Latest news with #GuyMannino
Forbes
05-08-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Tariffs, Workforce Gaps And The Real Cost Of Reshoring
Guy Mannino is the CEO of Verdek LLC, a pioneer in EV charging infrastructure in the US, delivering charging systems to 49 states. In 1994, I was living in Milan, Italy, serving as vice president of sales for Pirelli Tires. After multiple relocations across Europe and the United States, I was offered a role at the U.S. headquarters in New Haven, Connecticut. By January 1995, I had moved again—this time to lead Pirelli's sales efforts with retail giants. Soon after arriving, I noticed something that surprised me: bold newspaper ads and highway billboards advertising deals like 'Four Tires for $99.' As someone who had worked extensively across Europe, this level of promotional pricing was something I had never seen. But that changed quickly as the industry faced new trade pressures. Various dumping complaints and trade disputes created uncertainty in the market. Pricing structures shifted, prices rose across the board and a new phase of the industry began. The Complexity Of Trade Pressures Tariffs don't just affect prices. They force manufacturers to rethink production. But moving production is far from simple. What few outside the industry understand is how complex reshoring can be. Choosing a location, acquiring land, designing the plant, securing permits, hiring contractors, sourcing equipment—all of it takes years. And even with cutting-edge tools, companies often face a major bottleneck: talent. It can be difficult to recruit workers with the technical skills to operate robotic systems. I experienced this years ago, and the challenge remains today—in fact, it's only grown more urgent. The Impact Of Tariffs Fast forward to 2025: Tariffs are being discussed and implemented across sectors. The short-term impact of tariffs is clear: Importers often raise prices to protect margins. Domestic producers may follow suit, seizing the opportunity to lift prices. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics just released the inflation data for the last 12 months, and the overall index increased 2.7% before seasonal adjustment. The result could be inflationary pressure across industries and a hit to consumer purchasing power. Meanwhile, many businesses in the U.S. remain underprepared to capitalize on reshoring momentum due to a persistent workforce gap. Supporting Manufacturing If we want to bring manufacturing back to America, I think we must first bring back technical education. The assembly lines of the 1950s are gone. Today's plants are digital, automated and data-driven. We need a skilled workforce ready to operate in this reality. Germany offers a powerful model with its dual-track system that aligns industry needs with vocational training. In Germany, "technical high schools" are referred to as Fachoberschulen (FOS) or Berufsoberschulen (BOS). These institutions offer vocational education with a focus on technical fields, leading to higher education entrance qualifications. In the U.S., education policy is largely delegated to states, and no one is orchestrating a cohesive national workforce strategy. Business leaders can help support technical education by building closer relationships between local industry, local government and schools. Leaders can help tailor education programs that will prepare students to become the young skilled workforce once they graduate. And there's a deeper cultural question: Does Gen-Z aspire to work in manufacturing at all? It could be challenging to attract young people who've grown up in the digital world to the production line. A McKinsey study shows that Gen-Z workers are open to jobs in manufacturing: "But getting them to take these jobs, engage, and stay will mean changing a work environment long optimized for machines, not people." Without a coordinated vision, the reshoring trend risks becoming a rollercoaster—one that fosters instability, freezes executive decision making and leads to layoffs rather than investment. We need clarity, consistency and long-term thinking from policymakers and business leaders for American industry to regain its competitive footing and global leadership. Let's hope that vision takes root. Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
Yahoo
28-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Future-Proofing EV Charging Infrastructure: Verdek Completes Installation in Austin, TX
MONROE, Conn., March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Verdek LLC proudly announces the successful and on-time completion of a state-of-the-art EV charging infrastructure project in Austin, Texas. This milestone project, characterized by innovative solutions and meticulous execution, underscores Verdek's commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and future-ready infrastructure. A Vision for the Future The project lays the groundwork for a scalable EV charging network, featuring the installation of Level 2 and DC fast charging stations, with infrastructure prepared for an additional stations. In anticipation of future upgrades, Verdek strategically upscaled conduits to accommodate future potential installations, ensuring seamless expansion as EV adoption continues to grow. These future-proofing measures mitigate the need for disruptive and costly modifications in the future. Efficiency, Cost-Effectiveness, and On-Time Delivery Verdek's project management approach prioritized efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and strict adherence to deadlines. Through strategic planning and optimized resource allocation, the team successfully completed the installation on schedule and within budget, despite the complexities of site preparation and infrastructure expansion. By incorporating scalable design elements, Verdek minimized long-term maintenance and upgrade costs, providing exceptional value to our esteemed client and its stakeholders. Future-Ready and Environmentally Conscious "Our team has successfully delivered a project that exemplifies the balance between innovation, operational efficiency, and environmental stewardship—all while meeting our strict project timeline," said Guy Mannino, CEO of Verdek LLC. "The site in Austin now serves as a model for cost-effective, scalable EV charging infrastructure. We are proud to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future with this initiative." About Verdek: With over 16+ years of experience in delivering cutting-edge EV charging solutions, Verdek has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses, municipalities, and government entities nationwide. The company's expertise in integrating advanced technology with user-centric design has consistently set new industry standards. A notable example of Verdek's capabilities is its eBus charging infrastructure in New York City. As a premier provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, Verdek is committed to fostering the growth of sustainable transportation. Offering a comprehensive range of products and services, the company delivers innovative, reliable, and user-friendly charging solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of customers across North America. For more information, please contact us at info@ or (888) 336-3734. Visit us at View original content: SOURCE Verdek LLC
Associated Press
28-03-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Future-Proofing EV Charging Infrastructure: Verdek Completes Installation in Austin, TX
MONROE, Conn., March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Verdek LLC proudly announces the successful and on-time completion of a state-of-the-art EV charging infrastructure project in Austin, Texas. This milestone project, characterized by innovative solutions and meticulous execution, underscores Verdek's commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and future-ready infrastructure. A Vision for the Future The project lays the groundwork for a scalable EV charging network, featuring the installation of Level 2 and DC fast charging stations, with infrastructure prepared for an additional stations. In anticipation of future upgrades, Verdek strategically upscaled conduits to accommodate future potential installations, ensuring seamless expansion as EV adoption continues to grow. These future-proofing measures mitigate the need for disruptive and costly modifications in the future. Efficiency, Cost-Effectiveness, and On-Time Delivery Verdek's project management approach prioritized efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and strict adherence to deadlines. Through strategic planning and optimized resource allocation, the team successfully completed the installation on schedule and within budget, despite the complexities of site preparation and infrastructure expansion. By incorporating scalable design elements, Verdek minimized long-term maintenance and upgrade costs, providing exceptional value to our esteemed client and its stakeholders. Future-Ready and Environmentally Conscious 'Our team has successfully delivered a project that exemplifies the balance between innovation, operational efficiency, and environmental stewardship—all while meeting our strict project timeline,' said Guy Mannino, CEO of Verdek LLC. 'The site in Austin now serves as a model for cost-effective, scalable EV charging infrastructure. We are proud to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future with this initiative.' About Verdek: With over 16+ years of experience in delivering cutting-edge EV charging solutions, Verdek has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses, municipalities, and government entities nationwide. The company's expertise in integrating advanced technology with user-centric design has consistently set new industry standards. A notable example of Verdek's capabilities is its eBus charging infrastructure in New York City. As a premier provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, Verdek is committed to fostering the growth of sustainable transportation. Offering a comprehensive range of products and services, the company delivers innovative, reliable, and user-friendly charging solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of customers across North America. For more information, please contact us at [email protected] or (888) 336-3734. Visit us at
Yahoo
28-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Transforming Urban Mobility: Verdek announces final phase construction of EV Charging Facility in Bronx
MONROE, Conn., March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Verdek LLC is excited to announce the ongoing development of a state-of-the-art EV charging project at Municipal Parking Lot located at White Plains Rd, Bronx, NY. This innovative project, designed to support New York City's transition to sustainable transportation, will bring critical EV infrastructure to one of the busiest boroughs in the city upon its completion. Expanding Access to EV Charging in Urban Communities: The Bronx project is set to feature a versatile array of charging options, tailored to serve a wide range of EV users: DC Fast Charging (DCFC) Units: There will have a range chargers with power ranging from 50kW to 175KW to provide rapid charging solutions, ideal for drivers needing to power up quickly during busy commutes. Level 2 Chargers: These ones will be available for drivers that will park for longer times and have the car charged while they do their shopping or work. This strategic deployment highlights Verdek's commitment to creating equitable and accessible EV infrastructure in urban areas, addressing the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. A Critical Step Toward NYC's Sustainability Goals This project aligns with the public transit agency's vision for a greener future by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting EV adoption across the city. Located in a high-traffic municipal parking lot, this charging hub is designed to serve the needs of daily commuters, residents, and visitors alike. "Our work at White Plains Rd reflects Verdek's dedication to bringing sustainable solutions to densely populated areas," said Guy Mannino, CEO of Verdek LLC. "We're proud to partner with the agency to make EV charging convenient, efficient, and accessible to Bronx residents." Innovation Meets Practicality This installation posed unique challenges, requiring careful planning and execution to integrate highcapacity charging units into an existing municipal parking lot. Key highlights include: Optimized Layout: Chargers are strategically positioned to maximize accessibility and minimize space constraints, ensuring smooth traffic flow within the parking lot. Scalable Infrastructure: The project incorporates future-proofing measures, enabling easy expansion as EV adoption continues to grow in the region. User-Centric Design: The charging station is designed with intuitive interfaces and clear signage, making it user-friendly for EV drivers of all experience levels. Empowering Communities Through Clean Energy The Bronx charging hub will represent a significant milestone in Verdek's mission to build sustainable urban communities through clean energy innovation. By providing reliable and efficient EV charging options in a high-demand area, this project will play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality for Bronx residents upon its completion. About Verdek With over a 16+ year of experience in delivering state-of-the-art EV Charging Solutions, Verdek has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses, municipalities, and government entities nationwide. Verdek's expertise in integrating cutting-edge technology with user-centric design has consistently set new standards in the industry. A notable example of Verdek's expertise is eBus charging in New York City. Verdek is a premier provider of Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions, committed to fostering the growth of sustainable transportation. With a comprehensive range of products and services, Verdek delivers innovative, reliable, and user-friendly charging solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers across the USA. For more information, please contact us at info@ or (888) 336-3734. | Visit us at View original content: SOURCE Verdek LLC
Associated Press
28-03-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
A New Era for New York Public Transit: Verdek completes Charging Facility on Staten Island
MONROE, Conn., March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In the heart of Staten Island's bustling Charleston neighborhood, a new beacon of sustainability has emerged. Verdek LLC is proud to announce the completion of an advanced EV charging installation in Staten Island, NY, setting a transformative new standard for public transit infrastructure across New York City. A Revolution in Public Transit Charging Imagine a future where electric buses glide quietly and cleanly through Staten Island's streets, easily powered by an innovative charging system. This vision is now a reality, thanks to Verdek's newly completed charging facility, specifically designed to elevate the efficiency and sustainability of the city's public transportation network. This state-of-the-art installation features both standard DC fast chargers and more sophisticated pantograph chargers with high power (150KW-300KW) for a fast recharge. Building a Greener Tomorrow More than just a technological marvel, this facility represents Verdek's strategic commitment to New York City's ambitious climate goals. By enabling the public transport agency to scale up its fleet of electric buses, the installation ensures that Staten Island commuters enjoy reliable, efficient, and cleaner transit options. 'This project highlights Verdek's mission to provide future-ready, sustainable infrastructure solutions,' noted Guy Mannino, CEO of Verdek LLC. 'We're not only addressing current operational needs but anticipating tomorrow's demands.' Engineering Excellence Meets Practical Innovation Creating this groundbreaking facility involved overcoming complex logistical and technical challenges. The expert team at Verdek skillfully addressed: Strategic Layout Planning: Optimizing the location and arrangement of overhead and hand dispensers for peak operational performance. Advanced Power Solutions: Seamlessly integrating high-capacity chargers with intelligent power management systems, maintaining grid stability without compromising charging speed. Precision Integration: Carefully coordinating construction with existing infrastructure, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum operational continuity. By providing advanced electric vehicle infrastructure, Verdek isn't just supporting public transportation— it's shaping a cleaner, healthier future for the entire community. This milestone project marks a significant step forward in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing air quality, and solidifying Verdek's commitment to environmental leadership. About Verdek With over a 16+ year of experience in delivering state-of-the-art EV Charging Solutions, Verdek has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses, municipalities, and government entities nationwide. Verdek's expertise in integrating cutting-edge technology with user-centric design has consistently set new standards in the industry. A notable example of Verdek's expertise is eBus charging in New York City. Verdek is a premier provider of Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions, committed to fostering the growth of sustainable transportation. With a comprehensive range of products and services, Verdek delivers innovative, reliable, and user-friendly charging solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers across America. For more information, please contact us at [email protected] or (888) 336-3734. | Visit us at
