MTI Launches ERP Task Force to Help Members Navigate the Changing ERP Landscape Following Steelhead'
The Metal Treating Institute (MTI) announced last week at its Summer Board Meeting on July 21st the formation of its new ERP Task Force, a strategic initiative designed to help Member companies better understand their shop management system options and successfully navigate one of the most important technology decisions they will make.
The announcement comes following the recent acquisition of Cornerstone Systems, Inc., provider of Visual Shop by CSI, and Throughput Consulting, Inc., provider of Bluestreak™ and Bright AM™ by Steelhead Technologies, a significant development that is prompting many heat treaters to evaluate their long-term ERP strategies and better understand the changing software landscape.
For many companies, an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system serves as the operational backbone of the business…managing production scheduling, inventory, customer orders, quality documentation, accounting, compliance, and reporting. Selecting, implementing, or transitioning to a new ERP platform can have a lasting impact on productivity, operational efficiency, customer service, and profitability.
MTI recognizes the importance of this transition. The ERP Task Force is comprised of Member companies with ERP implementation experience and industry expertise to serve as a resource for Members by bringing clarity to the uncertain landscape of ERP systems, and to help Members understand and navigate their options.
Deidra Minerd, Operations Manager at Euclid Heat Treating and 2026 President of MTI recently stated, "Technology is transforming every aspect of our industry, and ERP systems are becoming increasingly critical to operating efficient, data-driven businesses. The recent acquisition of Visual Shop and Blue Streak has created understandable questions throughout our membership. Rather than allowing companies to navigate these decisions alone, MTI is bringing Members together to learn from one another, share experiences, access options and make better-informed decisions."
MTI’s CEO Tom Morrison stated, “The ERP Task Force is not intended to recommend one software platform over another. Instead, its mission is to provide unbiased education and practical guidance so Members can evaluate the solutions that best align with their individual business needs, growth objectives, and operational requirements.”
As Member companies continue investing in automation, artificial intelligence, digital connectivity, and Industry 4.0 technologies, ERP systems are playing an increasingly central role in integrating information across the enterprise. Understanding how these systems support future growth has become an important competitive advantage.
Deidra Minerd added, "The right ERP system is more than software, it's the foundation for future growth. MTI is committed to helping Members understand their options, reduce risk during the evaluation process, and position their businesses for long-term success."
The MTI ERP Task Force will begin providing educational resources, peer discussions, and future programming over the coming months. MTI will actively communicate to the full membership as the key elements develop in this process.
If you have any questions, please email Tom Morrison at tom@heattreat.net.