Manufacturing Innovation Blog
https://www.nist.gov/
Manufacturing Innovation Blog blog postsenFrom the Garden State to the Magnolia State: Mississippi Polymer Institute Provides Solutions to Technology Challenges
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/garden-state-magnolia-state-mississippi-polymer-institute
As a manufacturer, you sometimes face technical challenges beyond the scope of your in-house expertise or experience. It is important to focus on finding the right partners and advisors to help you navigate these obstacles and remain competitive. The Mississippi Polymer Institute ( MPI ), based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is one of those resources. MPI is a regional office of the Mississippi Manufacturers Association Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MMA-MEP, Mississippi MEP), which is part of the MEP National Network TM. MPI is a non-profit industrial outreach organization housed at the
Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1867956Back to Basics: Simple Questions for Assessing Industrial Artificial Intelligence Applications
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/back-basics-simple-questions-assessing-industrial-artificial
This blog is the first in a four-part series on the beginner’s guide to Industrial Artificial Intelligence applications. Welcome knowledge seeker! Do you feel dazzled and awed by the great potential of Artificial Intelligence aka AI? Perhaps hesitant or lost when words like ‘convolution,’ ‘deep learning,’ or ‘autoencoder’ are thrown around? Well, fear not, friend, for you have come to just the right place! You don’t need to be a computer wizard or a super genius to understand how using AI can impact your system and, more importantly, if using it is worth the investment. This is a multi-part
Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000Michael Sharphttps://www.nist.gov/node/1867091Manufacturing Day: Engaging Youth and the Young at Heart
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/manufacturing-day-engaging-youth-and-young-heart
Manufacturing Day is an opportunity to showcase the high-tech nature of manufacturing careers and inspire the next generation of talent.
Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1862036Understanding Federal and State Child Labor Laws
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/understanding-federal-and-state-child-labor-laws
This blog is part of a series on compliance with federal child labor laws in manufacturing. Our nation’s foundational child labor laws – provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) – were passed to ensure that when children work, that work doesn’t jeopardize a child’s safety, welfare, or educational opportunities. Yet at the federal level, the U.S. Department of Labor has uncovered an alarming increase in violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act’s child labor provisions. In February 2023, the Department’s Wage and Hour Division , which enforces federal child labor laws
Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000Patty Davidson https://www.nist.gov/node/1861381Marketing Strategies for Manufacturers: How Building Community Helps Build Your Business
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/marketing-strategies-manufacturers-how-building-community-helps
Networking and community building should be part of your mix when marketing for manufacturers. Read our blog to learn why.
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000Megan Militellohttps://www.nist.gov/node/1858761Lisa Dach: Bringing Change to Manufacturing
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/lisa-dach-bringing-change-manufacturing
“There is a tremendous opportunity for women to influence the manufacturing industry in a positive way,” says Lisa Dach, the strategic business advisor at the Northwest Industrial Resource Center (NWIRC), part of the Pennsylvania MEP and the MEP National Network TM . “Women in leadership improve the recruiting and retention efforts of manufacturers.” Dach is making her mark in the industry by creating and implementing solutions for Pennsylvania manufacturers, including improving processes and increasing efficiencies. She helps manufacturers connect and collaborate with industry experts and
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1857366Building the Quantum Technology Supply Chain With MATTR
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/building-quantum-technology-supply-chain-mattr
How do you build the supply chain for the emerging field of quantum technology? Look to NIST’s MATTR service, which can determine the capabilities needed.
Tue, 06 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000Marlon Walker , David Boulayhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1856471Alyssa Rodrigues: Forging a New Path for Women and Small Manufacturers in Alaska
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/alyssa-rodrigues-forging-new-path-women-and-small-manufacturers
For Alyssa Rodrigues, director of the Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) , helping women achieve success in manufacturing is more than a job, it’s a calling. “You know a lot of us, especially women, we make things,” Alyssa says. “We make jewelry, we make clothing, we manufacture on a very small scale – things for ourselves and things for our family and friends. And when you expand that, you’re a manufacturer.” Alyssa says diversity is important to the future of manufacturing, especially when it comes to including women at the leadership level. This is why she and her Alaska MEP
Tue, 16 Jul 2024 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1854071Child Labor Law Compliance in the Manufacturing Industry
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/child-labor-law-compliance-manufacturing-industry
For the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, protecting children in the workplace is our top priority. The Division is responsible for enforcing foundational labor standards, including the child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards affecting employees in the private sector and in federal, state, and local governments. We know safe first jobs allow young people to develop skills, earn money, and gain valuable experience—these are the kinds of good jobs that can put
Fri, 05 Jul 2024 12:00:00 +0000Patty Davidson https://www.nist.gov/node/1853266Industry 4.0 and cybersecurity – How to protect your investment
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/industry-40-and-cybersecurity-how-protect-your-investment
Digital transformations are notoriously difficult for small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs). SMMs need to meet production goals, recruit and retain talent, and reduce risks in their supply chains all while trying to adapt to an evolving technological landscape. Fortunately, Industry 4.0 is gaining momentum to address these challenges by providing pathways to efficiencies, innovation and growth. As a result, more manufacturers are investing in automation and equipment monitoring. Industry 4.0 may be a game changer for SMMs; however, it is not a panacea for all the challenges facing 21 st
Tue, 18 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000Pat Tothhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1852561Tap into a new talent pool to fill your workforce gaps: Second chance citizens
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/tap-new-talent-pool-fill-your-workforce-gaps-second-chance
Learn how Purdue MEP's Manufacturing Skills for Success (MS4S) program equips second chance citizens with vital manufacturing skills to transition into the workforce.
Wed, 05 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000Joseph (Joe) T. McMurryhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1851406The MEP National Network’s Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network: Helping Manufacturers Bridge Gaps
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/mep-national-networks-supply-chain-optimization-and-intelligence
When a foreign company wants to manufacture goods in the U.S., it needs new domestic suppliers for just about everything. When such an initiative involves new technology, it creates even more opportunities for a regional ecosystem and associated supply chains. Topsoe is a Danish energy company that is slated to build a $400 million Electrolyzer facility in Chesterfield, Virginia. Their technology utilizes renewable electricity from sources like solar and wind power to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This creates green hydrogen, a clean and carbon-neutral fuel. It is designed
Fri, 31 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000Joe Edmondson, Nathan Ginty, Mark Schmithttps://www.nist.gov/node/1849701Leading the MEP Program – and Giving Back to this Land of Hope and Promise
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/leading-mep-program-and-giving-back-land-hope-and-promise
This blog is part of a series celebrating and sharing the stories of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander manufacturing leaders. As Acting Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), I am embracing my inner “tech Lego nerd” to build wondrous endeavors with my colleagues that support the Make it in America ethos. I am a first generation American who has spent time in my career venturing on deep-tech startups, strategizing intellectual property portfolios for large-scale international textile original equipment
Wed, 29 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000G. Nagesh Raohttps://www.nist.gov/node/1849691Empowering Women Will Create a Culture That Benefits All
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/empowering-women-will-create-culture-benefits-all
Women make up nearly half of the working population in the United States but are underrepresented in the manufacturing industry. According to Women in the Workplace , women constitute approximately one-third of the manufacturing workforce and only 24% of manufacturing C-suite positions. Manufacturers have been aware of the employment gender gap for years, yet the dynamic remains largely unchanged. This is, in part, because organizational culture in America is often reactive rather than strategic. Companies often apply band-aids to workplace issues that arise, rather than exploring root causes
Thu, 02 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000Kristen Goodellhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1847421Right Where I Belong: Creating a Place for Myself in Manufacturing
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/right-where-i-belong-creating-place-myself-manufacturing
I knew I wanted to work in a manufacturing environment the whole time I was earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering. I’ve come a long way in manufacturing since, and (with an MBA to boot) I am now an experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in various industries including textiles, carbon materials, and coatings. In 2019, I became President of Aurora Specialty Textiles in Yorkville, Illinois. Founded in 1883, Aurora’s core strength is the application of water-based coatings and finishes to fabrics. Aurora’s domestic manufacturing capabilities in
Wed, 10 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000Marcia Ayalahttps://www.nist.gov/node/1845656NIST Explores AI-Enhanced Monitoring in Manufacturing Processes
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/nist-explores-ai-enhanced-monitoring-manufacturing-processes
American manufacturing is associated with high-quality standards meant to ensure both the reliability and longevity of the products produced. Manufacturers across all industries are looking for technological solutions and enhancements to continue to meet these high-bar standards and to maintain their competitive advantage. The growing connectivity of devices, coupled with high demands of production and precision, mandate robust monitoring and control systems. As the digital age blossoms, it’s no surprise to anyone that a full suite of ever-evolving technologies is rising up to provide
Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000Michael Sharphttps://www.nist.gov/node/1845541Making it Happen in a Man’s World
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/making-it-happen-mans-world
With a career of more than 40 years in the manufacturing industry, I can look back now and see that I was greatly influenced by my father, who worked for an engineering firm. He shared his vast mechanical know-how with me. The two of us worked on many projects together, including rebuilding my car’s engine – an experience that wasn’t common among my peers at the time. Deep manufacturing roots During my teen years, I worked for Vermeer Corporation , a global manufacturer of industrial and agricultural machines . I also watched the production lines at the Rolscreen site of the Pella Corporation
Sat, 30 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000Brenda Martinhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1845061If You Build It, They Will Come – Opening Day Musings From a Baseball Fan
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/if-you-build-it-they-will-come-opening-day-musings-baseball-fan
Baseball’s Opening Day brings with it both nostalgia and excitement. You don’t have to be a die-hard fan to appreciate the dedicated folks who leave work early, grab a cold beer and a hot dog, and feel the buzz of excitement as the players take the field for the first game of the season. Everyone is brimming with hope for what the season might hold. On Opening Day, every fan and every team are on the same level. And no matter what, it’s a fun time with family and friends. Many of my favorite memories come from America’s pastime. Everything has to be made When I joined the National Institute of
Thu, 28 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000Andrew Noblemanhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1844256Rachel Camarillo: Blazing a Trail for Women in Manufacturing
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/rachel-camarillo-blazing-trail-women-manufacturing
This blog is part of a series highlighting women who are making an impact on the manufacturing industry. When Rachel Camarillo was a little girl growing up in Hawaii, she helped her mother and two aunts with what they called a hobby. They’d draw flowers, screen print the art onto fabric, and cut and sew the fabric meticulously into kitchen sets they’d sell at craft fairs. “It was an intensive process for a hobby now that I look back on it,” she says. “I remember the hours of getting the screen print just right, stuffing the potholders, sewing into the wee hours of the night, and then
Fri, 08 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1841876In Manufacturing, Hoarding Labor Is a Good Thing, Actually
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/manufacturing-hoarding-labor-good-thing-actually
I was listening to a recent NPR podcast where they brought up a term that was new to me: labor hoarding. And while the term generally has a negative connotation — meaning, you’re paying to keep talent that isn’t necessarily fully utilized — I think in modern manufacturing it’s critical. When nearly 80% of employers say it’s hard to fill roles — a 17 year high! — companies better think twice before laying off any team members unless it’s absolutely necessary. But there’s more to the story than just collecting people. Your company needs not just to acquire talent but actively keep it. In an era
Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Matt Fieldmanhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1842911When a Friendly Check-In Call Changes Your Career Path
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/when-friendly-check-call-changes-your-career-path
As CEO of International Filter Manufacturing Corporation (IFM), I lead an air filtration manufacturing and distribution company that serves customers worldwide. We’re based in Litchfield, Illinois, where our company’s manufacturing facility remains. We have expanded operations across the Midwest, with an office located in Omaha, Nebraska. The company was founded by Cecilia Ewing, a self-taught filtration entrepreneur with a strong desire to increase small business sales to the federal government. Ms. Ewing (later Ewing-Hayes) worked diligently to initially serve as a manufacturer’s
Wed, 21 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Karen Watsonhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1841226How to Avoid 3 Common Missteps in Pursuing International Sales
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/how-avoid-3-common-missteps-pursuing-international-sales
The fact that about 85% of the global market is outside the U.S. should alone be a compelling enough reason for manufacturers to pursue international sales. Exporting allows manufacturers to diversify their customer base, tap into new markets, and mitigate the impact of economic fluctuations in any one region. But the benefits of exporting go far beyond financial gains. They include long-term strategic advantages that contribute to the growth and sustainability of your business. Embracing a global perspective fosters innovation and acts as a catalyst for efficiency improvements. It introduces
Fri, 16 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Lisa Henderson, Michael Stonehttps://www.nist.gov/node/1840251What Black History Month Means to Me
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/what-black-history-month-means-me
I thought a lot about what to write in honor of Black History Month. We often hear stories and quotes from heroes like Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman. While these individuals are worthy of praise, I wanted to share something more personal. So, I thought I’d share what Black history is to me. Not just one month out of the year When I was in school, February was when the stories and history of people who looked like me were amplified. Maybe this was the only time some kids heard these stories, but not me. My parents and grandparents made sure to teach me about Black
Tue, 13 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Tiffany Stovallhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1839346North Carolina MEP Brought Me Back Home 25 Years Ago
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/north-carolina-mep-brought-me-back-home-25-years-ago
As Director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP), located on the campus of North Carolina State University (NC State) in Raleigh, North Carolina, I drive outreach to North Carolina manufacturers, build relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinate efforts to stimulate profitable manufacturing growth in the state. Working at NCMEP was a homecoming for me — I did my undergraduate degree at NC State. My career took a winding path for a while, away from my home state and away from manufacturing. But 25 years ago, an ad in the paper for an MEP position
Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Phil Mintzhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1838866Integrating Sustainability: Insights from the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/integrating-sustainability-insights-wisconsin-sustainable
Manufacturers are under increasing pressure from consumers, retailers, investors, and regulatory agencies to act on sustainability and to verify the sustainability of their products and practices. Given the array of issues related to sustainability, navigating the demands can be complex and resource-intensive. For well over a decade, Wisconsin has been working on a solution that cuts through the complexity and helps companies develop and enhance their sustainability or environmental, social, and governance (ESG) actions, saving them time and money and helping retain customers, find new
Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Jessy Servi Ortizhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1838606Manufacturing Internships Expand the Talent Pipeline
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/manufacturing-internships-expand-talent-pipeline
Manufacturing internships are one of the most effective methods for building your company’s talent pipeline. In my role as project manager for workforce programs at Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) , I help manufacturers build their pipeline of manufacturing talent with an internship program focused on students from diverse, underrepresented groups. This is one of the many workforce-related programs offered across the MEP National Network ™ by MEP Centers in every state and Puerto Rico. Small and medium-sized manufacturers may find it challenging to
Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000Mayra S. Ramirezhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1837771Mapping Your Supply Chains Helps Prioritize Risks, Actions
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/mapping-your-supply-chains-helps-prioritize-risks-actions
As a manufacturer you understand that supply chain disruptions happen all the time. What you don’t know is when or how they will impact your operation and business. But assessing your supply chain risks and implementing good supply chain management practices can be daunting. This is especially true if you are among the many manufacturers that do not have dedicated supply chain personnel or formal training and tools for supply chain and inventory management. Fortunately, there is a great way to gain visibility into your supply chain with a reasonable investment of resources: Map the supply
Tue, 16 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000Melissa Burant, Marc Schneiderhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1836346Precision Machine & Manufacturing Improves Oversight, Production and Sales Processes Through Continuous Improvement Principles
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/precision-machine-manufacturing-improves-oversight-production
Precision Machine & Manufacturing (PMM) was established in 1997. Based in Eugene, Oregon, this manufacturer has been setting the industry standards for designing, manufacturing, rebuilding and repairing extreme-duty rotary valves and feeders. Industries served include cement, pulp, paper, wood products, coal/biomass, and oil and gas industries. PMM recently made leadership changes to improve oversight, production and sales processes. It established a corporate strategy, bolstered by new leadership, and identified significant top-line growth opportunities. To take advantage of these growth
Tue, 09 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1835516Increasing C-Suite Financial Literacy for Manufacturing Success
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/increasing-c-suite-financial-literacy-manufacturing-success
Without a basic grasp of financial concepts at the C-suite (executive) level, small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) may be limited in their ability to compete in an increasingly crowded marketplace. This is why financial literacy is near and dear to my heart. As a former manufacturer myself, I understand how SMMs impact the way we live, work and play. As CEO of Manex Consulting, I work with many SMMs through California Manufacturing Technology Consulting (CMTC) , which is part of the MEP National Network ™. Your local MEP Center offers a powerful combination of knowledge and resources
Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000Gene Russellhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1834471What You Should Know About the Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/what-you-should-know-about-supply-chain-optimization-and
The 51 Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers that make up the MEP National Network™ work to enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) within the United States. Although each MEP Center operates independently and caters to the needs of its local manufacturing community, they share a common mission: assisting manufacturers, in various ways, to improve and succeed in today’s dynamic business environment. Officially launched on June 1, 2023, the Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network (SCOIN) expands the MEP National Network’s scope from
Thu, 21 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000Nathan Gintyhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1833866Need a Green Workforce? Look No Further than the Manufacturing Extension Partnership
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/need-green-workforce-look-no-further-manufacturing-extension
45% annual growth. It’s a number that could make any workforce or economic development professional’s eyes pop out of their sockets. I was literally blown away by that number, which is the expected annual growth rate of the demand for wind turbine service technicians. This profession is just one of many new green job industries growing throughout the United States. And though the job is relatively challenging – lugging 50 pounds of gear up long ladders into confined spaces, traveling constantly to remote parts of the country, and dealing with all types of weather – it also pays $80,000
Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000Matt Fieldmanhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1833466FastLane Helps Triangle Precision Increase Capacity With Automation
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/fastlane-helps-triangle-precision-increase-capacity-automation
Triangle Precision, located in Kettering, Ohio, provides close tolerance precision machining, forming, and fabrication to many vital industries including aerospace, defense, high-speed printing, electronics, racing, medical, and automotive. Triangle Precision contacted FastLane , part of the Ohio MEP and the MEP National Network™ , to see how it could leverage automation to improve efficiency and provide more capabilities to new and existing clients in the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) supply chain. It also needed to renew its AS9100 and ITAR certifications. These certifications are
Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1833011Expanding on the Success of a Regional Registered Apprenticeship Program
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/expanding-success-regional-registered-apprenticeship-program
The current talent pipeline for manufacturing is not adequate to fill existing job openings, let alone the number of skilled workers that will be needed in the future. Emerging demand for data analysts and semiconductor technicians will require a more collaborative approach to expand training opportunities and reach into underrepresented populations to widen the pool of candidates. That’s why the Center for Economic Growth , located in New York state’s Capital Region and part of the New York Manufacturing Extension Partnership, joined the Manufacturing Intermediary Apprenticeship Program (MIAP
Fri, 01 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christine McLearhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1832496Video: Heroes of American Manufacturing – Mayville Engineering
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/video-heroes-american-manufacturing-mayville-engineering
Small and medium-sized manufacturers know that employees are their most important asset. Without employee commitment, no company can succeed. Mayville Engineering Company (MEC) recognizes this. According to MEC’s Executive Vice President of Fabrication Operations David Higgs, “What embodies MEC most is our mission statement. It’s pride, personal responsibility and daily excellence. Our biggest strength is our people.” At this employee-owned company, the workforce is engaged because the solutions that drive the company’s success benefit them as well. A new video in the Heroes of American
Wed, 22 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000Katie Rapphttps://www.nist.gov/node/1831946Start Your Market Scouting by Reviewing Your Value Proposition
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/start-your-market-scouting-reviewing-your-value-proposition
Technology-driven market intelligence ( TDMI) is a technology acceleration service developed for the MEP National Network ™ by RTI International to help small and medium-sized manufacturers refine their strategic direction and market validation. This helps firms stay competitive and grow their businesses. Gathering market intelligence can be daunting, especially since you are not just looking at recent trends, but attempting to determine where the market is headed. Market research and a proper TDMI assessment require significant time and expertise you may not have in-house. Your local MEP
Tue, 14 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000Cindy Matsukihttps://www.nist.gov/node/1830841Illuminating Possibilities to Achieve ISO Certification
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/illuminating-possibilities-achieve-iso-certification
Enova Illumination, a client of Enterprise Minnesota (Minnesota MEP), is a leading provider of LED surgical headlights, magnification systems, and other visualization solutions for healthcare professionals. The company was founded in 2006 to address the limitations of traditional fiber-optic surgical headlights. Enova employs 50 people and operates from a single location in Minneapolis, Minnesota. When Enova Illumination Vice President of Operations Jeremy Ward contacted Enterprise Minnesota, part of the MEP National Network™ , the company had been using an older quality management system (QMS
Tue, 07 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000https://www.nist.gov/node/1830441Infographic – Integrating Cybersecurity With Industry 4.0: What It Means for Manufacturing
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/infographic-integrating-cybersecurity-industry-40-what-it-means
Did you know that manufacturing is now the most targeted industry for cyber attacks? The average cost of a data breach for a small business is $105,000. Can your firm absorb that cost? Can you risk the down time and the damage that a data breach would cause your business? Industry 4.0: Managing cybersecurity where OT and IT meet Old style manufacturing equipment was not connected to a network, and that physical separation provided some level of security. Automation and other Industry 4.0 technologies bring many benefits and increased efficiencies to manufacturing facilities, but networked
Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000Katie Rapphttps://www.nist.gov/node/182942110 Ways TWI Supports Employee Engagement and Retention
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/10-ways-twi-supports-employee-engagement-and-retention
Workforce challenges these days are never-ending, not just for manufacturers but across the business spectrum. You have to be on top of your game to be successful building a talent pipeline, recruiting and hiring, onboarding and training, creating an engaging workplace culture, and promoting career development. Leadership skills in manufacturing are paramount, as is the ever-present need for standardized training. The turnover of experienced leaders and other subject matter experts only amplifies that need. You may have an old standby in your workforce toolbox that addresses manufacturing
Wed, 18 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000Phil Chadderdonhttps://www.nist.gov/node/1829401Find Unique Workforce Solutions for Your Firm: A New Interactive Map Showcases MEP National Network Workforce Programs, Services and Trainings
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/find-unique-workforce-solutions-your-firm-new-interactive-map
How can small firms without in-house expertise help their staff learn new skills? It’s not easy when resources are tight and staff are pulled in a million directions. Manufacturers face worker shortages, skills gaps and other workforce challenges that limit their productivity and growth. MEP Centers around the country help manufacturers fill those gaps and find unique workforce solutions based on each firm’s needs. A new interactive map, MEP National Network Workforce Programs, Services and Trainings, showcases these efforts across the country. This map complements a recently published list
Thu, 12 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000Katie Rapphttps://www.nist.gov/node/1828311Building the Future Workforce on Manufacturing Day, Oct. 6
https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/building-future-workforce-manufacturing-day-oct-6
Young adults have many choices when it comes to their future careers. Some have a clear career path in mind, whether it’s pursuing a college degree, enlisting in the military, or entering the workforce right away. But for others, the road ahead is less certain, and they may not yet know where their interests and passions lie. Of course, this is perfectly normal, and it’s okay not to have all the answers. Young adults have time for exploration, self-discovery and personal growth. Adults can help them by providing tools and opportunities for them to explore options. That’s where Manufacturing
Fri, 06 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000Jennifer Rosahttps://www.nist.gov/node/1827401