HAYWARD, CA -- January 20, 2005 -- Manex, a Hayward-based consulting company serving manufacturers in Northern California, announced that Jeff Gordon has joined the Board of Directors.

Mr. Gordon is Director of Business and Community Partnerships for the San Jose State University Foundation. He is responsible for extending and increasing SJSU research, grant and collaborative opportunities for campus faculty, students and academic resources-targeting both private and public sector initiatives. Prior to joining the Foundation his private sector work in the telecommunications industry involved roles in strategy, busines development, marketing and sales, including 14 years with Pacific Bell. He has worked with numerous technology-based entrepreneurial ventures, including serving as Director for Silicon Valley start-up and has provided business/market development and strategic consulting services to private and public sector, as well as non-profit clients. He serves as an ex-officio member of the Board.

About Manex
Manex is a consulting company that helps California companies increase profitability, productivity and quality. We focus on eliminating wasteful activities, reducing costs and improving quality by delivering Lean Implementation Services, Quality Services and customized Training Services. Manex is part of a nationwide network of 60 centers, operating under the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. Manex also has a partnership with the State of California's Business, Housing and Transportation Agency as well as the State of California's Employment Training Panel (ETP).