A manufacturer association is a team of professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge. Industrial manufacturing organizations are a source of support and an opportunity for professionals in the industry to network with each other. Groups maintain the spirit of shared learning and volunteerism and strive to maintain a high performing manufacturing presence in North America. This performance is vital to the economic strength of the continent.

The concept of a manufacturing organization is synonymous with a community of mentoring relationships. Company leaders are given access to educational opportunities through events and networking. You get up-to-date information on new and developing technologies in the manufacturing environment. As a result, your professional development is enhanced. Consider the following:

1. Use an industrial manufacturers association to network and grow as a professional.

2. Evaluate different membership dues and levels to join industrial manufacturing trade associations.

3. Take advantage of educational and other industry tools and opportunities.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get involved with industrial manufacturer organizations to network and learn from peers

Industrial manufacturing organizations consist of international, statewide and local groups or organizations. The goal of these organizations is the same: to develop and implement programs that benefit the industry.

I recommend: The Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) is a manufacturer association dedicated to helping companies improve and excel. Events and networks are taught by professionals who have been there and want to share their ideas. In addition, AME offers a forum where industry professionals can blog with each other on industry topics, discuss upcoming events and share feedback on past conferences. Fabricators & Manufacturers Association (FMA) provides the resources and tools needed to improve operations. FMA brings the fabricating and metal forming community together through volunteer opportunities, networking session and award programs. Sign up online for FMA technical programs that allow you to build a network and exchange ideas.

Expect to pay dues to belong to a manufacturing organization

Industrial manufacturing professional associations' dues will range based on the membership level you choose.

I recommend: Forging Industry Educational and Research Foundation (FIERF) promotes research and development, fund technology development and technical education. Become a member by filling out a membership application. Dues will depend on the annual value of forgings produced. The Association For Manufacturing Technology (AMT) promotes the interests of providers of manufacturing equipment and machinery. To be a member, firms must produce at least one product line of power driven manufacturing machinery within the US. Register online for membership.

Benefit from industrial manufacturing associations' educational tools and industry resources

When you join industrial manufacturing organizations, you get access to many career development tools such as magazines, business reports, a career center, courses and seminars. Increase your knowledge, advance your skills and boost your career in no time with these valuable resources.

I recommend: National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is a manufacturing association that offers cutting-edge multimedia and interactive virtual learning tools and courses. National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) is considered the national representative of the custom precision manufacturing industry in the US. NTMA offers its professionals reports, services, insurance, job boards and events. Take advantage of business management advisories, safety resource centers and a job board online. Request information on testing out the tools, resources and other benefits provided by NTMA before joining.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look through all facets of industrial manufacturing associations before joining. Some focus more on advocacy while others focus on improving technology. Make sure you find the right one for your professional needs. Most will allow you to try tools and resources out before becoming a member to see if the organization is the right one for you.