Oregon Metals Initiative

The Oregon Metals Initiative, Inc. (OMI) is a consortium of metals industry companies and research institutions that pursues research to improve the long-term competitiveness of the metals industry and the research infrastructure in Oregon. Oregon’s metals industry is a vital part of the state’s economy, providing over 55,000 jobs in 1,700 companies with an average annual salary of $35,000. Metals industry firms are involved in a diverse range of activities including primary metal production, manufacturing of fabricated components, designing and building a wide range of specialized machinery and transportation products including trucks, railcars, ships and aircraft components. OMI was established in 1990 as a mechanism to both support and enhance the competitive position and economic contribution of the metals industry to Oregon’s economy. The organization is managed by a ten-member board of directors which includes both industry and university representatives.