MMA Blog

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• Amplifying the Voice of Michigan’s industry

  February 14, 2025    94

  Michigan’s shifting legislative landscape in 2025 will present opportunities to foster industry growth and shape policy at the state level and MMA’s Government Affairs team remains at the “tip of the spear” when it comes to identifying and addressing vital industry issues. Advancing the goals of the manufacturing industry not only supports MMA members but also safeguards the state’s largest and most important economic sector. Achieving those goals starts with members sharing their priorities and concerns.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Grand Traverse Plastics

  February 14, 2025    100

  Interview with Grand Traverse Plastic’s CEO Bill Knable
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Wipfli

  February 14, 2025    94

  Interview with Wipfli’s National Manufacturing Leader Michael Devereux
  

• MMA Solutions for Success: Praeco Skills

  February 14, 2025    114

  Attracting and retaining talent is an ongoing challenge in the industry, and Praeco Skills Founder Ryan Pohl and Talent Development Manager Steve Heethuis have dedicated the past 25 years of their careers seeking solutions.
  

• Manufacturing Game Changers: GTF Technologies

  February 14, 2025    141

  Ada-based GTF Technologies has created an innovative system that makes it possible to significantly reduce this food waste and therefore contribute to carbon reduction initiatives.
  

• Advocacy Meets Action: MMA’s Effort to Expand the IGNITE Program in Michigan

  February 14, 2025    71

  MMA’s Government Affairs and Workforce Solutions teams have embarked on a new partnership with LIFT and Amatrol to build on this past success by bringing the IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing program to Michigan schools.
  

• New R&D Tax Credit is Critical to Advancing Michigan’s Future

  February 14, 2025    126

  The recent passage of Michigan’s robust Research & Development (R&D) Tax Credit is a strong step toward securing Michigan’s position as a leader in innovation, fostering economic growth and maintaining competitiveness on the national and global stage.
  

• Michigan’s R&D Tax Credit: What Your Business Needs to Know

  February 14, 2025    79

  The new Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit is designed to incentivize innovation, foster economic growth, and position Michigan as a leader in cutting-edge industries. MMA member Maner Costerisan gives you what you need to know to stay ahead and take advantage of these new incentives.
  

• Dental Insurance: Helping to Drive Better Overall Health

  February 14, 2025    79

  Dental care is a vital aspect of overall health and wellness. Regular dental check-ups, early detection of health issues and comprehensive dental insurance coverage all contribute to better health outcomes. The MetLife/MMA Dental Plan offers a robust solution for those looking to invest in their dental health. By prioritizing dental care, you and your employees can take a significant step towards a healthier, happier life.

  

• Ongoing ICE Raids – Key Information for Individuals and Employers

  January 30, 2025    576

  With ICE arrests on the rise, MMA member Warner Norcross + Judd provide an updated guide on how individuals and employers can protect themselves or their workforce during ICE encounters or raids.
  

• New Financing Can Be a Game Changer to Help U.S. Manufacturing Companies Grow through Exporting

  January 27, 2025    343

  EXIM's Make More in America Initiative aims to revitalize American manufacturing, strengthen the resiliency of supply chains, bring good-paying jobs back home and level the playing field for American companies as they compete around the world. Learn how it can help your business compete in the global marketplace.
  

• Celebrating Michigan's Manufacturing Legacy

  December 6, 2024    377

  The annual Manufacturing Excellence Awards attracts the best and brightest in Michigan manufacturing for a night of celebration and to honor the core values driving the state’s most important industry: innovation, impact, leadership, community and family.
  

• Why Growing Through M&A is the New Normal in Manufacturing

  December 3, 2024    845

  In the modern manufacturing industry, growth through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) has shifted from a strategic option to a leading pathway for expansion. With the increasing market complexity, labor shortages and rapid technological advancements, M&A has become essential for companies that want to stay competitive and thrive. For many, it’s a faster, more efficient way to reach their goals compared to the often slower and riskier route of organic growth.
  

• Charles Washburn - Landscape Forms - Emerging Leader

  November 12, 2024    811

  Due to his character, compassion and dedication to the growth of the industry and the education of future professionals, Charles Washburn of Landscape Forms has been recognized as the 2024 Manufacturing Emerging Leader.
  

• Biodapt® - Gantec Inc. - Export of the Year

  November 12, 2024    1106

  Biodapt® by Gantec has been recognized as the 2024 Michigan Manufactured Export of the Year for providing greater opportunities for local employees based on the company’s manufacturing, technology development and global expansion needs.
  

• Christine Sermak - Total Security Solutions - Manufacturing Talent Champion

  November 12, 2024    502

  Christine Sermak’s ingenuity and ability to bring multiple principles together for the benefit of Total Security Solutions and future industry professionals is why she was recognized as the 2024 Manufacturing Talent Champion.
  

• Jill Dralle - Nexteer Automotive - 2024 Manufacturing Woman of the Year

  November 12, 2024    583

  With insights, enthusiasm and a dedication to constant development of the company, Jill Dralle has placed the U.S. division of Nexteer as a leading manufacturer in Saginaw County. Her personal skills combined with her ability to impact so many lives makes her the 2024 Manufacturing Woman of the Year.
  

• Nathan Cox - Cox Machine LLC - 2024 Manufacturer of the Year (Small Tier)

  November 12, 2024    469

  Company culture and dedication to the local community and to the overall manufacturing industry in Michigan places Nathan Cox and Cox Machine LLC among an elite group of John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year recipients.
  

• Dan Dralle - D&JD Partners - 2024 Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement

  November 12, 2024    1186

  Throughout his 40-year career, Daniel Dralle made a significant impact on the industry, the community and his extended family — placing him on the MMA’s prestigious list of Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement Award recipients.
  

• John Macchia, Jr. - Advance Turning and Manufacturing - 2024 Manufacturer of the Year (Large Tier)

  November 12, 2024    1616

  John Macchia Jr.’s foresight and innovation leading to the growth of Advance Turning and Manufacturing are among the many reasons why he has been named the 2024 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year – Large Tier.
  

• Celebrating Michigan Manufacturing During October’s Manufacturing Month

  October 22, 2024    570

  For Michigan manufacturers, exporting offers a pathway to long-term success and resilience. Michigan’s exports have grown from $44.9 billion in 2020 to $64.9 billion in 2023 — an increase of 45 percent. With financial support, from sources like EXIM, companies can take on larger projects, win more bids and increase their global competitiveness.
  

• Cybersecurity in the Age of Industry 4.0

  October 18, 2024    1608

  As the manufacturing sector continues to embrace the hyper-connected era of Smart Manufacturing, more and more organizations are integrating advanced automation for unprecedented levels of efficiency — but these advancements comes a significant increase in cybersecurity risks. MMA member Foley & Lardner LLP explores some of these risks and how to address them.
  

• MFG Game Changers: Airmaster Fan

  October 4, 2024    576

  One of the most used products throughout the manufacturing industry — one that can be found in virtually every building — was invented by a company that is now located right here in Michigan. Airmaster, inventor of the industrial ceiling fan motor, is running at full throttle, albeit under a different name and in a new location.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Maner Costerisan

  October 4, 2024    753

  Interview with Maner Costerisan Principal Dave Nielsen
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Sigma P&THE Manufacturing Solutions Company (SPC Global Manufacturing Company)

  October 4, 2024    675

  Interview with Sigma P&THE Manufacturing Solutions Company (SPC Global Manufacturing Company)’s CEO and Managing Partner Pancho Hall
  

• Industry 5.0: Human-Centric Industry 4.0

  October 4, 2024    620

  Computers cannot replace people — but they can provide relief for your team to focus on other aspects of your business. Learn how MMA members like P&THE Manufacturing and Total Security Solutions are implementing Human-Centric Industry 4.0.
  

• The Impact of AI and Advanced Analytics in Manufacturing

  October 4, 2024    1151

  The manufacturing space is growing increasingly dynamic, and with those changes comes a need to apply innovation. MMA member Wipfli gives you aspects of synergistic relationships to consider when implementing AI and advanced analytics in manufacturing.
  

• Understanding How to Maximize Employee Care within the Manufacturing Industry

  October 4, 2024    505

  For more than two decades, MetLife’s annual U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study (EBTS) has tracked important shifts in the workplace, employment relationships, workers’ holistic well-being and best practices for benefits programs. In 2023, MetLife’s EBTS study noted the concept of Employee Care, a holistic approach to care that prioritizes the wellbeing of employees across the whole employee experience.
  

• Twin Health’s Diabetes Remission Program

  October 4, 2024    548

  In an era where technology is transforming health care, Twin Health stands at the forefront with its innovative Whole Body Digital Twin™ technology. Twin Health is a medical research and technology solutions developer founded in 2018. The organization has demonstrated success in diabetes remission and Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Michigan is involved in the pilot to find innovative ways to reduce pharmacy costs and deliver long-term positive results for members managing diabetes.
  

• AI-Enhanced Social Engineering: Beware of the “Friendly” Voice of Fraud

  October 4, 2024    1383

  What better way to demonstrate the reality of AI — its capabilities and limitations, boundless potential and risk — than in an article about AI-powered social engineering that OpenAI “wrote.” Generated from specific input parameters entered by MMA member Rehmann, this article is an unedited product of OpenAI’s take on the subject.
  

• The Continued Regulation of Geolocation Data

  October 2, 2024    1250

  Whether helping users navigate unknown locations or facilitating public safety personnel reaching stranded motorists, certain geolocation use-cases in mobility and automotive applications provide valuable and immediate benefits to consumers and can be safely deployed with risk mitigation strategies. MMA member Clark Hill focuses on the use-cases where geolocation data is collected after the point of sale for purposes directly benefiting the user.
  

• Overview of Select Industrial Real Estate Markets: Q2 2024

  September 30, 2024    909

  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.
  

• Manufacturing Technology Mutual Insurance Company: Workers’ Compensation and Consulting Services

  September 25, 2024    1204

  As a member and policyholder, MTM has provided Lincoln Park Boring with loss control services, yearly inspections featuring detailed reports and guidance about issues that should be remediated, like it does with all of its customers.
  

• Looking to Employ Highly Qualified and Talented People? Hire Veterans!

  September 19, 2024    830

  Veterans have a proven track record of performance under pressure and sometimes in very challenging circumstances. They’ve received world-class technical and “soft skills” training and used that training in real-world situations. Highly valued skills like problem solving, teamwork and communication — along with strong work ethics, attention to detail and adaptability — are par for the course.
  

• Boost Your Michigan Manufacturing Exports with EXIM’s New Financing Program

  August 14, 2024    2603

  To help manufacturers of all sizes take advantage of this opportunity and enhance their global competitiveness, EXIM offers a new financing tool designed to unlock funds and encourage domestic manufacturing by making EXIM’s medium- and long-term loans, loan guarantees and insurance available for export-oriented projects.
  

• Trailblazing & Groundbreaking Solutions for Sustainability

  July 26, 2024    1664

  Industry professionals have been looking in every direction for solutions that will lead to a more sustainable future for manufacturing, and many have employed new and fresh ideas into their products and services. Learn how Holcim US and Lambda Energy Resources have led to innovations that may positively impact processes as well as enhance and meet businesses’ conservation goals.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Michigan Sugar Company

  July 26, 2024    1499

  Michigan Sugar Company is pulling every bit of sweetness possible out of sugar beets for sugar processing and distribution, and it’s doing a significant portion of it through environmentally friendly and sustainable processes. Interview with Michigan Sugar Company CEO Neil Juhnke.
  

• Crystal Clean: Parts Cleaning and Waste Services

  July 26, 2024    1535

  Every manufacturing business needs environmental services, such as waste disposal, oil collection, drain cleaning, incidental cleanup and more. Taking the time to find multiple vendors to address each need can be time-consuming and costly— especially for small businesses. MMA partner Crystal Clean has supported Michigan manufacturers for more than 25 years with comprehensive environmental solutions — for which members receive an exclusive 25 percent discount.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Butzel

  July 26, 2024    1314

  Butzel has played a prominent role in the development and growth of several major industries. Butzel, a 16-year member of the MMA, includes a strong environmental energy and sustainability practice. Interview with Butzel Shareholder Beth Gotthelf.
  

• MFG Game Changers: Saint-Gobain

  July 26, 2024    1137

  Saint-Gobain, a global company that designs and develops materials for buildings, transportation, infrastructure and manufacturing, has pursued advanced solutions for responsible industry growth. These solutions are intended to help customers streamline or enhance their own processes for potential savings, increased efficiencies and conservation of energy.
  

• Public-Private Partnerships Addressing Michigan’s Manufacturing Crisis

  July 26, 2024    1031

  For manufacturers across Michigan’s vital automotive, aerospace and defense and semiconductor industries, the need for a robust talent pipeline is clearer than ever. The baby boomer generation marked a significant increase in population growth, but a key milestone for this group of more than 75 million has been an uphill battle for employers for more than a decade: retirement. Manufacturers need to look to their communities and stakeholders to find a sustainable path forward.
  

• Is Now a Good Time to Sell Your Manufacturing Business?

  July 26, 2024    1052

  After several years of robust mergers & acquisitions (M&A) activity, manufacturing company owners may be considering whether it’s a good time to sell. However, the decision isn’t straightforward. MMA member NuVescor helps you understand the current M&A market trends and evaluating personal circumstances are essential to make an informed choice.
  

• Ready To Help – Be Present in Your Community

  July 26, 2024    1085

  Blue Cross Blue Shield's corporate giving and community projects focus on increasing access to health care and encouraging healthy people and healthy communities. Being present in the community is what brings the spark, plants the seed, conceives the dream, creates impact and makes the big difference. Being ready to help is Blue Cross’ commitment.
  

• Designing Your Plant for Employee Retention

  July 22, 2024    1494

  Not all plant improvements need to be capital-intensive to make a real impact! MMA member C2AE has compiled some ways you can design your plant environment to increase employee quality of life and improve retention.
  

• Storch Products - 2023 Manufacturing Innovation Excellence

  May 28, 2024    2388

  Storch Products fosters a culture of innovation through visionary leadership, employee empowerment and a relentless pursuit of excellence and was recognized for those efforts with the 2023 Manufacturing Innovation Excellence award.
  

• Overview of Select Industrial Real Estate Markets: Q1 2024

  May 23, 2024    1918

  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 to Avoid Cyberattacks Taking Down Your Manufacturing Organization

  May 14, 2024    1556

  In the time-sensitive manufacturing industry, you can’t afford to have any weaknesses in your cybersecurity. Just one malfunction can derail the entire supply chain at a significant cost to your business, let alone the time-consuming process of recovering from a cyberattack. MMA member CNWR offers essential moves to protect your manufacturing business.
  

• Armstrong International - 2023 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year (Large Tier)

  May 13, 2024    1991

  Founded in 1900, Armstrong International is a private, fifth-generation family-owned thermal utility focused on developing products that are vital to create a sustainable energy future and was recognized for their efforts with the 2023 Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award – Large Tier.
  

• Why Go Global

  May 2, 2024    1836

  While the upside of going global is tremendous, it is not without its challenges. MMA member Exim outlines a few items your company needs to consider when they decide to go global.
  

• Michigan Manufacturing Labor Market Update

  April 26, 2024    2295

  The manufacturing labor market in Michigan is a critical sector that significantly contributes to the state’s economy, with a particular focus on the automotive industry. A Cushman & Wakefield and US Bureau of Labor Statistics analysis of recent demographics offers insights into current trends and future projections in key metropolitan areas, including Detroit, Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids.
  

• Getman Corporation - 2023 Michigan Manufactured Export of the Year

  April 24, 2024    2471

  The A64 HD Water Cannon from Getman Corporation represents significant improvements in safety for the underground mining industry, as well as an expansion into export markets across the globe. The Water Cannon was awarded the inaugural Michigan Manufactured Export of the Year at the 2023 Manufacturing Excellence Awards.
  

• Simple Steps to Combat Selling’s Three Deadly Cs

  April 12, 2024    1619

  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    1958

  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    2182

  Interview with Barron Industries President and CEO Bruce Barron
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Radian Compliance

  April 9, 2024    1495

  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    1628

  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    1711

  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    1752

  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    1285

  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    1478

  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.