MMA Blog

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• Simple Steps to Combat Selling’s Three Deadly Cs

  April 12, 2024    109

  The Three Deadly Cs — Commoditization, Compressed selling time and Consensus decision making — are eroding margins and rendering traditional selling strategies obsolete. MMA member Blue Salesfly outlines simple steps to help you prepare for the new battleground.
  

• Building Businesses, Strengthening Communities

  April 9, 2024    160

  People are the foundation of manufacturing growth and the recent MMA Operations Conference provided solutions to enhance team morale and promote business growth. A selection of Conference speakers provide insights to help members.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Barron Industries

  April 9, 2024    183

  Interview with Barron Industries President and CEO Bruce Barron
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Radian Compliance

  April 9, 2024    130

  Interview with Radian Compliance Managing Partners Sally Smoczynski and Lisa DuBrock
  

• MMA Solutions for Success: Dale Carnegie Training Offered by Ralph Nichols Group

  April 9, 2024    131

  MMA members can access discounted training through “Dale Carnegie Training Offered by Ralph Nichols Group.” Dale Carnegie is ISO 9001 certified, providing manufacturing teams with the greatest quality leadership training in the world.
  

• MFG Game Changers: M R Products Inc. - Home of Mr. Chain

  April 9, 2024    122

  Manufacturers have a critical need to keep people safe by creating barriers around the shop floor. For more than 64 years, a small business in a small town has made a global impact on safety by making reusable, safe and lightweight chain barriers.
  

• Using Wage Data to Maintain a Leadership Position in Your Region

  April 9, 2024    125

  The best companies are always benchmarking themselves against their competitors and other employers in their region and beyond. MMA's Bill Rayl walks you through an easy way to get wage info for every area of the state on a timely basis.
  

• Strategies for Increasing Retention in Plants

  April 9, 2024    89

  The financial cost of turnover has resulted in this being cited as a main priority for 2024. Instead of continuing to engage in wage wars and accepting the high cost of replacing employees, MMA member Career Growth offers proven solutions for investing in your people.
  

• The Power of Mentorship in Manufacturing

  April 9, 2024    99

  Mentorship holds diverse meanings across various industries, including manufacturing. At its core, mentoring conveys a powerful message to your team — a message of care, commitment and a willingness to invest in their growth.
  

• Export Your Michigan Products Worldwide — A Strategic Opportunity to Grow Revenue

  April 9, 2024    125

  International trade represents a key opportunity for Michigan manufacturers to find new markets, expand sales, and increase profits. The EXIM can equip businesses with the financial tools they need to capitalize on potential markets worldwide.
  

• The Roadmap to Industry 4.0’s Global Future Unveiled

  March 28, 2024    319

  MMA member Wipfli covers the three pivotal global trends manufacturers must grasp to navigate the future of Industry 4.0 successfully.
  

• Positive First Impression for Your Facility

  March 28, 2024    243

  Automating your entrance with a digital visitor management system is the best way to ensure a positive first impression and show guests that your safety and security standards are paramount. Think about the first impression a visitor has when they enter your facility.
  

• Core Values Can Evolve With Your Business

  March 28, 2024    242

  MMA member Amigo Mobility International presents a case study of that demonstrates how their core values helped evolve their business.
  

• Getting Started with eCommerce

  March 28, 2024    245

  With B2B buyers expecting a B2C-like shopping experience, the bar is set high for manufacturers and distributors who want to provide an efficient and easy-to-use website for their customers. MMA member Human Element gives you things to consider before getting started with an eCommerce site build.
  

• Energy Management Should Be a Priority for Every Manufacturer

  March 28, 2024    261

  If Michigan manufacturers are to remain competitive with manufacturers in other states and around the world, energy cost must be kept at a minimum. MMA member EnStar discusses how energy management needs to become a priority in the planning and decision-making process of every firm.
  

• How Artificial Intelligence Fits in a Human’s World

  March 28, 2024    168

  Dale Carnegie, the “father” of the Self-Help Movement, began his formal work and research in human behavior in 1912. He pondered the questions of what differentiated happy, successful people from those that were not happy or successfully fulfilled.
  

• Digital Health Tools Aren’t Just Good for Employees — Employers Benefit, Too

  March 28, 2024    185

  Even common health issues, like strep throat or a bout of poison ivy can be quickly resolved with a virtual health visit. With digital solutions, patients have access to advice, vetted resources, and real-time data about their health at their fingertips. MMA member Blue Cross shares how digital tools offer in-depth, in-the-moment support.
  

• Navigating Modern Workforce Development Trends in Manufacturing

  March 28, 2024    390

  As technology advances and global markets evolve, companies are constantly adapting to meet the demands of the modern era. MMA member Chatfield helps you navigate modern workforce development trends in manufacturing.
  

• 5 Ways Your Blue Cross Plan Can Help You Practice Self-Care

  March 19, 2024    566

  Self-Care The World Health Organization defines health as, “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.” Work, school and family life seem to always take first priority, but self-care is crucial to your own well-being. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has multiple tools that will help you practice self-care.
  

• 6 Essentials Every Organization’s AI Policy Must Include

  March 19, 2024    373

  To ensure your organization and its people navigate the AI landscape successfully and safely, it’s imperative to establish a comprehensive policy. MMA member Rehmann covers how such a policy will serve as your team’s roadmap to leveraging AI technologies while ensuring ethical, secure and effective use.
  

• Achieving True Employee Engagement through Process-Based Leadership and Open-Book Management

  March 14, 2024    313

  Many aspects of a company impact employee engagement. It starts with having a business philosophy and set of company values with which the employees can identify. Combine this with an excellent work environment, great pay and benefits, and you are on your way to creating an environment where engagement can flourish.
  

• Creating a Sustainable Culture of Innovation

  March 14, 2024    304

  Innovation is not a word meant only for the greatest and brightest minds nor is it reserved for job titles and departments. Innovation is something that lives and breathes within each of us. It’s time to recognize and bring to light that the “soft” and “empathic” skills we have historically suppressed in the manufacturing industry are, indeed, what fuels innovation.
  

• Driving Profitability: Understanding Your Costs & Operational Performance

  March 14, 2024    302

  Many small and mid-size manufacturers struggle with profitability for the same reason: They haven’t fully captured their total cost of production and its impact on operating performance. Understanding the total cost to manufacture and the ability to monitor operating performance are key to driving profitability.
  

• Adopting a Human Learning Model that Complements Lean Manufacturing

  March 14, 2024    274

  The benefits of Lean Manufacturing and its associated methods and tools are undeniable. Lean Manufacturing has proven its value and is rightfully here to stay; but it does have its limitations. Where Lean Manufacturing falls short is in the skill development of humans.
  

• Kirlin Lighting - 2023 Coolest Thing Made in Michigan

  March 7, 2024    860

  Kirlin Lighting’s INFRALED PRO Motorized Exam Lights provide a safe, easy-to-operate alternative to boom-mounted exam lighting systems. A people’s choice vote determined that the recessed, remote-aimable motorized exam lighting system was the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in Michigan.
  

• The Complete Cycle and Impact of an Automotive Strike

  March 5, 2024    544

  Every industry and business has their ups and downs. MMA member Veryable aims to dissect the stages of a full cycle so that manufacturers can understand where they are at, the impact(s) on their business and what they can do about it.
  

• Expand Your Employee Attraction, Preparation and Retention Efforts by Leveraging Industry 4.0 Technologies

  March 5, 2024    365

  MMA has partnered with Automation Alley to present Navigating the Future: Global Industry 4.0 Trends, Standards & Policy. Read insights from MMA on expanding employee attraction, retention and more.
  

• Navigating Industry 4.0 Challenges: The Imperative of Collaboration and Connectivity

  March 4, 2024    394

  MMA has partnered with Automation Alley to present Navigating the Future: Global Industry 4.0 Trends, Standards & Policy. Read insights from MMA on navigating Industry 4.0 and more.
  

• The Power of Thought Leadership: Engaging Employees and Shaping Company Culture

  February 26, 2024    1180

  In the complex landscape of modern business, the concept of thought leadership has emerged as a vital tool for leaders across industries. MMA member Walker Publicity outlines key ways in which being a thought leader helps leaders connect with their companies.
  

• Overview of Select Industrial Real Estate Markets: Q4 2023

  February 23, 2024    625

  By offering MMA members quarterly updates on industrial real estate markets, we hope to educate and inform our Michigan manufacturers about their local real estate market and thereby assist them in improving their real estate decision-making processes.
  

• How Can Digital Marketing Propel Michigan’s Manufacturers Ahead in 2024?

  February 1, 2024    877

  MMA member Manufacture Grow demystifies digital marketing and explains why it is crucial for your manufacturing business in Michigan.
  

• The Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024

  February 1, 2024    765

  MMA Premium Associate Member Acena Consulting provides a short recap of the provisions agreed to by US Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, and House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith, R-Missouri regarding the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024.
  

• Creative Strategies to Generate Value and Increase Profit in 2024

  January 31, 2024    749

  Following another challenging year, manufacturers can take some specific steps to capitalize on bright spots by prioritizing new KPIs and focusing on key elements such as cash flow, people, culture and technology. Find out more in this on-demand video Q&A with MMA and Mike Devereux, partner with Wipfli, a top 20 advisory and accounting firm.
  

• Engage Your Manufacturing Voice

  January 25, 2024    437

  Supporting pro-manufacturing legislators promotes pro-manufacturing solutions.
  

• Revenue and Sustainability Support with Member-Exclusive Energy Reduction Program

  January 25, 2024    515

  MMA members can now earn revenue by agreeing to reduce energy usage through a new partnership between CPower, Enstar Energy and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), which operates the Midwest and South Central power grid.
  

• Specialized On-Demand Labor Solution Augments and Defines Workforce Needs

  January 25, 2024    741

  Veryable helps manufacturing and warehousing businesses augment their teams and navigate these fluctuations while ensuring that qualified workers are available when needed.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Acena Consulting

  January 25, 2024    481

  Interview with Acena Consulting Senior Manager-Business Development Dan Osterland
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: MFP Automation Engineering

  January 25, 2024    381

  Interview with MFP's Engineering Manager Jake DeRooy
  

• Making an Impact for Industry at the Capitol

  January 25, 2024    367

  Despite legislative challenges, there were still many wins for manufacturers in 2023. Learn more and find out why MMA remains optimistic going into 2024.
  

• 2024 Outlook Report Reveals Why Manufacturers Are Optimistic About 2024

  January 24, 2024    510

  Supply chain issues, employee retention and data security are big concerns shaping leaders’ decisions according to a survey of more than 330 manufacturing executives across the country. However, according to a survey by MMA member Wipfli, most manufacturers remain optimistic about the future of the industry and are ready to tackle these obstacles head-on.
  

• Case Systems and BOSTONtec - 2023 Manufacturing Community Impact

  January 10, 2024    806

  Giving back to the community through local philanthropy and engagement is fundamental to the culture that drives Midland-based Case Systems, Inc and its subsidiary company, BOSTONtec and is why they were recognized with the 2023 Manufacturing Community Impact award.
  

• Industry Collaboration & Community Celebrated at 2023 Manufacturing Excellence Awards

  November 30, 2023    648

  The 2023 Manufacturing Excellence Awards was a night of collaboration, community and celebration as a sold-out crowd gathered in East Lansing to recognize the best of the best in Michigan’s most vital industry.
  

• Integrity Fab & Machine Inc. - 2023 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year (Small Tier)

  November 30, 2023    574

  Integrity isn't just a name for Integrity Fab & Machine Inc., it’s a way of doing business and a way of life. That's why the company was chosen for the 2023 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award – Small Tier.
  

• Jon D. Hall - Glastender Inc. - Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement

  November 30, 2023    771

  Jon Hall is a natural-born innovator focused on continual improvement and has left an indelible mark on the industry and was recognized with the 2023 Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement award.
  

• DENSO Manufacturing Michigan Inc. - 2023 Manufacturing Talent Champion

  November 30, 2023    1007

  DENSO Manufacturing Michigan Inc.’s dedication to education, diversity and community makes the company a highly deserving recipient of the 2023 Manufacturing Talent Champion award.
  

• Ronald E. Hall - Bridgewater Interiors - 2023 Manufacturing Emerging Leader

  November 30, 2023    1205

  Ronald Hall's life experiences, energy, creativity, commitment to the community and passion for the manufacturing industry truly made him deserving of the the 2023 Manufacturing Emerging Leader award.
  

• Sachiko Johnson - Jordan Manufacturing Company - 2023 Manufacturing Woman of the Year

  November 28, 2023    1207

  Due to her genuine compassion for the team, leadership skills and the impact she has had at Jordan Manufacturing and within the community, Sachiko Johnson is a deserving recipient of the 2023 Manufacturing Woman of the Year award.
  

• Amplifying Organic Leads for Your Manufacturing Business: A Comprehensive Guide for Marketers

  November 22, 2023    830

  As a dedicated marketer in the manufacturing sector, you understand the challenges of driving organic traffic and leads to your company's website. MMA member StoryTeller Media + Communications delves into proven strategies that can boost your organic leads without straining your budget.
  

• Overview of Select Industrial Real Estate Markets: Q3 2023

  November 22, 2023    852

  Over the past several years the industrial real estate market has undergone significant changes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic which has impacted e-commerce and supply chain logistics. Dominion Real Estate Advisors has collaborated with the MMA to provide an updates concerning select major industrial real estate markets in Michigan.
  

• The Manufacturer’s Guide to ERP Optimization and Selection

  November 22, 2023    971

  Avoid overspending or a needlessly frustrating implementation process when it's time to replace your existing ERP system with insights from MMA member Rehmann to help implement the best ERP for your needs.
  

• Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification A Focus on Essentials

  November 8, 2023    1100

  Today’s everchanging cybersecurity landscape has a large impact on manufacturers, as it would on any business with systems and data. The U.S. Department of Defense has been focused on ensuring companies in the Defense Industrial Base are protecting DoD information entrusted to them as contractually required since 2017 . A need to create more structure around compliance has resulted in the creation of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).
  

• Real Time Monitoring: Empowering Manufacturing Industries with Industry 4.0 Solutions

  November 8, 2023    1648

  As businesses worldwide move toward Industry 4.0, the fusion of advanced technologies with manufacturing processes takes centre stage. MMA member MN Engineering Solutions Inc. dives into what real-time monitoring entails and how it benefits Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and other manufacturing industries, enhancing production, Original Equipment Equivalent (OEE) and more.
  

• Leverage Industry 4.0 Technologies to Expand Employee Attraction, Preparation and Retention

  November 7, 2023    783

  When it comes to retention, the problems — and the solutions — often occur in the realms of communication, recognition and mutual respect. There are I4.0 technologies that can, for instance, improve lines of communication between managers and production floor workers or between workers on different shifts. But much of the retention challenges related to I4.0 come from the friction between people and technology.
  

• The Industry 4.0 Revolution

  November 7, 2023    1015

  As Industry 4.0 technologies continue to revolutionize manufacturing and now that artificial intelligence is at the forefront of upcoming change, manufacturers have found themselves in a position where they can innovate while enhancing efficiency in their workplaces. When coupled with human expertise, automation and AI may change manufacturing in countless ways.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Storch Products Inc.

  November 7, 2023    840

  MMA interview with Industry Member Storch Products Inc.'s President Matt Carr.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: SensCy

  November 7, 2023    709

  MMA interview with Premium Associate Member SensCy's CEO Rick Snyder.
  

• Customized Workers’ Comp Insurance Features Safety Recommendations

  November 7, 2023    625

  While workers’ compensation insurance can help protect employers and workers, prevention and remediation are key to reducing workplace injuries in the first place. Through MMA’s partnership with the MTMIC, members receive a 3 percent discount for workers’ compensation, a dividend program, as well as numerous consultancy services and resources.
  

• Sustainable Technology Creates New Solution for PFAS Reduction

  November 7, 2023    726

  4never combines the power of Surface Active Foam Fractionation (SAFF®) technology with supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) to provide a local, scalable, closed-loop solution to remove and permanently destroy PFAS. The groundbreaking 4never technology is exclusively provided and operated by MMA’s trusted provider, Heritage-Crystal Clean.
  

• Ford and UAW Reach Historic Agreement

  October 26, 2023    988

  Ford Motor Company and the UAW reached a tentative agreement 10/25/23, ending the five-week-old strike. While the agreement requires ratification by the UAW rank and file, workers are returning to work already.
  

• UAW Employs New Strike Approach

  October 25, 2023    850

  Four weeks after the first wave of UAW strikes against Detroit’s Big Three automakers, UAW President Shawn Fain today announced a new phase and a new approach to their strategy.