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Business briefs

MALARA AT HELM: The National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining, in collaboration with America Makes, has appointed Megan Malara, Ph.D., as director of the new Youngstown Innovation Hub for Aerospace and Defense.

A Youngstown area native, Malara will lead the Hub’s mission to transform the Northeast Ohio region into a global center for advanced manufacturing innovation, workforce development and economic growth. The initiative builds on America Makes’ decadelong legacy and more than $400M in federal additive manufacturing funding, serving as a national proving ground for next-generation technologies.

“Megan brings a powerful combination of technical expertise, policy experience and industry leadership to this role,” said Jim Fisher, NCDMM’s COO and vice president. “Her vision and track record of impact will help us accelerate innovation at scale, strengthening defense supply chains, fueling workforce development and positioning Youngstown as a national leader in advanced manufacturing.”

Previously, Malara served as director of the Medical Modeling, Materials and Manufacturing Division at The Ohio State University’s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, where she led cross-disciplinary teams of engineers and clinicians to develop advanced manufacturing solutions for patient care. She also served as a Legislative Fellow in the U.S. Congress through the AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowship, addressing public health, STEM education and health care financing.

CAFARO NAMED: Dr. Michael J. Cafaro, director of Occupational Health and Chiropractic at Meridian HealthCare, has been appointed to the state of Ohio’s Radiation Advisory Council by Gov. Mike DeWine.

Initially considered to be an alternate, Cafaro was selected for a full appointment in recognition of his career accomplishments and dedication to advancing chiropractic care. In this position, he will represent the chiropractic profession in discussions about radiology standards in practice across the state.

“Being appointed to the Radiation Advisory Council is both an honor and a responsibility,” Cafaro said. “I look forward to representing the chiropractic field and ensuring high standards that support safe, effective patient care. I believe this recognition also reflects the great work being done at Meridian HealthCare to integrate chiropractic into whole-person health.”

In addition to this state-level appointment, Cafaro was also unanimously elected by the Chiro Congress board to serve as District 2 Director. Chiro Congress is a national organization that unites state chiropractic associations to protect, promote and advance the profession nationwide.

These roles are in addition to Cafaro’s ongoing work at Meridian HealthCare, as they will help elevate his leadership at both state and national levels while strengthening Meridian’s commitment to advancing nonmedicated pain relief and evidence-based care.

STATE SELECTION: Gov. Mike DeWine has named 7 17 Credit Union CEO John Demmler to the Credit Union Council for a three-year term ending Sept. 22, 2028.

The council is an advisory council to the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions for Credit Unions. The division regulates all Ohio-chartered credit unions, including 7 17. The council helps shape the regulatory and policy environment for credit unions statewide, ensuring they remain safe, stable and focused on member well-being and financial inclusion across Ohio communities.

Demmler is the only member on the council from Northeast Ohio.

“I look forward to joining the other members of the council to advocate for a strong credit union system in Ohio and continuing the goal of helping members improve their lives financially,” Demmler said.

Demmler became the 7 17’s CEO on Nov. 1, 2023. An Ohio native and credit union advocate, he began his career in the financial service industry more than 25 years ago.

TOP HONORS: Trumbull County Tourism recently earned two Citation of Excellence awards at the Ohio Conference on Travel. The honors recognize the organization’s continued focus on driving incremental travel to the county.

Trumbull Tourism was listed alongside leading Ohio destinations, including Shores & Islands, Destination Cleveland, Visit Dublin and Experience Columbus, in these categories.

“In recent years, our organization has been consistently recognized, both nationally and statewide, for effective, creative marketing that continues to attract visitors to our communities,” Beth Kotwis Carmichael, CEO, said. “These new awards reinforce that momentum and underscore responsible stewardship of lodging tax dollars, paid for when visitors stay in our hotels.”

Recognition was given in the following categories:

• Blogs — Truly Trumbull Stories: Hauntings, History and Heritage

This blog series paired local stories with digital marketing. Each post was selected for its fit with seasonal messaging, then promoted through segmented email, short-form video and social media storytelling.

• Digital marketing — Trumbull, In Your Inbox

This win recognized the agency’s email-driven campaign strategy, which boosted the 60-Mile Yard Sale and guided friends and family visitors to fall and holiday activities.

BERG NAMED: DeSalvo Construction announced the appointment of John Berg as vice president of Field Operations. With more than 25 years of experience in construction management, Berg brings extensive industry knowledge, proven operational expertise and strong leadership to the company’s executive team.

In his new role, he will oversee and manage DeSalvo Construction’s field operations, leading efforts to enhance project delivery, safety, quality and scheduling. He will also focus on mentoring and developing the company’s Project Superintendents, drawing on his own career beginnings in the field.

“John’s deep understanding of both the operational and human sides of construction makes him an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” said Joe DeSalvo, president of DeSalvo Construction. “His commitment to excellence, mentorship and collaboration will help strengthen our field operations and continue our tradition of delivering high-quality projects for our clients.”

As vice president of Field Operations, Berg will play a key role in reinforcing DeSalvo Construction’s commitment to operational consistency, total quality management and client satisfaction.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering from the University of Toledo and a Construction Site Supervision Certificate from Purdue University. He is an active member of the Knights of Columbus, The Builders Association and the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE).

Business briefs

FARMERS ANNOUNCEMENT: Farmers National Bank has appointed Rochelle Baer to the role of director of private banking.

This is a newly created position within the organization and is a result of the continued growth and success of the Private Banking division of Farmers, the company said in a news release.

Baer brings 30 years of experience in retail and commercial banking and has been with Farmers for 17 years. Not only was Baer a founding member of the Farmers Private Bank team, she has also received numerous sales accolades during her tenure at Farmers.

“Since its inception, our private banking team has exceeded expectations,” said Mark Wenick, chief wealth management officer. “Rochelle has the vision, leadership skills and experience needed to lead us through this new chapter of private banking at Farmers.”

“I am incredibly honored to step into this new role and lead our private bank division. Having been a part of this team, I have seen the dedication and talent of my colleagues,” Baer said. “I am excited to build on that strong foundation, empower our private bankers and drive meaningful growth that supports both our clients and our bank.”

A resident of Salem, Baer also is a committee member for the American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball.

CREDIT UNION PROMOTIONS: 7 17 Credit Union has announced the promotion of two team members.

Cali Shorts has been named assistant manager of the Cortland branch, bringing five years of experience with the credit union to her new role. Daniel Dudley has been promoted to assistant manager of the Ravenna branch, bringing seven years of experience with the Credit Union to his new role.

In their new positions, Shorts and Dudley will support branch managers by overseeing member service and ensuring smooth daily operations.

FEOLA JOINS CHAMBER: Jeff Feola has joined the Youngstown / Warren Regional Chamber as its new director of events.

In this role, Feola is charged with elevating the Chamber’s programming and delivering dynamic experiences that strengthen member engagement and community impact. Drawing on a blend of community development expertise and theatrical production experience, he will work closely with the Chamber’s events team to enhance how the Chamber designs and delivers its events.

Most recently, Feola served as director of community and economic development for the Sharon (Pa.) Community Development Corporation. There, he focused on downtown revitalization, supporting small businesses and creating signature events that drew visitors and generated economic activity.

Before moving into community development, Feola built a career in theatrical management. From 2022 to 2024, he toured to more than 60 U.S. cities as manager for

“TINA: The Tina Turner Musical.” His credits also include “Hamilton,” “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and posts at The Public Theater and Classic Stage Company.

“His unique background — from leading the management of Broadway productions to revitalizing communities through strategic, high-impact events — brings both creativity and operational strength to our organization,” said Kim Calvert, executive vice president of Membership, Events & MarComm for the Regional Chamber.

Feola began in the new role in early September.

AKRON’S CHILDREN SELECTED: Akron Children’s was ranked nationally in five pediatric specialties in U.S. News & World Report’s annual ranking of the Best Children’s Hospitals for 2025-2026.

With locations in Trumbull and Mahoning counties, Akron Children’s improved its position in pediatric orthopedics and added rankings this year in the subspecialities of pediatric pulmonology and lung surgery and pediatric urology.

Akron Children’s ranked in the following specialties: pediatric and adolescent behavioral health, top 50; pediatric neurology and neurosurgery, No. 43; pediatric orthopedics, No. 16; pediatric pulmonology and lung surgery, No. 40; and pediatric urology, No. 46.

“Our caregivers and staff come to work each day focused on one goal — helping kids heal and return to the activities that bring them joy,” said Chris Gessner, president and CEO of Akron Children’s. “This honor from U.S. News & World Report speaks to their remarkable skill, empathy and commitment to our patients and their families.”

According to U.S. News & World Report, to rank nationally in a specialty, a hospital must excel in caring for the sickest, most medically complex patients.

TAX CREDITS: The Ohio Department of Development has announced that applications are open for the third round of tax credits aimed at lessening the financial burden on companies offering training for commercial drivers.

The Commercial Driver’s License Training Program gives employers the opportunity to upskill current and future employees to compete in this high-demand industry.

“From delivering groceries to transporting parts for new factories, CDL drivers literally keep Ohio moving,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “As more companies invest and grow here, the demand for skilled drivers rises. By helping cover training costs, we’re opening doors to good-paying careers for Ohioans and making sure our state is ready for the future.”

Employers of all sizes and industries registered to do business in Ohio and who employ Ohio resident W-2 employees are eligible to apply. Employers can earn tax credits for half of approved training costs, up to $25,000 in tax credits.

The current application round closes Dec. 1. Applications are reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

The tax credit applies to the credentialing of both current and prospective employees. Eligible training can be conducted by external training providers on the Ohio-approved CDL course provider list or internal qualified training instructors. Credentials must be for Class A or Class B state-issued CDLs and endorsements.

For more information, visit https://shorturl.at/VgLB1.

Business briefs

MERIDIAN GROUNDBREAKING: Meridian HealthCare held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday to celebrate the launch of a $2 million expansion and renovation project at its Meridian Road campus.

The project, partially funded by a $1 million state capital grant approved by the Ohio Controlling Board earlier this year, will add 3,000 square feet of new space and renovate the facility’s existing 26,094 square feet. This marks the fourth expansion at the Meridian Road campus in Youngstown.

The expansion project will include a new on-site pharmacy, additional counseling offices and exam rooms to meet growing demands for integrated care, and a larger multipurpose training and group space to support staff development and community programs.

“This expansion will allow us to further strengthen our integrated care model, which combines behavioral health and primary care services under one roof,” said Larry Moliterno, president and CEO of Meridian HealthCare. “Too often, providers in behavioral health and primary care work in silos. At Meridian, we’re proving that collaborative care is not only possible, but it delivers the best outcomes for our patients.”

The project has been in development for nearly two years and is expected to create 10 new jobs, adding to Meridian’s team of more than 250 employees across its facilities in Youngstown, Warren, Boardman and Poland. Completion of the expansion is anticipated by early next year.

LET’S TALK AI: The Youngstown Business Incubator will present “AI 101: What Am I Getting Myself Into?” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.15. The event will be live at Kent State University, Ashtabula, and streamed in real time to Kent State’s Salem, Trumbull and East Liverpool campuses.

Discover what artificial intelligence means for business in this practical, nonintimidating session led by Neil Singh, a YBI EVOLVE Entrepreneur-in-Residence. Whether you’re a small business just starting out or a legacy company facing new technology demands, this program will help you understand the basics, risks and opportunities of AI.

Topics will include “What is AI?”; “How do I use it?”; “How do I keep safe?”; definitions of OpenAI and ChatGPT; and education, ethics and foundational information around AI.

Attendees must be in person at one of the designated classrooms: Ashtabula – Susan Stocker Hall, Room C132; Trumbull – Classroom Building, Room 150; East Liverpool – REM 108; and Salem – RSM 125.

When registering, participants must select the campus location they plan to attend. Seating is limited at each site. The free event will not be streamed to personal devices.

To register, visit https://YBIAI101.eventbrite.com.

SUIT UP: The Williamson College of Business Administration at Youngstown State University is partnering with JCPenney to make professional attire more affordable for YSU students at the annual Suit Up event from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at JCPenney in the Eastwood Mall, Niles.

“Suit Up at JCPenney reduces barriers to career readiness by giving students access to more affordable, professional attire,” said Christina O’Connell, executive director of the WCBA Center for Career Management. “When students look confident, they feel confident, and that directly impacts how they show up in interviews, internships and the workplace.”

The event reflects the WCBA’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and the professional presence needed to thrive in today’s business world. In addition to opportunities like Suit Up, the WCBA Center for Career Management provides students with resources in résumé building, interview preparation and job search strategies, ensuring YSU business students are competitive in the workforce.

The event helps young professionals create a workplace-ready image while providing access to deep discounts on career wear.

Students who check in at the YSU table with their school ID will receive a 30% off coupon, stackable with in-store promotions on select career wear and accessories, for total savings of up to 45%.

IMPACT OHIO: The Regional Impact Ohio Conference will take place 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at The Grand Resort, 9519 E. Market St., Howland.

The gathering presents the opportunity for attendees to network with and hear directly from local political leaders and strategists on the issues facing their communities. This year’s focus includes discussions on housing, workforce development and overcoming child care challenges affecting workforce participation. Several members of the Mahoning Valley’s elected state delegation will attend the opening reception and breakfast. They will be available for conversations with attendees.

“Building Opportunity: A Housing Panel Discussion” will include Sen. Michele Reynolds, chair Ohio Senate Housing Committee; state Rep. Dave Thomas, 65th District; Bill Beagle, executive director, Ohio Housing Finance Agency; and James Kinnick, executive director, Eastgate Regional Council of Governments.

“Child Care Crossroads,” features Kara Wente, director, Ohio Department of Children and Youth; Lynanne Gutierrez, president and CEO, Groundwork Ohio; and Toni DeNunzio, Traditional Campus pastor, Believer’s Christian Child Care.

Officials from JobsOhio and Lake to River Economic Development will discuss Regional Talent: Attracting and Retaining.

Registration is $70 for Ohio Chamber members and $80 for nonmembers. For more information, https://www.ohiochamber.com/events/a2pQo000000V08bIAC/.

TOPIC — ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING: The Youngstown Business Incubator and America Makes will present a free information session on the benefits of additive manufacturing and the resource partnerships available to manufacturers.

The event will take place from 8 to 10 a.m. Oct. 22 at the SOD Training Center, 440 Pennsylvania Ave., Salem. For more information, https://sodcenter.com or call 330-337-7669.

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