American Mold Builder Issue 2 2026 by petersonmediagroup

AMBA Conference Powers the Future of the Industry

Tooling Innovations

Smarter Healthcare in Manufacturing

Leadership Beyond the Title

FOCUSED ON PERFORMANCE

Progressive’s v18 Catalog introduces advancements designed to support American mold builders for years to come:

• Precision standard pins and mold base components.

• Exclusive innovations now available off-the-shelf.

• Mold Cylinders: Better price, performance, and delivery.

As a 100% Employee-Owned company, all within our Team are dedicated to providing product and service excellence. Call 1-800-269-6653 for an update to our newest standards.

Slide Lock Retainers

Vented Ejector Pins

Spring Cups

Versa-Slide® Assemblies

Counterbored Taper Locks

Mold Cylinders

Higher Standards for Molds and Dies

CUSTOM PRECISION CORE PINS, SLEEVES, EJECTORS, BLADES AND PUNCHES

Molders with non-standard requirements can order custom precision core pins, sleeves, ejectors, blades and punches from Regal Components. Custom components are used in molding a variety of medical, electronics and consumer products that require extreme precision, such as needles sheaves, closure s, nipples, pipettes, IV connectors, shavers, electronic components and writing instruments.

For greater control over thermal transfer, tensile strength, hardness and other physical proper ties, we can make components of a variety of materials including standard tool steel, powdered steels, stainless steel and copper alloys including M-2, A-2, H-13, S-7, PMM-4, PM 10V, 420SS

-Tolerances as tight as ±0.000050 inches

-Tips as small as 0.002 inches

-Lengths up to 14 inches

-Polished, coated and/or plated molding sur faces

-Custom details (e.g. tapers, rings, vents, ribs and spirals) can be shaped using wire EDM

AMBA

Rachael

Ashlynn

Advising Editor: Kym Conis

Advertising/Sales: Susan Denzio

Vice President, Editorial: Dianna Brodine

Editor: Lindsey Munson

Vice President, Design: Becky Arensdorf

Graphic Designer: Hailey Mann

Opinions

ANDY PETERSON AMBA President, INDUSTRIAL MOLDS

A MESSAGE FROM THE AMBA PRESIDENT

Greetings, AMBA members. 2026 is nearly halfway over, and I hope it has been a prosperous year for all of you. One thing that always has impressed me about AMBA members is their sense of community and perseverance.

Over the past five years, our membership and industry have gone through COVID-19, record inflation and lack of available talent – and now we are working through a rapidly changing world shaped by artificial intelligence (AI). Through all these challenges, we have continued to work together to navigate these changes. Whether with fellow members in your local community or through AMBA’s communication and networking events, there always has been an opportunity to see how other members are working through the same challenges we all face.

At the annual conference this past May, I hope many members had the opportunity to attend and take part in the sharing of ideas and best practices. Every year, I leave with several great ideas to improve my business and build stronger relationships with colleagues. The insight I gain from fellow members – and how they tackle the same issues from an industry perspective – is invaluable. For those who were unable to attend, I strongly encourage attendance at next year ’s conference. Our industry is stronger when we work together, and attending has a direct impact on making your company better.

I also would like to acknowledge several outstanding members who were recognized at this year ’s annual conference in May. Congratulations to David LaGrow of Maximum Mold for winning the Mold Builder of the Year Award; Jeff Cooper and Bob Yarber who accepted the Tooling Trailblazer of the Year Award on behalf of R&D Leverage; and Edward Walsh of Westminster Tool for being named the Emerging Leaders Rising Star Award winner. I always have a special reverence for the winners of these awards because even with the challenges we face – they represent the strength, innovation and leadership that are leading the industry into the future.

There’s still plenty of opportunities in 2026 to engage! Currently open, AMBA’s bi-annual Shop Rate Survey provides data on charge rates specific to services in engineering, mold building, specialty services and more. Available only to AMBA members, it’s a valuable resource to benchmark your shop rates against AMBA’s nationwide community of mold manufacturers. Deadline to submit data is June 19, so please take a few moments to fill out the survey!

As we head into the second half of the year, I wish everyone a strong finish. The past few years have brought changes and challenges, but the support I have received from both AMBA and its members has been instrumental and significant. I encourage all of us to continue persevering and working together to build a stronger community and industry where American toolmakers compete globally.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

National President

Andy Peterson, Industrial Molds

Vice President Hillary Thomas, Westminster Tool

Secretary and Legal Counsel

Alan Rothenbuecher, Benesch, Fiedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP

Treasurer

Kyle Klouda, MSI Mold Builders

Jeff Ford, BICO Steel

Justin Gregg, Dramco Tool Co., Inc.

Scott Kraemer, Xact Metal

Steve Michon, Zero Tolerance

Troy Roberts, Tolerance Tool

Camille Sackett, Accede Mold & Tool

Scott Smith, Tessy Tooling

Todd Steging, Prestige Mold

Sept. 29 - Oct. 1, 2026 Indianapolis, IN

You’re

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POWERING THE FUTURE OF MOLD MANUFACTURING

The 2026 AMBA Conference, held May 12-14 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, lived up to its “Ideas Ignite!” theme by bringing together mold manufacturing leaders, emerging professionals and industry partners for three days of high-energy learning and connection. From the opening welcome reception and supplier trade fair to the closing awards celebration, the conference delivered a mix of keynote presentations, breakout sessions and peer-to-peer discussions designed to fuel new thinking and actionable ideas.

The conference began with an impactful opening keynote from AMBA Executive Director Troy Nix, whose message emphasized growth, bravery in leadership and the importance of moving forward despite uncertainty. Keynote speakers Mark Scharenbroich and Mike Lee delivered powerful insights on connection, leadership presence and performance under pressure, challenging attendees to rethink how culture, communication and mindset influence company success. Additional sessions explored strategic sales approaches, policy updates from Washington, D.C., leadership development tactics and technology trends in AI, ensuring attendees parted with both inspiration and practical tools.

By the time the conference concluded with recognition of industry leaders and rising stars, it had successfully ignited new ideas!

Photos courtesy of Jimmy Renallo, Creative Technology Corp.

Troy Nix

AMBA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

What Would a Brave Person Do?

The master of ceremonies for several years now, Troy Nix wears his heart on his sleeve. Known for his spirit and enthusiasm for manufacturing, Nix delivered a keynote on lessons in leadership and how to cultivate a deeper connection with one’s inner self – tapping internally to inspire, motivate and ignite ideas. Attendees grew very quiet as Nix asked the audience, “What would a brave person do?”

In taking conference attendees back in time, Nix shared that he had set a goal for himself two years earlier to step out of his comfort zone and join a jiu-jitsu gym. This is where he began his journey of getting uncomfortable, but with that came small but mighty “voices in his head” that challenged him daily. With the initial goal he had set, Nix also added a second goal: joining a foreign jiu-jitsu gym that would push him beyond his mental and physical limits. As his story unfolded, Nix said, “I told my wife that I was going to the bank, but my telling her that scenario was more about avoidance of where I actually intended to go. As I was sitting in the drive-through line of the bank, I asked myself, ‘What would a brave person do?’” In his time of needing out of this battle the internal voices and external reality, Nix created “Troy’s Warrior Channel,” an Instagram account filled with posts on mindset, attitude and self-improvement.

By taking action within himself, Nix went to the new, foreign gym and found… a community of people just like him:

y People learning.

y People practicing.

y People building camaraderie.

Nix went on to share, “When faced with the unknown, our minds write stories – usually turning the ‘unknown’ into fear.” His message was clear: What would a brave leader do? It is in the conversations one has with oneself that the most important conversations take place. Nix said, “Your life is a series of decisions. It begins with self-talk, because words matter. Sitting in the drive-through line of the bank, I was afraid – until those six or seven words fell out of the sky and my brain said ‘Go!’”

Encouraging the audience, Nix said, “Reframe your mind and ask yourself, ‘What would a brave person do?’

Mark Scharenbroich

EMMY AWARD WINNER, HALL OF FAME SPEAKER AND AUTHOR

A simple comment like “Hey, that’s a nice bike” may feel like acknowledgment, but the simplicity of those words often misses the opportunity to engage with the person on what truly matters. Delivering a keynote focused on the power of authentic human connection in business and leadership, Scharenbroich challenged attendees to move beyond quick, surfacelevel comments and rather have meaningful acknowledgment that builds trust and loyalty.

Framed around real-world experiences and humor, Scharenbroich illustrated how leaders can naturally go to generic praise like “nice bike,” rather than taking a few seconds to notice, understand and value what makes individuals truly different. He demonstrated how intentional connection strengthens teams, improves communication and creates cultures where people feel valued, seen and motivated to contribute at a deeper and higher level. Scharenbroich shared these questions that leaders should ask themselves:

y What about this person’s work stands out uniquely?

y What effort, challenge, etc. went into this achievement?

y How can I acknowledge both the result and the person behind it?

It’s important for leaders to ask those questions because they build trust between leaders and team members, encourage ownership and pride in work, strengthen relationships and create a culture where the workforce feels seen and valued. The bottom line is that if leadership makes small shifts in recognition, they can lead to major shifts within the organization and that’s where real connection begins.

More information: www.nicebike.com

Mike Lee

KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND AUTHOR

Opening the door to new ways of thinking, the audience listened intently as Mike Lee challenged traditional views of resilience and introduced a more modern approach centered on “presence.” With the rapid rise of AI, economic uncertainty and more, leaders today face pressure that often leads to burnout rather than growth. Lee shared that sustainable resilience for a person requires an internal shift – moving away from pushing harder and instead developing awareness, adaptability and purposeful leadership.

Drawing from his personal journey of building an international basketball brand from his college apartment while navigating anxiety and depression, Lee connects with the realities leaders face today. Backed by insights from sports psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness, he shares practical strategies designed to help individuals and teams navigate adversity while maintaining clarity, focus and well-being.

Seven takeaways from this keynote included:

1. A new definition of resilience built on presence, not pressure

2. Strategies to avoid burnout during constant disruption

3. Mindset shifts for leading through uncertainty and change

4. Tools rooted in sports psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness

5. Techniques to build purpose-driven and future-focused leadership

6. Practical ways to strengthen individual and team resilience

7. Actionable steps to lead with clarity, confidence and adaptability

More information: www.mindshiftlabs.com

Omar Nashashibi

INSIDE THE BELTWAY SOLUTIONS

Nashashibi delivered a timely and insightful session, keeping attendees tuned in to the shifting currents of US trade and policy. From tariffs on steel molds to the Supreme Court’s review of global reciprocal tariffs, Nashashibi unpacked complex legislative and regulatory developments with clarity. Attendees also gained a clear perspective on trade discussions with Mexico regarding Chinese transshipments, leaving the room better equipped to navigate the Washington landscape and its impact on mold manufacturing.

PEER EXCHANGES DRIVE MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS

Back by popular demand, the peer-to-peer exchanges once again proved to be a cornerstone of the AMBA Conference 2026 experience. Designed to foster open dialogue and real-world problem solving, the session brought attendees together in role-based groups to discuss shared challenges and opportunities. Participants engaged in candid conversations across key areas, including operations, owners/presidents/CEOs, sales and marketing and workforce development, creating an environment where ideas and best practices flowed freely.

These focused discussions allowed attendees to connect with peers facing similar day-to-day realities, sparking practical takeaways and new approaches to common industry challenges. From workforce retention strategies to operational efficiencies and sales growth opportunities, the Peer-to-Peer Exchanges reinforced one of the conference’s most valuable outcomes – meaningful connections and actionable insights that attendees could immediately bring back to their organizations.

THANK

AI TAKES THE MAIN STAGE: DRIVING WORKFORCE EFFICIENCY

Workforce challenges took center stage during the live main stage panel, “AI on the Shop Floor – The New Era of Workforce Efficiency,” moderated by Christina Fuges of MoldMaking Technology. Panelists explored how artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to reshape mold manufacturing by helping shops capture tenured knowledge, streamline workflows and reduce reliance on hard-to-find skilled labor. The conversation highlighted practical, early-stage applications – from automating quoting processes and documenting set-up procedures to improving scheduling and predictive maintenance, all to increase efficiency without sacrificing operations.

INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS SPARK ACTIONABLE IDEAS

Mike Lee, owner and leadership coach of Midshift Labs, held an immersive workshop, “Inside High Performance –Human Dynamics that Drive Results,” that set the tone for personal and organizational growth. Through interactive exercises and practical frameworks, Lee challenged participants to rethink how they manage stress, make decisions and build stronger workplace connections.

Sales and marketing professionals gained a practical roadmap for improving pipeline quality during Keith Bradt’s hands-on session, “From Potential to Profit – The Power of Strategic Lead Discovery.” Bradt, owner of Kallen Sales, focused on strategic lead discovery and introduced a clear “Green, Yellow, Red” framework to help attendees evaluate opportunities based on alignment, risk and long-term value. The workshop emphasized moving beyond transactional selling toward strategic partnerships, equipping participants with a repeatable discovery process designed to improve win rates and drive profitable growth.

AMBA CONFERENCE 2026 PLATINUM SPONSORS

TOOLING INNOVATIONS

By Liz Stevens, writer, The American Mold Builder

In this age of relentless technological advances, mold builders are reaping benefits from tooling innovations that are reshaping mold manufacturing. A variety of advanced design and machining options, simulation technologies and modular tooling components now are available to reduce lead times, improve quality and address workforce challenges. The American Mold Builder considers some of the newest examples from two forward-looking vendors, HASCO and Tebis.

HASCO

HASCO AMERICA, Inc., Fletcher, North Carolina, is a manufacturer of modular high-quality standard mold units with a part list of more than 100,000 standardized and configurable products. HASCO’s K standard parts are drilled plates machined on all sides. Its P standard parts are undrilled plates which are machined on all sides and used primarily to make molds, tools and other devices. Z standard parts include accessories such as ejector elements, latch locking units and products for mold cooling. The company also offers mold steel from European suppliers. Brenda Clark, engineering manager/inside sales, shared information about some of HASCO’s newest modular tooling innovations, smartphone apps and web-based assistants, and described how HASCO products can be integrated with mold simulation software.

NEW AT HASCO

“One of our newest parts,” Clark said, “is the Cooling Tornado Z9665/, which can provide innovative possibilities for energy savings directly in the mold. The Cooling Tornado can be used in combination with bores and in core cooling systems or directly in corresponding mold plate cooling bores.” It is a metal coil inserted into a mold’s cooling channel, producing a turbulent flow that improves the efficiency of the cooling by up to 20%.

The HASCO InsertKey Z088/ is another new product (Figure 1). “This two-piece part has been developed especially for the coding of mold inserts in injection molding tools,” Clark said. “It consists of the sleeve Z0881/... and the bush Z0882/.... One piece is inserted into the mold base plate pocket at a screw location. The other piece is press fit onto the cavity or core on the matching screw location.”

The use of the InsertKey, which can be set to any of eight key configurations, ensures the proper placement and

orientation of mold inserts. “Work preparation, storage of spare parts and maintenance work are considerably simplified,” she said. The distinctive coding guarantees assembly of the mold cavities with no risk of mix-up and effectively improves process reliability. By using two InsertKey units, up to 64 (8²) clearly distinguishable key combinations can be created.

HASCO also has introduced the H1210 hot runner wiring test tablet for testing hot runner wiring without turning on the heat. “This testing product confirms that wiring is done correctly to avoid damage to the hot runner system,” Clark said. “The tablet is portable for use at the injection molding machine or in the maintenance shop. It recognizes heating units, thermal sensors, earth faults and any existing defects.” The fault display and interpretations are shown in a graph and in table form. In most cases where faults are detected, this allows for preventative maintenance, repair or troubleshooting with the mold wiring before the start of production.

HASCO parts integrate with mold simulation software. “HASCO cooling items, for example, can be placed into mold designs to further enhance mold simulation for cooling,” Clark explained. “Components can be added into the design and the simulation, then run based on the distance from a molded article to the HASCO cooling item. This type of integration has been done by customers for many years with HASCO components and simulation software.”

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT

The updated HASCO App offers moldmakers, technicians, design engineers, buyers, teachers and students practical information on moldmaking (Figure 2). It can be

Figure 1. HASCO Insert Key Z088/. Photo courtesy of HASCO.

downloaded free of charge.

“The HASCO App,” Clark said, “is a toolbox of mold base technology calculators for aspects like heat, milling, threads, tolerance, steel types, insulators, hardness and cylinder sizing. This app for iPhone and Android use replaces older tolerance slide rule and charts.”

The app also has links to other HASCO apps and services, including CAD service, hose configurator, ejector configurator and mold base assistant found on the website.

Figure 2. HASCO smartphone app with links to online mold base toolbox and hot runner website. Photo courtesy of HASCO.

HASCO’s CAD Service allows designers to find components for a specific CAD model. “Components for a CAD model can be directly downloaded from the website into a customer’s 3D system (using CADClick interface),” Clark said. “At the heart of CAD Service is a complete collection of high-quality 3D models of all HASCO standard components. These are available for all common CAD systems and can be seamlessly integrated into existing design processes. System-specific parametric models and native data files are available.”

CAD service has new features, including the mold base assistant, the hose configurator and the ejector configurator. “These are assistants to help designers and builders utilize the HASCO parts in their current projects,” Clark explained. “The assistants are online via our web portal of tools for designers and mold builders.”

“With bold base assistant,” Clark said, “designers can configure an individual mold base faster, easier and more precisely than ever before. It takes just five simple steps to move from concept to a complete mold base with BOM and 3D data available in just a few clicks.” Mold designers and builders can choose each plate size and material type to build-up an assembly, add components, generate an Excel file for quoting/ordering and get 3D data to further their projects faster.

HASCO’s Hose Configurator simplifies the configuration of hose systems. “With this new configurator,” Clark said, “designers can create custom hose assemblies in just a

few steps by picking a hose and then finding the matching fittings and components. This includes even our newest 5 mm diameter hose and fittings for tight spaces.”

With the ejector configurator, designers can quickly and easily design ejectors tailored to their exact requirements –directly online and with maximum flexibility. This includes choosing the ejector length and tolerance range, to cut-tosize ejector pins, blades and sleeves.

TEBIS

Tebis America, Inc., Troy, Michigan, is a provider of integrated CAD/CAM and MES software. Its customers use Tebis solutions to manufacture single parts like models, molds and dies as well as high-quality aerospace parts made of metal or plastics. The modular Tebis system features CAD software specialized for manufacturing, CAM software for many manufacturing methods, CAQ software for measuring on machines and MES software for manufacturing management. Michael Thiessen, sales manager, described some of the newest innovations in Tebis software.

ELECTRODE DESIGN/GEOMETRY

Tebis has introduced innovations in the derivation of electrode geometry from the part geometry to be produced in mold manufacturing. “With the introduction of new parametric and solid model solutions in Tebis Electrode Design,” Thiessen said, “Tebis now can analyze molds automatically to identify eroding areas. This capability

Figure 3. The Tebis system integrates CAD and CAM capabilities through a comprehensive suite of modules, spanning design, manufacturing, simulation and process optimization to support the full moldmaking and production workflow. Photo courtesy of Tebis.

is driven by a new wizard-based technology on the design side, which – when combined with our SmartOps technology – enables a fully automated workflow.” The entire process – from initial design through complete numerical control (NC) programming and virtual verification is streamlined and automated. Leveraging Tebis’s Natural Intelligence (NI) or “out-of-the-box” intelligence, these advancements simplify and accelerate the overall process.

QUALITATIVE OPTIMIZATION OF EXISTING SURFACE MODELS

Tebis has created a proprietary solid modeling kernel. “With the kernel’s advanced parametric and associative surface and solid modeling,” Thiessen said, “manufacturing preparation and design tasks can be highly automated. When element parameters are modified, the entire component updates automatically, ensuring consistency and speed throughout the design process.”

Tebis templates provide time savings within the CAD environment by standardizing repetitive design activities. “The templates are ideal for managing component variants or similar input data,” Thiessen said, “enabling fast, reliable and repeatable design workflows.”

With the introduction of its SmartOps technology, Thiessen asserted that the CAD-for-CAM process has undergone a major transformation, reducing manual effort while increasing CAM process reliability. This includes automation for preparing and enhancing CAD models for machining. “High-quality surface models are a cornerstone of our philosophy,” Thiessen said. “Because Tebis calculates toolpaths directly on the digital surface model (not a tessellated model), we consistently achieve machining tolerances that many other CAD solutions cannot match.”

CNC VIRTUAL SIMULATION

Tebis considers virtual simulation technology to be one of its flagship strengths. “Ours is one of the very few solutions that allow the use of a true virtual twin of a CNC machine – behaving exactly as it does in reality,” Thiessen said.

With Tebis CNC virtual simulation, users can plan and validate part orientation, tooling and set-up positioning even before creating toolpaths. “Toolpaths then are programmed using the kinematics and geometry of the actual machine,” Thiessen explained, “enabling precise program validation and safe interaction with the virtual machine environment. This allows users to optimize machining strategies while eliminating the

risk of collisions or crashes.” With this level of detail, a true digital twin is created. “Everything is visualized accurately, including fixtures, clamping devices and how parts are secured during machining,” Thiessen said. “The result is a safer, more efficient and highly reliable machining process –before a single chip is cut.”

FIVE-AXIS SIMULTANEOUS MACHINING

With its five-axis simultaneous machining module, Tebis offers flexible and efficient five-axis machining solutions for safety, superior surface quality and optimized performance. “Increasing toolpath efficiency always is a top priority for manufacturing leaders,” Thiessen explained. “That is why we have introduced advanced strategies to further optimize retract motion to make those movements smoother and more efficient, enabling higher feed rates while maintaining stability and safety.”

Thiessen stated that automation is fully achievable in five-axis machining. “Due to specific part geometries, however, fully simultaneous five-axis motion is not always the preferred approach,” he said. “In such cases, indexed five-axis machining offers a safer and more controlled solution.” With intelligent remachining options, Tebis can automatically detect and select the optimal positioning angles, reducing manual effort for the programmer. “This results in a safer, more efficient and optimized machining process that minimizes the operator workload while maximizing machine performance and reliability.”

IN-PROCESS MEASUREMENT SOLUTIONS

“Part measurement and accuracy verification are a core focus,” Thiessen said. “The company has advocated inprocess measurement strategies for more than two decades. As a result, Tebis CAQ software solutions for measuring parts directly on the machine – prior to removal – are proven, reliable and accurate.” (Figure 4)

Figure 4. Tebis enables in-process measurement and real-time validation directly within the machining environment. Photo courtesy of Tebis.

WHO’S BRINGING NEW LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE

TO COMPACT HOT RUNNER/MANIFOLD SYSTEMS?

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Beyond measurement, the creation of comprehensive validation reports and the ability to review and archive results on screen for historical tracking are critical components of the process. “Tebis, however, goes far beyond basic measurement and dimensioning,” Thiessen said. “Equally important is leveraging the machine controller’s advanced capabilities, such as auto-rotate, blank checking and automatic alignment, all of which are integrated into the CAM workflow.”

In Tebis’s virtual machine environment, probing paths automatically are optimized and validated, ensuring safe execution, maximum accuracy and seamless integration between programming, verification and machining.

SMARTOPS AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY

SmartOps technology, a new solution within the Tebis system, supports end-to-end automation of all CAD and CAM processes. “Users can rely on intelligent, sophisticated CAD/CAM operations that provide full automation thanks to powerful templates,” Thiessen said. “This technology is a game-changer when it comes to automation and dealing with a new workforce.”

Tebis templates provide time savings within the CAD environment by standardizing repetitive design activities.

ROBOTIC MACHINING TECHNOLOGY

Since 2020, Tebis has offered robotic virtual machines and sophisticated post-processors. “Tebis supports robots for all types of machining,” Thiessen said. “By programming with a virtual robot (digital twin) from the start, there are no surprises later due to recalculation or other issues. Tebis directly outputs the NC control data for the robot. Users, therefore, can proceed directly from the CAD data to the completed robotic machining program with no detours.”

Tebis delivers advancements that enable the efficient, reliable operation of robotic systems. “The new solutions provide greater safety, flexibility and user-friendliness than ever before,” Thiessen said. “The latest release, V4.1R11, enables early detection of robot-specific conflicts during the interactive toolpath calculation process, allowing issues to be addressed long before execution on the shop floor.”

Tebis now identifies singularities, reachability limits and configuration changes earlier and more reliably. Potential conflicts can be resolved directly within the model. This reduces programming time while increasing operational safety from the CAM stage onward. Simulation capabilities also have been expanded to include connection movements. “In addition to validating the actual toolpaths,” Thiessen said, “Tebis now checks transition movements between toolpaths as well as tool change motions during robotic machining. This enables more comprehensive identification of potential robot conflicts – before the program ever runs on the real machine.”

IN CLOSING

Mold manufacturing is a dynamic industry in which new standardized, modular components and innovations in advanced software, automation and robotics regularly are introduced. Innovations from companies like Tebis and HASCO give mold builders many options for improving operations, slashing lead times, perfecting quality and bridging the workforce gap.

More information: www.hasco.com and www.tebis.com

MANUFACTURERS EXPERIENCE HEALTHCARE COST INCREASES IN 2025, SEARCH FOR NEW OPTIONS

By Andrew Carlsgaard, benchmarking and analytics director, AMBA

Healthcare and benefits strategy remains one of the most consequential business decisions US manufacturers make each year. In 2026, employers continue to face rising health benefit costs, tighter operating budgets and greater pressure to use benefits as both a retention tool and a financial management lever.

For many manufacturers, healthcare is no longer just a line item in the benefits budget; it is a core business plan issue that affects recruiting, retention and long-term competitiveness. That reality especially is true for smaller and mid-sized employers, which often have fewer options for absorbing annual cost increases without making tradeoffs elsewhere in the business. Coupled with additional environmental pressures from inflation, tariffs and global supply chain disruptions, decisions on benefits could prove vital to maintaining profitability.

The results of the 2026 AMBA Health and Benefits Survey show that healthcare remains central to the

value proposition for manufacturing employers. Nearly all respondents offer healthcare and conduct annual open enrollment, and most (96%) continue to rely on brokers to support the renewal process in 2026. The data also shows continued movement away from fully insured coverage (57% of respondents in 2026, down from 61% in 2025) and toward more self-insured (29%) and level-funded arrangements (14%), reflecting a growing preference for greater control over cost and plan design.

The 2026 Health and Benefits Report findings (Figure 1) also show that fully insured healthcare costs remain elevated across employer sizes, with the overall average cost per employee increasing 6.1% from $10,810 in 2024 to $11,467 this past year. For context, the average was $9,289 in 2022, and 2025’s average would represent a $2,100-plus (23.4%) increase in cost per employee in just four years. The broader market reinforces the same direction. A survey by the global professional services firm Mercer 1 expected employer health benefit costs to rise sharply again (6.7%) in 2026. The main drivers include higher medical utilization, specialty drug spending and continued pressure from pharmacy and hospital costs. Additionally, the outlook in Brown & Brown’s Employer Health and Benefits Strategy Survey 2 indicated continued pressure unless employers make active changes to their plans. It cited trends in inflation and the labor market, the prevalence of GLP-1 and biosimilars, and the increasing volume of large claimants as reasons requiring proactive planning by employers.

The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) 3 likewise noted that 2026 healthcare costs are being shaped by persistent premium pressure and other structural cost drivers. Among these pressures, the report mentioned upward premium pressure, regulatory changes regarding cost transparency and broader affordability concerns stemming from healthcare provider consolidation. These external forecasts indicate that manufacturers are operating in a market where cost

Figure 2. Healthcare as a Percentage of Overhead Expense

Figure 1. Annual Cost per Participating Employee for Healthcare Coverage: Fully Insured Plans

pressures are not easing, and employers must stay alert to avoid being caught flat-footed at renewal.

Taken together, those external analyses align closely with the data from the 2026 Health and Benefits Report Manufacturers are not simply reacting to a difficult market after the fact; they increasingly are adjusting their designs, funding and employee contribution levels in advance of renewal. That shift is visible in the survey’s growing use of high-deductible plans, increased HSA contributions and other cost-containment strategies. In that environment, proactive benefits management is becoming a competitive requirement rather than a discretionary best practice.

Company size continues to shape how manufacturers respond to these pressures. Smaller employers remain more sensitive to healthcare costs as a percentage of overhead, while larger employers are more likely to be self-insured and better positioned to use funding flexibility as a costmanagement tool. As established in previous reports, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics 4 noted that the median age of manufacturing workers exceeds that of many other sectors, and an older workforce can place additional cost pressure on employer-sponsored insurance due to increased healthcare utilization, particularly in small- to mid-size organizations (150 or fewer employees). The survey data (Figure 2) illustrates that healthcare remains a meaningful share of overhead, particularly for smaller employers. In practical terms, that means the same premium increase can have very different business impacts depending on the organization’s size and funding structure.

As a result, manufacturers also are becoming more deliberate in how they control costs. The 2026 report (Figure 3) shows that the most common strategies in 2026

include moving to high-deductible health plans, increasing employee HSA contributions, expanding wellness programs, changing providers and shifting more premium responsibility to employees. This points to a broader shift in employer behavior. Instead of relying on a single response at renewal, many employers now are using a layered approach that combines plan design, funding strategy and changes to employee contributions. That approach suggests a more mature and more disciplined benefits environment than in prior years. Notably, most of these tactics are available to self-insured or level-funded plan structures, whereas changing providers is the primary mechanism for cost control in fully insured plans.

Overall, the 2026 survey describes a domestic manufacturing benefits landscape that remains under pressure, yet leaders are becoming more strategic. Manufacturing employers are paying closer attention to plan value rather than just plan price. As healthcare costs continue to rise, manufacturers increasingly need to help employees understand the tradeoffs among lower premiums, higher deductibles and out-of-pocket exposure. At the same time, employers still need to maintain benefits that support retention and hiring in a competitive labor market. This creates a balancing act that is becoming increasingly difficult, especially for small- and mid-size employers that lack deep internal benefits expertise or strong advisory support beyond the broker.

Employers are working to preserve their competitiveness in the talent market while making more deliberate choices about funding, plan design and employee contribution strategies. The strongest organizations will be those that combine disciplined planning, better use of data and a willingness to revisit long-standing benefit assumptions before renewal pressure forces a decision. In this environment, proactive benefits management is no longer optional – it is a competitive advantage.

Further analysis is available by purchasing the 2026 Health and Benefits Report through www.amba.org (the report is available free of charge to survey participants).

References

1. Mercer: Employer Health and Benefits Strategy Survey, https:// www.mercer.com/en-us/about/newsroom/employers-andworkers-face-affordability-crunch-as-health-insurnace-cost-isexpected-to-exceed-18500-per-employee-in-2026/

2. Brown & Brown: 2026 Healthcare Cost Outlook, https://www. bbrown.com/us/insight/2026-healthcare-cost-outlook/

3. KFF: Eight Trends Shaping 2026 Health Care Costs, https:// www.kff.org/health-costs/eight-trends-shaping-2026-healthcare-costs/

4. US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Labor Force Statistics from the Current Population Survey, https://www.bls.gov/cps/ cpsaat18b.htm

Figure 3. Strategies to Control Healthcare Costs

HEALTH AND BENEFITS REPORT – NOW AVAILABLE!

The AMBA 2026 Health and Benefits Report now is available for purchase! This report includes data related to employee benefit packages offered by mold manufacturers, plastics processors and rubber product manufacturers across the US. Respondents gain access to healthcare plan costs and benefit options, insights into new programs or concepts in the marketplace, cost-containment strategies and long-term tactical planning opportunities.

The report is available to AMBA members for $119; nonmembers can purchase the final report for $219. For more information and to purchase the report, visit www.amba.org.

BI-ANNUAL SHOP RATE SURVEY RETURNS

AMBA has announced the return of its Shop Rate Survey, a biannual survey last conducted in 2024 that tracks charge rates specific to services supplied by US mold manufacturers in engineering, moldmaking and specialty services, as well as highlevel business insights and takeaways to help executives make intelligent decisions related to their businesses.

The survey is open to all US mold builders; however, the final report only is available to AMBA members currently in good standing with the association (free to participating members; $399 for all other members). The deadline to participate is June 19, 2026. For more information and to participate, visit www.amba.org/events

JUNE MEETINGS: VIRTUAL PEER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

A key benefit of AMBA membership is the ability to connect with peers, address timely challenges, share peerdriven best practices and review the latest advancements in technology and AI strategies. Two opportunities for AMBA members to connect with one another are approaching now.

Roundtable Discussion – Senior Leaders

(June 10, noon-1 p.m. EST): AMBA’s senior leaders will gather to discuss executive-level challenges, spanning topics like member profitability and industry trends to employee retention, operational efficiencies, technology investments and more.

Roundtable Discussion – Sales and Marketing (June 16, noon-1 p.m. EST): AMBA’s sales and marketing professionals will meet to address ongoing challenges,

strategic investments and best practices related to sales and marketing efforts. Tradeshow attendance, customer communication, CRM use, new market strategies and more will be discussed! AMBA members can register at no cost. For more information and to register, visit www.amba.org/events.

PLANNING AHEAD – AN OPPORTUNITY WITH ITR ECONOMICS

AMBA membership offers access to an ITR Economics subscription, which provides economic and market trendspecific insights to help reduce risk and drive practical, profitable and informed business decisions. This annual subscription includes

y concise data-driven quarterly reports,

y quarterly webinars led by the ITR Economics team and

y access to recent reports, including first-quarter and second-quarter 2026.

AMBA member price: $250 annually. For more information, contact the AMBA office at 317.436.310, email info@amba.org or visit www.amba.org/events.

FOR AMBA MEMBERS: ADVOCACY UPDATES AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE

AMBA members continue to have access to a myriad of advocacy-specific resources. Provided by Omar Nashashibi and his firm, Inside the Beltway Solutions, they include:

y Quarterly Advocacy Webinars – with the next one scheduled for June 23, 1-2 p.m. EST

y Legislative Updates – including timely legislative actions and implications

y The Capitol Beat – a monthly newsletter that highlights the latest happenings in Washington, D.C.

y A monthly Grants Matrix – including state and federal grant opportunities

For the most up-to-date information and resource access, visit www.amba.org

INDUSTRY AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT AMBA CONFERENCE 2026

AMBA has announced this year’s industry award winners at AMBA Conference 2026! Each of these awards honors significant contributions made by that individual and/or company to the US mold building industry.

For more information on these award winners, visit page 32.

y 2026 Mold Builder of the Year: David LaGrow, Maximum Mold

y 2026 Tooling Trailblazer of the Year: R&D Leverage (an Adler Industrial Solutions Company)

y 2026 Emerging Leaders Rising Star: Edward Walsh, Westminster Tool

NEW MOLD BUILDERS

Basilius, Inc.

4338 South Ave.

Toledo, Ohio 43615

Main POC: Cody Keiser, vice president

Email: codykeiser@basilius.com

Website: www.basilius.com

Phone: 419.536.5810

Basilius, Inc., an Ohio-based precision manufacturer, specializing in injection mold tooling and custom injection molded components. Founded on a commitment to American craftsmanship, Basilius designs and builds

GET OUT OF THE RATE RACE... A SMARTER WAY FOR MANUFACTURERS TO MANAGE HEALTHCARE COSTS

By Troy Nix, executive director, AMBA

Health benefits remain one of the largest – and most unpredictable – line items in a manufacturing company’s budget. Recent reporting underscores just how acute the challenge has become. According to The New York Post, US employers are facing projected healthcare cost increases of 7% to 10% over the next 12 months, the steepest rise in more than a decade. These increases are being driven by higher hospital costs, increased utilization and the rapid adoption of expensive therapies, including GLP-1 drugs.

For manufacturers operating on tight margins, this volatility creates real planning challenges. Yet for many employers using traditional fully insured, level-funded or conventional self-insured models, the annual renewal process feels increasingly one-sided. Premiums go up, plan designs tighten and explanations for those increases often lack clarity or actionable insight. Small- and mid-sized manufacturers, in particular, are left with little leverage and limited visibility into what actually is driving their costs.

It’s no surprise that many executives feel trapped in a perpetual “rate race.”

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

A PROVEN SOLUTION

An increasing number of manufacturers are finding relief –and control – through healthcare captives, particularly those owned and governed by industry associations. While not all captive platforms are created equal, association-owned captives offer distinct advantages rooted in ownership, collaboration and aligned incentives.

At their core, captives are designed to fund health benefits in a more disciplined and transparent way. When structured

properly, they allow employers to dilute risk, manage volatility and retain value that would otherwise be absorbed by commercial carriers.

The difference is simple but powerful:

y In traditional fully insured arrangements, carriers assume the risk and retain underwriting gains when claims run better than expected.

y In an association-owned captive, participating employers collectively dilute risk – and any surplus generated by good plan performance remains within the membership.

When claims are favorable and reserves are satisfied, value stays with the employers that funded the plan. When claims are adverse, predefined risk protections limit downside exposure. Over time, this model rewards prudent plan management rather than exporting profits outside the group.

WHY ASSOCIATION OWNERSHIP MATTERS

The term “captive” can sound complex, but the objective is straightforward: align incentives, improve predictability and promote long-term sustainability.

Association-owned captives add a critical layer of governance. Because the platform is owned by its members and operated within the association’s framework, the goal is not to maximize profits for a third party. The goals are to:

y Manage risk responsibly

y Operate with transparency

y Deliver value back to participating employers

This governance structure shifts health benefits away from a transactional, year-to-year exercise and toward a long-term strategy – one that reflects the realities of manufacturing businesses.

How Can Succession Planning Benefit

EFFICIENCY IS WAITING

AMBA membership provides a direct connection to the resources that can drive efficiency for your business.

• ITR Economics Subscription

• Profitability Portal

• Capacity Tool

• Industry-wide Benchmarking

• Advocacy Access

• Legislative developments, policymaker actions, state and federal grants and more Learn more here!

CAPTIV8: A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE FOR AMBA MEMBERS

For members of American Mold Builders Association (AMBA), this advantage isn’t theoretical. It already exists –and it’s thriving.

CAPTIV8, AMBA’s association-owned healthcare captive, was built specifically for the mold manufacturing community. Over the past five years, CAPTIV8 has delivered meaningful results for participating members, including:

1. Shared Savings that Stay with Members

When CAPTIV8 performs well, underwriting gains are not automatically retained by an external carrier. After claims, expenses and required reserves are satisfied, surplus funds can be returned to participating members – effectively using yesterday’s dollars to help fund today’s claims.

2. Transparency into What Drives Costs

CAPTIV8 participants receive deeper analytics and clearer insight into claims trends, large-claim drivers and utilization patterns. This level of transparency allows executives to make informed, targeted

decisions rather than guessing at the cause of annual increases.

3. More Predictable Budgeting through Smarter Risk Financing

By pooling risk with peer manufacturers and utilizing structured stop-loss protection, CAPTIV8 reduces exposure to extreme claim volatility while preserving upside when claims outperform projections. Over the past three years, documented rate increases across the CAPTIV8 portfolio have averaged just 0.3% (Figure 1).

Western Carolina Tool & Mold

Figure 1

Collective Buying Power and Industry Expertise

Few individual employers have the time or leverage to evaluate every vendor and strategy. CAPTIV8 enables collaboration within a trusted peer community while providing access to a team of nationally recognized experts focused on pharmacy management, plan design and cost-containment strategies tailored

Incentives Aligned to Better Outcomes

When members share in the upside, investments in preventive care, condition management and thoughtful plan design become strategic decisions – not sunk costs. The result is a virtuous cycle: healthier populations, fewer high-cost surprises and stronger long-term financial performance.

CHANGING THE CONVERSATION

Most employers ask the same question every renewal cycle: “How much more will we pay next year?” CAPTIV8 allows AMBA members to ask a better one: “How do we manage our plan well enough to share in the upside?”

THE BOTTOM LINE

CAPTIV8 is not simply an alternative funding mechanism. It is a member-owned strategy designed to keep value with the employers that create it. For AMBA members, the benefits are clear:

y Improved transparency

y Better risk management

y Collective buying power

y A model where favorable financial performance can be returned to the membership rather than being absorbed by outside carriers

In a world where healthcare costs often feel uncontrollable, CAPTIV8 offers a refreshing premise: When manufacturers collaborate with peers, govern responsibly and manage their plans well, they don’t just reduce uncertainty – they share in the results and get out of the rate race.

More information: contact AMBA at info@amba.org

LEADERSHIP ISN’T JUST A TITLE

By Jen Porett, manager, Wipfli

Leadership isn’t defined by a title, but by influence. Whether it’s formally recognized or not, everyone within an organization has the ability to lead. Leadership shows up in:

y How a person behaves

y How a person influences others

y How a person serves the team and organization

It’s about what a person does, not the position they hold. For example, two powerful ways to demonstrate leadership are to set clear expectations and coach for growth.

SETTING CLEAR EXPECTATIONS

When expectations aren’t clearly defined, people fill in the gaps – often with the wrong assumptions. If individuals are not clear on what they need from someone, they still may move forward confidently, but not in the intended direction.

For direct reports, clarity matters even more. How will employees know what success looks like – or what they’re being measured on – if performance expectations aren’t crystal clear? Clear goals create focus, motivation and a shared understanding of priorities. They also give individuals a sense of accomplishment as they make progress Research backs this up. According to HQ Hire, individuals who write down their goals are significantly more likely to achieve them, especially when those goals are relevant and appropriately challenging. A simple framework for goal setting is SMART:

y Specific

y Motivating

y Attainable

y Relevant

y Trackable

In practice, the most important pieces are “specific” and “trackable,” while the others serve as quick checks to help ensure the goal is realistic and meaningful. Here are a few examples:

y Reduce cycle time by 5% on the top three molding presses by September 30 through process optimization and set-up standardization.

y Reduce scrap and regrind rates from 4.2% to 3.5% across all molding lines by December 31.

y Reduce recordable safety incidents by 20% by year-end through monthly safety audits and refresher training.

Clear expectations only work when accountability follows. Accountability is the willingness to take responsibility for actions – personally, mutually and across the organization. Leaders should model it, holding themselves to the same standards they expect of their teams.

COACHING FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Once expectations are clear, coaching becomes a powerful tool for growth. Before diving in, a few quick definitions:

y Coaching is about listening deeply and asking powerful questions so others can discover their own answers. This works best when someone is open and willing to be coached.

y Mentoring involves sharing experience and advice to guide someone’s development.

y Directing means providing clear instructions, specific guidance and close oversight. This is most effective when someone is new to a role or task.

According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), 80% of individuals who receive coaching report increased self-confidence, while 70% report improved work performance, relationships and communication skills.

THE SKILL OF LISTENING

Effective coaching starts with listening to understand, not listening to respond. Many people are used to what can be described as verbal ping-pong: to listen just long enough to reply. Coaching requires something different. Active listening means:

y Process and reflect on what an individual hears

ESSENTIAL

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Introducing CONTRAX

Where American Contract Manufacturing Connects

FOR EXHIBIT AND ATTENDEE INQUIRIES VISIT:

CONTRAX is a new event series connecting buyers and sellers of American contract manufacturing services. From concept to contract, CONTRAX showcases leaders in design engineering, CNC machining, 3D printing, injection molding, metal forming and fabricating, surface treatment, parts ﬁnishing and more. CONTRAX attendees will ﬁnd solutions for expanding their supply base, taking product or market, or addressing their existing industrial production or services needs.

According to

ICF, 80% of individuals who receive coaching report increased selfconfidence, while 70% report improved work performance, relationships and communication skills.

y Paraphrase and clarify

y Challenge assumptions appropriately

y Check for understanding

Active listening is a hard skill to master and one worth practicing.

ASKING BETTER QUESTIONS

Great coaching also relies on asking the right kinds of questions. A mix of questions works best:

y Closed-ended questions lead to short, defined answers like “yes” or “no.”

y Open-ended questions often start with what, how, when, where, who or why.

y Exploratory questions invite reflection, such as “Tell me about a time…” or “Describe what you were thinking and feeling.”

When used together, these questions help expand perspective, build self-awareness, surface blind spots and explore new options.

THE GROW COACHING MODEL

One of the most common coaching frameworks is GROW:

y Goal: What does the individual want to accomplish?

y Reality: What’s happening right now? What already has been tried?

y Options: What could be tried next?

y Will: What will the individual commit to before the next conversation?

SAMPLE COACHING QUESTIONS:

Goal

y What is the individual hoping to accomplish?

y What will success look like?

y How does the individual want to feel once this is done? Reality

y How important is this right now?

y What currently is being done?

y What’s getting in the way? Options

y What ideas are available?

y What else could be tried?

y Who has done this successfully before? Will

y What is the first step to be taken?

y Who might provide support or accountability?

y What will help sustain commitment?

Here’s the takeaway: Leadership isn’t reserved for people with titles. It shows up in everyday moments – how clearly individuals communicate, how they hold themselves accountable and how they support others in growing.

Jen Porett is a manager with more than two decades of experience in leadership development. She brings deep expertise in coaching, facilitation and change management. Known for her strong relationship-building skills and emotional intelligence, Porett creates environments where people feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow.

More information: www.wipfli.com

BUILT TO LEAD: INSIDE THE AMBA AWARDS

By Lindsey Munson, editor, The American Mold Builder

DAVID LAGROW NAMED AMBA’S 2026 MOLD BUILDER OF THE YEAR

For 38 years, David LaGrow, president of Maximum Mold, St. Joseph, Michigan, has represented the best of American mold manufacturing – combining entrepreneurial vision, technical expertise and an excitement for strengthening and building future mold builders. Tim Feirick, office manager at Maximum Mold, captured that in LaGrow’s nomination, writing, “LaGrow is what every American mold builder should be… committed to continued and efficient growth within the industry while also passing along his desire to build top-notch quality tooling to the next generation of American mold builders.” As president of Maximum Mold in Benton Harbor, Michigan, LaGrow has built more than a successful business – he’s built a legacy. In recognition of those achievements, LaGrow was named AMBA’s 2026 Mold Builder of the Year – one of the industry’s highest honors.

“To be recognized is an honor all of our team is proud to be part of,” LaGrow said. “Being recognized as a company that promotes the mold building trade to local schools and colleges also helps to promote talented young professionals directly out of school or college to seek a career at Maximum Mold Group.”

LaGrow’s journey in mold manufacturing is built on a foundation that reflects his drive, perseverance and dedication to the industry. From working in multiple tool and die shops early in his career to then starting his mold polishing business out of a small rental space, LaGrow stayed the course, saving enough money to build his business from the ground up. Through his hard work, he expanded Maximum Mold into a successful operation that today includes four companies known for quality tooling, advanced manufacturing and innovation. Over the past 29 years, LaGrow has turned Maximum Mold into a respected mold manufacturer.

At Maximum Mold, LaGrow’s leadership centers on staying competitive through continuous improvement, technological advancement and employee development. Recently, his

From left to right: Glenn Starkey (Progressive Components), David LaGrow (Maximum Mold) and Don Starkey (Progressive Components)

company implemented flexible clamping solutions to improve CNC machining efficiency while prioritizing ongoing software and technology training to give employees opportunities for growth and education. These investments are just a few ways LaGrow shows his commitment not only to the company’s long-term success but also to providing value-added benefits to his team with the skills, tools and knowledge needed to thrive in this industry’s environment.

LaGrow’s leadership goes beyond his company’s walls. An AMBA member since 2004 and former president of the Southwest Michigan AMBA Chapter, he has supported the organization through leadership, sponsorship and active participation. LaGrow said, “We use partner companies for insurance, shipping and accounting, and get discounts for being part of the organization. The biggest advantage would be the sharing of manufacturing methods by AMBA members – allowing other members into their companies to see how they operate. I enjoy this because there also are roundtable discussions where attending members can make suggestions to the hosting member on how to be more efficient in a particular area.”

His service reflects a broader dedication and perhaps one of the most impactful commitments LaGrow has made is

in workforce development. He has been an advocate for regional K-12 Career and Technical Education programs, Lake Michigan College’s apprenticeship initiatives and career fairs that introduce hundreds of students to mold building and advanced manufacturing. By helping connect education and industry, he is actively shaping the future of skilled mold builders, which is key to the industry’s continued success.

Those who know LaGrow best describe him as “a builder” – someone who builds businesses, builds up people and builds the future. AMBA’s Mold Builder of the Year Award honors individuals whose leadership elevates not only their own organizations but the mold industry as a whole. Through Maximum Mold, his leadership within AMBA and his investment in education and workforce development, LaGrow has strengthened mold manufacturing. A $5,000 scholarship grant on behalf of Progressive Components was awarded to LaGrow, and he plans to direct those funds to Lake Michigan College. LaGrow said, “For decades, the college has had a good program for vocational skills in the skilled trades. It has a strong reputation for graduating students across all sectors, including the journeyman mold and machining program.”

In honoring David LaGrow, AMBA celebrates more than a mold builder – it recognizes a leader whose legacy is not defined just by the molds he helped create, but by the industry he helped build.

More information: www.maximummold.com

R&D LEVERAGE NAMED AMBA’S 2026 TOOLING TRAILBLAZER OF THE YEAR

AMBA’s Tooling Trailblazer of the Year Award recognizes a member company whose educational outreach, recruitment initiatives and workforce development efforts are making a large impact on the future of American mold manufacturing. At this year’s award ceremony, this honor went to R&D Leverage of Lee’s Summit, Missouri – a company building the next generation of mold builders through education and hands-on opportunity.

An Adler Industrial Solutions company, R&D Leverage engineers and manufactures precision injection molds, injection stretch blow molding (ISBM) tooling and delivers precision molds for PET bottle manufacturing. Beyond its technical molding capabilities, R&D stands out as a leader in workforce development by creating opportunities and pathways for students to explore careers in molding, often while still in high school. Through its board involvement and active participation, R&D collaborates closely with the

Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council Workforce Alliance Committee, an organization dedicated to advancing partnerships between business and education. In these efforts, and with the committee’s support in fostering connections with Lee’s Summit R-7 School District (LSR7), Summit Christian Academy, State Fair Community College, Metropolitan Community College and the University of Central Missouri, R&D helps bridge the gap between education and real-world industry experience, including career presentations, advisory board service, plant tours, job shadowing, internships and youth apprenticeships.

R&D’s collaboration with LSR7 has been impactful. As part of the school district’s “market-value assets” initiative – designed to provide every student who graduates with hands-on, career-focused experience – R&D has helped open doors for students to precision machining, mold design and manufacturing. R&D’s steady involvement, from student engagement to apprenticeships, has been key to that success and, in April 2026, earned the company LSR7’s Business Partner of the Year Award.

An example of R&D’s success is Sarah Morgan, an apprentice whose journey demonstrates exactly why the company was selected for this award. Morgan first encountered R&D during a high school Manufacturing Day tour in 2022, and she was the only student out of 30 to take the opportunity and go further through job shadowing. She began her apprenticeship in January 2023 and has earned recognition as SPE Apprentice of the Year. Building on that momentum, R&D recently had its first Apprentice Signing Day for Gavin Straley. As Jeff Cooper, vice president of operations/human resources, said, “It was an event like signing to play a D1 sport.” The company also has launched a four-week pre-apprenticeship program for another student, with plans to sign him soon, along with many other educational and hands-on opportunities for the next generation.

From left to right: Don Starkey (Progressive Components), Bob Yarber (R&D), Jeff Cooper (R&D) and Glenn Starkey (Progressive Components)

R&D’s Tooling Trailblazer honor recognizes more than one apprentice or one program – it highlights a company’s commitment to investing in people. By placing itself in schools, community programs and more, R&D has become a “trailblazer” for how mold manufacturers can recruit, educate and inspire the future of the molding industry.

In recognition of those efforts and taking home this award, Progressive Components’ $5,000 scholarship grant will help R&D continue expanding its educational mission, with those funds directed toward LSR7 and related workforce development initiatives.

More information: www.adlertooling.com

Edward Walsh Named AMBA’s 2026 Emerging Leaders Rising Star

Edward Walsh, operations and manufacturing manager at Westminster Tool, located in Plainfield, Connecticut, has emerged as one of mold manufacturing’s brightest next-generation leaders. At the 2026 AMBA Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Walsh was honored with the AMBA Emerging Leaders Rising Star Award – an inaugural recognition designed to celebrate outstanding growth, leadership and contributions from up-and-coming professionals shaping the industry. Walsh said, “The recognition reinforces to me how special a team I am a part of and how critical it is to find passionate mentors to take you under their wing.”

Nearly a decade ago, Walsh started in manufacturing with no technical know-how; instead, enrolling in a local community college’s advanced manufacturing program. He was hired by Westminster Tool right before graduation. Hannah Belmont, brand and talent manager at Westminster Tool, who nominated Walsh, said, “Within his first year, Edward distinguished himself as one of the fastest technical learners in the company’s history. His aptitude and drive earned him mentorship under company founder Ray Coombs, who recognized Edward’s exceptional leadership potential early on. Edward says that sharing an office with Ray for two years was instrumental in developing his own leadership style later on.”

Today, Walsh oversees troubleshooting, quality assurance and process control. Belmont said, “He has become the single most cross-trained employee in the company, with expertise spanning over 15 technical disciplines, including mold design, CNC milling, toolmaking and additive manufacturing. Walsh’s impact on the organization has been transformative.” Under his leadership, the company

From left to right: Sam Duquette (Westminster Tool), Jim Bott (INCOE), Edward Walsh (Westminster Tool), Hillary Thomas (Westminster Tool) and Anthony Strmiska (Westminster Tool)

transitioned to a fully digital job-tracking system to allow tracking of critical time and budget performance metrics. “With his leadership in manufacturing planning and job processing,” Belmont said, “the company achieved the highest On Time and On Budget performance metrics in its history.”

Walsh’s impact extends beyond operations. Belmont said, “As a graduate of a local community college’s advanced manufacturing program, Walsh returned to that same institution to volunteer in workshops and training sessions.” At Westminster Tool, he mentors two emerging leaders while continuing to develop and enhance his own skills. Walsh describes his leadership style as “humbled and evolving.” In addition, Walsh hosts a bible study group for Westminster Tool employees. Belmont said, “This initiative has helped build a deeper sense of community, trust and support among his peers, positively influencing workplace culture in a meaningful way.”

When asked what advice he would share with other young professionals, Walsh said, “My advice would be to always ask ‘what’s next,’ whether that be what skill to learn next, or what improvement to make, or something completely different. And always, always show your gratitude to people when they give you their time and knowledge to help you grow, and never take their gift for granted.”

Walsh’s plans for the $2,000 INCOE scholarship grant align with that mission. The professional development funding will support his continued growth in mold design engineering and leadership development. In closing, Belmont said, “Walsh represents the very best of what the AMBA Emerging Leaders Rising Star Award stands for: technical excellence, servant leadership, continuous growth and a deep commitment to advancing the future of the mold manufacturing industry.”

More information: www.westminstertool.com

HASCO EXTENDS SOLIDWORKS LIBRARY

HASCO, Fletcher, North Carolina, a supplier of standard components and accessories for the tool and moldmaking industry, has released the extended SolidWorks® native library, enabling designers to achieve efficient, flexible and future-proof product development in tool and moldmaking. With a broader range of components and intelligent, practical functions, the database supports both prototype development and the design of mass-produced components – directly in SolidWorks. This extension of the product portfolio in the database covers, among other things, guide elements, ejectors, components for demolding and casting, measuring technology, cooling systems and general mold components. Users benefit from an even greater selection of immediately usable CAD components for a wide variety of applications. For more information, visit www.hasco.com/en/.

MAKINO ANNOUNCES HYBRID MODEL

Makino, Inc., Mason, Ohio, a global manufacturer of machining centers, EDM and manufacturing solutions, has announced the evolution of its customer engagement model in Southern California and Arizona through the introduction of a hybrid market representation in collaboration with Yamazen, Inc., a distributor of manufacturing technologies. Through this hybrid model, customers experience a more integrated support structure that brings together Makino’s deep application engineering, process expertise and machining technologies with Yamazen’s local engagement and customer support capabilities. Makino and Yamazen are working closely together to ensure seamless communication, technical alignment and continuous customer support throughout the region. For more information, visit www.makino.com

NPE2027 GAINS EXHIBITORS

2-5, in Orlando, Florida, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC). Exhibitors secured space across the entire OCCC, spanning all 1.1 million sq. ft. of opportunity, including NPE2027’s five dedicated Technology Zones: Bottling, Recycling and Sustainability, Materials, Manufacturing Services and Moldmaking. They also claimed their spaces inside the Sustainability Park – NPE’s newest immersive destination. Altogether, 82% of the showcase floor was sold during Space Selection. For more information, visit www.npe.org

PLATINUM OFFERS CUSTOM TOOLING

Platinum Tooling, Prospect Heights, Illinois, the exclusive importer of Heimatec live tooling for the North American machine tool accessory market, now offers customdesigned and special tooling for most CNC turning centers, in addition to its extensive standard tooling line. Heimatec designs and builds custom tools to suit specific requirements for a majority of CNC lathes, regardless of application, brand or size. Heimatec manufactures tools for these machines, including DMGMori, Doosan, Eurotech, Haas, Hardinge, Hurco, Hwacheon, Hyundai, Mazak, Miyano, Murata, Nakamura, Okuma, Samsung, Spinner, Takisawa, Victor Fortune and Yama Seiki. For more information, visit www.platinumtooling.com.

PROGRESSIVE ANNOUNCES ESOP, VENTED EJECTOR PINS

NPE: The Plastics Show®, produced by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), Washington, D.C., held a Space Selection and Planning event, which gained momentum with 906,194 total sq. ft. of committed space. The figure represents one of the largest early sales totals in show history. More than 1,105 companies participated in the event, selecting space across 1,128 booths during the gathering held March

Progressive Components, Wauconda, Illinois, a developer and distributor serving the global injection mold market, has announced it has transitioned to 100% employee ownership through the establishment of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Progressive employs 65 team members worldwide, and the ESOP transaction ensures that the company remains American-owned and independently operated while creating a meaningful ownership opportunity for employees. Under the ESOP structure, employees receive company shares through a retirement trust at no upfront cost. Over time, employees accumulate ownership in the company as a benefit of their employment.

In addition, Progressive has released Mold-Ready™ Vented Ejector Pins, available in both straight and shoulder styles. Progressive’s Designers can select from four vent configurations tailored for low to high-viscosity molding materials, ensuring optimal performance across applications. The vent pins are custom-configured using Progressive’s partnumber system. Each pin features a precisely ground ring vent and vent relief, with additional options such as cut-tolength, keying, head engraving, chrome plating and black nitride available to meet diverse application needs. Pin material options are H-13, M-2 and 440C Stainless Steel. For more information, visit www.procomps.com

WITTMANN UPGRADES WIASSIST

SECO INTRODUCES JETSTREAM TOOLING M-CLAMP

Seco®, Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, a global provider of metal cutting solutions, has introduced Jetstream Tooling® M-Clamp toolholders for large inserts featuring targeted highpressure coolant delivery, double clamping security and innovative 3D-printed clamps. Designed for demanding machining, the high-pressure coolant is delivered through the JETI M-Clamp system, which delivers longer tool life, superior chip control and smoother finishes even in tough materials. For more information, visit www.secotools.com

WFL DEVELOPS ANGULAR HEAD

WFL Millturn Technologies, a supplier in the field of complete machining headquartered in Austria, has developed a high-performance angular head and is introducing a technology for the costeffective internal machining of complex components. For the first time, this innovation enables fully automated, processreliable and highly productive machining of demanding internal geometries – particularly in thin-walled aluminum components – in a single set-up. The combination of automatic tool change, high-speed capability, integrated fluid supply and innovative machining strategies enables a new dimension of productivity. Complex internal geometries, which previously were considered technologically challenging or economically borderline, now can be manufactured stably, reproducibly and efficiently – fully automated, in series and on a single machine. For more information, visit www.wfl.at/en

The WITTMANN Group, Vienna, Austria, a global manufacturer of injection molding machines, robots and auxiliary equipment, has upgraded the WiAssist app by adding a module. This module calculates the material’s dwell time inside the plasticizing unit, thus simplifying the selection of the screw size.

WiAssist supports injection molders in selecting and setting up their injection molding machines. The WiAssist app offers five functions: querying material properties, assisting with the selection and setup of injection molding machines, calculating process parameters, troubleshooting and direct contact with WITTMANN. The app’s essential feature is its material database. After the material, shot weight and cycle time have been entered, the app calculates the relevant process parameters in a few seconds, including cooling time, internal mold pressure, injection pressure, screw speed and – as a new feature – the melt’s dwell time inside the plasticizing unit. For more information, visit www.wittmann-group.com