Cooley Dickinson among top women-led businesses

NORTHAMPTON — Cooley Dickinson Hospital was recently honored as one of the top women-led businesses in Massachusetts.

The hospital, led by President and Chief Operating Officer Lynnette Watkins, was ranked No. 21 on the list of 100 businesses statewide. The list was assembled by The Women’s Edge, a nonprofit that works to advance women in leadership positions.

“Being acknowledged among the top 100 women-led businesses in the state is a testament to the dedication of Cooley Dickinson Hospital, and our system Mass General Brigham, to transforming the health care landscape with an emphasis on inclusivity and innovation,” Watkins said in a statement. “Recognitions like this one fuel our commitment to advancing the quality of our care across the Pioneer Valley.”

The Women’s Edge ranks organizations by examining a number of variables including revenue, diversity, operating budget, number of employees and innovative projects. The entire list can be found online at bit.ly/3ue2nHt.

Starrett welcomes students, community for Manufacturing Day

ATHOL — The L.S. Starrett Co., a manufacturer of precision measuring tools and gages, metrology systems and more at 121 Crescent St., opened its doors to students and the community on Oct. 6 for Manufacturing Day.

Manufacturing Day activities nationwide were sponsored by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). The Starrett event featured guided tours of its headquarters and highlighted a range of opportunities in CNC programming, robotics automation, 3D modeling, drafting, Industry 4.0, and training and development. Demonstrations were given on computer-aided manufacturing and parts manufacturing. Each visitor received a collection of Starrett merchandise and had the chance to participate in contests to win Starrett products.

“We were pleased to again host Manufacturing Day at our Athol headquarters,” Douglas A. Starrett, president and CEO of The L.S. Starrett Co., said in a statement. “Starrett is strongly committed to manufacturing in the United States of America, and it is extremely rewarding to teach students and other professionals about careers in manufacturing to help build and sustain a skilled workforce in our nation.”

Starrett Manufacturing Day drew approximately 90 visitors, including students from North Bennet Street School, Athol High School, Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, and the Essex Tech Nighthawks CNC training program in collaboration with North Shore Community College. Also in attendance were members of GAAMHA (Gardner Athol Area Mental Health Association), employees from local companies and individuals from the community.

October is recognized as Manufacturing Month, when manufacturers educate millions about modern manufacturing and generate interest in the manufacturing trades to build a stronger, skilled workforce. For a summary of Manufacturing Day 2023, to sign up for news on Manufacturing Day 2024, and for an option to schedule small or large tours anytime, visit starrett.com/contact-us/tour.