Summer Gears & Gadgets
Event Draws 155

More than 150 people attended the July 14 Gears & Gadgets' "Blues, Brews & BBQ" signature event, sponsored by Hockenberg Search. With music by the Dee Miller Band, BBQ sliders from Gastrotruck and liquid refreshments from Bauhaus Brew Labs, guests had a relaxing atmosphere in which to network with their fellow manufacturers. A raffle with donated prizes raised $1500 for the Wounded Warrior Project.

"Your network is your net worth," said Marni Hockenberg, Principal, Hockenberg Search, explaining the value of the organization's quarterly social events for those in manufacturing industries. "We have tried to be very intentional about our networking, helping others form meaningful connections in order to achieve their business and career goals."

Gears & Gadgets was created in 2012 to help those in the manufacturing industry share ideas and learn from each other. Today, it is the premier manufacturers-only networking group in the Upper Midwest.

"Networking is the key to our business success," said Marni. "One can't be an effective recruiter if he or she isn't constantly networking. Our job is knowing the right people for our client companies, and events like this help us get to know the individuals outside of their jobs. Knowing the 'whole' person helps us provide top-notch service to our clients."

"Our Platinum Sponsors are valued partners in the success of Gears & Gadgets," she added. "Each sponsor provides exceptional service to manufacturing companies. We appreciate the continued sponsorship of Resultants for Business, Fidelity Bank, BDO, MyTech Partners and Manufacturers Alliance."

The next Gears & Gadgets event is scheduled for October 28 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Double Tree Inn in St. Louis Park. Four winners of Minnesota Business magazine's Manufacturing Awards will sit on a panel and share their success stories and lessons they have learned along the way. After the program, enjoy networking in a relaxed environment with hot appetizers and a cash bar. Watch for the upcoming invitation if you are a member of Gears & Gadgets.

Anyone interested in an invitation to Gears & Gadgets is encouraged to contact Marni at marni@hockenberg.com. Those eligible to attend are manufacturing business owners and executives currently employed in a manufacturing company, as well as manufacturing executives currently in job transition within the industry.