Proud to Manufacture in Michigan? Yes We Are!

BY: MICHAEL MCGRAY

For decades, Michigan’s manufacturers have played a vital role in our state’s economic development. In 2012, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) wanted to honor the diverse contributions of our state’s manufacturers by starting a Proud to Manufacture in Michigan (PTMIM) campaign. Participating manufacturers were invited to display a Proud to Manufacture poster in their facilities and received a complimentary profile page in a special directory. Due to the positive response to the campaign, the official Proud to Manufacture in Michigan program was launched soon after.

Today, with nearly 650 members, the PTMIM program has become a valuable resource for Michigan manufacturers to network with other companies that support or provide services to manufacturers. Besides the added exposure, PTMIM members can gain access to critical information that pertains to the manufacturing community including: cybersecurity preparedness, ISO standards, technology trends, lean principles and more. In every aspect, the goal is to continue to raise awareness of Michigan’s vibrant manufacturing community and the full range of products made in our state.

All members receive an official “Proud to Manufacture in Michigan” certificate and poster to display in their facilities and the program logo to exhibit on their websites. Through generous support of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, PTMIM membership and benefits are free.

PTMIM dedicates a section of its website to an online directory for manufacturers and their products. State manufacturers can sign up for free to get a company profile page where they can share their logo, description, contact information, company news and pictures or videos of their products. Both the general public and businesses looking for suppliers can use this helpful directory to research Michigan-made products and support our state’s economy. A special “Featured Manufacturer of the Week” is highlighted on the website and social media sites.

The LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter platforms allow followers to conveniently interact, ask questions and stay current with industry news. The PTMIM program recently launched a blog on its website to invite subscribers to support the objectives of the program by sharing their expertise and establishing themselves as subject matter experts.

PTMIM also partners with meaningful groups such as The Shop Rat Foundation—a non-profit organization whose mission is to ignite interest in manufacturing careers among youth. Plus, PTMIM advocates for volunteer opportunities such as mentoring. Initiatives like these help the next generation learn about the numerous manufacturing opportunities in Michigan.

Are You Proud to Manufacture in the Great Lakes State? 
Join Proud to Manufacture in Michigan today! Click here.

In other PTMIM news, The Center is pleased to host the following event in May: Proud to Manufacture in Michigan “Makers Mingle”

In celebration of Michigan manufacturing, PTMIM members will attend an expert-led event focused on manufacturing resources, upcoming industry trends and requirements that may impact business. Special guest and member, Christie Wong Barrett from the Mac Arthur Corporation, will be among the speakers.

Friday, May 12, 2017
9 AM – NOON
The Center
45501 Helm St.
Plymouth, MI

For more information, click here.


MEET OUR EXPERT

Michael McGray, Information Systems Manager
Michael McGray is a founding member of Proud to Manufacture in Michigan and currently serves as its Program Director. He has more than 20 years of experience in the IT industry. Since 2011, Michael has been The Center’s Information Systems Manager. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Eastern Michigan University.

Since 1991, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center has assisted Michigan’s small and medium-sized businesses to successfully compete and grow. Through personalized services designed to meet the needs of clients, we develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence and foster creative strategies for business growth and greater profitability. Find us at www.the-center.org.