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  • The Roadmap to Industry 4.0’s Global Future Unveiled

    March 28, 2024    48

    MMA member Wipfli covers the three pivotal global trends manufacturers must grasp to navigate the future of Industry 4.0 successfully.
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  • Positive First Impression for Your Facility

    March 28, 2024    46

    Automating your entrance with a digital visitor management system is the best way to ensure a positive first impression and show guests that your safety and security standards are paramount. Think about the first impression a visitor has when they enter your facility.
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  • Core Values Can Evolve With Your Business

    March 28, 2024    47

    MMA member Amigo Mobility International presents a case study of that demonstrates how their core values helped evolve their business.
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  • Getting Started with eCommerce

    March 28, 2024    47

    With B2B buyers expecting a B2C-like shopping experience, the bar is set high for manufacturers and distributors who want to provide an efficient and easy-to-use website for their customers. MMA member Human Element gives you things to consider before getting started with an eCommerce site build.
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  • Energy Management Should Be a Priority for Every Manufacturer

    March 28, 2024    46

    If Michigan manufacturers are to remain competitive with manufacturers in other states and around the world, energy cost must be kept at a minimum. MMA member EnStar discusses how energy management needs to become a priority in the planning and decision-making process of every firm.
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  • How Artificial Intelligence Fits in a Human’s World

    March 28, 2024    29

    Dale Carnegie, the “father” of the Self-Help Movement, began his formal work and research in human behavior in 1912. He pondered the questions of what differentiated happy, successful people from those that were not happy or successfully fulfilled.
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  • Digital Health Tools Aren’t Just Good for Employees — Employers Benefit, Too

    March 28, 2024    27

    Even common health issues, like strep throat or a bout of poison ivy can be quickly resolved with a virtual health visit. With digital solutions, patients have access to advice, vetted resources, and real-time data about their health at their fingertips. MMA member Blue Cross shares how digital tools offer in-depth, in-the-moment support.
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  • Navigating Modern Workforce Development Trends in Manufacturing

    March 28, 2024    41

    As technology advances and global markets evolve, companies are constantly adapting to meet the demands of the modern era. MMA member Chatfield helps you navigate modern workforce development trends in manufacturing.
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  • 5 Ways Your Blue Cross Plan Can Help You Practice Self-Care

    March 19, 2024    309

    Self-Care The World Health Organization defines health as, “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.” Work, school and family life seem to always take first priority, but self-care is crucial to your own well-being. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has multiple tools that will help you practice self-care.
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  • 6 Essentials Every Organization’s AI Policy Must Include

    March 19, 2024    180

    To ensure your organization and its people navigate the AI landscape successfully and safely, it’s imperative to establish a comprehensive policy. MMA member Rehmann covers how such a policy will serve as your team’s roadmap to leveraging AI technologies while ensuring ethical, secure and effective use.
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  • Achieving True Employee Engagement through Process-Based Leadership and Open-Book Management

    March 14, 2024    164

    Many aspects of a company impact employee engagement. It starts with having a business philosophy and set of company values with which the employees can identify. Combine this with an excellent work environment, great pay and benefits, and you are on your way to creating an environment where engagement can flourish.
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  • Creating a Sustainable Culture of Innovation

    March 14, 2024    138

    Innovation is not a word meant only for the greatest and brightest minds nor is it reserved for job titles and departments. Innovation is something that lives and breathes within each of us. It’s time to recognize and bring to light that the “soft” and “empathic” skills we have historically suppressed in the manufacturing industry are, indeed, what fuels innovation.
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  • Driving Profitability: Understanding Your Costs & Operational Performance

    March 14, 2024    154

    Many small and mid-size manufacturers struggle with profitability for the same reason: They haven’t fully captured their total cost of production and its impact on operating performance. Understanding the total cost to manufacture and the ability to monitor operating performance are key to driving profitability.
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  • Adopting a Human Learning Model that Complements Lean Manufacturing

    March 14, 2024    157

    The benefits of Lean Manufacturing and its associated methods and tools are undeniable. Lean Manufacturing has proven its value and is rightfully here to stay; but it does have its limitations. Where Lean Manufacturing falls short is in the skill development of humans.
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  • Kirlin Lighting - 2023 Coolest Thing Made in Michigan

    March 7, 2024    668

    Kirlin Lighting’s INFRALED PRO Motorized Exam Lights provide a safe, easy-to-operate alternative to boom-mounted exam lighting systems. A people’s choice vote determined that the recessed, remote-aimable motorized exam lighting system was the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in Michigan.
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  • The Complete Cycle and Impact of an Automotive Strike

    March 5, 2024    376

    Every industry and business has their ups and downs. MMA member Veryable aims to dissect the stages of a full cycle so that manufacturers can understand where they are at, the impact(s) on their business and what they can do about it.
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  • Expand Your Employee Attraction, Preparation and Retention Efforts by Leveraging Industry 4.0 Technologies

    March 5, 2024    233

    MMA has partnered with Automation Alley to present Navigating the Future: Global Industry 4.0 Trends, Standards & Policy. Read insights from MMA on expanding employee attraction, retention and more.
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  • Navigating Industry 4.0 Challenges: The Imperative of Collaboration and Connectivity

    March 4, 2024    274

    MMA has partnered with Automation Alley to present Navigating the Future: Global Industry 4.0 Trends, Standards & Policy. Read insights from MMA on navigating Industry 4.0 and more.
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  • The Power of Thought Leadership: Engaging Employees and Shaping Company Culture

    February 26, 2024    977

    In the complex landscape of modern business, the concept of thought leadership has emerged as a vital tool for leaders across industries. MMA member Walker Publicity outlines key ways in which being a thought leader helps leaders connect with their companies.
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  • Overview of Select Industrial Real Estate Markets: Q4 2023

    February 23, 2024    511

    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.
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  • How Can Digital Marketing Propel Michigan’s Manufacturers Ahead in 2024?

    February 1, 2024    692

    MMA member Manufacture Grow demystifies digital marketing and explains why it is crucial for your manufacturing business in Michigan.
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  • The Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024

    February 1, 2024    626

    MMA Premium Associate Member Acena Consulting provides a short recap of the provisions agreed to by US Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, and House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith, R-Missouri regarding the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024.
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  • Creative Strategies to Generate Value and Increase Profit in 2024

    January 31, 2024    614

    Following another challenging year, manufacturers can take some specific steps to capitalize on bright spots by prioritizing new KPIs and focusing on key elements such as cash flow, people, culture and technology. Find out more in this on-demand video Q&A with MMA and Mike Devereux, partner with Wipfli, a top 20 advisory and accounting firm.
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  • Engage Your Manufacturing Voice

    January 25, 2024    330

    Supporting pro-manufacturing legislators promotes pro-manufacturing solutions.
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  • Revenue and Sustainability Support with Member-Exclusive Energy Reduction Program

    January 25, 2024    366

    MMA members can now earn revenue by agreeing to reduce energy usage through a new partnership between CPower, Enstar Energy and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), which operates the Midwest and South Central power grid.
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  • Specialized On-Demand Labor Solution Augments and Defines Workforce Needs

    January 25, 2024    562

    Veryable helps manufacturing and warehousing businesses augment their teams and navigate these fluctuations while ensuring that qualified workers are available when needed.
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  • Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Acena Consulting

    January 25, 2024    364

    Interview with Acena Consulting Senior Manager-Business Development Dan Osterland
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  • Industry Member Spotlight: MFP Automation Engineering

    January 25, 2024    274

    Interview with MFP's Engineering Manager Jake DeRooy
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  • Making an Impact for Industry at the Capitol

    January 25, 2024    271

    Despite legislative challenges, there were still many wins for manufacturers in 2023. Learn more and find out why MMA remains optimistic going into 2024.
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  • 2024 Outlook Report Reveals Why Manufacturers Are Optimistic About 2024

    January 24, 2024    357

    Supply chain issues, employee retention and data security are big concerns shaping leaders’ decisions according to a survey of more than 330 manufacturing executives across the country. However, according to a survey by MMA member Wipfli, most manufacturers remain optimistic about the future of the industry and are ready to tackle these obstacles head-on.
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  • Case Systems and BOSTONtec - 2023 Manufacturing Community Impact

    January 10, 2024    673

    Giving back to the community through local philanthropy and engagement is fundamental to the culture that drives Midland-based Case Systems, Inc and its subsidiary company, BOSTONtec and is why they were recognized with the 2023 Manufacturing Community Impact award.
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  • Industry Collaboration & Community Celebrated at 2023 Manufacturing Excellence Awards

    November 30, 2023    575

    The 2023 Manufacturing Excellence Awards was a night of collaboration, community and celebration as a sold-out crowd gathered in East Lansing to recognize the best of the best in Michigan’s most vital industry.
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  • Integrity Fab & Machine Inc. - 2023 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year (Small Tier)

    November 30, 2023    497

    Integrity isn't just a name for Integrity Fab & Machine Inc., it’s a way of doing business and a way of life. That's why the company was chosen for the 2023 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award – Small Tier.
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  • Jon D. Hall - Glastender Inc. - Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement

    November 30, 2023    680

    Jon Hall is a natural-born innovator focused on continual improvement and has left an indelible mark on the industry and was recognized with the 2023 Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement award.
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  • DENSO Manufacturing Michigan Inc. - 2023 Manufacturing Talent Champion

    November 30, 2023    906

    DENSO Manufacturing Michigan Inc.’s dedication to education, diversity and community makes the company a highly deserving recipient of the 2023 Manufacturing Talent Champion award.
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  • Ronald E. Hall - Bridgewater Interiors - 2023 Manufacturing Emerging Leader

    November 30, 2023    1104

    Ronald Hall's life experiences, energy, creativity, commitment to the community and passion for the manufacturing industry truly made him deserving of the the 2023 Manufacturing Emerging Leader award.
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  • Sachiko Johnson - Jordan Manufacturing Company - 2023 Manufacturing Woman of the Year

    November 28, 2023    620

    Due to her genuine compassion for the team, leadership skills and the impact she has had at Jordan Manufacturing and within the community, Sachiko Johnson is a deserving recipient of the 2023 Manufacturing Woman of the Year award.
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  • Amplifying Organic Leads for Your Manufacturing Business: A Comprehensive Guide for Marketers

    November 22, 2023    749

    As a dedicated marketer in the manufacturing sector, you understand the challenges of driving organic traffic and leads to your company's website. MMA member StoryTeller Media + Communications delves into proven strategies that can boost your organic leads without straining your budget.
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  • Overview of Select Industrial Real Estate Markets: Q3 2023

    November 22, 2023    760

    Over the past several years the industrial real estate market has undergone significant changes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic which has impacted e-commerce and supply chain logistics. Dominion Real Estate Advisors has collaborated with the MMA to provide an updates concerning select major industrial real estate markets in Michigan.
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  • The Manufacturer’s Guide to ERP Optimization and Selection

    November 22, 2023    886

    Avoid overspending or a needlessly frustrating implementation process when it's time to replace your existing ERP system with insights from MMA member Rehmann to help implement the best ERP for your needs.
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  • Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification A Focus on Essentials

    November 8, 2023    1015

    Today’s everchanging cybersecurity landscape has a large impact on manufacturers, as it would on any business with systems and data. The U.S. Department of Defense has been focused on ensuring companies in the Defense Industrial Base are protecting DoD information entrusted to them as contractually required since 2017 . A need to create more structure around compliance has resulted in the creation of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).
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  • Real Time Monitoring: Empowering Manufacturing Industries with Industry 4.0 Solutions

    November 8, 2023    1537

    As businesses worldwide move toward Industry 4.0, the fusion of advanced technologies with manufacturing processes takes centre stage. MMA member MN Engineering Solutions Inc. dives into what real-time monitoring entails and how it benefits Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and other manufacturing industries, enhancing production, Original Equipment Equivalent (OEE) and more.
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  • Leverage Industry 4.0 Technologies to Expand Employee Attraction, Preparation and Retention

    November 7, 2023    684

    When it comes to retention, the problems — and the solutions — often occur in the realms of communication, recognition and mutual respect. There are I4.0 technologies that can, for instance, improve lines of communication between managers and production floor workers or between workers on different shifts. But much of the retention challenges related to I4.0 come from the friction between people and technology.
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  • The Industry 4.0 Revolution

    November 7, 2023    869

    As Industry 4.0 technologies continue to revolutionize manufacturing and now that artificial intelligence is at the forefront of upcoming change, manufacturers have found themselves in a position where they can innovate while enhancing efficiency in their workplaces. When coupled with human expertise, automation and AI may change manufacturing in countless ways.
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  • Industry Member Spotlight: Storch Products Inc.

    November 7, 2023    732

    MMA interview with Industry Member Storch Products Inc.'s President Matt Carr.
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  • Premium Associate Member Spotlight: SensCy

    November 7, 2023    627

    MMA interview with Premium Associate Member SensCy's CEO Rick Snyder.
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  • Customized Workers’ Comp Insurance Features Safety Recommendations

    November 7, 2023    541

    While workers’ compensation insurance can help protect employers and workers, prevention and remediation are key to reducing workplace injuries in the first place. Through MMA’s partnership with the MTMIC, members receive a 3 percent discount for workers’ compensation, a dividend program, as well as numerous consultancy services and resources.
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  • Sustainable Technology Creates New Solution for PFAS Reduction

    November 7, 2023    621

    4never combines the power of Surface Active Foam Fractionation (SAFF®) technology with supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) to provide a local, scalable, closed-loop solution to remove and permanently destroy PFAS. The groundbreaking 4never technology is exclusively provided and operated by MMA’s trusted provider, Heritage-Crystal Clean.
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  • Ford and UAW Reach Historic Agreement

    October 26, 2023    910

    Ford Motor Company and the UAW reached a tentative agreement 10/25/23, ending the five-week-old strike. While the agreement requires ratification by the UAW rank and file, workers are returning to work already.
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  • UAW Employs New Strike Approach

    October 25, 2023    756

    Four weeks after the first wave of UAW strikes against Detroit’s Big Three automakers, UAW President Shawn Fain today announced a new phase and a new approach to their strategy.
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  • UAW Abruptly Extends Strike to Ford Kentucky Truck Plant

    October 25, 2023    717

    UAW President Shawn Fain ordered 8,700 UAW members to walk off the job at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant (heavy duty F-series trucks, Ford and Lincoln large SUVs) last night, expanding the strike against Ford, GM and Stellantis in its fourth week. The decision was abrupt, following a short early-evening meeting between UAW and Ford negotiators, and delivered with fiery rhetoric from Mr. Fain.
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  • UAW Strike Wears On: Forced OEM and Supplier Layoffs Compound Impact

    October 17, 2023    844

    As the UAW’s strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis wears on for a fourth week, some relief was delivered today in news of progress made on negotiations. No action was taken today by UAW President Shawn Fain to escalate the scope of the strike as he has the last two weeks.
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  • UAW Extends Strike Threatening the Strength and Vitality of our Domestic Auto Industry

    September 29, 2023    807

    The continuation and extension of the UAW’s strike negatively impacts the Big Three and the entire supply chain, with MMA members across the state already implementing layoffs as orders diminish.
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  • Michigan’s Manufacturers: Fortitude in the Face of Disruption

    September 26, 2023    805

    As the United Auto Workers union extends its strike on Detroit’s Big Three automakers, I take pause to consider the gravity of the situation for our automotive sector and legacy, our state and its communities, and families whose lives and livelihoods are tied to the Michigan's economically vital automotive industry.
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  • Fortitude in the Face of Disruption

    September 15, 2023    648

    As news breaks on the overnight developments in the labor negotiations between the UAW and the Big Three, MMA President & CEO John Walsh considers the gravity of the situation as well as confidence I have that Michigan manufacturers will weather this storm.
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  • Industry Member Spotlight: Vaughan Industries

    September 18, 2023    613

    Although Vaughan Industries remains a small business with 21 employees, it maintains a strong national presence — especially in support of STEM education. Learn more in this Industry Member Spotlight.
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  • Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Real IT Solutions

    September 18, 2023    648

    Keeping your equipment up and running is vitally important for manufacturers and Matt Kahle, Founder and CEO of Real IT Solutions, understands the importance of safeguarding his clients from potential threats in order to protect their productivity.
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  • Making an Impact

    August 2, 2023    1430

    Local involvement and stewardship illustrate positive energy of manufacturers in their communities. Meet two MMA members that are active and involved stewards of their communities.
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  • Technology Offers Intriguing Possibilities for Shoe & Clothing Manufacturing Industry

    October 2, 2023    1170

    Advancements in technology continue to impact every facet of the manufacturing industry, and the footwear industry is certainly no exception. Read how Rockford-based Chaco is reducing waste and changing the game with repair and online customization solutions for their customers.
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  • MMA Hiring Solutions Platform Streamlines Hiring Process

    October 2, 2023    1379

    MMA partner Chatfield Global is a woman-owned consulting firm that provides a wide array of human resources, talent management and organization development solutions, from the highly strategic to daily operational execution.
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