Columns

16 Oct 2019

Precision Machining Index Experiences Third Month of Contracting Activity

The Precision Machining Index registered 45.9 in September, which marks for a third month of quickening contraction of business activity as reported by surveyed precision machinists.

Automation 15 Oct 2019

Lack of Cybersecurity Skills in Manufacturing Leads to Career Program, and Other Workforce Development News

The Siemens Foundation has provided a $1.25 million grant for a comprehensive workforce development program for cybersecurity in manufacturing; Hudson Valley Community College’s new 37,000-square-foot facility will allow the college to double enrollment in the manufacturing program; and Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. conducted a training and workforce development program for some students in Houston, Texas.

2 Oct 2019

When You Know it’s Right

Unfortunately, not all major decisions are this easy. This life-changing choice, though, is a no-brainer.

Workforce Development 24 Sep 2019

Look Beyond the Benchmark

Shops that aim for traditional benchmarks could be limiting their progress. Instead, companies should focus on what they believe in or stand for beyond what they sell or make.

18 Sep 2019

PMI Trends Lower on Weak Backlogs, Employment

The August PMI indicates that both foreign and domestic new orders contracted in August, but at a lesser rate than in July. Should these readings continue to close in on the 50 mark in the coming months, it will indicate a stabilization in the demand for production machined goods.

13 Sep 2019

Life Lessons Learned Teaching Those Behind Bars

I was excited to visit the prison to teach entrepreneurship and job search skills to the mavericks, but I was not prepared for what they would teach me.

4 Sep 2019

Being Social is Networking

Networking involves putting oneself in a position to make connections and making an effort to communicate. It’s a social thing, regardless of whether the Internet is a part of it.

19 Aug 2019

25 Lessons in 25 Years

“We’re going to need someone to run the company. Do you think you can do it?”

Emerging Leaders 14 Aug 2019

Change the Perception of Manufacturing—Host or Sponsor an MFG Day Event

MFG Day events often serve as the first step toward a manufacturing career for curious students. Here's why you should host one.

12 Aug 2019

Employment and Supplier Deliveries Lead PMI

The Precision Machining Index (PMI) ended 32 consecutive months of expanding activity readings with a July reading of 47.1. Readings above 50 indicate expanding activity and values below 50 indicate contracting activity.