GROOVING THREADING PARTING BORING TURNING FACE GROOVING CUSTOM TOOLING FORM TOOLING MILL TOOLING
Riding For The Brand
The concept of “riding for the brand,” in a broader sense, can symbolize a unified commitment to a shared purpose or value, potentially fostering unity in the USA. This idea, often associated with cowboys and their loyalty to a ranch or outfit, can be applied metaphorically to inspire a sense of collective responsibility and shared purpose among citizens, regardless of their background or beliefs.
“Unum” is a Latin word that translates to “one” or “a single thing”. It is the neuter singular form of the adjective “unus” (meaning one). The phrase “E pluribus unum,” which translates to “out of many, one,” is a motto of the United States.
The United States of America was the first nation born out of an idea rather than a tribal identity. Our Constitution begins with a call that transformed subjects into citizens: “We the People.” The founders’ crystalized our mission with a national motto: e pluribus unum, “out of many, one”— and placed it above the eagle holding a cluster of arrows and an olive branch on the Great Seal of the United States.
E Pluribus Unum remains the key to what makes America exceptional in the eyes of the world. America’s role as an imperfect but diverse democratic republic stands in clear contrast to the history of other nations—as well as the ethno-nationalist parties and surveillance state autocracies that are on the rise today. At our best, America remains a rebellious project against tribal and fundamentalist forces. And e pluribus unum is literally the opposite of “us against them”—the demagogues’ eternal calling card.
• Shared Purpose and Values:
“Riding for the brand” emphasizes the importance of working together towards a common goal, representing a shared commitment that transcends individual differences.
• Loyalty and Trust:
The phrase highlights the idea of loyalty and trust, suggesting that by focusing on shared values and working towards a common objective, individuals can build stronger bonds and foster greater unity.
• Collective Responsibility:
Just as cowboys are responsible for the well being of the ranch they work for, citizens can be encouraged to take ownership of the challenges and opportunities facing the country, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
• Beyond the Literal:
The “brand” in this context is not limited to a literal mark. It can represent any shared value or purpose that unites individuals, such as a commitment to community, democracy, or social progress.
We, the USA, are united as a team that loves our land, we love our freedom, and we fly our flag with pride as humans with a shared oneness. We are individuals with many differences, yet most all of us have 10 fingers and toes. We inhabit this great beautiful world we are fortunate to live on and we wear the emblem of humanity on our fingerprints, all-different, yet all very similar.
In closing I would like to thank all of you humans for supporting our 3 regional manufacturing magazines. We are very proud of our precision manufacturing community and we would like to talk with you about working to promote your business through our regionally focused magazines.
Kim Carpenter
PUBLISHERS/EDITORS
Kim Carpenter & Linda Daly Kim@A2ZManufacturing.com
Published bi-monthly to keep precision manufacturers abreast of news, contracts, trends, and to supply a viable supplier source for the industry.
Circula tion: A2Z Manufacturing West Coast maintains a master list of over 14,000 decision makers consisting of fortune 1000 companies, small manufacturing companies, engineering firms, DOD & Scientific Lab facilities, machine shops, fab-shops, and secondary source businesses. It has an estimated pass on readership of more than 25,000 people. The majority of our readers are based in CA, OR, WA area!
Advertising Rates have remained the same since 1999, deadlines and mechanical requirements furnished on our website at: www.a2zManufacturing.com.
All photos and copy become the property of A2Z Manufacturing.
T he Publisher assumes no responsibility for the contents of any advertisement, and all representations are those of the advertiser and not that of the publisher.
The Publisher is not liable to any advertiser for any misprints or errors not the fault of the publisher, and in such event, the limit of the publisher's liability shall only be the amount of the publishers charge for such advertising.
Announcements & Press Releases
BLM Group USA Is Your Single-Source Provider To Cover All Of Your Manufacturing Needs
We are tube and more.With over 60 years of expertise, BLM GROUP has earned a reputation as a global leader in tube and sheet metal fabrication machine solutions of the highest quality. Our product portfolio consists of tube lasers, 5-axis lasers, sheet lasers, press brakes, tube benders, wire benders, end-formers and cold saws. Supporting the North American market from Novi, Michigan, BLM GROUP USA provides top-notch service, technical support and preventive maintenance plans that help metal fabricators keep their machines up and running. We help our customers produce more, minimize scrap and lower part cost.
All-In-One Solutions
BLM GROUP technologies are integrated in a single management suite that enables multi-level machine connectivity. For example, the new Prometheus Manufacturing Execution System (MES) actively collects data and provides insight into optimizing the workflow of connected machines on the shop floor. This allows processes to be visualized both statistically and through individual reports of actual machine usage on one screen. Through continuous analytics, the system provides data is provided that allows users to create a seamless workflow between the office and shop floor while maximizing machine efficiency — from any location.
These catered solutions eliminate semi-finished part storage, intermediate processes and secondary machining operations working in parallel, as well as errors resulting from the combined effect of several successive jobs. This results in an increase of competitiveness with technological integration by planning and monitoring all processes from a single point of management. The integration of these technologies working together ensures that part creation is done correctly from the start, minimizing scrap from trial and error.
Precision Perfected. Productivity Elevated.
BLM GROUP provides a comprehensive, tailor-made solution to meet the individual needs of metal fabricators. The company is dedicated to providing support and training for machines that produce parts of the highest quality.
Contact BLM GROUP USA Today at: (248) 560-0080 sales@blmgroupusa.com, www.blmgroup.com
Steel Warehouse, The Trusted Solution
Steel Warehouse, founded in 1947, is one of the top three carbon sheet and plate steel processors. It has 14 locations in the United States and two in Mexico and Brazil, with a total inventory exceeding 400,000 tons. We offer exceptional support for all our products to help customers improve quality and productivity and reduce costs.This support includes in-house metallurgists who are available to assist with material and design questions, along with inventory management, global shipping and justin-time (JIT) delivery to streamline customers’ operations.
Our steel processing capabilities are unmatched. Steel Warehouse is a global leader in temper passing with eight temper pass/cut-to-length lines — more than any other steel processor, and the only one with lines in Mexico and Brazil. Additional processing capabilities include sheet, coil, hot rolled pickled and oiled steel up to 2”, precision cold-rolled strip and plate, slitting and more.
Steel Warehouse is known in the industry for its reputation for integrity and its dedication to supporting customers in the manufacturing sector. Customers can count on us to uphold our promise to deliver the best solution for their operations — they’ll get the right steel when and where they need it.
Rosco Precision Machinery in Auburn, WA hosted a hands-on introduction and basic training field day into the realm of Dimensional Metrology. The event was enthusiastically attended by shop owners and QA technicians.
Rosco Managing Partner Nick Houghton launched the day’s activities by introducing presenter Bryan Muller, Rosco’s Metrology Engineer, who gave a brief and enlightening history of basic measurement tools beginning with the tape measure. My, how times have changed since micrometers, vernier calipers and height gauges!
The attendees divided into three groups and systematically rotated for hands-on experiences with the most advanced optical measurement formats available. Beginning with c-vision, a 2-D video contour projector from OPG. Then on to OPG’s E7 SmartScope, a 3-axis benchtop measurement system. Next was SmartScpoe 200 Flash, another of OPG’s benchtop offerings. This gem combines video, laser, and touch probe technology.
Following the morning’s rotations, the groups enjoyed lunch and a time of networking and sharing impressions. After lunch the groups took a deeper dive into the advanced technological inspection marvels.
The highlight of the day was a tutorial of OPG’s monster SmartScope M7 Benchtop 3D Multisensor Dimensional Measuring System. With an XYZ travel of 250 x 150 x 200mm and multisensor capabilities too numerous to describe in this space, there are no difficult to define features that can hide from this exceptional dimensional metrology tool!
All in all, A DAY TO Remember! If you would like to learn more about Rosco’s measurement metrology offerings, visit Rosco Precision Machinery at 4710 “B” St. NW, Unit 104, Auburn, WA 98001, or phone 253.333.2439 or go to www.roscoprecisionmachinery.com.
3D Plastics – Newburg, OR
By Stephen Hannemann
Nimble is the word that describes how 3D Plastics in Newberg, Oregon exceeds the pace of the region’s larger competitors. To enhance their edge in the local injection molding marketplace, 3D recently took delivery of their latest model, an all-electric molding machine.The new Sumitomo 130-ton press replaced the last of the original three machines that were hauled through the door 26 years ago!
accompanying bells and whistles will arrive. The enhancement accessories include a Whitman robot, an accompanying conveyor, and a die heater to achieve fully automated molding. Did I mention nimble?
In talking with owner and president, Kelly Dundas, I learned the fully functional original machine was given to another molding company that takes on 3D’s overflow work from time to time. This is typical of 3D’s philanthropic sense of community to the molding industry and the Newberg business environment at large.
3D Plastics will not shy away from a molding challenge that other molders have deemed too difficult.They vet every new opportunity carefully and will guide new customers to only a successful outcome. 3D has become a trusted plastic injection molded parts supplier to customers across the nation and around the world.
3D Plastics provides secondary service in house, including assembly, and custom packaging.They also source outside services when needed, such as painting, metalizing, pad printing and more. They are The OneStop-Shop for their loyal customer following.
In summary, the acquisition of this suite of new equipment will enable 3D to be more efficient and that equates to positive outcomes for their customers.Think nimble. When considering your next injection molding project, Remember 3D Plastics in Newberg, OR. Schedule
The new machine was up and running within days of hitting the floor, adding to the reputation of being nimble. In May the
As a leader in coating services for sporting goods, aftermarket automotive, cutlery, firearms and recently aerospace with a focus on low orbit satellite components, MASIC Industries is looking to expand our services to the desert SW and are looking to build relationships with local companies.
With Las Vegas being a potential central location, we would welcome any input from potential customers and would like to extend the invitation to contact us if MASIC Industries can be of any help with your coating application needs.
Chris Sicilia, chris@masicindustries.com , MASIC Industries
Phoenix Heat Treating Expands Capabilities to Better Serve Aerospace and Precision Machining Industries
Phoenix Heat Treating is proud to announce several exciting updates to our service offerings that reflect our ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers in aerospace, medical, and precision manufacturing.
Boiling Water Quench Now Available for Aluminum Forgings
We are now offering Boiling Water Quench processing for aluminum forgings.This specialized quench technique provides a controlled quench properties for certain aerospace aluminum alloys, improving consistency and minimizing distortion. This addition allows us to better support
customers requiring tight tolerance and high-performance components.
New 12-Foot Aging Furnace Under Construction
To further support the growth of the Swiss turning industry, Phoenix Heat Treating is building a new 12-foot-long aging furnace. Designed for maximum efficiency and uniformity, this furnace will operate in an air atmosphere with a temperature range of 900°F to 1400°F. It will provide expanded capacity for precipitation-hardened stainless steels, ensuring faster turnaround times and greater throughput for precision-machined parts.
Lower Minimum Lot Charges for H900 and H1025
In response to customer feedback and to support costeffective processing of small quantities, we have reduced the minimum lot charge for H900 and H1025 heat treatments to just $99 on select work.
This change is aimed at providing more accessible pricing for smaller batch runs while maintaining the same high standards of quality and performance.
Phoenix Heat Treating remains dedicated to innovation, precision, and customer satisfaction. These latest enhancements underscore our mission to be the most customer-centric heat treater in the country.
For more information, contact our sales team at Quote@phxht.com .
Signs of Recovery Seen in Machine Tool Demand
The latest monthly summary of machine tool orders shows U.S. machi ne shops and other manufacturers increased their capital investments to $389.9 million during February 2025, up 9.9% from January and up 12.5% from February 2024.The U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders report issued by AMT - the Assn. of Manufacturing Technology shows the two-month total for manufacturing technology orders in 2025 is $744.74 million, 8.8% higher than the January-February 2024 total.
“In addition to the uptick in the value of machinery ordered, unit sales have rebounded in 2025. For much of 2024, growth in the number of units sold lagged the increase in the total value of orders. That trend has reversed in 2025,” according to the summary statement by AMT.
The USMTO is a monthly summary of capital equipment purchases in order value and machine units, nationwide and in six regions. It serves as an indicator of future manufacturing activity because it quantifies machining operations’ investments in preparation for new production programs.
In particular, AMT noted the improved results in the value of orders from contract machine shops, the largest buying segment for manufacturing technology. Those operations’ February orders were up nearly 25% from January.
In contrast, AMT reported that aerospace manufacturers’ orders decreased “sharply” from January to February, although the number of units ordered rose “slightly.”
Between those two readings, AMT noted that manufacturers of electrical equipment nearly doubled the number of machines ordered during February, and yet the total value of their orders was about even with January’s result.
Whether the trend reversal AMT identified in the February data signals a long-anticipated, sustained recovery in demand is difficult to determine. AMT offered two alternative readings on the impact that widespread tariffs on imported products may have on demand for new machines: that businesses lowered stock valuations may reduce corporate earnings, and thus weaken business and consumer confidence; or, that businesses may choose to invest in new technology, in order to recover the profitability that may be lost due to reduced valuations.
GE Catalyst Turboprop Engine Gets FAA Nod
By Chad Trautvetter •
Powerplant is 18% more fuel efficient than others in the 1,200- to 1,400-shp class
GE Aerospace on Thursday announced that its Catalyst turboprop engine has received FAA certification, the culmination of a program involving more than 23 engines and some 190 component tests.The company said Catalyst is the first clean-sheet advanced turboprop of the 21st century, as well as the first to be certified to the latest Part 33 standards, which include more than 20 significant new requirements. Textron Aviation’s Beechcraft Denali turboprop single, which is expected to enter service this year, is the launch platform for the new GE engine.
“Certification of the Catalyst engine is a significant milestone for our company and a proud moment for all our team members who have dedicated their efforts to the design, development, and testing of this brand-new European turboprop engine,” said Riccardo Procacci, president and CEO for propulsion and additive technologies at GE Aerospace. “We are now fully committed to supporting the production ramp-up of the engine towards the entry into service in support of our customers.”
The engine was designed, developed, and manufactured at GE Aerospace sites in Europe, including Avio Aero in Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Germany.Test engines logged more than 8,000 hours during the certification process, GE said.
“Catalyst has been through a rigorous certification and testing process,” said Paul Corkery, Catalyst general manager at Avio Aero. “We are pleased with the performance of the engine throughout its ground and flight-test campaigns, and we remain fully focused on supporting Textron Aviation as they complete the certification process and prepare for entry into service of the Beechcraft Denali.”
According to GE, the engine’s 16:1 overall pressure ratio enables up to 18% better fuel consumption and up to 10% higher cruise power versus competing engines in the same 1,200- to 1,400-shp class. Catalyst also features stator vane and turbine blade components made via additive manufacturing.
X-66 Model Breezes Through
1st Wind Tunnel Tests
By Ekaterina Zygouras
Boeing’s X-66 Sustainable Flight Demonstrator recently completed two initial wind tunnel tests using models of the X-66.
Why it matters: Before a full-size demonstrator of the X-66 can fly, the airplane’s design needs to be validated using smaller models of the airplane.
The X-66 aims to revolutionize aviation with its transonic truss-braced wing design, potentially setting a new standard for sustainable air travel.
The design integrates extra-long wings stabilized by diagonal struts, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.
A semi-span X-66 model was tested at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley in its 11-Foot Transonic Unitary Plan Facility. The model underwent tests representing expected flight conditions to obtain engineering information to influence design of the wing and provide data for flight simulators.
The first was a low-speed test using a model of the X-66 with a nearly 6-foot wingspan at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.
The team captured measurements of forces such as lift and drag throughout many aerodynamic configurations and flight conditions.
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aircraft, underwent high-speed testing at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley.
Next, a semi-span model of the X-66, designed to represent half the
This test replicated expected flight conditions to obtain engineering information to influence design of the wing and provide data for flight simulators.
Semi-span tests take advantage of symmetry. The forces and behaviors on a model of half an aircraft mirror those on the other half. By using a larger half of the model, engineers increase the number of surface pressure measurements.
What’s next: The data from these tests informed any design adjustments necessary before advancing to additional tests.
A full-span model of the X-66 is currently undergoing high-speed wind tunnel testing at NASA’s Ames Research Center.
Gulfstream Deliveries, Revenues, and Earnings Soar in Q1
By Chad Trautvetter
First-quarter revenues at General Dynamics’ aerospace unit (Gulfstream Aerospace and Jet Aviation) climbed 45.2% year over year, to $3.026 billion, and earnings rocketed 69.4%, to $432 million. Meanwhile, aircraft deliveries at Gulfstream surged 50%, to 36 aircraft, General Dynamics reported today.
Gulfstream shipped 30 large-cabin jets, including 13 G700s, and six super-midsize G280s in the quarter, up from 21 large-cabin jets and three G280s in the same period last year. According to General Dynamics chairman and CEO Phebe Novakovic, Gulfstream is projected to deliver 150 aircraft this year. She also noted that the last G650s will be delivered by July, with the newly certified G800 succeeding the older model, though Novakovic did not disclose when the first G800 would be handed over to its customer.
Because of the ramp-up in deliveries, book-to-bill fell to 0.8:1, with aerospace backlog eroding by 4% from the end of 2024, to $18.99 billion. However, Novakovic pointed out that demand for Gulfstreams remains strong, particularly in the U.S. and Middle East, and the $2.4 billion in sales in the most recent three-month period matched that of the third quarter last year.
According to Novakovic, the supply chain is continuing to improve, with better component quality and less out-of-station work needed on the Gulfstream production lines. She largely avoided discussing how tariffs might affect the supply chain, but noted that Gulfstream jets have “large U.S. content” while acknowledging that the aerospace unit could be the most affected by tariffs of all divisions at General Dynamics.
Novakovic also gave a shout-out to business aviation FBO and MRO provider Jet Aviation, which saw aviation services revenues rise by 8% in the quarter while earnings jumped 22%.
Fix Manufacturing Extension Programs, Don’t Defund Them
The MEP, created during the Reagan administration to help small and mid-sized manufacturers improve productivity amid the rising threat of Japanese manufacturing, is not a household name. But across the country, it has quietly supported the small businesses that make up the heart of our industrial base.
Let’s be honest. The program has become inefficient. In Wisconsin, the administrative structure is a legacy of a workaround to federal rules, patched together to keep good people and institutions in the game. I chair the board of the Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing
TSMC and Intel May Join Forces for New Chipmaking Effort
New report hints that a new chipmaking partnership between Intel and TSMC could be announced soon.
Bridget McCrea
A new chipmaking effort by two electronics manufacturing powerhouses may be in the making. According to a report published by The Information last week—and widely covered by a range of media outlets—Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) have been working on a preliminary agreement to form a joint venture to operate the U.S. chipmaker’s factories.
Citing the report, TechRepublic says TSMC, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, will take a 20% stake in the joint venture by contributing chipmaking expertise and staff training to Intel. “TSMC will hold a 20% stake in the joint venture, contributing not cash, but value through sharing its chipmaking practices and training Intel staff,” the publication reports.
It goes on to say that rumors of a possible takeover of Intel emerged in February, with TSMC and Broadcom considering splitting the U.S. company’s manufacturing and design arms between them. “The following month, TSMC reportedly offered a share in its proposed acquisition of the chip foundries to NVIDIA and AMD, as well as Broadcom,” TechRepublic explains.
Supporting the Cause
The publication also says that President Trump supports TSMC’s involvement with Intel, and that he “encouraged TSMC to assist in pulling Intel out of its slump with a joint venture” and is keen on reviving the former U.S. manufacturing icon while strengthening domestic production.
In “TSMC Just Made a Bold Move That Could Save Intel,” Yahoo! Finance positions the prospective alliance as a “lifeline coming from an unlikely partner,” and says TSMC is stepping in to co-run Intel’s chip factories in exchange for the 20% stake in the new venture.
“The deal, still in its early stages, follows months of pressure from the White House to get the two rivals on the same page,” Yahoo! Finance states. “If it moves forward, this could mark a major turning point not just for Intel, but for the U.S. semiconductor industry’s push to regain relevance in the global chip race.”
TSMC isn’t just doing Intel a favor, the publication adds, it’s doubling down on its U.S. expansion. “The Taiwanese giant recently unveiled a $100 billion plan to build five new fabs in the U.S., and this Intel JV would give it even deeper roots,” it adds. “If this deal locks in, and if Intel can finally start shipping on time with TSMC at the helm, we may be looking at the start of one of the more
3D Plastics,
Precision Injection Molding Is What We Do!
3D can provide design assistance and work with existing products to produce them more economically.We are a ‘UL Certified’ molder offering low to high quantity production runs.
We produce many of our customer’s products with metal and plastic sub-components molded in. It is very common to use threaded inserts, bushings, contacts, and plastic substrates.
Us Today:
About a week after The Information unveiled the details of the new TSMCIntel partnership, Reuters reported that TSMC was threatened with a tax of up to 100% if it didn’t build new plants in the U.S.
“Speaking at a Republican National Congressional Committee event,” it says, “Trump criticized former President Joe Biden’s administration for providing a $6.6 billion grant to TSMC’s U.S. unit for semiconductor production in Phoenix, Arizona, saying semiconductor companies do not need the money.”
ANCA Academy: A New E-Learning Platform To Advance Expertise In Cutting Tool Production
Tailored, specialist training for every skill level, turning knowledge into productivity – one module at a time
ANCA CNC Machines launches ANCA Academy, a new e-Learning platform for their customers, designed to elevate skills in operating ANCA CNC machines and application software. Offering a mix of free and paid courses, ANCA Academy provides a professional platform to meet the needs of the
surprising tech turnarounds of the decade.”
And in Other News…
Simon Richardson, Global Technical Sales Support Manager, said: “At ANCA, we know how much our customers love to learn—our weekly Tool Tips prove it! With our machines and software being so powerful and versatile, continuous learning is key to unlocking their full potential. It is very true that you don’t know what you don’t know, but our structured e-learning modules mean that highly trained and proficient users can push boundaries, boost productivity, and take their capabilities even further.We are helping our customers learn more to grind smarter!”
ANCA Academy provides comprehensive training programmes that not only enhance individual competencies but also deliver measurable benefits for businesses. According to an IBM study*, employees trained via eLearning can increase productivity by 25%. By equipping teams with advanced skills, companies can expect improved machine efficiency, reduced downtime, enhanced production quality, and minimised operational errors.
The ANCA Academy e-Learning Platform features courses tailored to a wide range of roles and skill levels. From foundational modules for beginners to advanced technical training for seasoned professionals, the courses cover essential topics in CNC machine operation, programming, and application software. This ensures that every participant, regardless of their experience levels, gains valuable, actionable knowledge.
Flexible Learning Options to Suit Every Need
• Subscription Models: Provides comprehensive access to a full suite of courses for ongoing professional growth.
Access to the ANCA Academy e-Learning Platform is available exclusively through the customer portal - ANCA Club, ensuring a secure and dedicated learning environment. Membership provides seamless access to the platform, allowing learners to progress at their own pace with continuous support.
• Free I ntroductory Cour ses: Perfect f or those new to CNC machining or ANCA software.
• Single-Course Purchases: Ideal for targeted skill development.
Upon successful completion of courses, participants will receive ANCA Academy certifications, validating their expertise and contributing to their professional development.
For more information and to register, visit: https://bit.ly/4hOuzo1
YOU KNOW THE DRILL
But Do You Know The Methods?
High Touch Sales, Engineering, Service, & Software
RoboDrills make quick work out of any MILLING, DRILLING OR TAPPING jobs.
RELIABILITY has also been addressed in all areas of the machine design. Coupled with the latest FANUC 31 i -B5 PLUS CONTROL , the ROBODRILL IS THE PREFERRED MACHINE IN ANY MANUFACTURING FACILITY .
4 Ways Procurement Teams Can Support Sustainability
Procurement departments are solidifying their roles as essential drivers of organizational ESG success.
Today’s procurement departments do a lot more than just secure the best possible price and delivery times for goods and services. In fact, they’re increasingly recognized as pivotal drivers of their organizations’ sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives.
“While the bottom line remains the main focus for procurement organizations,” the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) states, “investments toward [ESG] goals are increasingly becoming key components of corporate strategies.”
Smart companies are making their procurement teams a part of these conversations and enlisting their help in advancing their organizational sustainability goals. Decisions about which suppliers to engage, what materials to source and how goods are transported, for example, all directly influence a company’s carbon emissions, waste generation and adherence to ethical labor practices. By integrating sustainability criteria into the procurement process ,
organizations can make substantial strides towards their ESG goals. Here are four strategies procurement departments can use to champion and support sustainability within their own organizations:
1. Build a business case for sustainable procurement. Factor in your organization’s needs, priorities, values, resources and stakeholder requirements. Next, procurement analytics provider Sievo recommends pinpointing specific focus areas and priorities. “Ensure that management, procurement, sustainability and compliance teams agree on the business case and benefits,” it adds, and ask yourself these questions:
Ellison Technologies is a provider of advanced machining solutions to North American metal-cutting manufacturers and their global affiliates.
As a family of companies we are committed to the survival and growth of the American manufacturing industry. Independent offices provide us a local market focus and the flexibility to advocate the needs of each of our valued customers.
Our priority is to introduce technologies that strengthen our customers’ ability to compete in the markets they serve. Whether the solution involves a stand alone machine, multi-process equipment, or an integrated manufacturing system with robotic automation, our goal remains the same; to optimize throughput and quality at the lowest per-part manufacturing cost.
Our team of engineers, equipment and automation specialists, and project management professionals, are dedicated to helping manufacturers get the most from their technology investments. Service and parts engineers provide post-installation support aimed at optimizing machine availability, productivity, and cost of ownership.
The Ellison Way
MILL S & THRILLS
The versatile VMC lineup at DN Solutions is enough to get anyone excited.
The lineup of vertical machining centers at DN Solutions is versatile, compact and born to make incredible parts for as long as you need them to.
Get your ideal VMC, then get ready for the vertical leap. Talk to your local DN distributor or visit dn-solutions.com. DEM: entry-level par t producer
We strive to make every customer worldcompetitive. Whether our customer competes globally or not, Ellison Technologies brings its full mastery of advanced manufacturing technology to provide the most comprehensive and productive solutions the industry has to offer.
Collaboration You Can Count On
Whenever you add a new technology, there’s bound to be a learning curve. At Ellison Technologies, we act as an extension of your operation as you get up to speed. If you have any questions – whether before, during or after the machine install – we’re here to help you identify the best way to do things.
SVM: swift and strong
DNM: global best seller
BVM: premium powerhouse
(866) 567-2580
www.ellisontechnologies.com |
Expertise You Won’t Find Elsewhere
There are Ellison branches all over the United States, and all of our employees bring experience (and a willingness to share it) that’s simply unmatched. No matter how new your machining adventure is to you, we’ve seen it, and we’ve solved for it already. It’s a welcome dose of peace of mind as your journey begins.
A Competitive Advantage That Lasts
Our mission is clear: at Ellison, we equip American manufacturers to compete and win, both locally and globally. If you can’t shake the feeling that there’s a better way to do things, we are ready to help you increase quality and efficiency, win more work and increase your profits.
For more information on Ellison Technologies contact them at: 866-567-2580, www.ellisontechnologies.com
Doosan Machine Tools is now
Contracts
Heil Trailer International LLC, Gatesville, Texas, is awarded a $49,118,320 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for M870A2-Off-Road suspension upgrade engineering change proposal (ECP) to support the Marine Corps (USMC) medium and heavy tactical vehicles (MHTV). The contract provides for MHTV’s requirement to procure, produce and integrate the M870A2-OR suspension upgrade ECP solution onto the USMC M870A2-S Medium Heavy Equipment Transporter. Integration of the suspension upgrade solution will be applied to approximately 200 USMC provided M870 transporters with the capability to line-haul heavy equipment with payloads up to 37.5 tons on and off-road in accordance with the M870 specifications. Work will be performed in Gatesville, Texas, with an expected completion date of April 2030. The maximum dollar value including all ordering years is $49,118,320. No funds will be obligated at time of award. Funds will be obligated on individual delivery orders as they are issued. Fiscal 2023, 2024, and 2025 procurement (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $7,496,624 are being obligated at the delivery order level. Contract funds in the amount of $1,244,010 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year and $6,252,614 will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was a competitive acquisition via SAM.gov and through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment Solicitation module with two proposals received. Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Virginia, is the contracting activity (M67854-25-D-0012).
Fuse Integration Inc.,* San Diego, California, is awarded a $34,844,153 cost-plus-fixed-fee order (N0042125F0484) against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0042122G1002). This order provides for the delivery and demonstration of beyond line of site mesh networks and the tactical edge networking targeting in a contested long-range environment advanced network architecture solution for experimentation and developmental test events and fleet exercises in support of various platforms and configurations in assessing interoperability and resiliency with mesh networks for the Air Force. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Maryland (22.6%); China Lake, California (17%); Point Mugu, California (10.1%); Washington, D.C. (8.5% ); Naval Air Station Fallon, California (8.5%); Camp Pendleton, California (8.5%); Melbourne, Florida (5.6%); Shreveport, Louisiana (5.6%); Joint Base Pearl Harbor, Hickman, Hawaii (3.4%); Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma (3.4%); Dyess AFB, Texas (3.4%); Andersen AFB, Guam (1.7%); and Anchorage, Alaska (1.7%), and is expected to be completed in April 2030. Fiscal 2024 research development, test and evaluation (Air Force) funds in the amount of $1,129,754 will be obligated at the time of award, all of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contact action was not competed. Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.
Aircraft Wheel and Brake LLC, Avon, Ohio, has been awarded a maximum $11,673,740 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract for wheel assembly mains. This was a sole-source acquisition using justification 10 U.S. Code 3204 (a)(1), as stated in Federal Acquisition
2033. This contract was a competitive acquisition, and four offers were received. Fiscal 2025 space procurement funds in the amount of $75,922,000 will be obligated in the first order year for launch service support and fleet surveillance task orders.The Space Systems Command, Assured Access to Space, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California, is the contracting activity (FA8811-25-D-B002).
United Launch Services LLC, Centennial, Colorado, was awarded a $5,366,439,406 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery requirements contract for the National Security Space Launch Phase 3 Lane 2 launch service procurement. This contract provides launch services, mission unique services, mission acceleration, quick reaction/anomaly resolution, special studies, launch service support, fleet surveillance, and early integration studies/mission analysis.Work will be performed in Centennial, Colorado; Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida; Kennedy Space Center, Florida; and Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, and is expected to be completed by April 2033.This contract was a competitive acquisition, and four offers were received. Fiscal 2025 space procurement funds in the amount of $75,922,000 will be obligated in the first order year for launch service support and fleet surveillance task orders.The Space Systems Command, Assured Access to Space, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California, is the contracting activity (FA8811-25-D-B003).
Blue Origin LLC, Merritt Island, Florida, was awarded a $2,386,234,812 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery requirements contract for the National Security Space Launch Phase 3 Lane 2 launch service
procurement. This contract provides launch services, mission unique services, mission acceleration, quick reaction/anomaly resolution, special studies, launch service support, fleet surveillance, and early integration studies/mission analysis. Work will be performed in Merritt Island, Florida; Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida; Kennedy Space Center, Florida; and Vandenberg Space Force Base, California; and is expected to be completed by April 2033. This contract was a competitive acquisition, and four offers were received. Fiscal 2025 space procurement funds in the amount of $59,255,000 will be obligated in the first order year for launch service support.The Space Systems Command, Assured Access to Space, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California, is the contracting activity (FA8811-25-D-B005).
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Arizona, was awarded a $117,066,704 firm-fixed-price modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-25-C-5409) to exercise an option and provide funding for manufacturing, assembly, test and delivery of Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) Tactical All-Up Rounds in support of full rate production requirements. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona (35%); East Camden, Arkansas (35%); Wolverhampton, United Kingdom (8%); Elma, New York (3%); Middletown, Ohio (3%); Anniston, Alabama (2%); and various other locations each less than 2% (2%), and is expected to be completed by April 2029. Fiscal 2025 weapons procurement (Navy) funding in the amount of $117,066,704 was obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
CJ Precision Machine, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of critical parts for a wide variety of industries, including aerospace, semiconductor, medical, solar, food processing, aviation, automotive, and motorsports.
From our vertical machining centers, to our state-of-the art 5-axis mills and 7-axis lathes, we provide superior customer satisfaction from prototype to production.
CJ provides superior customer satisfaction through flexible and dependable service with timely turn-around.
Our precision manufacturing includes working with both plastics and metals in our 9,500 square foot facility in Boise, Idaho. Our machinists have more than 140 years of experience and all manufactured parts are inspected by quality control.
CJ can provide finishing including anodizing, powder-coating, chromate, various types of electro-plating, and many others as required by our customers.
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U.S. Manufacturers Face A Pivotal Year As Tariffs, Labor Shortages Reshape Industry
By Andy Medici
That’s because the textile manufacturer, which traces its beginnings to 1865, has survived the massive offshoring of American manufacturing in the 1980s and 1990s and a two-year shutdown of its operations before being brought back to life by a group of investors and relaunching in early 2020 — only to immediately hit the teeth of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It really has come down to one simple thing, which is to invest,” CEO Ross Widmoyer said in an interview. “We will never be the cheapest blanket but we do believe we will be the absolute best blanket. And indeed, if we were not, we would have been out of business a long time ago.”
The investment in Faribault Mill meant millions of dollars being spent on new machinery capable of producing a greater range of products. It also meant raising employees’ starting wage from $12 per hour to $16 per hour, and strengthening both the company’s e-commerce sales and its retail footprint. Faribault Mill also brought back retired workers to help launch old equipment while working hard to bring on a new generation of younger workers.
It all added up to the company making a big bet on blankets, scarves and throws that can cost more than $200 at a time when Temu, Wish and Amazon have pushed increasingly cheaper products shipped from overseas.
Faribault Mill views the fact that its products are 100% made in America as a source of strength at a time when there is bipartisan support for bolstering American manufacturing and President Donald Trump’s moves to impose broad tariffs on imported goods.
“It’s the one issue that has bipartisan support — for more manufacturing in America. I do think that’s good for business,” Widmoyer said. “As far as tariffs, I’m not too concerned about it. Not only do we make our products here, but most of our supply chain is based here in the United States.”
For American manufacturers, 2025 is shaping up to be a crucial time. It’s being buttressed by the tailwinds of massive investments from the CHIPS Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act but beset by uncertainty from both existing and planned tariffs and a growing trade war as the Trump administration seeks to bolster at least some domestic-manufacturing efforts.
“2025 is a pivotal year for the manufacturing industry in the U.S., with widespread repercussions for the rest of the world,” said Chirag Rathi, senior director of industry and solution strategy for manufacturing at software and services provider Infor. “Manufacturing in 2025 is undergoing a period of great change, driven by a strategic combination of tariffs and incentives aimed at boosting competitiveness.”
Mixed economic signals
Total construction spending on manufacturing projects has soared in recent years. It hovered around $80 billion on a monthly basis in the years leading up to the pandemic. Since 2022, that sum has grown to $238 billion, where it has largely plateaued in recent months.
Total manufacturing employment stands at about 12.7 million — down slightly after reaching 12.9 million in 2023 following the depths of the Covid-19 pandemic, but still higher than at any time since the Great Recession pummeled manufacturing employment.
Recent industry signs are mixed, with the Institute for Supply Management’s Manufacturing Purchasing Mangers’ Index falling to 50.3 in February, down from 50.9 in January and slightly below forecasts. It does, however, mark a rebound from lows near 47 last summer. The New Orders Index also has rebounded from 2024, growing to more than 55.1 in January before sliding back in February, to 48.6.
“The upside is the revival of domestic manufacturing through reshoring. The downside is the availability of labor: The U.S. will be short of 3 million workers in the next three years in a medium- to high-growth scenario,” Rathi said. “The risk is if the short-term supply chain challenges cascade into a full-blown recession. American consumer confidence is key. It will need to get us through the short-term tariffrelated disruption period.”
“Companies that cannot quickly adapt — either by restructuring their supply chains, renegotiating vendor agreements or adjusting pricing strategies — will struggle to remain competitive,” Grimes said. “Shifting away from international suppliers is not a short-term fix. It requires significant time, investment and logistics restructuring.”
Manufacturers are deeply concerned about tariffs, with “trade uncertainties” surging to the top of challenges cited by the industry, according to the National Association of Manufacturers first-quarter outlook, with 76% citing trade as a challenge, compared to 56% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Still, about 70% of companies said they felt positive about their financial outlook, down only slightly from 71% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Manufacturers surveyed said they expect the prices they pay for raw materials to rise 5.5% over the next year, while their own prices would increase 3.6% over the next year, the highest level since the third quarter of 2022, when inflation was near its peak.
The survey was conducted prior to sweeping tariffs announced by the Trump administration in March and early April.
While prices are expected to go up, the job market has seen a slowdown as wage growth slows and job openings drop. Manufacturing eked out 10,000 new jobs in February, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but that was preceded by months of losses.
“Manufacturing faces a very uncertain future, and job growth in the sector has been stalled for the past 30 months,” said Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul in a statement. “We believe that a responsible and orderly application of new tariffs, particularly on China and other countries with persistent unfair trade practices, will ultimately grow job opportunities in the United States.”
Tom Kohm, CEO of Premier Equipment Inc., which sells Computer Numerical Control machines for manufacturers, said he would describe 2025 as a “renaissance with growing pains,” where momentum exists even as companies struggle to find the right workers with the right skills.
“Threats to the supply chain loom over us, too — even as some manufacturers have decided to bring operations back to the States, in part to lessen the dependence on plants located overseas,” Kohm said. “And now, with inflation, energy prices and wages spiraling upward, a good number of manufacturers are feeling that pinch in their profit margins.”
operates the facility as a joint venture with Lufthansa Technik. “XEOS features a state-ofthe-art test cell, a modern clean-and-inspect line, advanced repair capability, and a training center,” says Stone. “We’ve designed it with all of our latest GE Aerospace technology, using FLIGHT DECK and the best lean practices and principles.”
One of the most respected names in MRO, Lufthansa Technik is also a licensed CFM LEAP Premier MRO provider. This means they compete in an open MRO ecosystem with CFM and third-party shops whose Premier MRO status signifies CFM’s highest level of training and support — and provides access to proprietary overhaul and repair technology. “They’re named Premier MRO providers because they’re the best and most well-respected in the industry,” Stone explains.
In the open MRO ecosystem, airlines select shops based on overhaul work scope, repair capability, location, engine induction slot availability, turnaround times, and pricing. In this way, Lufthansa Technik won work from LOT Polish Airlines for the Polish flag carrier’s CFM LEAP-1B engines, which it chose to induct at XEOS. At the facility’s inaugural ceremony, members of Lufthansa Technik, LOT Polish Airlines, and the Polish government celebrated the commitments that XEOS represents, both to the aviation industry and to Poland, where GE Aerospace is assembling a skilled aerospace workforce.
Precious Metals Plating Co.,
Building on this good news, CFM announced its sixth Premier MRO provider at MRO Americas this week: MTU Maintenance Dallas, which will also service GEnx engines through a GE Aerospace branded service agreement (GBSA). Through this new partnership, MTU Maintenance will conduct performance restoration shop visits and industrialize extensive repair capabilities for CFM LEAP-1A and -1B engines, and for GEnx-1B engines — serving operators of Airbus A320neo family, Boeing 737 MAX, and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft around the world.
“They were chosen because of their demonstrated capabilities in overhaul and repair,” Stone says of MTU Maintenance. “They’ve got deeper roots than most other MRO shops around the world.”
It has been a little more than 50 years since GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines founded the joint company to produce the CFM56 engine, which clocked its one-billionth flight hour in 2019. Now the CFM LEAP engine, which is 15% more fuel-efficient and much quieter than
Gold Plating
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Nickel Plating + Electroless Nickel Plating + Tin Plating + Heat Treat With Plate + Nadcap Approved Processes + Boeing Approved Processes + Expedited Turnaround + X-ray Fluorescence Thickness Verification
+ In-House Laboratory With Atomic Absorption (AA) + Expanded Capacity In Vibratory Plating
the CFM56 engine, is well on its way to matching, and possibly eclipsing, its predecessor. CFM’s new investments — in MRO facilities, in MRO partners, and in an open MRO ecosystem — are all designed to uphold the company’s proud traditions: driving down cost of ownership, supporting higher residual values, and maintaining industry-leading asset utilization.
Hydrogen Fueled Gas Turbines
While the effort to reduce carbon emissions from traditional power generation assets is driving an increase in renewable power production from renewables, hydrogen-ready gas turbines could also play a role. See how GE is leading the charge. Decarbonizing
One stop turnkey solutions by the
info.america@chiron-group.com
GE Vernova gas turbines have experience operating on fuels with hydrogen content ranging from 5% (by volume) up to 100%.
More experience in more places
JX Advanced Metals USA has more than 125 employees. The company previously announced plans to hire 100 additional workers by 2025, and officials told the Business Journal in 2022 it could develop equally sized phases on its Mesa site in the future, depending upon market demand. By Amy Edelen – Phoenix Business Journal
ASU lands $100 million CHIPS Act grant for advanced packaging research project
According to the latest McCoy Power Report, GE Vernova has more experience running gas turbines on hydrogen than any other OEM. In total, GE Vernova has 120+ gas turbines supporting power generation with hydrogen and associated fuels around the world. GE Vernova has combustion technologies that are capable of operating on a wide range of hydrogen concentrations up to ~100% (by volume). Converting a gas turbine to a hydrogen turbine
Arizona State University has landed a multimillion-dollar federal grant to accelerate advanced packaging research and development for the semiconductor industry.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology — part of the U.S. Department of Commerce — announced Thursday it plans to award ASU a CHIPS Act grant up to $100 million to support the SHIELD USA initiative, a project led by a university research team and Deca Technologies, a Tempe-based advanced packaging technology provider.
ecosystem of new advanced packaging service providers — or interconnect foundries — centered on molded core substrate and fan-out wafer-level packaging technologies, according to a university announcement.
In addition to differences in the combustion properties of hydrogen and natural gas, it’s also important to consider the impact to all gas turbine systems, as well as the overall balance of plant. In a power plant (or cogeneration plant) with one or more hydrogen-fueled turbines, changes may be needed to the fuel accessories, bottoming cycle components, and plant safety systems. GE Vernova’s broad field experience enables our engineers to understand the impact of using hydrogen as a gas turbine fuel.
SHIELD USA’s team is led by Jason Conrad, chief operating officer of the Southwest Advanced Prototyping Hub and Craig Bishop, chief technology officer of Deca Technologies.
As gas turbines are inherently fuel-flexible, they can be configured to operate on green hydrogen or similar fuels as a new unit, or be upgraded even after extended service on traditional fuels, i.e. natural gas.The scope of the required modifications to configure a gas turbine to operate on hydrogen depends on the initial configuration of the gas turbine and the overall balance of plant, as well as the desired hydrogen concentration in the fuel.
“To bring substrate manufacturing back to the U.S., we need to change the game. More than incremental progress, we need 10X breakthroughs,” Bishop said in a statement. “This is a fantastic example of a university working in close partnership with industry to drive innovation, and we’re excited to partner so closely with ASU and to collaborate with leading industry players in this effort to reestablish technology leadership.”
The use of hydrogen as a gas turbine fuel has been demonstrated commercially, but there are differences between natural gas and hydrogen that must be taken into account to properly and safely use hydrogen in a gas turbine. With decades of experience running our entire fleet of gas turbines on varying levels of hydrogen—and with a path towards running on 100% hydrogen—GE Vernova has mastered operating hydrogen safely.
SHIELD USA will spur creation of a domestic
Upgrade your power plant with H2 capability
Project will be based on ASU campus
The project will be based at ASU’s MacroTechnology Works — home to the Advanced Electronics and Photonics Core Facility — where researchers will explore the commercial viability of 300 mm wafer-level and 600 mm panel-level manufacturing, a technology that does not yet exist as a commercial capability in the U.S.
GE Vernova’s hydrogen combustion technology allows power plants to decarbonize their existing gas turbines by implementing system modifications which can enable them to run on a wide range of hydrogen concentrations up to ~100% by volume.The retrofitting process involves upgrades which can ensure safe and reliable operation.With our extensive experience in running gas turbines on hydrogen, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to support the power industry’s transition toward a lowercarbon future.
CHIRON Group
The Manufacturer’s Secret Weapon
Manufacturing One Stop Shop
By Stephen Hannemann
Being in manufacturing both on the bench and in sales for 65 years, it takes a bit to get me excited. I am delighted to devote my page this month to Rosco Precision Machinery, a gem of a supplier of machine tools and the most advanced inspection and measurement systems. The genesis of my excitement was attending a day at Rosco learning about Dimensional Metrology. See the Rosco PR on page, 7. This article is devoted to Rosco, the company that delivers manufacturing solutions for every conceivable industry. Just to name a few:
• Aerospace
• Military
• Medical
• Agriculture
Founded in 2003, Rosco has experienced vertical growth by offering solid and reliable equipment. The Rosco customer list is as long as it is varied with over 750 satisfied customers spanning four states across the Pacific Northwest. In addition to their five full-time, in-house sales staff, Rosco also has sales and support boots on the ground in Oregon,Washington, and Idaho, and additional support in Montana. Rosco customers can be confident they are in good hands!
Whether your machining manufacturing needs are large or small Rosco has your solution. From a knee mill or a tool room lathe to bridge mills and full-on turning centers for high output and large ongoing aerospace applications, this one-stop-shop has it all. Rosco offers 3 axis, double spindle, and 5 axis milling machines, and supplies manual lathes, 2 axis through multi axis turning options. The Rosco list of machine suppliers covers all bases for every conceivable application – Sharp, Acer, Hurco, TRAK machine tools, SMEC, Takumi – all trusted names in the machining industry.
Quality control? Once again, your one-stopshop. Rosco has a 20year relationship with OGP, the most respected name in quality control and inspection circles. Rosco offers the full spectrum of OGP inspection beginning with the granddaddy FlexPoint Series CMMs.
From there your options are nearly limitless, depending on your application requirements: the SmartScope Series Multisensor Measurement Systems, Fixed Optics Systems, Video Measurement Systems, and Optical Comparators. There is no QA challenge Rosco cannot accommodate!
Want to run lights-out? Automate! Rosco can help enhance your shop’s production and profitability by adding a ProCobot to your machining centers. Consider streamlining your production while reducing your labor costs. Consult with the Rosco sales team today to schedule a ProCobot consultation and installation.Your return on investment could happen faster than you thought possible!
It has been my pleasure to introduce you to Rosco Precision Machinery and Nick Houghton, Managing Partner, and any one of the staff sales team!
Rosco Precision Machinery, 4710 “B” St. NW, Unit 104, Auburn, WA 98001 Phone 253.333.2439 or visit www.roscoprecisionmachinery.com.
For more information regarding SMH INC Injection Molding, Sand and Investment Casting, Fast Turn Around 5-Axis Machining and Metal Fabrication,
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