MMA Blog

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• How to Approach Industry 4.0 if You’re Still Grappling With 3.0: A Guide for Middle-Market Manufacturers

  September 7, 2022    242

  Many manufacturers have faced financial underperformance or disruptive changes in their customer base or end market, resulting in outdated information systems. But late adopters can still bridge the gap with more advanced firms.
  

• Don't Become a Statistic: Protect Yourself from Check Fraud

  August 10, 2022    597

  Payment fraud is insidious. It chips away at corporate profitability, jeopardizes your reputation, consumes staff time with remediation and puts your business’ viability at risk. Learn steps to protect your business from MMA member Paymerang.
  

• Minimum Wage/Paid Sick Leave Laws Stayed by Court of Claims

  August 1, 2022    267

  The ruling that would have increased the state’s minimum wage to $12/hour and required practically all Michigan employers to provide at least 72 hours of paid sick leave has been stayed by the Court of Claims.
  

• What MMA Members Need to Know About the Court’s Ruling on Minimum Wage/Paid Sick Leave Laws

  July 20, 2022    426

  The Michigan Court of Claims that ruled declared Michigan's Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act and the Earned Sick Time Act as unconstitutional. These Acts were originally 2018 ballot initiatives which the Legislature adopted and then amended in an effort to ease the burden the original ballot initiatives would have placed on employers.
  

• Loss Control Solutions for MMA Members

  July 13, 2022    662

  For nearly 50 years, MTMIC has specialized in providing loss control solutions to their clients. Having a trusted and experienced partner helps create a healthy and safe workplace for all employees. And the news gets even better for MMA members who are able to take advantage of a 3 percent discount on insurance premiums through MTMIC.
  

• The Shyft Group Delivers Groundbreaking EV Ecosystem

  July 13, 2022    1022

  The Shyft Group has stepped up to the challenge with its groundbreaking Blue Arc™ EV Solutions. Blue Arc started with an idea to develop an EV chassis that could be used for a variety of commercial and fleet vehicle markets. Before long, engineers were developing an entire ecosystem of products to support and advance the future of electrified mobility.
  

• Starting From the Ground Up

  July 13, 2022    545

  Learn how employers like Autocam, Humphrey Products, Orbitform and Toyota are connecting with students to support the next generation of talent.
  

• Gearing Up for the 2023 Going PRO Talent Fund: Michigan’s #1 Talent Funding Source

  July 13, 2022    515

  Talent — locating, training and retaining —  remains a top business challenge for manufacturers and the Going PRO Talent Fund has been a critical tool since 2014. More than $55 million will be available to Michigan employers for Fiscal Year 2023, which begins 10/1/22.
  

• How Automation Helps Manufacturing Accounts Payable Departments Manage Labor Shortages, Attract New Hires and Retain Workers

  July 13, 2022    285

  Automation eliminates the manual, repetitive tasks that bog AP staff down. Automating work that is repetitive and rules-based can reduce employee burnout and turnover. And automation enables AP departments to efficiently scale their operations without the need to hire and train additional staff.
  

• New Hire Training to Accelerate Productivity and Quality

  July 13, 2022    345

  Effective Certified Operator Training (COT) is similar to a traditional apprentice program. Read how The Luminous Group worked with the MAHLE St. Johns plant over a six-week period to integrate COT into their existing training program.
  

• What Investors Look for in a Business

  July 13, 2022    314

  Business owners seeking to expand their business or start new ventures often seek out funding. Finding investors to partner with is one viable funding strategy among many to enable your vision. What do investors look for in a business, and how can you successfully approach them with your idea?
  

• Preparing Students for Vital Careers of the Future

  July 13, 2022    242

  As Michigan’s economy continues to evolve, STEM learning will play an even more significant role. The MiSTEM Network, established by the council, unites education, business and community partners across the state to create pathways for all students to consider and pursue high-wage, high-demand careers.
  

• New Financial Wellness Tool and Workshop Series from MetLife Available to MMA Members

  July 13, 2022    336

  MMA is partnering with MetLife to bring our members and their employees UpwiseTM and Retirewise®.
  

• Manage Productivity and Protect Your Employees

  July 11, 2022    443

  Managing productivity and protecting employees isn’t just smart business — it’s the right thing to do. Find out how the MetLife’s team of professionals is making it easier to do both when faced with the unexpected.
  

• 2022 Primary Election Endorsements

  June 28, 2022    759

  Elections matter, especially to manufacturers in Michigan looking for pro-manufacturing legislative policies. With so much at stake in the 2022 election, MMA has completed our process to endorse pro-manufacturing candidates for the Michigan Primary on Tuesday, 8/2/22.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: ISAIC

  June 24, 2022    611

  Interview with Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC) President and CEO Jennifer Guarino
  

• Congratulations to MMA's Larry Janicki on his Retirement

  June 24, 2022    618

  Change isn’t always easy but it can present opportunities. Even as we wish MMA’s Larry Janicki well in his retirement after 26 years, we look to the future with internal promotions that guarantee a continuity of service to our members.
  

• Growing and Thriving Along With Our Members

  June 8, 2022    968

  MMA has experienced a tremendous amount of change and growth in the last two and a half years. I’m proud to say that our team has responded to and overcome the challenges to provide our members with outstanding service and support.
  

• MMA-Supported Term Limit Reform Proposal Headed to November Ballot

  May 10, 2022    383

  Following a recent vote by the MMA Board of Directors to support changes to Michigan’s legislative term limit law proposed by Voters for Transparency and Term Limits, the Legislature today passed House Joint Resolution R, which places the proposed constitutional amendment to reform Michigan’s term limits on the November 2022 ballot.
  

• Navigating Change

  May 9, 2022    661

  Supply chain disruptions are having a major impact on manufacturing. Like many industry changes over the past two years, it’s a phenomenon rooted in the COVID-19 pandemic that has had far-reaching impact on manufacturers, distributors and consumers. Learn how some Michigan manufacturers have adapted and evolved in the face of supply chain disruptions.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Amway

  May 9, 2022    630

  Interview with Amway Vice President of Manufacturing Brian Kraus
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: IBT Online

  May 9, 2022    273

  Interview with IBT Online Business Development Manager Andrew Lawlor
  

• Training Resources and Data Utilization is Vital in Modern Workforce

  May 9, 2022    355

  For statewide manufacturers facing this daily struggle, it’s vital to utilize every tool available, including human resource services through MMA’s relatively new partnership with the American Society of Employers (ASE). Through this partnership, MMA members can take advantage of ASE training resources at member rates and ASE’s compensation survey data.
  

• Fast, Clean, Accurate Alcohol Testing - With Just a Touch

  May 9, 2022    520

  Featuring instantaneous results and powerful analytics, SOBRsafe accurately detects the presence of alcohol through a simple, non-invasive and hygienic finger touch — no blood, no saliva, no breathing into any kind of device.
  

• MMA Welcomes Bill Rayl to Help Members Tackle Talent Challenges

  May 9, 2022    245

  To navigate the gaps between workforce supply and demand, manufacturers need a connector to chart an effective path of collaboration with potential talent producers. MMA welcome one of the country’s most recognized manufacturing talent experts to the MMA family to serve as that connector.
  

• Celebrate Manufacturing Excellence Nominations Open June 14

  May 9, 2022    251

  Manufacturing isn’t just what we do here in Michigan – it’s who we are. It’s our honor to recognize these champions of manufacturing at the 2022 MFG Excellence Awards. Presented every fall, this one-of-a-kind event recognizes what makes Michigan manufacturing the best in the world!
  

• Protect Your Supply Chain: Top 5 Action Steps Manufacturers Can Take Now

  May 9, 2022    258

  While the disruptions to supply chains may not always be in your control, such as those related to climate or geopolitical issues, there are many factors within a manufacturer’s control that, if implemented correctly, may limit disruption, preserve customer relationships and mitigate financial repercussions.
  

• The Case for Consolidation Construction: Enhancing Safety, Increasing Productivity and Streamlining Distribution

  May 9, 2022    430

  Protecting people and property, while remaining cost-effective, has always been prioritized in your operational plan. But an outdated building may put you at risk.
  

• The Fractional CFO Relationship

  May 9, 2022    282

  As a manufacturer, you face various financial challenges. Whether it’s looking at the ROI of a new equipment purchase, determining terms on a new large customer contract or considering various business models or strategies, manufacturers need critical financial thinkers in their organization to work through these and many other financial issues.
  

• Why Your Company Needs a Strategic Plan

  May 9, 2022    236

  A strategic plan is a document a business creates that identifies the company’s goals, the strategies they intend to use to reach those goals, and the ways in which they will measure their progress so they can fine-tune their plan over time.
  

• Connecting Manufacturers with Workforce Solutions

  May 5, 2022    1016

  MMA is increasing its focus on delivering manufacturing workforce solutions to members with the recent establishment of Bill Rayl as the Executive Director of Workforce Solutions. MMA’s Mike Johnston explains why Bill’s charge and unique experience will create a competitive advantage for Michigan manufacturers.
  

• What Drives Bill Rayl to Support Manufacturing Careers?

  April 22, 2022    972

  Bill Rayl, MMA’s new Executive Director of Workforce Solutions, has dedicated his career to developing talent partnerships to empower Michigan manufacturers to thrive. Hear what drives him and what his new role will mean to you.
  

• Welcome to Bill Rayl, MMA's New Executive Director of Workforce Solutions

  April 14, 2022    1021

  As Michigan manufacturers face increasing competition across this great nation of ours and around the world for skilled talent, and as the need for skilled workers to develop and implement new advanced technologies reaches a critical juncture, MMA welcomes one of the country’s most recognized experts to the MMA family to serve as that connector for Michigan manufacturers.
  

• Working Together to Weather Today’s Challenges

  March 17, 2022    603

  The MMA Board of Directors and staff have made the decision to keep member dues investments stable again for 2022.
  

• Exciting Announcement for Michigan Manufacturers

  March 11, 2022    525

  It is my pleasure to share with you some early news about new operational and programmatic changes MMA is making to help support the full spectrum of manufacturing talent.
  

• Solve Your Supply Chain with CONNEX

  March 4, 2022    762

  The Center has partnered with the MEDC, i5 Services, and the NAM National Marketplace to create CONNEX™ Michigan, supply chain and manufacturing network dataset tool.
  

• Survey Reveals the Importance of Workplace Flexibility in Manufacturing

  March 4, 2022    753

  While challenging, workplace flexibility in manufacturing will prove invaluable for remaining competitive now and into the future. A recent report finds five major drivers of success for manufacturers as they shift out of the pandemic and into the future.
  

• What You Need to Know! Michigan SALT Cap Workaround Details

  March 4, 2022    957

  Michigan manufacturers should be aware of state and local tax changes, among them the State and Local Tax (SALT) Cap Workaround signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in December 2021.
  

• More Than a Century of Service Begins - and Ends - with Listening to Members

  March 4, 2022    501

  As economic upheaval, workforce shortages and supply chain disruptions continue to challenge manufacturing operations, MMA is finding new ways to back our members. Learn how we’re supporting your success now and in the future.
  

• How Michigan Manufacturers are Boosting Communities

  March 4, 2022    1238

  Community support comes in many forms, both economic and philanthropic, and that starts by listening to the community’s needs and responding in kind. Read how three manufacturers have listened and responded to their communities.
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Enbridge

  March 4, 2022    964

  Interview with Enbridge Operations Manager for the Northern Michigan Area Bob Lehto
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Maner Costerisan

  March 4, 2022    1360

  Interview with Maner Costerisan CPA and Principal Dave Nielsen
  

• Homethrive Provides Expert Guidance and Resources for Caregivers

  March 4, 2022    690

  Homethrive provides the right answers and resources to reduce the work, worry and time needed to be a caregiver while allowing people to stay in their jobs and keep a normal routine.
  

• Using Clean Energy to Transform Business and Break Barriers

  March 4, 2022    1161

  Cleaner, greener, more affordable energy is on every manufacturer’s wish list. Dunamis Clean Energy Partners has used clean energy to build a dynamic businesses while supporting the community.
  

• Action is Needed to Stem the Growing Disruption Caused by Border Blockade

  February 10, 2022    575

  Canadian truckers have brought their pandemic protests to the US border and, as the situation persists, the team here at MMA is watching closely and urging swift resolution to prevent further disruption to the free flow of people and goods between our nations.
  

• New GM Commitment Confirms Michigan is Poised for Future Investment

  January 25, 2022    658

  New investment from GM is expected to create 4,000 direct jobs in Michigan with a positive impact on our members in the supply chain. It also confirms that Michigan is poised for future economic growth thanks to MMA, legislative and gubernatorial leadership.
  

• Collaboration Leads to Innovation and Improved Patient Care

  January 14, 2022    930

  Domico Med designs, develops and manufactures health care products that make life easier for patients, doctors, nurses and other caregivers.
  

• Connect with Free Legal Advice for HR Questions and Issues

  January 14, 2022    1248

  Contacting the MMA HR Help Line connects you to attorneys and professionals at Clark Hill PLC, a global law firm.
  

• Premium Associate Member Spotlight: EnStar Energy LLC

  January 14, 2022    939

  Interview with EnStar Energy LLC President Don Johns
  

• Industry Member Spotlight: Miller Industries

  January 14, 2022    1346

  Interview with Miller Industries Vice President of Mission Critical Michael Groh
  

• How to Grow in the Midst of a Talent Shortage

  January 14, 2022    1141

  Despite a record-setting year in 2021 for many Michigan manufacturers, the No. 1 challenge continues to be talent recruitment. Learn how some companies are growing in the midst of a talent shortage.
  

• Winning — and Keeping — Manufacturing Jobs and Investment in Michigan

  January 14, 2022    889

  For more than 100 years, Michigan has been economically and reputationally defined by the auto industry. Just as the transition from the horse-drawn carriage to the automobile shaped Michigan’s identity at the turn of the 19th century, Michigan is now faced with the imminent electrification of the automobile.
  

• Protecting Manufacturers’ Interests on All Fronts

  January 14, 2022    426

  For more than 35 years the Association, through the MMA Lawyers Committee, closely follows cases involving the misapplication of a law, rule or regulation and will express our interest when the case reaches the Court of Appeals.
  

• Michigan Businesses Need Workers

  January 13, 2022    528

  Many Michigan business organizations supported the passage of the 2020 Clean Slate legislation which increased the number of available workers. While this was an important first step, additional legislation is needed.
  

• Ontario Seeks to Strengthen Michigan-Ontario Manufacturing and Economic Competitiveness

  January 13, 2022    980

  There is much to be optimistic about with respect to the Ontario-Michigan relationship. We are close friends, partners and neighbors. We are also each other’s number one trading partner.
  

• 2021 Legislative Victories and Accomplishments

  January 13, 2022    936

  MMA has been laser-focused on working with the Whitmer Administration and legislative leaders to craft policies that allow the state’s largest and most vital sector to create jobs and drive our state’s economic recovery.
  

• CMMC 2.0: Unraveling Changes Impacting MI Manufacturers

  January 13, 2022    1599

  How Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements impact Michigan manufacturers? Some companies need to properly secure and protect the sensitive information they receive, store and transmit.
  

• Get the Latest on COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate and Quarantine Recommendations

  January 7, 2022    1207

  In December, the courts cleared the way for implementation of OSHA’s employer vaccination and testing mandate and the CDC issued new guidance for return to work after COVID-19 exposure or diagnosis. Get the latest from MMA.
  

• MMA Priorities Passed as Legislature Closes for 2021

  December 15, 2021    924

  On the last day of the legislative session for 2021, I am pleased to report the passage of several MMA legislative priorities. These included dramatic actions to protect Michigan’s economic future and further progress the elimination of the industrial PPT.
  

• Why Your Business Needs Financial Projections

  November 17, 2021    981

  Financial projections provide the insight necessary for business owners to make the right decisions. They also give potential investors or lenders the data they need to understand your business.