AMTonline: AMT NEWS

2011 sees strong manufacturing technology demand

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

The resurgence of manufacturing following the crash of 2008 is unprecedented. The most current U.S. manufacturing technology orders put the year-to-date total at $4,529.11 million, which is up 80.5 percent compared with 2010 and is the second highest dollar amount in the last 15 years.

DC2011: It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

A look back at the triumphs and tribulations of our elected leaders in managing the economy and boosting the manufacturing sector during the 1st session of the 112th Congress… 

President names two co-chairs for White House Office of Manufacturing Policy

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

In December, President Obama named the two co-chairs of the White House Office of Manufacturing Policy – Commerce Secretary John Bryson and National Economic Council Director Gene Sperling.

R&D tax credit expired

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

If there was one thing Congress was able to consistently prove last year, it was its ability to create uncertainty within the manufacturing and business sectors. The repeated budget battles, temporary budget extensions, and near government shutdowns left the future of many pro-business programs and essential tax credits in limbo.

Market Data Review - January 2012

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

- A very good 2011

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Foreign Trade Report - October 2011

S.E. Huffman founder Stan Huffman dies

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Stan E. Huffman Jr., founder of longtime AMT member S.E. Huffman Corp. (now operating as Huffman Technologies LLC), passed away in Naples, Fla., on Nov. 16, 2011. He was 88.

Industry News - January 2012

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

FANUC Corporation named by Thomson Reuters a 2011 Top 100 Global InnovatorSM; Gleason Corporation at IPTEX 2012; Jet Edge, Inc., offering waterjet training and demonstration workshops in Shanghai; Mercado Machinery now distributing Jet Edge precision water jet cutting systems in Mexico; PRIMA POWER LASERDYNE has delivered the first RAPIDO Laser System produced in U.S.; Mahr Federal will be at MD&M WEST; NCMS awarded first place in “Great Ideas Competition.” 

The Defense Manufacturing Conference is the place to learn about manufacturing for the DoD

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Defense Manufacturing Conference (DMC) is an annual Conference that is hosted each year by either the Army, Navy, or Air Force ManTech (Manufacturing Technology) Program offices in a rotating sequence.

Targeting Technology - January 2012

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

- So you want to sell to the DoD

- MTConnect

New Year’s resolution? Begin the “write” way

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Make this the year that you submit a proposal to the federal government. There are several sources of funding available to AMT member companies or for those that wish to team with another company.

Using a proven CAD/CAM package to manufacture tooling

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Manufacturing and machining today consists of many different categories and sub-categories, often relating back to the simple basic concept of making something on a larger scale by utilizing machinery. Interfacing with the machine to get what the manufacturer desires as a final product can prove to be the most challenging, yet rewarding step in the process.

Gas turbines might just jet through the euro/recession crisis

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

In early November, AMT was contacted regarding our members’ ability to supply equipment to United Engine Corporation (UEC) in Russia. UEC (in Russian ODK) is a group of more than a dozen Russian manufacturers of various kinds of engines.

It’s 2012 – Let’s celebrate the good times!

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

It’s totally understandable that the economic conditions of recent years would result in two trends: A tendency to be extremely cautious, even gun-shy, toward making investments in growth, and looking very closely at a variety of economic predictions in an attempt to figure out exactly what’s going to happen with the business climate. But I am fearful that what we’re seeing right now is a “bullwhip effect” where there’s an overreaction to small changes in economic numbers, and maybe businesses are too fearful to take advantage of opportunities that could be theirs for the taking.

Service & Aftermarket Support Conference takes shape

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

In the last issue of AMT NEWS we shared with you the highlights of the next Service & Aftermarket Support Conference to take place May 17-18 in Indianapolis. During the last Global Service Committee meeting, the committee finalized the agenda for the event and it is reproduced to the right to give you a glimpse of what to expect when you attend this exciting event.

Strategies to mitigate targeted cyber intrusions

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

In October, SANS held the 2011 National Cybersecurity Innovation Conference. There were many interesting presentations about mitigating targeted attacks and securing cloud and mobile computing.

We want you ... to design our car!

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

The IMTS community is getting its invitation to join this community through our car skin design competition. YOU can help design and select the skin that will appear on the IMTS car – to be built in the Emerging Technology Center at IMTS 2012!

Year in Review 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

[MC]2 MTConnect: Connecting Manufacturing Conference a resounding success

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

[MC]2 took place Nov. 8-10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and had something for everyone from distributors to end users, to manufacturing technology builders, to software developers, to C-level executives, to students, to professors and to anyone who just wanted to really understand MTConnect.

Royal Master Grinder’s custom approach

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Flexibility and the understanding of how to meet customer needs are key to success in any business. Royal Master Grinders has mastered this approach, making customization the name of the game for all the machines they build.

Super Committee – anything but “super”

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Not surprisingly given the last year in politics, the deficit “Super Committee” announced it failed in its mission to cut at least $1.2 trillion from the federal deficit over the next decade. The impasse triggers across-the-board spending cuts in both defense and non-defense programs beginning in 2013.

Trans-Pacific Partnership talks continue

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Last month, President Obama spent time in Hawaii and throughout Southeast Asia promoting a free trade agreement between the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP’s nine member countries – the United States, Australia, Brunei Darussalem, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam – have held nine rounds of negotiations, concluding the ninth in October. On Nov. 12, leaders of the participating countries announced the broad outlines of an agreement.

Alka Parandekar joins AMT staff

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Alka Parandekar has joined the AMT staff in the Strategic Information & Research Department, in the role of Applications Developer.

Market Data Review - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Customers' growth boring, but don't fall asleep

- Producer Price & Wage Report

- Foreign Trade Report - September 2011

Jergens HQ hosts AMT staff

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

On October 17, a number of AMT staff from both the Virginia and China offices visited Jergens’ headquarters and plant in Cleveland, Ohio. Jergens, founded in 1942, has been an IMTS exhibitor for many years and an active member of AMT since 2004. Their product lines are workholding and quick change fixturing, swiveling hoist rings, and specialty fasteners. 

Industry News - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Ex One Company awarded Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract by the Naval Air Warfare Center; Prima Power Laserdyne appoints Allan Callander Market Sales Manager; Murata Machinery USA, Inc. announces that Futoshi Miyamoto will succeed Masahiko Hattori as president and CEO on Jan. 1, 2012; NCMS launches Transportation Environmental Resource Center (TERC), a new online compliance resource; Professor Berthold Leibinger, Chairman, TRUMPF Group Supervisory Boards receives Arthur L. Schawlow Award.

Targeting Technology - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

- DoD TechMatch

- MTConnect

- B11 Meetings

American Precision Museum holds 12th Annual Model Engineering Show

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

For the 12th consecutive year the American Precision Museum (Windsor, Vt.) played host to some of the best model machinists in the northeastern United States and Canada. These machinists and hobbyists present some of the best examples of model engineering and every year the show attracts new enthusiasts who have a real love for machining and model making.

SBIR funding opportunities - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Department of Defense (DoD) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) 2012.1 Solicitation will begin accepting proposals Dec. 12 (www.dodsbir.net).  The solicitation closes on Jan. 11, 2012, at 6:00 a.m.

Increase your sales to Japanese transplants in North America

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Selling to Japanese companies in Japan or North America takes some doing to be successful. Business practices at those companies differ from those we are used to in dealing with domestic companies and other foreign manufacturers with operations in the United States.

International Report - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Trade missions have always been something that I considered to be for some other company, or some other executive. My sense has always been one of skepticism – a boon-doggle for management, too expensive, too much wasted time, for much bigger companies, etc. How wrong could I have been?  Listen up!  I could not have been more wrong, and this is a chance for you to learn from my mistake – a real “Lessons Learned.”  Jim McEachen

Business Development - December 2011 - You have a plan, but is it working?

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

“How will I know if my plan is working?” There are many ways to answer that, but the simplest one is to ask: Are you making more money? If the answer is yes, then your plan is indeed working. Remember, we’re all in business to make money, and there is no shame in that.

Mark your calendar: the 2012 Customer Service Conference is coming!

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The next Customer Service Conference, the 42nd annual event of its kind, will take place on May 17-18 in Indianapolis, Ind. The upcoming event, sponsored by the AMT Global Service Committee, promises to provide an even more fulfilling and rewarding experience than any of the previous editions.

Forewarned is forearmed: employment agreements – get a good lawyer!

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Resolving personnel issues fairly, justly and legally in the environment of one’s own native culture and language represents one of the more challenging issues for companies today. When dealing internationally, the challenge can be magnified many times over!

GFMC 2011 stresses importance of networking

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference was a great success with 230 in attendance, including speakers and staff. New this year, AMT had an MTInsight booth set up to allow attendees to see first-hand what this new business intelligence portal is all about. Given the opportunity to win some fantastic prizes, over 30 individuals took the time during the breaks to try out a live demo.

Gearing up with Gleason

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

At first glance, Gleason Corporation’s headquarters in Rochester, N.Y., is a step back in time. The architecture of their headquarters building hearkens back to another era, but the technology inside is thoroughly modern.

Washington focuses on trade

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Although the Currency Exchange Rate Oversight Reform Act, S. 1619 doesn’t specifically mention China, its supporters want to use it to allow retaliation against China’s long practice of holding down the value of the yuan to give Chinese products an unfair price advantage in the global market. They cite a recent study by the Economic Policy Institute that estimates China’s currency manipulation not only significantly contributed to our record high trade deficit with China in 2010 but also to the loss of nearly two million U.S. manufacturing jobs over the last decade.

Administration jobs plan to be split

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

The president’s jobs plan hit a snag last month, and no amount of bus tour stops or town hall meetings could save it. The Congress is sharply divided over the American Jobs Act, the administration’s $447 billion package to get businesses hiring again.

Market Data Review – November 2011

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

– The first part of BRIC – Brazil and Russia

– Producer Price and Wage Report

– Foreign Trade Report – August 2011

New employees join SIR, Meetings department

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Kim Montenyohl has joined AMT’s Strategic Information & Research team as a Research Specialist and Donna Hartigan has joined the Meetings Department as Meetings Manager.

Industry News - November 2011

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

News from: FANUC; Hexagon Metrology Inc.; Jet Edge, Inc.; Mazak Corporation; Machine Tools Division of Murata Machinery USA; Prima Electro North America; NCDMM

Marketing metrics result from the prospect’s journey

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

It has been said “Be careful what you measure – or you could get it!” This is certainly true when it comes to measuring results from marketing efforts. It’s critical to measure the right things. For instance, offering free stuff at tradeshows may generate names, but not necessarily the best prospects to feed into the sales funnel. The number of leads could actually go down as an exhibitor works to increase the quality of the sales leads generated.

Targeting Technology - November 2011

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

– Defense Manufacturing Conference

– In-state resources provide assistance to AMT members

MTConnect® Institute has released “Getting Started with MTConnect – Connectivity Guide”

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect Institute has recently released a new document entitled Getting Started with MTConnect - Connectivity Guide.

Best practices for assessing the environmental sustainability of manufacturing processes

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Energy efficiency and environmental impact are becoming key drivers toward designs and selections of manufacturing processes. Multiple factors determine environmental sustainability, therefore a structured methodology is required to assess environmental sustainability and to identify opportunities for improvement. Assessment procedures should identify improvements that reduce energy usage, compliance costs, and environmental impacts, without an adverse impact on overall process productivity.

International Report - AMT services in Mexico adapt to fit a unique market with great potential

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

As the Mexican manufacturing economy continues to evolve and expand, AMT services to support your approach in Mexico have kept pace. These inroads include, and are designed to enhance, the logistics and security of your marketing and sales operations.

Business Development - Taking a gamble on growth in 2012

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

It’s deep into budget season for a lot of AMT members, with everyone figuring out how to allocate their resources for the coming year — in essence, which bets they will place. That’s right, bets. That’s because in deciding where you’re going to put your funds, you have to guess about what ultimately will be beneficial to your company.

Doug Woods keynote speaker at Lockheed Martin Workshop

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT President Doug Woods was a keynote speaker at the Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and Producibility Workshop 2011 at Lockheed Martin’s Center for Leadership Excellence.

MTConnect® Connecting Manufacturing Conference

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Often the question is asked: “WHY should I attend this conference?”  —  If you are an equipment manufacturer that integrates various components together, and you are looking toward the future in how you will offer new technologies to your customers, you should consider how MTConnect will play a role in that future. Ease of integration will be your cost advantage. If you are an integrator of complex automated systems, this will also apply. The need to reduce design time and increase diversity in offerings is real, as is the ability to reduce cost for implementing new system architectures.

FANUC: The people behind the robots

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

FANUC might be one of the most identifiable manufacturing technology companies in the world. Its robots have been seen in television commercials. At big international trade shows like IMTS and EMO, their booth is eye-catching, with lots of movement and of course their signature yellow color.

Washington’s attention focuses on jobs

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

The president sent the much-anticipated American Jobs Act to Congress last month. The White House claims the $447 billion package of tax incentives and stimulus spending will boost job creation nationwide. Republican leaders don’t agree. They oppose most parts of the plan and strongly object to raising taxes to pay for it.

Vehicle manufacturing program at risk

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

The latest continuing resolution had congressional lawmakers debating over the future of a vehicle manufacturing program supported by AMT. Started under President George W. Bush, the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program provides capital for auto and component parts manufacturers to conduct their manufacturing here in the United States. Loans are offered to retool old plants and build new facilities for the production of advanced vehicles technologies.

Help your customers get ready for the manufacturing Renaissance!

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Boston Consulting Group’s recent report Made in America, Again: Why manufacturing will return to the U.S. predicted a U.S. “Manufacturing Renaissance.” They forecast that by 2015, rising Chinese labor rates and currency would make it more economical to supply the U.S. by manufacturing here. For the economic trends to have a rapid impact on the behavior of major U.S. companies, however, the companies will have to calculate their total cost of offshoring. Unfortunately, most companies’ calculations are rudimentary, rather than complete, mainly comparing prices rather than the entire cost of offshoring.

Mark Kennedy joins AMT staff as membership director

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Mark Kennedy has come to AMT as its new Membership Director. Mark will primarily work in sales for MTInsight, AMT’s business intelligence tool (www.MTInsight.org), and will promote the product to members and nonmembers. In addition, he will work to bring new members on board.

So, what’s it like to be an AMT intern?

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Sarita Loredo, a graphic design major at George Mason University, recently completed an internship in the Communications Department at AMT. She began her internship in February.

Market Data Review – Washington, we've had a problem!

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Washington, we've had a problem!

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Workholding - August 2011

- Foreign Trade Report - July 2011

EMO Hannover 2011 … and looking further east to the Russian market

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

If we were trying to check the health of the global manufacturing technology industry, we would probably best take the vitals of EMO 2011, held in Hannover, Germany. I have to believe that the conclusion would be: “alive and kicking and getting better every day.” The total number of exhibitors from the U.S. was officially 57, although some others were on the stands of their foreign distributors. AMT members were in evidence in respectable numbers despite, not surprisingly, being outnumbered by European competitors.

Industry News - October 2011

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Certified Comparator Products (CCP) plans to move to a new, larger facility; FANUC Corporation named one of the Top 100 companies on the “World’s Most Innovative Companies” list; Gleason Corporation has acquired the assets and business of K2 Plastics, Inc., Bergen, N.Y.; Gleason announces formation of a strategic alliance with Gebr. Heller Maschinenfabrik GmbH (Nürtingen, Germany); Mahr marks its 150th birthday; Manufacturing industry mourns loss of Teruyuki Yamazaki.

Targeting Technology - October 2011

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Functional Safety / Control System SURVEY

- Upcoming 2012 DoD SBIR/STTR Funding Opportunities

- NAMRC 39

- Future B11 Standards Meetings

Mastering precise manufacturing processes for critical parts

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

When it comes to manufacturing, few industries involve higher demands, stricter safety standards and tougher-to-machine materials than aerospace and automotive. In these industries, subpar surface quality or part integrity can mean life or death — and are simply unacceptable.

National SBIR/STTR Fall Conference to be held in New Orleans

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

The main goal of the National SBIR/STTR Conference to be held in New Orleans, La., Nov. 6-9, is to assist companies in learning about the SBIR/STTR program and what it takes to win some of the more than $2 billion in U.S. government R&D investments.

The rules of engagement

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

How many times when you start a contract negotiation do you feel like you are entering a strategically prepared attack on your company — a war of sorts? Both sides are prepared to defend their own position, fight for what they believe they are due, and both sides want to win and be seen as the victor.

Business Development - Finding positive morale during a time of negativity

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

There is no question difficulty exists in the economy, both here and in other parts of the world. But as I mentioned in my column last month, the media is eager to run with these “doom and gloom scenarios” because, let’s face it, it makes for good headlines. Likewise, politicians are happy to beat the drum too in a push to promote their own agendas. Again, I’m not saying that problems don’t exist. But it’s all too easy not to get both sides of the story.

Japanese transplants provide steady flow of business

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

In times like this, when everybody seems reasonably busy getting orders and filling them, it’s time to make provisions for the future. We all know these good cycles don’t last forever and it’s only a matter of time. We will have a downturn and the market opportunities will come from someplace other than your traditional customers.

Japanese transplants are part of that “other” market. By nature of their business practices, these companies plan much longer in advance than most American companies. They are not as sensitive to the ups and downs of the market and provide a steadier flow of business throughout economic cycles.

International Report - By the Numbers

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Many AMT members have already learned that using the Shanghai Tech Center (STC) is a very cost-marketing-sales-and-service-effective way to grow their businesses in China. We regularly get calls from other members who are new to AMT, or new to China, who want to evaluate their options of how to best approach the market.

Transplant Business Development Group reports a surge of business

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Members of TBDG - Transplant Business Development Group are reporting a surge of business with several Japanese transplant companies in the last months. This is not by accident. Anyone experienced in doing business with Japanese companies knows that it takes a lot of patience and perseverance to develop business relationships with these customers. The TBDG sessions on business practices in doing business with transplant companies make it clear that the whole cycle of creating relationships with customers may take 2 to 3 years. For the companies that have been building those relationships, that time is over. All those efforts are finally paying off.

Laser focus at ROFIN

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Industrial laser technology has advanced dramatically in the last 30 years, claiming a rightful place in the manufacturing world. A key to their success has been flexibility, and ROFIN has made that part of both their products and their company philosophy.

Washington goes back to work

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

It’s hard to believe that the August recess is over already. In Washington, the past month has been a welcome respite from the partisan battles that preceded it. While Members of Congress spent the break getting an earful from constituents fed up with the dysfunction in Washington, President Obama took to the road on a 3-day bus tour of the Midwest to convince voters that he has a plan to reduce the deficit and put Americans back to work.

Joint Committee on Deficit Reduction seeks cuts in government spending

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

A newly formed Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction is required to identify an additional $1.5 trillion in cuts between 2013 and 2021. This 12-member panel of both senators and representatives must propose a plan to Congress by November 23, 2011, and Congress must approve this plan by December 23, 2011. Failure to approve these cuts will cause mandatory across-the-board cuts to all government spending, including security and non-security programs. Congress wants to avoid these across-the-board cuts because it would leave the future of too many programs in unpredictable terms.

Market Data Review – Mixed signals mar manufacturing-led recovery

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

   – Mixed signals mar manufacturing led recovery  

   – Producer Price and Wage Report

   – Workholding - July 2011

   – Foreign Trade Report - June 2011

Gain the market insight you need at GFMC 2011

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference is a networking and educational experience you don’t want to miss — a true value for the money and time you will invest. AMT’s Country and Tech Center managers will be attending this year’s conference and will lead the country-specific member panel breakout sessions. They will also be available for one-on-one meetings with GFMC attendees — with the focus of improving your company’s effectiveness in selling into their areas. This is a great opportunity to begin or improve your business strategy in a number of key manufacturing technology markets.

Industry News - September 2011

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

News from: AccuStream, Eriez, Gleason Cutting Tools Corporation, Hurco, Jet Edge, Inc., Mahr Federal, MAG-IAS,  TRUMPF Inc., Weldon Solutions and FANUC Robotics.

AMT, AMTDA explore product, service integration

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT and AMTDA have announced the formation of a committee to explore ways to integrate their products and services to better serve the members of both associations.

Tammy An joins AMT staff

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Tammy An has joined the AMT staff as the Executive Communications Specialist.

Opportunity is knocking in the global marketplace

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

As the president of a global company and a member of AMT-The Association For Manufacturing Technology’s Global Sales and Marketing Committee, I’ve had numerous opportunities to meet fellow members and to inquire as to their levels of international business participation. Amazingly, most of them indicate that their exporting amounts typically run at about 50 percent, some even as high as 70 percent. Yet, there are many companies I’m aware of that often forego such international business despite the great opportunities in the global export market.

Targeting Technology - September 2011

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Make your voice heard on export controls

- “Specially Designed” – not there yet

- B11 Meetings

MTConnect®Institute

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect® Institute has sent Version 1.2 of the standard to the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for a required 90-day review period wherein the TAG members have a final opportunity to comment on the standard and also determine if it violates any copyright or patents they may hold.

Sustainability with MQL technology – Why aren’t more manufacturers using it?

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Manufacturers applying MQL are reaping many sustainable benefits. Their workers are safer, with both short- and long-term benefits. Operators, skilled tradesmen, and engineers are no longer exposed to the toxicity, bacteria and fungi risks that come with traditional “wet” manufacturing systems. The small amount of oil used for MQL is generally based on vegetables or esters, which are less harmful to the human body. Our environment is cleaner because the used cutting fluids no longer require more stringent disposal – this benefits everyone and helps change the “dirty” perception of manufacturing.

Separating “recession” truth from fiction

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

At the end of last year and up through recent months, sentiment throughout the industry was that the economy was picking up. Orders were ramping up, as were a number of economic indicators. Now, the news is full of reports about those economic woes returning, with alarms sounding over a possible double-dip recession.

What’s next for the Global Service Committee?

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

As we start a new committee year (August 2011 to July 2012), it is only fitting that we look back to evaluate the accomplishments of the past year. The committee did a lot on behalf of the members and in fostering better business practices in customer service and in ensuring customer satisfaction.

Plan your company’s future at the 2011 Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

It is nearing that time of year when you are making plans and strategizing in preparation for the future needs of your company, so why not take a few minutes and register for the Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference so you’ll be set to receive some of the most valuable data to help you in that endeavor.

First ever [MC]2 MTConnect®: Connecting Manufacturing Conference coming in November

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

On April 28 we announced the first ever [MC]2 MTConnect®: Connecting Manufacturing Conference in AMT NEWS. This conference will take place November 8-10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and will have something for everyone from end users, to manufacturing technology builders, to software developers, to C-level executives, to students — anyone who just wants to really understand MTConnect!

C&B Machinery: worldwide reach with a friendly local feel

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

C&B Machinery has a global list of customers, as well as an international presence all on its own. But even with that global reach, the company still maintains a friendly, family-owned feel with “made in America” pride.

Congress in recess – coming to a town hall near you!

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

Congress in recess – coming to a town hall near you – Congress adjourns for the month of August, making this an ideal time to schedule a meeting with your Senators and Representative to discuss the issues affecting your business and the U.S. manufacturing sector.    

House approves appropriations bills

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

On July 15, the House approved the Energy and Water Appropriations bill, which brings the total to 5 out of 12 appropriations bills approved by the House of Representatives.

Market Data Review – USMTO now in MTInsight

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

- USMTO now in MTInsight with company profiles next!

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Workholding – June 2011

- Foreign Trade Report - May 2011

Industry News - August 2011

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

Kurt Industrial Products has appointed Advanced Tooling Company of Olympia, Wash., exclusive sales agency for their products in Washington and Oregon; Mori Seiki recently broke ground on a 200,000-square-foot factory to be situated on 14.5 acres in Davis, Calif.; Ralph Resnick has received 2011 Outstanding Lifetime Service Award; The Energy Efficient Hydraulics and Pneumatics Conference will be taking place November 15-17, 2011, at the Sheraton Chicago O’Hare in Rosemont, Ill.

Targeting Technology - August 2011

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Centralized Contractor Registration

- Upcoming SBIR/STTR funding opportunities

- Future B11 standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update - August 2011

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect® Institute has completed updating the draft of Version 1.2 of the MTConnect standard. There are now four parts to the standard with the introduction of a new Part 4 entitled “Assets.”

AMT Technology Issues Committee organizes the next Technology Forum

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

The AMT Technology Issues Committee (TIC) met last month at The Gleason Works in Rochester, N.Y., to discuss progress on their various projects. A key subject reviewed was the next AMT Manufacturing Technology Forum which will take place March 7 - 8, 2012, prior to The MFG Meeting in Orlando, Fla.

GTAB gets together at Caterpillar Tractor

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

The AMT Global Technology Advisory Board (GTAB) met recently at the Caterpillar Technical Center in Mossville, Ill. The Advisory Board is a group of executives representing users of AMT member products.

Bits & Bytes - American technology and the NASA Space Shuttle program

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

We here at Bits & Bytes would like to extend our appreciation to American manufacturing and technology, without which the NASA Space Shuttle program could not have existed.

Some opportunities come, some opportunities go, some opportunities stay...

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

As economies go up and down, markets and opportunities change. But some markets have been enjoying a steady and sustainable growth, among them, Brazil.

Strategic planning 101: why that plan matters

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

So if you need to make a strategic plan, how should you approach it? This is where you want to keep in mind the ways you’re going to use your resources, what markets to target. In other words, you’re looking at the entire essence of your focus. You’re going to decide on the places where you’ll stretch, and the places where you’ll be more conservative.

AMT welcomes two new employees

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

Some new faces have recently come to AMT in the Strategic Information & Research and Business Development departments. Barb Diederich has joined SIR as a software developer and Sarah Icore is the new Assistant to the Vice President-Business Development.

FEIMAFE 2011: a very positive outcome

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

As trade shows go, it hardly gets any better than FEIMAFE 2011, held May 23-28 in São Paulo, Brazil. Not only was the show well attended (71,800 participants, including 1,345 foreign visitors from 51 countries), but the quality of the visitors was beyond expectations. The professionals attending the show were, in the vast majority, decision makers with concrete projects.

AMT helps organize well attended seminar at Tec de Monterrey’s Innovation Park

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

As an AMT member, you are aware of the services AMT Mexico provides. We are here to help you identify potential customers and help you to find venues to organize technical seminars, which are key to position your product ahead of your competitors in Mexico. Recently one member, Makino, organized a fully comprehensive overview of their products. The seminars were presented at a world class venue, the Innovation and Technology Transfer Park located near the Monterrey airport.

Obama Administration launches initiatives to boost manufacturing jobs

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

The anemic pace of the economic recovery has focused the Obama Administration’s attention on boosting the manufacturing sector, the most powerful generator of sustained economic growth.

President Obama signs new pro-business initiative

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

President Obama signed an Executive Order on June 15 establishing a new initiative – SelectUSA – which aims to retain and create jobs in the United States. SelectUSA, which will be run through the Department of Commerce and in cooperation with over 24 government agencies, will actively pursue new business investments in the United States by offering unprecedented assistance to businesses looking to expand.

Market Data Review – Manufacturing rolls on, but slowly

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Manufacturing rolls on, but slowly

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Foreign Trade Report - April 2011

Eric LeMasters is the latest addition to AMT’s research team

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT’s Strategic Information & Research Department has added a new research specialist, Eric LeMasters.

Industry News - July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Gleason Corporation announces changes to their European Sales organization; TECHJET is now distributing Jet Edge waterjet pumps in Poland; Mazak Corporation hosted a Grand Opening celebration to inaugurate its new Southwest Technology Center & Regional Headquarters; Third Wave Systems (TWS) has purchased its second machining center: a Microlution 363-S 3-axis CNC horizontal micro-milling machine.

ISO-initiated standardization effort for environmental evaluation of machine tools

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Based on a proposal from Japan in 2010, the ISO TC39 (Machine tools) committee established a new working group, ISO/TC39/WG12, to develop a series of standards related to environmental evaluation of machine tools. This effort coincides with the new efforts in the United States related to sustainable manufacturing, such as the Sustainable Manufacturing program at NIST; Sustainable Aerospace Manufacturing Initiative (SAMI) of the Air Force Manufacturing Technology; Energy Monitoring for Defense Readiness and Availability (EMDRA) effort by System Insights; as well as research activities conducted by the Laboratory for Manufacturing and Sustainability (LMAS) at the University of California, Berkeley.

Updated web browsers have enhanced privacy settings - Bits & Bytes July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

You may have noticed the release of updates to the most popular web browsers in mid-March. IE 9, Firefox 4 and Chrome 10 all promise a speedier browsing experience with enhanced privacy settings. The big push for all of these browsers is to allow the users to block or opt-out of tracking cookies easily instead of having to install a myriad of plug-ins or configure intricate settings.

SBIR advice: listen, learn, and leverage

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

A small business that applies for SBIR/STTR funds should view the solicitation topic author or sponsoring Acquisition Program as their client.

Targeting Technology - July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Defense Manufacturing Conference call for abstracts

- Defense University Research Instrumentation Program proposed budgets for next year

MTConnect® activity update - July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

- New Technical Advisory Group Members

- June TAG Meeting

- MC2 - MTConnect Manufacturing Conference

American Precision Museum exhibit project wins National Endowment for the Humanities grant

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Shaping America: Machines and Machinists at Work, a new permanent exhibition at the museum, will open May 2014, thanks to a 3-year grant of $340,000 from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). The exhibit will showcase the museum’s unparalleled collection of historic precision machine tools and tell how the historic armory that today houses the museum served as an incubator for the machine tool industry.

Things look much brighter this year – Metalloobrabotka 2011- Moscow

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

The sun shone all week and the whole atmosphere was much brighter than at Metalloobrabotka 2010. Metalloobrabotka show officials reported that the show’s rented space increased to almost 300,000 sq. ft., with 779 companies from 29 countries. All in all they attracted 22,560 visitors.

What’s the downside of things getting better?

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

The bottom line is that you always need to keep watching for the alligators in the water. Be mindful, no matter how good things seem to be going. Be wary of a lack of focus. Grow as fast as you can, but do it in a way that reduces your likelihood of failure.

Engage the curiosity of the young

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

This industry stands as a beacon for individuals who are independent and creative and who can take a concept and create something of tangible value. These young people are out there, and we need to be proactive in engaging them and their educators as to the uniqueness of our industry.

Turning center evolution

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Turning centers have evolved through the years from a single spindle, two axis configuration into today’s complex multi-spindle and multi-axis mill/turn centers. Size control and form accuracy have also been dramatically improved over the years.

MTInsight is HERE!

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT launched its game-changing manufacturing business intelligence software to its members on June 1. MTInsight introduces a new era of analyzing manufacturing technology markets. The foundation of MTInsight rests on three strong pillars in the business intelligence game and, in the end, provides members with an interactive tool, saving you millions from the cost of building this on your own.

IMTS, AMT rev their engines at Indy 500

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

While most racing fans were watching the thrilling finish of the 100th Indianapolis 500 last Sunday, which featured a rookie driver making a rookie mistake and crashing just yards from winning the race, those of us at IMTS had our eyes on the start of the day. The IMTS hot air balloon was featured in the pre-race ceremonies and from early in the morning when the gates opened to just shortly before the race ceremonies began.

Attendees learn from each other at the Service & Aftermarket Support Conference

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Service departments are tasked with responding to customer needs and the AMT Global Service Committee followed that lead in planning the 2011 Service & Aftermarket Support Conference held on May 12-13, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio. The AMT Global Service Committee listened to its customers and retooled the conference format. The result was a successful conference that left attendees wanting more and was one of the highest attended conferences in several years.

Manufacturing Mandate front and center at MEP Conference

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Manufacturing Mandate frontand center at MEP Conference - AMT President Doug Woods gave the keynote address to hundreds of manufacturers and Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) service providers at the annual MEP conference.

2011 CASG Conference focuses on innovation

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Innovative Automation & Its Applications was the theme of this year’s conference held at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago. Chairman Tom Kramer, General Manager of ATS sortimat USA, addressed one of the largest gatherings of custom automated systems builders we have seen for many years. He emphasized that the success of the conference depended not only on the quality of the speakers, but equally on the interaction with the attendees and the ever-popular networking.

New federal funding opportunity — the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

On May 20, the Obama Administration kicked off the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge in an effort to propel economic growth in regional innovation clusters throughout the country. This program releases $33 million for businesses to collaborate more effectively with the 16 federal agencies involved and help push forward new innovative technologies that strengthen America’s global competitiveness, create jobs, and improve local economies that have been bruised during this economic recession.

Market Data Review – MTInsight is HERE!

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

- MTInsight is HERE!

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- April 2011 workholding

- Foreign Trade Report – March 2011

Industry News - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AccuStream Inc. appoints TrennTek GmbH as exclusive agents in Germany, Switzerland and Austria; Chiron America doubling its manufacturing capability; Genesis Systems Group, LLC and ICESA Modicon, San Juan del Rio, Queretaro, Mexico, announce new joint venture enterprise; MAG acquires the French company, Forest Line Industries Group (FLI); The National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM) announces election of Ralph L. Resnick to the position of President and Executive Director; NCDMM also announces that it has awarded its highest honor, the Lawrence J. Rhoades Award, to Haas Automation, Inc.; National Center for Manufacturing Sciences receives award from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Keyport; Preco, Inc. is ISO 13485:2003 certified.

New meetings planner joins AMT

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT added to its meeting staff recently with the arrival of Senior Meetings Planner Miaeng Griffin.

Targeting Technology - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Export reforms - deep-hole-drilling machines

- SBIR – why should I care?

- SBIR - funding opportunities

- B11 standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

- New Technical Advisory Group members

- June TAG Meeting

- [MC]2 MTConnect: Connecting Manufacturing Conference

- MTConnect Standard – Version 1.2

TIC Views - Sustainability and machine design

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Sustainability initiatives are one of the biggest trends in the machine tool industry today. OEM machine builders promote it, customers demand it, and yet much of the subject of sustainability is misunderstood.

Is it time to consider online backup? - Bits & Bytes - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Computer backups – something everyone should do, but we often forget or put it off until later. With all of the cloud computing service options, it is easier than ever to safeguard your data from disaster. There are many cloud options available: the free 5 GB of storage available to Amazon users as Amazon Cloud Drive, the 25 GB of free storage in Windows Live Sky Drive, and/or many paid services like Carbonite and Mozy. A number of them can perform automatic backups to save time and effort.

Break the cycle before the next recession

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

While a lot of us are celebrating the recovery, the truth is that some of our members aren’t feeling it all. The reason is because they didn’t need one in the first place. They went into the recession strong, stayed buoyant throughout, and have come out with little more than maybe a few scratches and dents. Who are these members? They are the ones that have the broad product lines, serve the most diverse customer industries, have the most strategically diverse distribution channels, and typically sell into multiple geographic markets.

CTC: OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT’S Chennai Tech Centre, built by AMT specifically for our members, is now completed. CTC is a first class base of operations for growing your business in India.

CIMT reflects China’s staggering growth

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

The 12th China International Machine Tool Show was a reflection of the staggering growth of the country and its manufacturing technology industry. For perspective, last year the total value of machine tool and tooling consumption in China was $27,000,000,000, while the U.S. consumption was $2,700,000,000.

Motoman Robotics — precision, dexterity, and a little ‘magic’

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

One of the more attention-getting displays at IMTS 2010 was the blackjack-playing robot at the front of the Motoman Robotics booth. Showing both the dexterity and “human-like” nature of industrial robots, it was a rare moment when a crowd wasn’t gathered around DexterBot, aka SDA10D, looking to hit “21” (and maybe take home a model of DexterBot as part of the winnings). But the real depth of Motoman Robotics’ portfolio showed throughout the rest of their booth.

With FY11 behind it, Congress now tackles FY12

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

With only 5 months to go until FY12, Congress finally managed to pass an FY11 continuing resolution to fund the government through Sept. 30. While belt tightening is certainly warranted, we must continue to invest in programs focused on increasing innovation/R&D, enhancing global competitiveness, and building a next-generation Smartforce.

Manufacturing legislation introduced in Congress

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

Two bills introduced last month aim to strengthen the manufacturing sector. On April 6, The National Manufacturing Strategy Act was re-introduced in the Senate (S. 751) and House (H.R. 1366) with bipartisan support. The legislation, sponsored by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Mark Kirk (R-IL) and Congressman Daniel Lipinski (D-IL), requires the development of a federal strategy to strengthen American manufacturing. The bills contain similar provisions calling for specific recommendations based on a comprehensive analysis of the U.S. manufacturing sector.

Market Data Review – MTInsight in beta mode, launch imminent

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

– MTInsight in beta mode, launch imminent

– Producer Price and Wage Report

– March 2011 workholding

– Foreign Trade Report - February 2011

Industry News - May 2011

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

Eimeldingen Technologies Inc. is changing its name to Rusach International Inc.; Jet Edge, Inc. has appointed  Haihong (Samuel) Song area manager for its new sales office in Shanghai, China; Kitagawa-Northtech, Inc. has hired Gene Gregory as territory manager; Transor Filter USA announces an aggressive expansion program and the addition of Nick Renello as project manager; LASERDYNE celebrated its 30th anniversary in March; Tooling U has relocated its headquarters to Tyler Village — one of Cleveland’s largest-ever downtown redevelopment projects.

Targeting Technology - May 2011

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

– Doug Woods to give keynote address at Manufacturing Innovations 2011

– SBIR/STTR National Conference

– Future 2011 B11 Standards Meetings

MTConnect® activity update - May 2011

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

– New Technical Advisory Group members

– Technical Advisory Group (TAG) meeting

– [MC]2 MTConnect: Connecting Manufacturing Conference

– MTConnect standard – Version 1.2

Learn from your peers at the 2011 Service & Aftermarket Support Conference

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

The AMT Service & Aftermarket Support Conference is just around the corner. This year’s conference will take place on May 12-13, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio. The  program features breakout panel sessions, round-table discussions and networking opportunities. The panel sessions will provide different viewpoints on the various subjects so you can study the best practices that work best for you. Each session will also examine specific case studies.

International Report - Are all customers the same? Not really…

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

While in many respects, it is a lot easier to do business in Brazil than in many other emerging markets, Brazilian entrepreneurs have their own idiosyncrasies and traits. Understanding those behaviors and ways to do business is fundamental to succeeding in this market. 

The Big Leagues are in China — Is your team getting the call?

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

I’m going to tell you something a lot of you already know — China is THE market right now. China is both the largest consuming and producing market of manufacturing technology.

Collaborating in the cloud

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

Companies of all sizes are taking advantage of cloud collaboration tools. From assigning tasks, to internal wikis and intranets, to full-blown project management, there is an option waiting for you on the web.

Scenes from The MFG Meeting: networking, discussion, sun

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

With dynamic business sessions, great networking opportunities, and a little fun thrown in, attendees at the first-ever MFG Meeting liked the event almost as much as the gorgeous Arizona weather! The event, jointly hosted by AMT, AMTDA, NTMA and PMA, was planned as a way to bring together many facets of the manufacturing industry to allow for collaboration opportunities. Many members of those associations are also IMTS exhibitors. Feedback from attendees indicated that it was successful — and they even learned a thing or two.

TECMA provides good level of leads and contacts in Mexico

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

TECMA, the manufacturing show in Mexico City that took place March 8-11, reaffirmed that the Mexican market is performing relatively well. Despite concerns about the security situation in Mexico, the show ran smoothly and provided great business opportunities to exhibitors. AMT sponsored a pavilion with 11 members participating. They reported a good level of contacts and leads that will certainly translate into sales in the near future.

TIC Views - Augmenting technical expertise with academic partnerships

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

At the recent Manufacturing for Growth (MFG) meeting, some attendees described their difficulties in finding qualified technical people for new product and process development. To compound the situation, business owners are understandably wary of the effects of the present economic climate, and although they may be seeing an upturn in their business activities, they tend to be reluctant to commit to long-term hiring.

OnGovernment - April 2011 - Congress takes on the globalization issue

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

A brief status report on three issues that Congress will likely consider in the coming months:  free trade agreements, China currency manipulation,  Ex-Im Bank reauthorization.

SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act debated in Senate

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

On March 9, the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship approved S. 493, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Reauthorization Act of 2011.

House committee hearings look at ways to increase job growth

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

In an attempt to find ways to increase job opportunities and business growth, Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, began the “Made in America” hearing series in March.

The importance of using metrics in your service business

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

One panel session at the AMT Service & Aftermarket Support Conference, May 12-13, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, focuses on the importance of not only using measures or metrics to establish targets for tracking your team’s performance, but also to identify areas for improvement. The session will explore not only creating effective measurement tools, but how to harness  and interpret that data into positive, usable, actionable plans that can impact not just your department, but the entire company and your customers.

Market Data Review - A world in turmoil plays havoc with the numbers

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

- A world in turmoil plays havoc with the numbers

- Producer Price & Wage Report

- February 2011 workholding

- Foreign Trade Report - January 2011

Industry News - April 2011

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

American Broach & Machine Company promotes Neal Henriques to Broach Department Floor Supervisor; Atlas Technologies, Inc. has announced significant changes made to their management structure and the rehiring of veteran managers; EMAG USA Technology Days will be held May 10-11, 2011, in Farmington Hills, Mich.; Hardinge Inc. was recently profiled as both a unique company and industry leader on “World’s Greatest,” a television series highlighting innovation and excellence; Third Wave Systems is presenting its 10th Annual Users Conference, May 25-26, 2011; Third Wave Systems also announces that it has reopened its Detroit, Mich., office.

Targeting Technology - April 2011

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Manufacturing Extension Partnership

- Machining assistance provided

- Defense Manufacturing Conference - 2011

- American Precision Museum

- Future B11 Standards Meetings

MTConnect® activity update - April 2011

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect® TAG met on March 23 in St. Petersburg, Fla., hosted by General Dynamics - OTS. The meeting, with over 50 attendees, reviewed the status of changes being proposed for Version 1.2 of the standard.

International Report – Russia expected to be Europe’s top car purchaser over the next few years

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

Since Vladimir Putin took power in 2000, local assembly by foreign automakers has been encouraged in a limited way. The new framework is far more ambitious offering all but duty-free component imports to any company that meets the volume targets for assembling finished vehicles within Russia. Auto makers fell over each other announcing ambitious expansion plans before the February 28 deadline set by Russian authorities to lock in tariff advantages on importing parts.

Business Development - Your next business opportunity: not what you’d expect

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

I recently attended an industry event on the West Coast. It reminded me of three important things I thought I should pass along: (1) No matter how much a waste of time and/or money you might believe they are, networking events are really, really important; (2) your next business opportunity might come from somewhere you never imagined; and (3) to survive in today’s business climate, you’ve really got to turn your attention to providing customer solutions – no matter how “out there” they might seem to be.

Lessons Learned - Plan for the future to ensure that you have one!!!

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

I use the example of the evolution of the industrial diamond industry in China as the basis for a “Lessons Learned” to demonstrate how we, as U.S. manufacturing technology companies, must look to the future and understand the competition that we face. It is my belief that in order to address the global competition, U.S. companies must increase their R&D efforts in all areas of manufacturing technology.

CASG Conference 2011

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST

For the builders of custom automated systems, this is the event of the year where we all get together to see what’s been happening and where we are headed. We will address innovation and how it can help us carve out bigger chunks of profitable business.

AMT members see changes in Brazil firsthand

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

From February 13 to 19, twelve AMT member companies went to Brazil to see firsthand what all the fuss is about. They were not disappointed. You hear about the impressive industrial growth taking place, but you have to see it to make sense of what is happening. And it isn’t until you go there that you can expect to do any business there either.

Innovation propels EMAG forward

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

With a full range of machines for the manufacture of precision metal components, as well as more than 200 patents under its company umbrella, EMAG continues to adapt its portfolio to maintain the standing as one of the world’s leading providers of manufacturing solutions.

The battle of the budget

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

President Obama submitted his FY 2012 budget to Congress last month, but Congress is still wrestling with what to spend (or cut) for the rest of this fiscal year.

Graham Schnaars joins AMT’s Government Relations Department

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

Graham Schnaars has joined AMT’s Government Relations Department as Legislative Analyst.

Illinois Reshoring Initiative kicks off with conference

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Illinois Reshoring Initiative is a program that aims to bring back the many desirable technical and manufacturing jobs that have been lost to decades of offshoring. This program will kick off with a March 16 conference, “Rethinking the Total Cost of Offshoring.”

Bits & Bytes - March 2011

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

Ever wonder why you keep getting “Update Available” for your Adobe products even though it seems like you just processed an update a couple of days ago?

Market Data Review - News for manufacturing is great

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

Preliminary January numbers for the economy are being posted as February comes to a close, and the news for manufacturing is great. There is no question that this recovery is being led by manufacturing both here and abroad. This is one of the reasons that the recovery is moving so slowly and yet has the potential to explode if the consumer can be brought back into the equation. Unfortunately, signs suggest that the consumer will remain on the bench for a while longer. 

AMT Mexico offers “per call” service

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

We would like to re-introduce you to one of the most successful programs that AMT Mexico has in place to help you build confidence in your products with Mexican customers: Local Service Engineering.

Industry News - March 2011

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT members Chip Storie, MAG Industrial Automation Systems, and Tino Oldani, Ingersoll Machine Tools, Inc., have been appointed to the President’s Export Council Subcommittee on Export Administration (PECSEA); Cleaning Technologies Group has named Chris Whittaker Vice President of Sales and Marketing; CNC Engineering, Inc., FANUC FA America and Koma Precision, Inc. join forces to support the Manufacturing Technology program at Asnuntuck Community College, Enfield, Conn.; Maintenance Service Corp. appointed by Schiess Brighton GmbH Inc. as its technical support organization in the United States, Canada and Mexico; PRIMA North America, Inc., has announced the appointment of Luca Bianchini to lead the LASERDYNE SYSTEMS sales effort in Europe; National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining announces that Randy Gilmore has joined the NCDMM team as a Senior Program Manager.

Global Service Committee - Service challenges across the industry

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

The 2011 Service & Aftermarket Support Conference is being revamped to meet your needs based on feedback from previous conferences. One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of breakout panels based on important components of your service department. The panels will highlight best practices from viewpoints. They will then look at case studies and highlight how best practices were applied. One of the panels at the conference will focus on Field Force Management: Recruiting and Retention.

Targeting Technology - March 2011

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACS)

- Have AMT look for solicitation topics

- Plan ahead to attend NAMRC 39

- Future B11 standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update - March 2011

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect® Institute is in the process of conducting two studies and is asking for your help in these efforts.

Upcoming SBIR/STTR funding opportunities - March 2011

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Department of Defense (DoD) Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) 2011 Solicitation began accepting proposals Feb. 28. The solicitation closes on March 30 at 6:00 a.m. Below is a possible topic of interest to AMT members or their customers. There may be others, so please scan through the listings.

TIC Views - Functional safety

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

If your company sells machinery into the European Union, it is highly likely you have been exposed to the concept of functional safety.  Even domestic sales of machinery are now starting to have the term appear in requests for quotations. Functional safety is a concept where the safety of the machine is inherent in its design and operation, and not simply provided by guarding and lockouts. This almost always means integrating safety into the control system. For example, safety certified servo drives that have been designed with redundancy or other methods to minimize the risk of hazardous failure, such as unintended motion is functional safety.

TIC Views - Green initiatives change process requirements

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

Based on both environmental and life cycle cost issues, large organizations such as Airbus and the U.S. Department of Defense are requiring many suppliers of aerospace components to qualify high-velocity oxygen-fuel (HVOF) thermal spray coatings as a viable alternative to hard chrome plating. In the case of Airbus and other European users it is a mandatory green initiative for all parts they utilize.

International Report – Repeat!! Stop paying for things you don't need!!

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

The moral of this article is: Talk to AMT’s global experts before you spend money on consultants, lawyers, or plane tickets to solve a problem or close a deal that may not exist!

Business Development - Big news from India: Let AMT take you there

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

We’ve told you about the abundant business opportunities in Mexico and China, and hot on the heels of both of those countries is India. In fact, Arun Mahajan, AMT’s General Manager at the brand new Chennai Tech Centre, just uncovered an opportunity that you must get in on RIGHT NOW.

Global Marketing & Sales Committee – Lessons Learned – Evaluate your choice of sales channels regularly

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

Every company’s VP of Sales & Marketing, or in the case of many AMT member companies, every company President should regularly be evaluating their choice of sales channels for their products within any specific sales region or territory. One of the basic decisions for each region is whether to use direct sales personnel, or distributors, or sales agents working on commission.

OMAX wins SBIR contract from NSF

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST

OMAX® Corp. has won another SBIR Phase II from the federal government. This time it is from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and is entitled “Development of Subminiature Abrasive-Waterjet Nozzles toward Micromachining.” Their effort proposes to develop micro abrasive-waterjet (µAWJ) technology for automated machining features between 50 to 100 microns.

A must-attend event: The MFG Meeting

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

There is a full slate of executive roundtable sessions covering a variety of topics, including human resources and labor issues, materials update, managing change, and much more. Each session will include a Q&A, giving you the opportunity to address your specific concerns.

India: mini-trade mission & IMTEX 2011

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

This year started with an opportunity for members who wanted to learn more about India to combine a short trade mission with a visit to IMTEX, India’s largest manufacturing technology show.

GibbsCAM keeps focus on continuous improvement

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

Established 27 years ago, GibbsCAM could be considered a “wizened veteran” in the world of software companies. But the ability to continually improve and adapt its products has meant that the company is able to combine old-school continuity with leading-edge innovation.

Priorities for 2011 laid out in the State of the Union address

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

President Obama laid out his priorities for the coming year in his State of the Union address last month, and the Republican leadership responded. It all went down in a relatively civil manner, considering the rhetoric that preceded it. The President’s speech focused on innovation, jobs and competitiveness. The GOP response emphasized limited government and deficit reduction.

You can help bring manufacturing jobs back home!

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Reshoring Initiative is a non-protectionist, efficient way to reduce our imports, increase our “net exports” and regain manufacturing jobs. AMT members can help the country and their sales by communicating to their customers that going local can reduce a customer’s Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of purchased parts and tooling and improve its strategic flexibility and balance sheet while bringing U.S. manufacturing jobs home. 

Winter forecast update

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

Although there were no typical Regional Meetings this month, AMT did hold a Winter Forecast Update in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a webinar option for anyone who did not want to brave the winter weather to attend the meeting in person.

Market Data Review - MTInsight: Use cases

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

MTInsight is on schedule to roll out in summer 2011. This business intelligence tool will provide AMT members and survey participants access to applications that will become essential in conducting business in the future.

SIMM & DMP – the gateway to southern China markets

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

Did you know that the businesses located in the city of Guangzhou imported more machine tools in 2010 than all of South Korea? If you want to be part of that, and your company is involved in die & mold, medical, machine shop, white goods, or auto and auto parts, your company needs to be participating this year in at least one of the two major trade shows taking place in southern China.

Industry News - February 2011

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

Aspect Automation and Stäubli North America announce new environmental toxin screening system for installation at NIH; Cleaning Technologies Group names Tim Piazza President of Blackstone-NEY Ultrasonics; Gleason Corporation expands the Advanced Coatings Facility at its Gleason Cutting Tools Corporation facility; Jet Edge, Inc. opens new water jet sales, service and showroom office in Shanghai, China; LVD Strippit incorporates new Energy Reduction System (ERS) into its Strippit VX-Series punch presses and PPEC series press brake products; Methods Machine Tools, Inc. selects Michael Minton as National Applications Engineering Manager; TRUMPF Inc. selects Sterling Fabrication Technology to represent its sheet metal fabricating equipment in Louisiana and Texas; Jeffrey S. Kelly, Edward A. Morris, and John R. Tucker elected to the NCDMM Directors Class of 2013 and Dr. Dean L. Bartles has been elected Chairman.

Targeting Technology - February 2011

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Safety standards

- Patent fees

- MPETAC meetings for 2011

- B11 Standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update - February 2011

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

- New Technical Advisory Group members

- New Version of .NET Agent SDK

- MTConnect Education, Marketing and Evangelism Group

- Sensors Group

- Technical Advisory Group (TAG) Meeting

National SBIR Conference theme will be growing innovation

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

The next National SBIR/STTR Conference – Growing the Innovation Ecosystem – will be held on April 11-13, 2011, in Madison, Wis.

Get connected, stay informed

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

Whether you are a veteran of the numerous roller coaster rides, a novice or just a quidnunc of the highly competitive, technology- driven machine tool industry, this year’s AMT Service & Aftermarket Support Conference has something for everyone.

International Report – Brazil: a case of “emergency”*

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

As the global economy is on its way to recovery, certain countries have enhanced their growth more than others: the emerging industrial ones. Among those, closer to home, Brazil is certainly one of the champions.

All industrial sectors in Brazil are performing well.

Business Development - Mexico: Good for business? Yes! Dangerous? Not Really

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

News reports from the past couple of years have done a pretty good job at scaring the you-know-what out of people regarding Mexico. Tourism there has suffered accordingly, and even the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory for certain areas, along with restricting travel for its diplomats there. I’m here to tell you: Don’t buy the hype.

Hiring practices: the matching game

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST

So one day we sat down and quickly determined that we needed to hire our first employee. And then it dawned on us, as young entrepreneurs, the only experience we had of an interview process was the few we had to endure in order to get our first job out of college. We had to fess up to the fact that we had no idea of how to select the right person among the many candidates that would apply for this job. It wasn’t so much that we didn’t know what we wanted; it was the feeling that we wouldn’t know how to choose the candidate who best matched our criteria.

2010 sees many accomplishments at AMT

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

It was another successful and accomplished year for AMT staff and their related committees in 2010. While continuing the mission of member outreach and industry advocacy, the message of the Manufacturing Mandate was promoted to a number of audiences, and IMTS was considered a triumphant comeback for both the industry and the individual companies that are a part of it. Here is a look back at some of the year’s top accomplishments at AMT.

Register now for The MFG Meeting

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

The meeting is set to take place March 3-6, 2011, at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa in Chandler, Ariz. It will bring together a diverse cross-section of the manufacturing industry and is a collaborative event between AMT, the American Machine Tool Distributors’ Association, the National Tooling and Machining Association, and the Precision Metalforming Association.

Kinefac expands globally

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

Richard Risotti, VP Global Sales, Kinefac Corporation recently wrote AMT to say he wanted to share his working experiences with AMT’s Hubert Sawicki during his recent visit to Latvia and Russia. Prior to the visit, he said that Hubert provided him with an excellent detailed list of potential Russian agents/distributors that could market Kinefac’s larger Kine-Rollers in Russia for the railway and power-generation industries.

New tax law gives manufacturers a boost heading into the New Year

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

In a major victory for AMT members, President Obama signed the bipartisan tax relief and benefits package approved by Congress before the holidays. The new law includes important provisions that reduce business costs and incentivize innovation.

What's up for 2011

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

A look at the goals, program launches, improvements, and products that your Strategic Information and

Research Department plans to deliver in 2011.

Industry News - January 2011

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

Reshoring Initiative’s founder, Harry Moser, named as one of the 2010 inductees into Industry Week’s Manufacturing Hall of Fame; Gleason Corporation has expanded its presence in the Brazilian market with the formation of Gleason do Brasil Comércio de Máquinas Ltda.; Gleason has also opened a new wholly owned subsidiary in Russia; Cleaning Technologies Group, LLC has named Bernard Bosse President of Ransohoff;

Jet Edge Waterjet Systems and its applications partner Chukar Waterjet will showcase the latest innovations in portable and undersea ultra high-pressure water jet cutting and water blasting technology at Underwater Intervention; PRIMA North America has announced six LASERDYNE SYSTEM orders from four turbine engine industry customers; The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences has announced that two of its projects have been honored with Defense Manufacturing Excellence Awards.

Targeting Technology - January 2011

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

The one single error that most companies and investigators make in the competition and proposal process is not asking for a debriefing. In all solicitations the government is required to provide a rationale to all non-selected submissions IF THEY ASK for one in a timely manner, usually within 5 days of receiving a denial notification.

 - Future 2011 B11 Standards Meetings

MTConnect® activity update - January 2011

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

 - New Technical Advisory Group members

 - Institute announcements

 - First annual MTConnect conference, planned for November 2011

 - Technical Advisory Group meeting is scheduled for March 22-23 in St. Petersburg, Fla.

 - New groups

Start off your new year “write” and submit a proposal

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

Although it is only January, the federal government has money to spend. There are several sources of funding available to AMT member companies or for those that wish to team with another company.

DMC 2010 was well attended

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

This year’s Defense Manufacturing Conference (DMC 2010), held in Las Vegas, Nev., turned out to be one of the best attended Department of Defense (DoD) Manufacturing Technology (ManTech) events ever. There were more than a thousand in attendance with an exhibit area showcasing some 150 exhibitors.

Going international? Got reps?

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

Looking for representation in Outer Mongolia? Sorry! We don’t have that area covered- YET! However we have a wealth of up-to-date information and lists of active distributors in most European countries, including Russia. Other countries/continents are covered as well, of course, but this is my neck of the woods. The lists are a very helpful tool but they are just the start of the process to find the right company to best represent your interests.

We all know that the first consideration when entering a new market or changing a market strategy is to find the right distributor or agent. The days of doing business overseas without a local presence have long been over.

30 minutes to a better 2011

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

Generally, the topic of strategic planning is about as well-received as a trip to the dentist. That’s because it has a (perhaps well-deserved) stereotype of being a full-blown, week long retreat where you hunker down with your staff around a big table and bleed yourself dry trying to come up with a down-to-the-last-nail plan. I’m not talking about taking it that far. All I want you to do is spend a good 30 minutes thinking about the next year.

Competing in a global manufacturing market, Europe races to claim their position

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

In Europe they have formed a high-level expert group that has identified five Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) that they see as being the main drivers behind the development of new goods and services by 2020.

One constant demand: great service

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST

Even in these changing times, one thing remains consistent: customer demands and expectations of getting good service. Good customer service is a positive differentiator for those companies that do it well, and in some cases the difference between getting an order or not.

New for 2011: AMT Regional Meetings, Annual Meeting rolled into The MFG Meeting

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Have you attended AMT’s Annual Meeting or Regional Meetings in past years? For 2011, those meetings are going to take place in one location: The MFG (Manufacturing For Growth) Meeting, to be held March 3-6, 2011, in Chandler, Ariz., at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa.

AMT presents Mandate at HTEC opening ceremony

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

An important component of the Manufacturing Mandate is the development of a skilled “smartforce” to continue a future of innovation in the industry. On Oct. 27, AMT was part of an opening ceremony at Vincennes University in Vincennes, Ind., for an educational center that will train those future innovators.

United Grinding rides its momentum into 2011

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

If you want some positive reinforcement that the economy really might be recovering, United Grinding is a hopeful place to look. With robust sales and new products on the horizon, the coming new year appears to hold even more good news for the grinding technology manufacturer.

Congress – 2010 and beyond

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Now that the midterm elections are over, it’s a good time to reflect on the year gone by and make plans for the year ahead. The political landscape on Capitol Hill has definitely changed, but AMT’s call for advancing the principles of our Manufacturing Mandate has not.

Woods addresses 2010 Manufacturing Summit

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Last month, AMT President Doug Woods addressed the 2010 Manufacturing Summit in Washington, D.C., hosted by Switzerland Trade & Investment Promotion and The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). The conference focused on how green collar jobs and apprenticeship training can transform the 21st century work force.

Ever seen a snail in high gear?

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Ever seen a snail in high gear?  A member asked one of our Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference speakers about how fast the rebound would be in manufacturing and the speaker responded, “Ever seen a snail in high gear?” Those few words sum up the recovery in manufacturing technology as well.

Visa invitation letters—a path to success?

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Needless to say, obtaining visitor business visas for foreign nationals since 9/11 has been challenging. An organized approach to visa invitation letters, however, can help immensely.   

Industry News - December 2010

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Automated Precision Inc.’s API Services was recently awarded several contracts; Brinkman International Group, Inc. Chairman Robert Brinkman is the 2010 Frank T. McGinnis Merit Award recipient; Gibbs and Associates recently congratulated GibbsCAM user Center Rock on its significant role in the rescue of trapped Chilean miners; Methods Machine Tools Elgin Tech Center is being expanded in response to their success at IMTS; Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has been recognized by Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology as the No. 1 sales volume partner in North America; TECHNI Waterjet received an award at Euroblech 2010 Germany; Third Wave Systems has opened an office in Los Angeles; The TRUMPF Laser Marking Division has presented their Distributor of the Year award to Gosiger Dayton.

Targeting Technology - December 2010

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

 - So you want to sell to Dod?

 - Received a government award? Tell us!

 - Eleventh Annual Model Engineering Show

 - B11 Meetings

MTConnect® activity update - December 2010

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

 - New Technical Advisory Group members

 - New implementers of MTConnect

 - The first annual MTConnect Conference

 - Technical Advisory Group meeting

Upcoming SBIR/STTR funding opportunities - December 2010

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

The Department of Defense Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) 20011.1 Solicitation begins accepting proposals Dec. 13. The solicitation closes on Jan. 12, 2011, at 6:00 a.m.

What would you rather be: innovative — or cheap?

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Over the last couple of years, you’ve heard the top leadership at AMT come out with a strong message about innovation. It’s only by developing and producing the world’s most leading-edge technologies that our industry will move forward and remain competitive globally. Innovation is also the way that your company can offer something that is meaningfully unique.

CHINDIA 2010 (= 30% of global machine tool market, and growing)

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

This article mainly focuses on China, since we have been talking more about India lately, but there are a few nice tidbits there, too. So, with the able assistance of Sean Jiang and Xingbin Li in China, and Arun Mahajan in India, here are some points to ponder.

Worldwide operations shift creates opportunity and demand

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

The world economy is presenting new business opportunities to AMT members. In addition to the increase of capital equipment purchases in emerging economies including Brazil, Mexico, China and India, now also the industrialized countries, by shifting their operations around the world, are creating additional demand for manufacturing technology equipment.

Get ready for the ONLY service-focused conference in the industry

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

What’s the No. 1 reason someone buys a machine tool? According to Gardner Publications’ Capital Spending Survey for 2011, it’s service: confidence in general support, installation, repair, and availability of spare parts.

Networking and education come together at AMT Annual Meeting

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

Following the success of IMTS 2010, the overall mood in the manufacturing industry is seen as improving. However, innovation is still necessary to keep the momentum going. That was the theme at AMT’s 2010 Annual Meeting, which took place at the InterContinental Miami in Miami, Fla.

A great lineup of speakers from start to finish at the 2010 Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

This year’s Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference had excellent attendance – both in the audience and on stage. We had a great lineup of speakers from start to finish. We had reports from all of the regulars – the Global Forecast by John Walker of Oxford Economics, the Machine Tool Forecast from Eli Lustgarten of Longbow Research, the Capital Spending Survey for the Job Shop Industry by Rob Akers of NTMA, the Automotive Industry Outlook by Kim Korth of IRN, Inc., the Capital Spending Survey for the Machine Tool Industry by Rick Kline, Sr., Gardner Publications, and the Capital Spending Survey for Mexico & Brazil by Miguel Garzon, B2B Portales.

ESPRIT by DP Technology makes good machining even better

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

If you walked into McCormick Place’s East Building during IMTS, there is no way you could have missed ESPRIT DP Technology’s booth — not only was it front and center, it was also buzzing with activity. The company used its presence at the show to unveil ESPRIT 2011, the latest version of their industry-leading CAM software. The new version features system-wide upgrades that include productivity-enhancing technology for CNC programmers of mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines.

OnGovernment - November 2010

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

Lame duck session – There is a host of legislative measures that were languishing without resolution when Congress recessed in September. A few relate directly to American manufacturing such as the reauthorization of the America COMPETES Act and the AMERICA Works Act. 

AMT connects with the nation’s best university and college libraries

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

The American Machine Tool Industry, a book by Albert B. Albrecht that was reviewed by Pat McGibbon in the August AMT NEWS, will be distributed to 84 of the major engineering universities and colleges in the United States.

Web resources for information and a little fun

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

We thought we would share some of our favorite web resources with you. For daily security updates, we check with the Internet Storm Center at SANS: isc.sans.edu. The ISC is a volunteer team that keeps an eye out for threats and vulnerabilities and will point to any resources available to help mitigate the issue. USCERT, www.us-cert.gov, also provides a listing of vulnerabilities and provides the information for technical and non-technical users.

Market Data Review - AMT Board pushes forward on Business Intelligence Initiative

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

The BI tool that AMT will develop will give its members a leg up on the trend toward the future of doing business. BI tools will become essential to marketing, sales, strategic planning, and product development.

Industry News - November 2010

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

Methods Machine Tools, Inc. names Bernie Otto as Kiwa Product Manager; Quality Vision International, Inc. (QVI®) recently completed a move across town in Tempe, Ariz.; NCMS presented its strategy to help revitalize American small- and mid-sized manufacturers through advanced computer digital manufacturing.

India – USA Pavilion at IMTEX 2011 (Bangalore) and Mini Trade Mission (Chennai)

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

January 2011 will bring a great opportunity to learn if the Indian market is right for your company to pursue now. There will be a USA Pavilion at IMTEX (January 20-26) and, before the show, we will have a Mini Trade Mission in Chennai (January 16-18).

Targeting Technology - November 2010

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

– In-state resources provide assistance to AMT members

– Export controls – do you want a say in regulations?

MTConnect® activity update - November 2010

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

– New Technical Advisory Group members

– Technical Advisory Group meeting

– DMC 2010

Defense Manufacturing Conference brings together variety of participants

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

The Defense Manufacturing Conference (DMC) is our nation’s best and largest forum for technologists, engineers, managers, leaders and policy makers in the defense manufacturing industrial base. The 2010 DMC is hosted by the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Missile Defense Agency. DMC 2010 will reflect a growing blend of tradition and change.

Transplant activity in high gear

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

The Transplant Business Development Group activity is revving up with several initiatives that will increase the exposure of AMT members to Japanese transplant companies in North America.

What is happening in Mexico?

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

You’ve heard a lot lately about security problems in Mexico — what is really going on here? The business pace in Mexico has not slowed down even in the places where the drug war and related incidents are taking place. The reality is that, while violence continues along the border, the economy continues to grow and the life of the average Mexican progresses unfazed. 

Business Development - Forget the bank: The credit union is where the money is

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

So where is a company to turn these days when it needs credit? Look no further than your local credit union. This potential solution to the shortage of available business capital is also one that is often overlooked. Credit unions are financial institutions formed by an organized group of people with a common bond. Members of credit unions pool their assets to provide loans and other financial services to each other.

Service planning & strategy for the new year

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

Most of us have had to manage through a wild economic ride over the past few years. Thankfully, signs of recovery are becoming obvious and 2011 offers a moldable future for service. Service is variable by nature. Customers demand answers, service, parts, training, etc. This often drives a reactive culture which rarely finds time to optimize. The helping spirit of service professionals is welcomed and rewarded by customers. But how does one drive improvements into an environment of variable work demands?

The power of benchmarking

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST

We’re all accustomed to business publications providing us with benchmarking opportunities without leaving our chairs. However, getting beyond the case studies that everyone is reading requires that we get out of our chairs! Effective benchmarking is often overlooked as powerful fuel for improvement and innovation. 

Innovation will be the theme at the 2010 AMT Annual Meeting

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

The 2010 Annual Meeting agenda is filled with presentations you won’t want to miss, including one from Larry Keeley, cofounder and President of Doblin Inc. BusinessWeek named Keeley an innovation guru, and he’ll be speaking on Radical Innovation in Design & Manufacturing.

IMTS wraps up another great edition

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Optimism made a welcome return to IMTS 2010, which ran from Sept. 13-18 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Ill. More than 250 AMT members were part of the 1,728 total exhibitors. The show’s total square footage was 1,137,365, with 82,411 visitors attending.

Rep. Gary Peters visits Star Cutter Company

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

On Friday, Sept. 10, Rep. Gary Peters (D-MI-9) toured Star Cutter Company in Farmington Hills, Mich. AMT Government Relations Committee member Brad Lawton hosted the tour of his facility.

Federal government acts to level the global playing field

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

One of the best ways to enhance our global competitiveness is through support of America’s small- and medium-sized manufacturers. In a major victory for AMT members, President Obama signed the Small Business Jobs Act.

Market Data Review - The situation continues to improve

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Somehow the markets need to redirect the consumers’ fascination with bad news toward a broader more complete picture. As an example, the S&P 500 Index grew by 12 percent in the third quarter.

Team Penske drivers visit Mazak

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Will Power and Ryan Briscoe visited Mazak on the eve of the Kentucky Indy 300 to meet the men and women who have provided the technology used to build the machines that have made them and their cars two of the top five drivers in the world.

Industry News - October 2010

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Jergens, Inc. appoints Paul S. Kieta National Sales Manager for its Workholding Solutions Group; Angel Machinery is now distributing Jet Edge waterjets in Wisconsin; Jorgensen Conveyors celebrated its 60th anniversary in July; LMC Workholding announces a new partnership with Chandox Precision Industrial Co., Ltd. of Taiwan; Optical Gaging Products announces that Michael Metzger has been appointed Vice President of Aftermarket Services; The NTMA/PMA Contract Manufacturing Purchasing Fair will be held at the MGM Grand/Foxwoods in Mashantucket, Conn., on Oct. 29.

Online solutions provide staff training

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Frequent and effective staff training is important to the continued success of any organization. Training is often best when done away from the workplace but finding time to get out of the office for computer training is almost impossible these days. We have found that online training can take care of some of these needs by helping staff learn and stay current on the skills they need to be productive.

Targeting Technology - October 2010

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

– Coalition on Manufacturing Technology Infrastructure meets

– Lion Precision receives NASA award

– Future standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

IMTS was a great success for everyone and particularly for MTConnect. The institute had almost 300 interested attendees and technology providers in the MTConnect booth asking questions about the standard and expressing interest in the institute.

SBIR National Conference and funding opportunities

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

The main goal of the National SBIR/STTR Conference in Oklahoma City, Okla., is to learn about the SBIR/STTR program — how to apply for and what it takes to win some of the more than $2 billion in U.S. government R&D investments.

Business Development - Got leads from IMTS? Let's follow-up

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

So you’re back from IMTS, and I hope you have a lengthy list of leads awaiting your follow-up. But wait — before you start making those contacts, let’s take a closer look at those leads. Qualifying leads takes a certain amount of honesty.

Global Marketing & Sales Committee – Lessons Learned – Respecting cultures – a two-way street

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Most businesses that make their first ventures into penetrating international markets are advised to become aware of the local culture and to build an awareness and respect for that culture into their local marketing model. That is great advice, and something that you should incorporate to the degree you can. However, as you expand your international operations, and begin to bring on board local employees, it is equally important that you teach these local employees the fundamentals of your corporate culture, AND that they work to incorporate those fundamentals into their daily work practices.

Global Service Committee - Helpful topics and a "Save the Date" for the AMT Service & Aftermarket Support Conference

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

The many dimensions of service support can be seen all over the globe.  It is clear that technology has become woven into our daily lives and the broad usage of the internet and smart devices has exploded. Customers are engaging with organizations on their own terms. They want immediate follow-up to inquiries including onsite support before the machine goes down.  Customers don’t trust a brand based on promises any more; they rely heavily on cost and recommendations from their peers. 

International Report – Medvedev's dilemma – where to spend those rubles

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

Just like Uncle Sam, the Russian government has to decide how to best spend their resources. Apparently President Medvedev has made that decision and is directing heavy subsidies toward the aerospace industry.

Transplant networking event held at IMTS 2010

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST

The U.S.-Japan Advanced Manufacturing Technology Networking Luncheon took place on Sept. 16 at McCormick Place and provided an opportunity for 12 AMT members to meet with 35 representatives of Japanese companies and organizations in an exchange of information on the needs of the industry and on what our members have to offer in the various segments of manufacturing technology.

See what’s waiting for you at IMTS 2010

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

IMTS 2010 will be full of all the great features and events you’ve come to expect. Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you.

Member Spotlight - Machining from an engineer’s perspective

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

Third Wave Systems helps companies do three things: machine faster, machine smarter, and machine for less. President Kerry Marusich says there’s one reason they can do that: “We’re putting more engineering into machining.”

Key legislation will likely see action before the end of the year

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

Congress returns this month to face a massive agenda, including 12 appropriation bills and the expiring Bush tax cuts. With only a short time until the mid-term elections, vulnerable Democrats have set out to convince voters that they have the answers for reversing our lagging employment and lackluster economic recovery. The following is a summary of key legislation relating to three of AMT’s Manufacturing Mandate points that will likely see action before the end of the year.

Market Data Review - Rolling into a hot September for orders

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

On the eve of IMTS, the market situation is ripe for a fast-paced show with a bundle of order opportunities. Profitability in the durable goods industry is higher today than it was during the peak order levels in the past two growth cycles (1998 and 2006) in our industry’s market.

Industry News - September 2010

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

Automated Precision Inc.’s Volumetric Error Compensation included in 48th Annual R&D 100 Awards; Juan Cardenas joins Aspect Automation as director of Sales & Marketing; Gleason Corporation has changed the name of its subsidiary in West Carrollton (Dayton), Ohio, from Gleason M&M Precision Systems Corporation to Gleason Metrology Systems Corporation; TRUMPF Inc. presented 2010 awards of sales achievement to Icon Machine Tool, Inc. and Hegman Machine Tool, Inc.; Founder of Edmunds Gages dies.

Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

The Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference is best known for providing the data and insight you need to make informed business decisions. However, the second most important reason attendees come to the conference is networking. The conference is an excellent opportunity for exchanging information, extending your store of contacts, and learning how others are addressing the same challenges you face daily.

Targeting Technology - September 2010

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

- Get involved – they are your export controls

- ISO Standards in review

- Upcoming ANSI B11/Standards meetings

SBIR/STTR funding opportunities

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

This solicitation contains research topics from the Air Force, Army, Navy, DARPA, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The DLA’s broad manufacturing topic applies to almost all AMT members. Additionally, the DoD has decided to issue two STTR solicitations each year. The STTR 2010-B solicitation is released as part of the DoD SBIR solicitation and has topics from the Air Force, Navy, OSD, and the MDA.

News from the MTConnect® Institute - September 2010

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

- New Technical Advisory Group members

- The Verifier is here

- I/Gear online blog

- First free app to debut at IMTS

- Technical Advisory Group meeting

Global Marketing & Sales Committee – Lessons Learned – Sales power via complementary marketing

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

Most of us know the top 10-20 companies in size, those who provide the backbone of U.S. presence in international exhibitions. AMT has almost 400 members. We may each know another dozen of these smaller member companies, the ones that serve relevant applications in the same factories we visit. But how much name recognition and product knowledge do we have about the other AMT members? Are there synergies to be explored with complementary marketing opportunities?

Business Development - Take advantage of the recession to purchase a business

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

In the July issue you read about selling or transitioning your business in a recession. This month’s focus looks at the flip side: taking advantage of the recession by expanding your business via acquisition or merger. Some might say it is not prudent to purchase a business during a recovery. Now is the perfect time to go browsing for some of the best manufacturing values seen in a long time.

International Report – The fundamental things (still) apply…

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST

Periodically, AMT’s Global Marketing & Sales Committee tries to do the impossible.  In this case, by working among ourselves, and with the help of AMT’s Strategic Information & Research department and global staff, once again we have generated a handy but “impossible” document — since for every country there are significant regional cost differences that are not accounted for, and in almost every category there is more that could be said back and forth to keep the debate never-ending.

Targeting Technology - August 2010

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

– Centralized Contractor Registration

– AMT's Global Technology Advisory Board (GTAB)

– Upcoming SBIR/STTR funding opportunities

– SkillsUSA Precision Machining Technology winners

News from the MTConnect® Institute - August 2010

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

– Membership in the TAG

– Status of MTConnect at IMTS

Advanced manufacturing technology for Japanese transplant companies

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

AMT has been approached by JETRO, an organization that looks after trade interests of companies from Japan, looking for possible suppliers of manufacturing technologies in several areas of interest to Japanese companies in North America.

International Report – The latest happenings in Mexico and Brazil

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Both Mexico and Brazil are growing markets for manufacturing technology. Mexican industrial output in the first 6 months of the year has grown 8.4 percent vs. last year, keeping pace with the rate of the BRIC economies. And Brazil continues its industrial expansion under very favorable economic conditions and a surge of disposable income among its population. It is growing well within the range of its BRIC peers, particularly China and India, at roughly a 7 percent rate.

Business Development – Get the most from your IMTS investment

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

While IMTS is one of the best places to showcase your company’s products and services, the reality is that exhibiting there is an investment. It takes both time and money to run your booth. Are you getting the most out of that investment?

CRM – The good, the bad, and the ugly

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

When I began my sales career in El Paso, Texas, back in the late 1970s, communications were primitive at best. Without cell phones or the Internet, we relied on land lines and the U.S. Postal Service for contact with the home office. Of course things began to change with the advent of fax machines, cell phones and e-mail. The business cycle could no longer wait for one to find a pay phone, but demanded instant answers. And the barrage of faxes, e-mails, quotes and requests became a nightmare for both the home office and field sales to organize. With the advent of CRM, or Customer Resource Management, the situation began to change.

Have a BlackBerry? Leave the laptop at home

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Are you tired of taking your laptop along on a trip just to make a presentation? If you have a BlackBerry and access to a projector, you can make a Microsoft PowerPoint or PDF presentation using the BlackBerry Presenter.

AMT FRIENDS & FAMILY COOKBOOK

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Oatmeal Sesame Cookies – This is Dale Evans’ recipe. Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were close friends of my parents and I lived with them one summer. Mother and Dale used to exchange recipes. Roy and Dale used to deer hunt on our ranch and at night Roy would tune my Mother’s piano and they would stand around and sing.

AMT and NAM form historic partnership to promote the importance of U.S. manufacturing

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

AMT is joining forces with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) to promote the importance of manufacturing and innovation in the U.S. economy. This historic partnership will bring the organizations together in support of IMTS 2010, Sept. 13-18.

Yoder rolls through 100 years

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

When Carl M. Yoder, a draftsman at a Cleveland sheet metal company, founded his own business in 1910, William H. Taft was the U.S. president, Orville Wright opened the first flying school, and Father’s Day was celebrated for the first time. Today, Yoder is still operating in Cleveland, and still working hard to meet its customers’ needs.

Shanghai Tech Center — 100 members and counting!

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Anchor Abrasives Company of Tinley Park, Ill., has become the 100th AMT member company to sign the Participation Agreement and join the Shanghai Tech Center.  Congratulations to President Jack Shoemaker and his team for “going more global” by working with AMT China. AMT now has many members for whom the China market represents a major portion of their annual revenue and profits, and many have “graduated” from the STC to set up their own China operations around the country.

“The things we make, make us” – Or, how a TV ad can help

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Recently, a once-all-American automaker started airing national television ads to market one of its 2011 vehicles. Who the automaker is, or what line it was hawking, is irrelevant. What is relevant is how the ad was framed and pitched. If the name of the vehicle and its maker were removed, this ad could easily have been a rallying cry for celebrating and strengthening American manufacturing.

Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

You may be focusing your attention on preparing for IMTS right now, but don’t forget about another important industry event — the Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference. Take a few minutes and register for the GFMC so you can cross one more thing off your to-do list.

New Hampshire governor visits Greenerd plant

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

AMT Board Vice Chairman Tim Dining, President and CEO, Greenerd Press and Machine Company, Inc., recently hosted New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch for a tour of his plant in Nashua, N.H. Dining was happy to accommodate the governor’s request to visit Greenerd to show how the company is faring during these tough economic times. Having been in business in Nashua for more than a century, Greenerd has weathered a few storms. It was especially important to Dining that the governor meet with Greenerd’s 17 employees.

Market Data Review - Is the only “W” in Texas?

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Is the only “W” in Texas? – Wall Street can make money when markets go south or when they are bullish, but when there isn’t movement there is rarely activity that generates revenue. That is when they get out the rhetoric and try to create expectations of change. Don’t buy into it.

Book Review – The American Machine Tool Industry – Its History, Growth & Decline

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

In his book, Al Albrecht shares his personal and learned memories about the machine tool industry. His writing focuses on the ups and downs of the market in what he terms the “Golden Years” of the industry and its people: the rapid expansions during World War II and the ‘60s when NC machines became commercially affordable, and the consolidations in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Those who lived through these eras will recognize their own experiences in Albrecht’s stories.

Industry News - August 2010

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Jet Edge, Inc. and Chukar Waterjet, Inc. played a key role in helping BP stop the oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico; Methods Machine Tools, Inc. appoints Paul Hurtig as FEELER Product Manager; Gleason Corporation showcased its latest gear manufacturing technologies at its Gear Solutions Forum; Hill Engineering (a member of the Formtek Group) has promoted Paul Williams to the position of Sales and Marketing Manager; TRUMPF Inc. has appointed Tracey Ryba as Product Manager - Lasers and Frank Geyer as Product Manager - Laser Systems; TRUMPF Mexico celebrates its 10th anniversary this year; UNIST, Inc., appoints Tim Walker Vice President of Business Development; Automated Precision Inc. has concluded a cooperation agreement with the National Astronomical Observatories, Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC).

China trade mission participants see opportunity in a growing power generation sector

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

While the true business benefit from this trade mission only accrues to those who were actually on the bus, we can report to all AMT member companies that the power generation sector in China is undergoing capacity expansion in manufacturing. Many of the workshops we visited were as modern and well equipped as any in the world.

AMC keeps customers moving

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

Since its founding in 1988, Automation & Modular Components Inc. has produced high-quality conveyor systems that can meet just about any industrial requirement. From conveyor systems that can withstand the harshest industrial environments, to those that must operate in the most pristine clean-room settings, AMC offers a wide array of products to meet a variety of needs.

The uncomfortable world of deficit living

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

A strange thing happened on the road to renewing the federal tax credit for research and development:  National groups and companies that have long revered the credit like a holy grail suddenly announced they would actively oppose the legislation that renewed it.  Why?  Because of something known in Washington these days as “pay fors.”

Capital investment practices and competitive advantage

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

Capital investment practices – As a supplier of capital goods to each segment and tier of the global gas turbine industry, we have a distinct perspective on who does the best job of investing for competitive advantage.

Roger H. Hayes, President, Huffman Corporation

Market Data Review - We are not alone!

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

Late last month (after the AMT NEWS deadline), CECIMO, the European machine tool association, posted a press release which provided some amusement. The press release, while outlining the situation for the machine tool industry in Europe, with a little liberal license, could have been used to describe the situation in the U.S. market.

Go ahead… bet the farm

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

“You’re too small a company to go international… it’s a bet-the-farm strategy.” Such was the response from a friend after I had told him that international expansion was a large part of our growth strategy. He felt, as many people do, that a small company simply does not have the resources to deal with the complexities of international business.

Industry News - July 2010

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

Automated Precision Inc. (API) has announced that Northrop Grumman Corporation has successfully deployed API’s Volumetric Error Compensation; TRUMPF Inc. LaserLab making its North American debut; Formtek announces the appointment of Jeff Shelton as a Sales & Application Representative; Methods Machine Tools, Inc. exclusive distributor of New VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators throughout North America.

FRIENDS & FAMILY COOKBOOK

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

The AMT FRIENDS & FAMILY COOKBOOK is chock full of delicious recipes and a little family history here and there as well. We all have some old family favorites that bring back good memories of family gatherings and meals shared in the past. For those of you who remember the days of the Whole Earth Catalog and the lifestyles of the 60s and 70s, this recipe from Doug & Mary Woods should bring back some memories.

Targeting Technology - July 2010

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

- Defense Manufacturing Conference call for abstracts

- MPETAC export control meeting

- Missile Defense Agency Industry Day

News from the MTConnect® Institute

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

- IMTS 2010

- MTConnect Version 1.1.0

- Next MTCTAC meeting

A simple step toward improving your service department

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

Customer requirements and expectations will continue to evolve, and your aftermarket services must continue to evolve as well. In order to stay in step with customer expectations, a periodic review of your strategic plans is necessary, followed by adjustments as needed. This information needs to be considered along with customer survey information, customer feedback, service metric measurements, competitive positioning, service product offerings, business activity, market changes and global business activity. 

Where are the Americans?

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

“Where are the Americans?” This was a question asked not only by the Russians but by our competitors as well. Not everyone can be blamed for a subpar turnout by U.S. companies at this show in Moscow, but we were certainly keeping a low profile.

2010 – Selling your business after the recession

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

We have spent a great deal of time lately in this column discussing strategic options, best practices, and different perspectives on how to manage a business in the current financial climate. While we have spent the majority of time on ideas to grow your business, we haven’t spent a great deal of time discussing strategic acquisition or company transition. The reality is, however, that it is a great time to be considering these topics as well.

TBDG plans future activities

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST

Current TBDG initiatives include webinars on the “State and Outlook of the Transplant Automotive Industry,” utilization of social media such as LinkedIn to encourage contact and dialogue, a program to broaden the number of countries to which the AMT members can reach out for business, as well as various opportunities for workshops and roundtables. 

Larger than expected attendance at EXPOMANUFACTURA 2010 reflects recovery of Mexico’s manufacturing industry

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST

EXPOMANUFACTURA 2010 took place from March 2-4, 2010, in Monterrey, with the participation of 41 AMT members either directly or through their distribution partners. More than 9,000 visitors attended the show and were excited and impressed with the display of technology.

New department focus for Government Relations

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

As part of refocusing AMT’s efforts in ways that will assist members in the best possible way, changes are coming to the AMT Government Relations department. Vice President of Government Relations Paul Freedenberg has transitioned from his full-time role at AMT to one as an independent consultant. In that capacity, Dr. Freedenberg will continue to assist AMT members and staff in his areas of expertise, most specifically in matters of exports, trade, tariffs and regulations.

Bridging the relationship gap

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST

Relationships and trust are the two key factors in being able to do business with Japanese companies. In order to foster relationships that evolve into trust, AMT sponsored a JAPIA-AMT members’ business meeting on November 19 in Novi, Mich. The purpose of this event was to create an opportunity for 10 AMT member companies to meet and initiate relationships with 10 JAPIA (Japan Auto Parts Industry Association) members.

Ontario Electrical Product Registration

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST