THE GOODS – SMARTKENTUCKYSM – EDUCATION/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SUPPLEMENT JULY ¦ AUGUST 2007

On Set With the Stars      

Behind the Scenes with the Stars of Kentucky’s Own Reality Show

By: Susan Gilmore

Scott Durr, Gloria Parks, Kathy Miller, Gwendelyn Ritchie, Sheila Arnold-Reid. No, they are not from Survivor, The Apprentice or Amazing Race…but they are a few of the real stars of Kentucky’s “reality show” – Manufacturing. Starring in a $2 million advertising campaign highlighting and educating people across the Commonwealth about the importance of manufacturing, these Kentucky residents are fast becoming local stars.

A little known fact to the average Kentuckian is that manufacturing contributes $26 billion to the state’s economy. That is, it makes up a larger percentage of the state’s economy than any other sector, more than 20 percent. That’s a reality.

To spotlight this significance and the accomplishments of workers across the state, the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM) selected Louisville-based advertising agency red7e, who created a complete re-branding campaign for the association and industry. The multi-media campaign includes four thirty-second commercials telling the story of the thousands of mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers who make Kentucky’s manufacturing economy work. The commercials and their stars convey the values of manufacturing and its workforce: smart, strong, tough and hardworking.

KATHY MILLER, Blendex Company LLC

Television Spot: “Making Stuff”

Miller has worked at Blendex Company for 12 years and supervises the Packaging Department. She loves spending time with her son and his girlfriend and working in her yard.

On being selected: “Being selected was a surprise and I have to admit I was a little scared. I’m not comfortable being in front of a camera.”

On what it was like during the filming: “The filming was nerve-wracking. I’m comfortable at doing my job setting up machines, meeting deadlines, directing employees but being in front of the camera is a different story altogether.”

On how people have reacted after seeing the commercials:

“I have to admit I got some positive reactions from my friends and family. My son liked it because he got to see a little

of where I worked and what I did. Of course I get teased at work, they call me superstar, but it’s all in good fun.”

On representing Kentucky manufacturers: “I like being able to show that drive and determination will lead to success and recognition. I feel like I am contributing to the company’s goals and that feels good. I also like that a single mom can make a difference in the manufacturing industry; that there is a place for me and others like me in the work force”