsthand the critical role food and manufacturing play in our daily lives. It’s not just about production; it’s about sustaining communities, driving innovation, and contributing to the health and well-being of our neighborhoods and country.
Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated myself to understanding and supporting businesses and organizations in navigating the unique challenges they face, and this has only deepened my respect for the tireless work manufacturers and food processors do.
In today’s uncertain and rapidly changing world, manufacturers of all sizes—whether small, mid-sized, or large—are grappling with some fundamental challenges. Workforce shortages, the need to adopt new technologies, and the sheer daily operational demands can feel overwhelming. But what strikes me the most in my conversations is not just the recognition of the need for improvement but the frustration of where to turn for trusted and optimal solutions.
When I joined CIFT, it was clear to me that this wasn’t just another nonprofit or consultancy; it’s an organization truly dedicated to solving the problems that keep business owners and managers up at night.
From my experience in strategic marketing and strategic communication management, I know how critical it is to have not just a solution—but the right solution that fits your unique needs. That’s what we provide at CIFT: a partnership built on trust, understanding, and results.
1. The Challenge of Time: You’re Running the Business—We’ll Help You Innovate
Throughout my career, whether managing a design team in India or leading CIFT’s strategic marketing efforts, one truth remains constant: time is your most valuable resource. I’ve seen how companies, especially smaller manufacturers, are stretched thin, leaving little room for strategic innovation. This is why CIFT exists—to take on that burden for you.
We bring you the solutions that will help drive your business forward, whether it’s cutting-edge automation, lean manufacturing, or workforce strategies. With my background, I know how critical it is to correctly identify key opportunities for growth and improvement that are tailored to your specific needs. At CIFT, we’ve done the research, vetted the technology, and built a network of trusted providers to ensure you can focus on what you do best—running your shop or facility.
2. Trust is Key: A Partner Invested in Your Success
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is that trust is everything. Whether I was working with international teams to design user experiences or building strategic marketing campaigns, the success of any project comes down to trust between partners. And in manufacturing and food processing, the stakes are even higher. The cost of making the wrong decision—choosing the wrong provider, the wrong technology—can be detrimental to your business.
At CIFT, we operate differently because we aren’t driven by profit. As an Ohio MEP partner and nonprofit, our success is measured by quantifying your success. When you work with us, you’re not just getting a consultant; you’re gaining a long-term partner who will stand by you every step of the way. Our recommendations come from years of experience and a genuine understanding of what works. I’ve built my career on ensuring that clients and partners feel supported and confident, and that’s exactly the kind of relationship we build at CIFT.
3. From Strategy to Execution: We’ll Manage the Process So You Can Focus on Growth
In my various roles throughout my career, I’ve overseen complex projects that required careful coordination and a deep understanding of both the big picture and the finer details. I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to take a strategic plan and turn it into reality—especially when you’re juggling day-to-day operations.
That’s where our team at CIFT steps in. We don’t just recommend solutions; we manage the entire implementation process for you. From timelines and budgets to coordinating resources, we ensure that every project runs smoothly and delivers the outcomes you need. With us managing the process, you can focus on what you do best: growing your business and supporting your customers.
At the end of the day, my goal—and the goal of everyone at CIFT—is to ensure that manufacturers and food processors feel supported, empowered, and equipped to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. The work you do is the backbone of our economy, and it’s an honor to partner with you in that mission. If you’re ready to explore how these solutions can help your business grow, reach out. We would love to learn more about your challenges and work with you to solve them.
