WKU News

Advantage Kentucky Alliance (AKA) hired Sherry Mulkins as Client Development Manager. Mulkins will manage the statewide territory to cultivate and strengthen client relationships, track industry trends and opportunities that keep AKA pipelines growing, and negotiate outreach to increase utilization of resources.

Mulkins brings with her 18 years of experience in leadership of non-profits, including grant writing, budget development, program development, implementation, and operational and strategic planning. She excelled at growing membership, advocacy and helping local Kentucky companies increase business and expand. Mulkins’ previous positions include President of World Trade Center Kentucky and the Executive Director at the St. Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce in Louisville. She currently serves on the National Association of Women Business Owners foundation board as well as the Center for International Business and Training. Mulkins was recently recognized as Business First top 20 People to Know in Economic Development in the region, is a “Sweet 16” Leadership Kentucky Graduate, and an award finalist as a National Association of Women Business Owners Epic Advocate.

In her role prior to joining AKA, Mulkins increased awareness of global trade in Kentucky and assisted companies in growth through international business. She advanced educational platforms and trade advisory services, doubling the revenue brought in from these programs. Mulkins founded and led eleVate, Kentucky’s first Women’s International Business Conference. She was instrumental in organizing international business missions in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet of Economic Development, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Kentucky Distillers Association, and US Commercial Service.

 “I am thrilled to be a part of the Advantage Kentucky Alliance team. My role as Client Development Manager will allow me to continue to assist Kentucky manufacturers to expand their business,” Mulkins said. “The World Trade Center Kentucky and Advantage Kentucky Alliance is a strong strategic partnership that relies on the services of each organization to promote growth in the manufacturing industry.  I look forward to expanding that partnership.”

Scott Broughton, Center Director of AKA, said: “We are excited to have Sherry on board. Her extensive experience, knowledge, and connections in the Kentucky manufacturing sector will enrich our growing team.”

About Advantage Kentucky Alliance: AKA is the official representative of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, MEP National Network™ in Kentucky. It is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). AKA is focused on assisting small and medium- sized manufacturers generate business results and thrive in today’s technology-driven economy. AKA delivers comprehensive, proven solutions that fuel growth and advance manufacturing. Its mission is to help manufacturers become more globally competitive so they can retain and create additional industry and jobs within the state.

Contact: Elizabeth Keenan, elizabeth.keenan@wku.edu