Angling Ai: Technology Implementation Increases Efficiency & Profitability
Angling Ai operates as a family. My goal is to continuously move this company forward, invest in my employees’ skills, and offer the best products. MMTC has helped Angling Ai do that.
-- Josh Clark, President
Angling Ai (www.anglingai.com) is the leading manufacturer of premium aluminum molds for soft plastic fishing lures. Since formed in 2010, this e-commerce-focused production company has been offering high-quality molds for anglers to craft their own unique quality fishing lures all over the world. In 2023, Angling Ai’s aluminum molds were named one of the “Coolest Things Made in Michigan” by the Michigan Manufacturers Association. Angling Ai’s 15,000 sq. ft. facility is in Jackson, Mich. and employs 8.
Challenge
Dedicated to his employees and business, Angling Ai’s Founder and President, Josh Clark, had been considering implementing technology into his production processes for a few years. To reduce repetition and increase production, he knew he was on the path to technology adoption but wanted direction on how to successfully move forward and access available resources.
Solution
With a mentality of doing more with less and a goal to grow profitability, Angling Ai reached out to Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) for guidance on the technology process. MMTC’s experts conducted a Technology Opportunity Assessment, which was able to generate a summary report outlining opportunities for business improvement and increased efficiency through the adoption of various technologies. One of the recommendations was the purchase and installation of a robotically tended machining center.
This AWR VBX 160 Load and Go technology, which was paired with an advanced OKUMA vertical milling center, allowed for the handling of various part types without the need for complex robot programming. In less than a day, Angling Ai’s staff were trained on the new technology. This made it a user-friendly automation solution for Angling Ai’s high-mix, low-volume production environment. This technology investment, with assistance from available grant funding, allowed Angling Ai to build up stock and transition from a one-shift production process to a three-shift, lights-out operation.
Results
- New Sales: $230,000
- New Investment: $300,000
- Retained Employees: 8