MMA Blog

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• Agentic Commerce Is Coming to B2B: Are You Ready for the Shift?

  August 12, 2025    523

  For distributors and manufacturers, this evolution to autonomous AI agents is both a challenge and a massive opportunity. If your systems and product data aren’t accessible to these new interfaces, you’ll be invisible. But if you get on board soon, you’ll gain first-mover advantages in speed, automation and discoverability across a new generation of intelligent buyer interfaces.
  

• Chelsea Milling Company: Evolving the Workplace into a Place of Personal and Professional Development

  August 11, 2025    240

  “JIFFY” Mix, the iconic brand born from Chelsea Milling Company (CMC), is known for its beloved corn muffin mix in the “little blue box.” “JIFFY” Mix is often at the scene of birthdays and holiday celebrations — inciting memories of comfort, togetherness and joyful moments.. Born and bred in Chelsea, Chelsea Milling Company is not just a place to work — it has been cleverly designed as the place where people come to grow, personally and professionally.
  

• Prometis Partners: Exit Planning Strategies Capitalize on Long-Term Value

  August 11, 2025    152

  Manufacturers who wish to retire, sell their businesses or transfer ownership should begin exit planning five years prior to the transition. MMA partner Prometis Partners helps MMA members ask the right questions and prepare.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: United States Gypsum

  August 11, 2025    176

  Interview with Sarah Messa, Plant Manager at United States Gypsum (USG) River Rouge.
  

• Sustainable Solutions Contribute to More Than Efficient Processes

  August 11, 2025    352

  Sustainability, alternative fuel, sustainable energy and net zero aren’t just buzzwords to MMA members Amrize, Consumers Energy and Nexteer Automotive. Read how these manufacturers are leading the way by integrating these principles into their operations.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority

  July 21, 2025    345

  After 25 years of work between Canada and the United States, Michigan will see a second international bridge crossing between Detroit and Windsor. The Gordie Howe International Bridge will have a major impact on Michigan manufacturers that transport goods to Canada by not only providing another access point but also incorporating advanced technology to impact commercial traffic flow.
  

• Q&A with MTM President Megan Brown

  August 11, 2025    533

  Manufacturing Technology Mutual Insurance Company (MTM), MMA’s workers’ compensation partner, has been protecting workers and empowering manufacturers for 45+ years. Learn how they continue to evolve with the needs of Michigan’s manufacturers in this Q&A with MTM President Megan Brown.
  

• Next in Line: How Case Systems is Developing Tomorrow’s Manufacturing Leaders Today

  August 11, 2025    379

  In an industry that relies heavily on skilled labor, knowledge transfer and operational excellence, workforce talent development is no longer optional — it’s mission-critical. Read how Case Systems and BOSTONtec is leading a transformative approach to preparing the next generation of talent.
  

• MMA Leads Push for Biodigester Expansion as Smart, Cost-Saving Solution for Michigan Manufacturers

  August 11, 2025    163

  MMA is championing the expansion of anaerobic biodigesters as a powerful tool to cut costs, improve resource efficiency and strengthen Michigan’s manufacturing sector. As part of our ongoing leadership in promoting practical, market-driven innovations, we are calling for regulatory modernization that will help unlock the full potential of this proven technology.
  

• What Does Hospital Consolidation Mean for the Price of Your Health Insurance and Access?

  August 11, 2025    225

  Consolidation of hospital systems is happening in Michigan. Nearly every study conducted around the country shows that when hospitals merge together, prices go up. BCBS shares concerns about that happening here in Michigan and how it will affect the price of health insurance here in our state.
  

• Why Michigan Manufacturers Should Embrace Exporting

  August 11, 2025    248

  Michigan’s economy — rooted in world-class manufacturing, automotive innovation and advanced materials — is built for global reach. Yet many manufacturers haven’t explored the full potential of international markets. Learn what resources are available from EXIM to embrace exporting.
  

• Workplace Safey from the Top-Down A Change in Responsibility

  August 11, 2025    178

  Understanding management’s role in a workplace safety program is crucial to upholding quality values from the top-down. Both employers and employees play a part to ensure compliance, but it is the employers’ responsibility to be knowledgeable safety representatives for the benefit of the entire company.
  

• How SMEs Are Leveraging ESG to Cut Costs and Win More Business

  August 11, 2025    123

  Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) is no longer just for big corporations. It’s now a proven tool for driving revenue, reducing costs and strengthening customer loyalty. MMA member True North shares six pillars of ESG and why it matters to small and mid-sized manufacturers.
  

• Amrize - 2024 Manufacturing Sustainability

  July 29, 2025    245

  As a global leader in building solutions, Amrize is enabling greener cities, smarter infrastructure and improved living standards around the world and, for that, they were recognized with the inaugural 2024 Manufacturing Sustainability award.
  

• Solutions for Success: The Luminous Group

  June 29, 2025    569

  Sometimes, businesses need an outside perspective to identify inefficiencies and rethink processes to enhance productivity and profitability. Read how The Luminous Group helped a manufacturing client address their challenger.
  

• Manufacturing Game Changer: LM Manufacturing

  June 29, 2025    511

  From the first day a new employee is hired, the leadership team at LM Manufacturing in Detroit focuses on the whole person based on the company’s core values of Care, Commit, Connect, Communicate and Celebrate. Poring into employees’ well-being creates a positive culture that encourages them to stay for the long-term, says Jimmie Comer, Senior Leadership and Development Specialist.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Classy Llama

  June 29, 2025    558

  MMA member Classy Llama customizes solutions for businesses’ challenges in operational efficiency, sales optimization and labor issues through AI applications, workflow automation and data management.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Amigo Mobility

  June 29, 2025    365

  Amigo got its start in the health care industry but continued to innovate over the years to provide similar solutions for the grocery and retail, industrial, government and aviation sectors. Today, in addition to its original personal mobility devices, Amigo’s products include motorized shopping carts, cart pullers, cart retrievers, janitorial solutions, hospital escort chairs and patient mobility chairs.
  

• Helping Students Answer: “What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?”

  June 29, 2025    431

  MMA is building sustainable and collaborative relationships between Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, like SME PRIME, and the Michigan manufacturing community, including exposing careers in manufacturing through schools, parents, counselors and industry professionals.
  

• The Role of Housing in Workforce Development and Manufacturing Expansion in Michigan

  June 29, 2025    466

  The availability and location of workforce housing in Michigan are critical factors in the placement of manufacturing facilities — and equally vital to recruiting and retaining a skilled workforce. MMA member Innovo Development Group discusses the importance of addressing the housing crisis to ensure long-term economic growth for communities and the state as a whole.
  

• Maximizing Workforce Potential with Employee Engagement Surveys

  June 29, 2025    354

  Many manufacturers still find themselves in a constant battle with high turnover and absenteeism, suboptimal production and performance, and cranky or even clashing staff. MMA member Rehmann discusses a powerful, often overlooked tool that’s proven to uncover employees’ unique needs and motivations: employee engagement surveys.
  

• Planning to Sell Your Michigan Manufacturing Business? Get The Best Price with These 5 Steps

  June 25, 2025    531

  Whether you're planning for retirement, a strategic exit or a new venture, maximizing the value of your manufacturing business before listing it can dramatically impact your final sale price — and how fast the deal closes. The best time to start preparing your business for sale is one to two years before listing it. Whether your exit is near the horizon or a consideration, small steps today can lead to a much more profitable tomorrow. MMA member Michigan Business Brokers offer five steps you can take now.
  

• Fullerton Tool - 2024 Manufacturing Community Impact

  June 19, 2025    1656

  Educating students and professionals about the journeys and joys of working in the manufacturing industry is among the top goals of Saginaw-based Fullerton Tool Company. The team members do so by supporting FIRST robotics teams, offering hands-on educational opportunities, working with local schools and participating in CTE programs — all with a purpose of boosting interest in manufacturing careers.
  

• How to Start an Apprenticeship Program

  June 17, 2025    936

  Apprenticeships are vital to develop a skilled talent pipeline for many manufacturers but far too many don’t consider apprenticeships as a viable alternative for talent development for a variety of reasons. Member Lakeview Consulting outlines how apprenticeship programs are far more accessible than ever and are a viable option for developing your talent pool.
  

• Gateway Industrial Center: A Detroit Turnaround Story

  June 11, 2025    603

  The Gateway Industrial Center in Detroit has undergone a remarkable transformation since Innovo Development Group acquired the property in 2020. Once a largely vacant and deteriorating complex, the 69-acre site has been reimagined into a modern, high-performing industrial hub — catalyzing job creation and fueling Detroit’s economic resurgence.
  

• Manufacturing Operations Spring Cleaning

  May 8, 2025    899

  As warmer weather ushers in the season of renewal, manufacturers have an opportunity to refresh not only their operations, but also their facilities. Just as households take part in spring cleaning to eliminate clutter, industrial and manufacturing businesses should leverage this time to assess, organize, and clear out excess equipment and inventory taking up valuable space and capital.
  

• AI Neural Network Transforms Quality Control Processes

  April 30, 2025    769

  AI can be trained to recognize defects in products or divergence from normal processes — allowing handlers to address the issue before the faulty product or process proceeds down the line. In addition to accelerating quality assurance processes, having AI solutions in-house rather than through a third party can reduce security concerns, and the auto-mation often can be implemented without extensive programming or technical coding expertise.
  

• Forklift and MEWP Operator Training Programs Reinforce Safety Standards

  April 30, 2025    704

  Based in Grand Rapids, TrainMOR provides industrial truck operator training and mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) training, both online and in person. The training helps businesses comply with ANSI and OSHA standards. In addition to the fact that training is required for safety, TrainMOR’s solutions supplement onboarding processes and boost, refresh and modernize operator training.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Kapnick Insurance Group

  April 30, 2025    618

  In the manufacturing industry, where workplace safety regulations and cybersecurity are among many factors in determining necessary protections, insurance agencies that specialize in the industry can be a valuable resource.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Highland Copper

  April 30, 2025    694

  Highland Copper is a junior mining company on a mission to supply significant quantities of copper for Michigan — and the nation with the Copperwood mining project and others in the Upper Peninsula.
  

• Enhancing Operational Efficiency While Boosting Morale

  April 30, 2025    900

  Process improvements and skills training have led to eye-opening solutions for Fullerton Tool Company and i4.0 Accelerator.
  

• Trijicon’s ACOG - 2024 Coolest Thing Made in Michigan

  April 30, 2025    2076

  Trijicon’s Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (ACOG®) Riflescope unique properties as well as the Wixom-based company’s impact on the state’s economy, the ACOG was voted the 2024 “Coolest Thing Made in Michigan” in a statewide, people’s choice contest.
  

• Don’t Let Your Energy Dollars Disappear into Thin Air

  April 30, 2025    995

  It is estimated that up to 20-30 percent of the compressed air generated by industrial air compressors is lost due to leaks and inefficient usage. Learn how MMA member Enstar can help you detect and repair leaks to save your energy costs.
  

• From High Turnover to High Performance: The TEaMS Training Advantage

  April 30, 2025    559

  In today’s business environment, manufacturing managers face hiring challenges as seasoned employees retire and new employees, often with non-industry experience (retail, food service), join the workforce. This transition can lead to gaps in industry-specific skill sets that result in quality and productivity issues.
  

• How the ABCs Drive ROI with Manufacturing Inventory

  April 30, 2025    696

  Effective inventory control confirms necessary materials and components are readily available when needed. By meeting the key objectives of inventory control, manufacturing companies can enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction and gain a competitive edge in the market.
  

• 10 Ways Blue Cross is Helping Members Lower Health Care Costs

  April 30, 2025    982

  Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is managing health care costs while improving the quality of health care members receive. Value Partnerships is a collection of patient safety, clinical quality and care process efforts that make health care work better in Michigan.
  

• Succession Planning for Michigan Manufacturers: How to Ensure Your Legacy Thrives

  April 25, 2025    760

  Succession planning is the best way to make sure this legacy continues with as little hiccups as possible, such as operational disruptions, loss of customer trust and legal issues.
  

• Training to Support Neurodiversity in the Workplace

  April 15, 2025    1026

  ADHD affects approximately 4.4% of adults in the U.S., many of whom are part of the workforce. While managing focus and time can be challenging, individuals with ADHD often bring unique strengths to their jobs, such as creativity and out-of-the-box perspectives.
  

• Calculating Tariffs: They Add Up

  March 24, 2025    1863

  In his first 50 days in office, President Trump imposed tariffs on goods worth hundreds of billions of dollars, added protections for targeted industries and launched investigations of trade practices from around the world. Michigan manufacturers should watch closely, as the next 50 days could bring even more uncertainty and opportunity. Learn more in this article from MMA member Wipfli.
  

• Amplifying the Voice of Michigan’s industry

  February 14, 2025    842

  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    1010

  Interview with Grand Traverse Plastic’s CEO Bill Knable
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Wipfli

  February 14, 2025    843

  Interview with Wipfli’s National Manufacturing Leader Michael Devereux
  

• MMA Solutions for Success: Praeco Skills

  February 14, 2025    1403

  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    1905

  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    1155

  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    1259

  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    1281

  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    784

  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    2125

  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    2127

  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    1095

  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    2398

  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    3057

  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    1886

  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    2123

  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    2350

  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    1928

  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    2230

  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    3177

  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    1556

  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.