South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership moderated a panel discussion at the 2026 Workforce + Manufacturing Summit on how peer collaboration drives innovation, operational excellence, and business growth.

The South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP) is a private, non-profit group that serves as a proven resource to South Carolina businesses, providing them with a range of innovative strategies and solutions. An affiliate of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), SCMEP operates under the US Department of Commerce to promote innovation and industrial competitiveness. At SCMEP, we use a strategic, hands-on, partnering approach to help South Carolina companies improve their competitiveness, performance, and profitability in today’s increasingly demanding global economy. When working with SCMEP, you gain access to resources that give you the competitive edge!