Season of Discovery, Inspiration,
and Collaboration
by Sara Hanks, NWIRC, President/CEO
As 2025 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on what this first year in transition has meant: for me personally, for NWIRC, and for the manufacturers and partners who shape our work each day. I entered the CEO role with a listening mindset, fully aware I was stepping into a space that would require humility, curiosity, and courage. What I didn’t expect was how naturally a theme would emerge from that approach. Looking back now, this has been a year defined by discovery.
One of the greatest discoveries has been the sheer potential of our region. Every plant visit, every conversation on a production floor, and every meeting with owners and operators reinforced something important: Northwest Pennsylvania is filled with organizations that care deeply about craftsmanship, innovation, and community. The enthusiasm I witnessed, from teams eager to adopt new tools to leaders focused on the next generation of manufacturing careers, gave me a clearer picture of what’s possible here. It’s impossible not to be inspired when you see the pride and dedication present across our region.
This year also reinforced my belief in the power of partnership. Working alongside universities supporting AI learning, workforce organizations, SBDCs, Ben Franklin Technology Partners, regional chambers, and economic development organizations reminded me how collective effort sparks momentum. The AI Lunch & Learn series began as a simple idea and became a catalyst for conversation because so many partners stood behind it. Our work on the ARC POWER application further demonstrated the strength of our regional network—many voices coming together to advance shared goals. (Fingers crossed.) These relationships created spaces for curiosity and growth, ensuring manufacturers felt supported as they explored what AI could mean for their businesses.
Inside NWIRC, discovery took on another meaning. As I settled into my role, I was continually impressed by the talent, creativity, and grit of our team. I saw firsthand how many strong elements of the organization were already in place, while also recognizing the opportunities that come with guiding a new strategic direction. I watched staff challenge the status quo, test new approaches, and find ways to make our work more efficient and impactful. Leadership, I’ve learned, isn’t about holding tightly to every decision, it’s about creating the conditions for others to bring their strengths forward. It’s a balance I’m still learning, and one I’m grateful to practice alongside such capable colleagues.
Looking ahead, I feel both grounded and energized. The discoveries of 2025 shaped a clearer direction for NWIRC and affirmed the importance of staying connected to our manufacturers, our partners, our team, and our purpose. We have meaningful work ahead, and I’m excited for the opportunities that will come from continued collaboration.
As we move into the holiday season, I hope you find time to rest, enjoy moments with loved ones, and reflect on your own year of growth. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your dedication to strengthening manufacturing in our region. I’m grateful for the work we’ve done together and I’m looking forward to everything we’ll discover in the year ahead.
Warm wishes for a joyful and peaceful holiday season.
Photo: Sara Hanks talking with manufacturers at the Lean Together cohort kick-off meeting