| WORKFORCE GAP STUDY UPDATE |
With the workforce crisis deepening, industry leaders are joining forces to uncover what's really driving the talent gap—and how to fix it. |
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The American Bakers Association (ABA), the American Society of Baking (ASB) and the International Deli Dairy Bakery Association (IDDBA) have partnered together to revisit the multi-phase study, The Workforce Gap in U.S. Commercial Baking: Trends, Challenges, and Solutions, in 2025. Data has been collected and is currently being analyzed on the current and projected state of employment in hourly, skilled production job positions, the nature of the skills gap, and to provide best practices and solutions in addressing the talent gap within these positions.
“By joining forces across partner organizations, we’re equipping the baking industry with more than just data,” Kristen Spriggs, ASB's Executive Director, said. “We’re providing direction.” Get a Sneak Peak!
Attend a free webinar where Cypress Research will present part one of the study – key findings from the industry survey, highlighting today’s most pressing workforce challenges and emerging trends. The full members-only whitepaper, including industry case studies, will be available later this year. Attendees will gain strategic insights to help attract, retain, and develop top talent – ensuring a strong and sustainable workforce for the future of commercial baking.
"These findings equip companies to meet future workforce needs and leverage effective strategies for recruitment, retention, and workforce development."— Matt Bowers, Senior Director R&D, New Horizons Baking Company and ASB's 2025/2026 Board Chair. Webinar: Future-Proofing Commercial Baking
May 5, 2025 | 2:00 – 2:30 PM EST
Presented by ABA, ASB, and IDDBA |
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ASB Is Vegas Bound: Sept. 14-17, 2025 |
Are you headed to Las Vegas in September for IBIE - the International Baking Industry Exposition? We hope to see you there!
Introducing a new way to interact with ASB and baking industry peers: The Recharge Lounge. Make this your go-to spot to connect, reset, and refuel, proudly hosted by the American Society of Baking. Whether you're looking to spark meaningful conversations, refresh your professional headshot, juice up your devices, or simply take a breather with a coffee in hand, The Recharge Lounge is your calm amidst the tradeshow buzz. Find your moment to recharge—mind, body, and tech—all in one place.
We will also feature ASB-sponsored learning sessions as part of IBIEducate as well as timely conversations in The Recharge Lounge.
Did you know ASB Members can save 20% off their IBIE registration?
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May 14th Mentoring Program
Applications Close |
Ready to take your career to the next level—or give back to the future of baking? Applications are now open for ASB’s 2025 Mentoring Program, the only formal mentoring program in the baking industry, built to support professionals at any career stage.
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| June 2nd
IDDBA Casual Meet-Up |
Looking to connect with fellow baking professionals during IDDBA in New Orleans? Join ASB for a casual meet-up over coffee and beignets at the iconic Café Du Monde, June 2 at 7:30 AM! It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, network, and enjoy a taste of the city before heading to your sessions. |
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June 10th Kansas City Regional Meetup |
Start your summer with us on June 10 in Kansas City for a premier networking event, sponsored by Corbion and Avant Food Media/Commercial Baking. Build valuable connections, share ideas, and engage with industry peers in a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere. Come along and bring a friend or colleague! |
| July 16th
Chicago Regional Meetup |
Join us on July 16 for our exciting Regional Event at Rademaker USA's Technology Center in Illinois! Explore cutting-edge bakery solutions, network with industry peers, and gain insights into the latest innovations in bakery production technology. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and learn!
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To keep you informed on important legislative and regulatory issues impacting our industry, ASB is partnered with the American Bakers Association to bring you timely updates.
OSHA to Hold Hearing on Proposed Heat Injury & Illness Prevention Rule
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will hold a virtual public hearing regarding its proposed rulemaking on Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings on June 16, 2025 at 9:30 AM. The Agency is also offering an option to watch the hearing online without registering, with instructions forthcoming on OSHA’s rulemaking website.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP) Announcements
Arkansas Governor Huckabee Sanders submitted a SNAP waiver request to the USDA. The proposed waiver seeks to ban soda and candy purchases with SNAP benefits, including confectionary products with flour. Governor Sanders emphasized the need to combat chronic diseases and promote healthier food choices for low-income families. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins joined Governor Huckabee Sanders for the announcement.
Idaho’s Governor Little signed a SNAP restriction bill into law. The bill defines “candy” a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients, or flavorings in the form of confections, bars, drops, or pieces. “Candy” does not include any item that contains more than ten percent (10%) flour by weight or requires refrigeration.
Finally, Indiana Governor Braun announced a package of nine Executive Orders as part of a "Make Indiana Healthy Again" initiative. These orders aim to improve public health by addressing diet-related chronic illnesses, increasing transparency around food additives, and promoting fitness in schools. Key measures include restricting SNAP benefits from being used to purchase candy and soda, tightening work requirements for SNAP recipients, and encouraging access to fresh, local food. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joined Governor Braun for the announcement.
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| MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Kerwin Brown President & CEO | Bakery Equipment Manufacturers & Allieds |
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This month, we spotlight Kerwin Brown, President and CEO of BEMA, for his visionary leadership and long-standing commitment to the baking industry.
Since 2005, Kerwin has led BEMA with a focus on growth, innovation, and delivering value to members through initiatives like the Baking Industry Forum (BIF), BEMA-Connect, BEMA-U, Convention, and NEXUS. He served as the ASB Interim Executive Director from 2008 to 2010 during a time of transition for both organizations.
As a leader, he radiates goodwill and has an awareness of the unique contributions each person makes. Kerwin demonstrates an approach to leadership and decision making that is carefully balanced between strategic focus and innovative creativity. As he's often heard saying, "Good things happen when we bring people together."
He got his start in the industry with a special projects role at Shick Tube-Veyor (now Shick Esteve), which opened the door to deeper industry involvement through events hosted by BEMA, ASB, and IBIE. What’s kept him in the field for decades is not only the products the industry produces, but the relationships, camaraderie, and shared purpose among its people.
Kerwin is dedicated to helping members grow professionally and personally. He also contributes his expertise through service on the IBIE Executive, International, and Education committees, and several advisory and association boards. Outside of work, he enjoys life in Overland Park, Kansas with his wife, Kirby, and spends his free time climbing mountains in Colorado, playing guitar, and skeet shooting.
Congratulations, Kerwin, on 20 years of dedicated leadership at BEMA! Your passion, vision, and commitment have left a lasting impact on the baking industry. We’re grateful for all you do! |
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American Society of Baking | 1415 Shelby Street, Suite A | Indianapolis, IN 46203 US |
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