Section 1709.1304 - Industrial resource centersAn industrial resource center shall:
(1) Serve manufacturing industries in this Commonwealth.(2) Work with companies, such as engineering design, software engineering, accounting, educational corporations and institutions and distribution centers, to help specific manufacturing firms serviced by those companies that modernize their manufacturing techniques and technologies.(3) Offer manufacturers comprehensive assistance which may include, but is not limited to: (i) The capacity to help manufacturing firms evaluate those elements which are critical to their competitive ability, such as implementation of commercially available process technologies, continuous improvement in quality, development of work force skills and understanding the nature of global markets.(ii) The ability to assist companies in identifying and applying appropriate technologies.(iii) The ability to transmit products and techniques to improve manufacturing processes.(iv) Information services which provide manufacturers with practical data on business issues and the availability and capability of commercially available processes and technologies and assistance with implementation.(v) The development of demonstration sites which manufacturers can visit to learn about and evaluate technologies.(vi) Providing manufacturers with services designed to help them better understand and apply modern manufacturing techniques and concepts.(vii) Working with the department and other State agencies and local or regional organizations in the implementation of economic development plans.(viii) Providing manufacturers with marketing strategies and assistance in training and work force development.(4) Represent a consortium of interest designed to meet the needs of manufacturers in their particular regions.(5) Partner with private sector firms in the development of joint initiatives and ventures that address the needs of and benefit manufacturers.(6) Be an independent nonprofit institution overseen by a regional board of directors comprising private industry, economic development organization and university and educational institution representatives, with at least 50% representation from privacy industry.(7) Complement and cooperate with every other center and make every effort to share expertise and clientele to develop a strong Statewide network.2001, June 22, P.L. 400, No. 31, § 4, effective 7/1/2001.