ATLANTA – Members of the Georgia Canadian Legislative Caucus recently completed their first tour of United Medical Enterprise (UME) located in Thomson, Georgia, a Georgia-based manufacturer of Medicom, a Canadian company with operations in the state.
“This tour underscores the importance of global trade partnerships that fuel Georgia’s economy and strengthen our communities,” said State Representative Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta), co-chair of the caucus. “United Medical Enterprise is more than a manufacturer—it is a bridge between Georgia and Canada, creating jobs, advancing innovation and ensuring that essential healthcare products are made right here in our state. By cultivating these international business ties, we not only drive local economic growth but also position Georgia as a key player in the global marketplace.”
“We are excited to continue to develop and enhance our business and legislative relationship within Georgia and Canada,” added State Representative Rey Martinez (R-Loganville), who also serves as co-chair of the caucus. “Yesterday’s visit to a Canadian business in Georgia shows the commitment to our state and our communities.”
This visit provided a behind-the-scenes look at UME’s operations, showcasing how infection control products essential to dental and healthcare professionals are produced, including sterilization pouches, dental bibs, masks and other non-woven products. While observing UME’s production process, the caucus members noted the company’s capacity to produce masks at a rate of 32 per minute, totaling more than 55,000 per month.
“Recently, the Georgia Canadian Legislative Caucus had the opportunity to visit a Canadian company that manufactures supplies for dentist offices,” said State Representative Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale). “It was very enlightening, as we were able to tour as well as meet with employees of the company. It was rewarding to see a company manufacturing essential items to keep us safe here in Georgia.”
“I enjoyed touring United Medical Enterprise; it was very interesting and informative,” concluded State Representative Gary Richardson (R-Evans). “I was impressed with the facility, leadership and employees.”
The members of the caucus extend their gratitude to UME and Medicom team—Sean, Hershel, Bill and Cheryl—for their hospitality, as well as to partners from the Canada team (Zaineb Kubba, Ash Miller and Andrea Novellino) and the Quebec team (Paulette Noirbent) for their engagement and collaboration.
The Georgia Canadian Legislative Caucus looks forward to visiting more Canadian companies across the state and building partnerships that drive innovation, economic growth and mutual opportunity, as they view this inaugural tour as an important step in strengthening ties between Georgia and Canadian businesses.
*Editor’s note: a photo of these representatives is included.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes a portion of Fulton County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Industry and Labor and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Reynaldo “Rey” Martinez represents the citizens of District 111, which includes portions of Gwinnett and Walton counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2022 and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Small Business Development Committee. He also serves on the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Defense & Veterans Affairs and Intragovernmental Coordination committees.
Representative Rhonda Burnough represents the citizens of District 77 which includes a portion of Clayton County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and currently serves on the Economic Development & Tourism, Governmental Affairs, Higher Education and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Gary Richardson represents the citizens of District 125, which includes portions of Columbia and McDuffie counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2024 and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Public & Community Health Committee and as Secretary of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee. He also serves on the Transportation Committee.
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