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2013 Summer Regional Meeting Schedule
NIST MEP is cancelling its Summer Regional Meeting, which was scheduled for May 21-23 in Philadelphia, PA. A system update email about the cancellation of the May Regional Meeting was sent on Monday April 22, 2013.If you would like a copy of the email, please click here.
Due to the May cancellation, we will only hold two regional meetings for the 2013 summer schedule. Our new summer meeting plans are as follows:
MEP Center Regions of Pacific NW, Southwest, Midwest Location: Denver Colorado June 24, 2013 - MEP Advisory Board Meeting June 25-26, 2013 - MEP Update Meeting
MEP Center Regions of Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast Location: Philadelphia, PA July 23-24, 2013 - MEP Update
We will send out another message once the venues are confirmed and registration is open. If you have any questions please contact Kari Reidy at Kari.reidy@nist.gov| (301) 975-4919
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Science Channel is the Official Media Sponsor for Manufacturing Day
Discovery Communication's Science Channel is the official media partner of Manufacturing Day! In the coming months Science Channel and the television show, HOW IT'S MADE, will feature programming to inform viewers about getting involved in local Manufacturing Day activities and open houses. The Science Channel is a partnering with manufacturing Day in order to give their viewers a chance to go see How it's Made "live" in their local communities. Manufacturing Day’s co-producers, FMA, NAM, the Manufacturing Institute and Industrial Strength Marketing are very excited about the opportunity this presents to reach millions of TV viewers and hundreds of thousands of Science Channel's subscribers on its website, Facebook, and Twitter pages. Plans are underway to make a big splash on social media once the new mfgday website and brand are launched next month.
A few MEP centers have already signed on to be endorsers of Manufacturing Day. If you're interested in being a Manufacturing Day endorser, email your request to be listed on the website to info@mfgday.com.
NIST MEP is also planning a webinar for Wednesday, May 15th featuring center best practices from last year and tips on planning for this year. Additional resources are also being prepared by the co-producers at the national level.
Webinar Details Webinar Link Time: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. EST Password: Mfgday@10042013
If you have any questions, please contact Zara Brunner (zara.brunner@nist.gov or 301-975-2001) or Mark Schmit (mark.schmit@nist.gov or 301-975-3255).
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U.S. Labor Department Announces Grant to Strengthen Training Partnerships Between Community colleges and Employers
Acting Secretary of Labor Seth D. Harris has announced the availability of $474.5 million to create and expand innovative partnerships between community colleges and businesses to educate and train workers with the skills employers need. Those interested in applying for the newly available funding should visit grants.gov under Funding Opportunity Number SFA-DFA-PY-12-10.
The grant will invest in innovative and evidence-based training models that include strong partnerships with local employers and employer organizations. Strong partnerships and work-based training will help ensure that curricula and training are aligned with the practical skills and competencies industries seek from workers.
For more information, please the Department of Labor's website at www.doleta.gov.
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Energy & Environmental Programs Database: Search for Environmental and Technology Programs Around the Nation.
If you are looking for “sustainability” education and training, look no further! The Advanced Technology Environmental and Energy Center (ATEEC) has a national database of college programs and workforce training organizations in energy, environment and water management. ATEEC offers multiple resources such as interactive learning labs and curricula for would-be energy workers. Sponsored, in part, by the National Science Foundation, this timely resource can benefit businesses and individuals engaged in sustainable manufacturing.
For more information or to access the Energy & Environmental Program's Database,click here.
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All Edison Nation® “Made in America” Supplier Scouting Opportunities are due soon
Edison Nation®, an idea-to-shelf product developer and innovation platform has partnered once again with the NIST MEP on their Made in America Program. This program, gives U.S.-based manufacturers the first chance to bid on producing new products for large, established companies. The companies and brands participating in this program are Belk, Bob Timberlake, Snapware, Pyrex, Chicago Cutlery, Corelle, Worx, and ToyQuest.
This is a great opportunity for U.S. based manufacturers to bid on making products with a guaranteed large distribution channel. The product requests for quotes (RFQs) are currently available for all companies and brands on MEP Connect in three groups:
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Snapware, Pyrex, Chicago Cutlery, Corelle - Due by Friday April 26, 2013
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WORX, ToyQUEST - Due by May 1, 2013
If you have a manufacturer considering quoting, but you do not think the manufacturer will make the deadline, please contact Dave Cranmer (David.Cranmer@nist.gov | 301-975-5753 or Caroline Ranghel Ashley (Ranghel@rti.org | 919- 541-6822
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This is Your Last Chance for a While! Only One Scheduled Tech Scouting/TDMI Workshop Left
If you or your colleagues haven’t had a chance to attend the combined Technology Scouting and Technology-Driven Market Intelligence (TDMI) training there is an opportunity to do so in Nashville, Tennessee on May 7-9, 2013.
Led by practitioners and mentors of Tech Scouting and TDMI services, participants will work in both large and small groups to learn the full process and methodology for both services. The course approach is interactive and involves participatory activities to practice the core skills involved in promoting and performing both services including: expert interviewing, technology and market based research, intelligence and project organization and needs based analysis. Registration closes on Tuesday, April 30th.
For questions and registration information, please contact Dave Cranmer (David.Cranmer@nist.gov | 301-975-5753 or Caroline Ranghel Ashley (Ranghel@rti.org | 919- 541-6822
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What's Happening Around MEP
The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services (CIS) is recruiting a Director for the Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Partnership (TMEP) program The position is based in Nashville. The position serves as CIS liaison with the national MEP network; provides leadership and direct supervision for a team of nine regional Solutions Consultants who work directly with business and industry across the state; develops and maintains relationships with business and industry customers, partners and stakeholders; provides leadership for the development and implementation of CIS products and services; works with team members to develop, market and deliver CIS programs to business and industry; and collaborates with university faculty to develop and deliver CIS products and services.
For more information, or to apply for this position, please visit the vacancy announcement at the University of Tennessee's website and search for vacancy number 13000000AV.
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MEP in the NEWS
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Enterprise Minnesota's State of Manufacturing Survey Released The newly released State of Manufacturing report shows that many Minnesota manufacturers have lessened hope in the economy. "Continued challenges of healthcare costs, but also complimented by the continued challenge of finding qualified and skilled workers," said Enterprise Minnesota President and CEO, Robert Kill. Read Article
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PA IRC Day The Pennsylvania Senate recognized the outstanding accomplishments of NEPIRC and its Industrial Resource Center Network partners in a formal resolution declaring March 13, 2013 as Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center Day across the Commonwealth. Read Article
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State Program Helps Manufacturers Find the Intersection of Sustainability and Profitability Randy Bertram is the director of the sustainability program at the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP). When he tells the CEO or business manager about all the different ways the company can ensure their sustainability and help the environment, he inevitably hears the same question thrown back at him. “Sounds great. If we invest in all that, are we going to get our money back?” Read Article
- Read the Latest from the

Manufacturing Gangnam Style Rethink Robotics, the firm that designed and manufactured Baxter the famous industrial robot, has met its match. Robotis’ Bioloid, an educational DIY robotics set, has developed a new, hipper cousin to Baxter that dances – Gangnam Style. And no wonder. Baxter is a “serious robot” who has a job at Vanguard Plastics, a Connecticut manufacturer. He doesn’t have time to goof off. Read Blog
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Calendar of Events
May 1, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST Lean Certification Webinar: A Professional Credential The Association of Manufacturing Excellence will be presenting a webinar for professionals interested in learning more about Lean Certification Process. Presenter, Mark Volesky, Senior Business Advisor with Dakota MEP, will give detailed information on the exams, experience portfolios and interviews. It will also provide the attendees with information on the differences between the bronze, silver and gold certification levels.
Webinar Details & Registration Contact: Lauri Schaffer, Dakota MEP
May 1, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. EST Additive Manufacturing: An Overview for Manufacturers Hutch Hutchison, NY MEP will provide a comprehensive picture of this rapidly growing industry, from stereolithography roots to metal object production. We will explore methods, tools, materials, machines, applications, and research in a variety of industries, including the 3-d printing of skin tissue. Manufacturers will leave this session with a clear understanding of how to enter this exciting field.
Webinar link Password: Hutchtalk51!! Meeting Number: 730 604 088 Contact: Clara Asmail
May 3 - June 11, 2013 2:00p.m. - 3:30p.m. EST Lean Product Development Webinar Series NIST MEP will host 6 webinars and you are encouraged to commit to attend all 6 sessions. Presenter, Ron Mascitelli, will provide detailed coaching corresponding to specific chapters from the “Mastering Lean Product Development” textbook and recommend you procure a copy of the book in advance and read the appropriate chapters prior to each webinar. Copies of the book are available through the following link. www.techper.com/books
The schedule for the webinar series are listed below. Each webinar will start at 2:00pm EST and end at 3:30 p.m. EST.
For additional information, please contact Brian Lagas at Brian.Lagas@nist.gov, 301-9
May 9, 2013 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.EST NEW!! GaMEP Annual Lean Consortium Event: High Velocity Edge: Leadership, Innovation, & Operational Excellence Join the GaMEP, Georgia MEP, for their annual Lean Consortium event and gain a better understanding of the speed, breadth, and determination it takes to separate manufacturing companies from others. Learn about “high velocity” companies and what drives their success in the quest for relentless betterment. Understand the capabilities necessary for high speed, broad-based improvement and learn how to overcome inevitable struggles when dealing with complex products and processes
Event Details and Registration Cost: $295 Location: The Morrow Center in Morrow, Georgia Contact: Katie Takacs | (404) 385-0542
May 14, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CST NEW!! Family Business Advisor Seminar TMAC is hosting a one-day Family Business Advisor seminar event. The seminar will focus on strategic planning for the future of family and closely-held business, protecting the jobs that have been created, and ensuring the future viability and value of those businesses after they are passed down to future generations. Learn how to prioritize and plan for business growth for the future. Discover policy gaps in critical areas such as governance, finances, and compensation. And Identify the timing and necessity for outside advisor support
Event Details and Registration Cost: $60 per admission, $20 per additional guest Location: Rangers Ballpart in Arlington, Texas Contact: Debborreh Wallace | (818) 272-3513
May 14, 2013 CONNSTEP Technology Acceleration Workshop CONNSTEP is hosting a Technology Acceleration Workshop, May 14th in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. In partnership with the Connecticut Innovation EcoSystem, and presented by Tom Culver of RTI and Ed Maier of CE Ventures, topics covered during this half-day workshop include Technology Scouting, Technology Driven Market Intelligence (TDMI) and Lean Product Development. Developed for both start-up companies and mature businesses trying to accelerate growth, this interactive workshop will offer insights and pathways to improve present practices for growth.
Event Details Cost: $99.00 Location: 716 Brook Street, Rocky Hills, CT Contact: Rebecca Mead | (860) 513-3217
May 9, 2013 Export Regulation Course - Export Compliance Under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) LIFT, MEP Center of New York, is pleased to have Mr. Robert Imbriani, an experienced controls specialist from Team International Trade Service who will present a 1 day seminar designed for those who are involved in supporting their companies' compliance program or would like to know more about Export Compliance and ITAR.
Event Details Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST Location: The Morrelly Homeland Security Center, Bethpage, NY Contact: Lucy Lawl | (631) 846-2473
April 15 - December 13, 2013 MEP Innovation Services / Training – 2013 The Black Belt training schedule for 2013 is listed below. If you would like to register, please email Kari Reidy with the name of the individual(s) you are registering and their proposed dates. Because NIST MEP is making a significant investment in the cost of this training we do expect that those registering are committed to this program and agree to complete their Black Belt certification within the 1 year time requirement.
Please read the updated policies, procedures and FAQs that are posted on MEIS. This document explains the changes and updated policies to the Black Belt certification program and will continue to be updated with the latest FAQs.
- May 13 - 17 (FULL)
- June 9 - 13 (location: University of Maine - open to all)
- July 22 - 26 (FULL
- August 19 - 23
- September 23 - 27
- October 21 - 25
- November 11 - 15
- December 9 - 13
If you have any questions about the policies, about Black Belt certification, or to schedule training, please contact Kari Reidy at Kari.reidy@nist.gov| (301) 975-4919
May 17, 2013 U.S. Commercial Service Trade Winds – Asia Seoul, Korea and the dynamic cities of Hong Kong, Taipei, Tokyo and Manila offer global sales potential for U.S. businesses in a range of industry sectors. Learn how to increase profits and overcome barriers in the growing Asia-Pacific region and network with the region's leading industry and government officials and experienced U.S. and global companies. Meet one-on-one with top Asia business experts from the U.S. Embassies and Consulates from the region for the latest trade leads and market entry strategies. Find a partner or customer through screened business-to-business meetings in Korea, Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan.
Info: Register your interest to receive a complimentary market assessment at exportgov. For additional information, contact tradewindsasia@trade.gov, Leslie.drake@trade.gov or judy.kornfeld@trade.gov.
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May 23, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. EST Additive Manufacturing: Industrial Applications Two Additive Manufacturing (AM) Equipment Manufacturers, EOS and ExOne, will discuss how their machines are designed for industrial applications. They'll present on types of applications and industries that are already using AM and specifications for final product including materials, dimensions, repeatability, mechanical properties, build strategies and so forth.
Webinar Link Password: Additivem@n1 Meeting Number: 736 268 559 Contact: Clara Asmail
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Make it in America" Manufacturer of the Week!
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HK Metalcraft, a client of NJMEP, is a family company founded in 1926, and is an ISO and TS registered manufacturer of precision metal stampings. The company specializes in spring washers, folded metal gaskets, engine gaskets and locks, and custom metal stampings and assemblies. The company is headquartered in Lodi, NJ, with 50,000 square feet of office, manufacturing, and warehouse space.
Visit the NIST MEP public site to learn more about this company and how the center is helping them grow.
For more information about NIST MEP's "Make it in America" Manufacturer of the Week, please contact Karen Lellock (karen.lellock@nist.gov | 301-975-4269).
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If you have questions, comments or would like to submit a e-blast item, send a message to mepeblast@nist.gov
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