Join the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber for the 2026 Economic Forecast, one of the Chamber's premier annual events, bringing together business and community leaders from across the Mahoning Valley for a timely look at the economic outlook for the year ahead.
Taking place just two days after Election Day, this year's Economic Forecast will examine the forces shaping the international, national and regional economies and what they could mean for businesses across the Lake to River region.
Support Akron Children's Mahoning Valley
Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation for patients at Akron Children's Mahoning Valley. Requested items include blankets, Matchbox cars, Barbie dolls, baby dolls, infant and newborn toys, stuffed animals with tags, coloring books, LEGO sets, games, books, art supplies and gift cards valued at $10 to $15.
Those who bring an item will be entered into a drawing for some fabulous prizes!
All donations must be brand new, unwrapped and in their original packaging. For additional donation ideas and safety guidelines, visit
Akron Children's Patient Wish Lists page and select Patient Wish List under Related Resources.
What to Expect at Economic Forecast
The program will feature Chad Oviatt, chief investment officer and senior vice president, Wealth Management with First National Bank, this year's Platinum Sponsor. Oviatt is expected to provide a data-driven look at economic trends, market conditions and the factors influencing business investment and growth.
Lake to River/JobsOhio, this year's Keynote Sponsor, is expected to offer an on-the-ground perspective on what those trends could mean for economic development and business growth across Ashtabula, Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties.
The Regional Chamber and MAGNET: The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network also will present the Excellence in Manufacturing Award to Brilex Industries, a family-owned Mahoning Valley manufacturer celebrating 30 years in business. Founded in 1996 by brothers Brian and Alex Benyo, Brilex has grown into a major regional employer while continuing to invest in its workforce, expand into new markets and adapt to changes in the manufacturing industry.
Whether you are planning for your organization, monitoring economic trends or looking to connect with fellow business leaders, Economic Forecast offers timely information and valuable networking opportunities to help prepare for the year ahead.
About the Featured Speaker
Oviatt serves as chief investment officer and senior vice president for First National Bank’s Wealth Management segment, comprised of First National Trust Company (FNTC) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, First National Investment Services Company, LLC and F.N.B. Investment Advisors, Inc. He oversees FNTC’s investment strategies and portfolio management and, as part of his commitment to manage risk and build and protect client wealth, ensures compliance with applicable regulations.
Joining FNB in May 2025, Oviatt has more than 25 years of financial services experience. His previous roles include director of investment management for Huntington National Bank and president of Zions Capital Advisors at Zions Bancorporation. Oviatt earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mount Union College.
