Topic: From Farm to Fork: Northeast Ohio’s Food Value Chain
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| Join us for our September NODE Meeting at The Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences in Wooster, Ohio! The Northeast Ohio Region has a rich legacy in manufacturing, which remains a vital part of our economy—including within the food and beverage industries. As products and technologies advance, you’ll hear how innovation and infrastructure are fueling opportunities for continued growth within the food and agribusiness supply chain. As we seek to “Bend the Curve” towards a more vibrant economy, current research suggests the supply chain tied to this industry will provide opportunities for job creation, business growth, and long-term regional competitiveness. This meeting will also feature the release of a new industry report, offering firsthand insights into the sector’s current impact and future potential. Optional Tour Details:Highlights include interactive experiences with modern ag equipment like GPS-guided Kubota RTVs and a live demonstration of the USDA’s Intelligent Spray System, which dramatically reduces pesticide use and drift through LiDAR-based precision. Guests can also tour state-of-the-art learning spaces such as the Wooster Science Building and the United Titanium Bug Zoo, while connecting with faculty from key departments like Entomology and Horticulture. To round out the visit, attendees are encouraged to enjoy the scenic Secrest Arboretum, play a round of disc golf, and explore downtown Wooster’s local markets and restaurants for a full day of discovery and relaxation |
| Agenda: 12:00 PM – Networking & Refreshments 12:30 PM – Welcome from NODE Maribeth Burns, President: Wayne Economic Development Council Westfield Representative Sylvio Mecone, Senior Director, Business Development: Team NEO 12:40 PM – QER Overview Jacob Duritsky, Vice President, Strategy & Research: Team NEO 1:00 PM – Panel Moderator: Tim Derickson, Assistant Director: Ohio Department of Agriculture Rebecca Singer, President and CEO: CIFT Tina Chamoun, Chief Pita Chip Officer: Terranean Spices, Spreads & Snacks Karl Kelby, Senior Quality Engineer: Prairie Farms Leon Wengard, CEO: Greenfield Farms 1:45 PM – Presentation on OSU Wooster Andy Michel, Associate Dean and Director: CFAES Wooster Campus1:50 PM – Closing2:00 PM – Optional Networking or Campus Tour |
Thank you to our 2025 NODE Signature Event Sponsor!
