Giving Thanks

Most of us working in manufacturing, particularly here in the U.S., have a lot to be thankful for this year. Here is a list of five things that quickly jump to mind for which I’m thankful in my professional life.

A Strong 2014

Most people in the industry believe that it’s been a good year, and momentum should carry us well into 2015. A very successful IMTS acts as a good indication. In one of many industry wrap-ups, Steve Kline, Jr., director of market intelligence for Gardner Research, states that surveys of metalworking equipment buyers indicate that spending may jump 37 percent next year to the highest level in 7 years.

Smart Young Shop Personnel

For a while now the skills gap has been a concern in manufacturing. We’ve often discussed the need to promote increased awareness of industry jobs and the transfer of knowledge from an aging workforce to the next generation. I get excited when I see progress in this regard. “A Swiss Shop’s Next Generation” examines a shop that is meeting the challenge with internal training. “Grooming Young Leaders” takes a quick look at a couple of rising stars who are making their mark on the shop floor.

Shops That Place High Value in Sharing Their Stories

There are so many interesting stories to tell about shops that are using creative approaches in applying technology for better production. But one of the more challenging parts of my job is finding such shops that are willing to share what they’ve learned. Often, proprietary information prevents them from opening their doors to our readers. It’s cool, though, when a shop gets genuinely excited to tell its story. Here’s an example of one such shop that Chris Koepfer writes about in our December issue.

A Great Employer

Gardner Business Media is a wonderful company. With brands such as Modern Machine Shop, MoldMaking Technology, Products Finishing, and others, there’s no doubt the company is a leader in providing media that move manufacturing. But it’s also a fun place to work, and not a day goes by that I’m not thankful for the opportunity to contribute to this organization.

Great Coworkers

I’m not sure where I’d be if not for the guidance of PM’s editor-in-chief, Chris Koepfer, who probably has forgotten more about metalworking than I’ll ever know, and our managing editor, Lori Beckman, who keeps us in line and handles the details of pulling each issue together. But I’m also so thankful for all the other people in this company, each of whom plays some role, directly or indirectly, in the success of our magazine. I’ve never before worked at a company that didn’t have at least one employee who was difficult to work with. But Gardner somehow manages to find Grade-A employees every time.