How a large-scale sign maker successfully implemented structured manufacturing systems. The signage industry is not a typical candidate for structured manufacturing systems. It operates more like custom joinery than mass production—with every sign differing in size, design, material and... Continue Reading
The Strategic Value of MTI’s WallyBot AI, Online Communities, and Weekly Operational Check The heat treating industry is entering one of the most transformative periods in its history. Labor shortages, rapid advances in artificial intelligence, evolving aerospace and automotive... Continue Reading
If manufacturing leaders are limiting their recruitment pool to those with advanced degrees, they’re signing themselves up for a big opportunity cost. Here’s a new way to think about recruiting. Education is important. Regardless of era, industry, or ambition, the knowledge... Continue Reading
We’ve all been there: Someone says something disrespectful to you at work, and you simply freeze up. During these moments, it can be hard to think of a good response right away. Minutes, hours, or days after the incident, you finally realize what you should have said, which can... Continue Reading
The Work of the MTI AI Task Force Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly becoming one of the most discussed technologies in manufacturing. From predictive maintenance and advanced analytics to automation and decision support, AI is beginning to reshape how factories operate and how... Continue Reading
Your real competitive edge isn’t how smart you are — it’s how quickly you can reinvent yourself when the rules change. When I first started working in venture capital, I was given a seemingly straightforward assignment: Get to know the most successful founders... Continue Reading
Manufacturing industry veteran Brad DeSplinter of Texas Precision Metalcraft highlights how industry newcomers can forge a successful, fulfilling career. Brad DeSplinter grew up surrounded by manufacturing in Moline, Illinois, the home of John Deere’s world headquarters, and many of his... Continue Reading
Being able to lead yourself before leading others boosts emotional intelligence, problem solving skills and creativity – the traits most needed to thrive amid the rise of new technologies, says Andrew Bryant For nearly three decades, I have worked with leaders across more than 40... Continue Reading
In coaching conversations, a topic that comes up often is leaders feeling frustrated with a boss. Sometimes leaders feel unheard, other times they feel that they aren’t given the opportunity to include their opinions. And what also happens at times is that their boss takes credit for... Continue Reading
3.1 The Implementation Roadmap Transitioning to an AI-optimized posture is not an overnight task. It requires a phased approach that balances technical upgrades with content strategy and operational integration. Phase 1: The Digital Audit (Month 1-2) Objective: Assess current visibility... Continue Reading
Strategic Choices Heat Treaters Can’t Afford to Drift On There are moments in an industry when incremental thinking is no longer enough. For heat treaters, the next four years will shape the next twenty. Capital cycles are tightening. Skilled labor is harder to attract and retain.... Continue Reading
The heat treating industry is not entering a normal cycle. Economic forecasts, labor trends and advancements in AI point to 2026 being an inflection point leading up to the 2030s.Labor shortages are accelerating. Economic volatility is compressing decision timelines. AI and automation are... Continue Reading
