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	<title>News &#8211; Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</title>
	<atom:link href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/category/news/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
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	<description>To advocate for the growth and sustainability of the North American metal processing, forming, and fabricating industries.</description>
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		<title>AK Tube LLC Receives the 2018 Rusty Demeules Award</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/04/19/2018-rusty-demeules-award</link>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2018 14:29:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nancy Hatten]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CNA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[membership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rusty Demeules]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety Awards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety Conference]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18538</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Rusty Demeules Award Recognizes an Organization with Commitment to Excellence in Safety The Fabricators &#38; Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) and CNA announced AK Tube LLC of Columbus, Ind., as the winner of the 2018 Rusty Demeules Award for Safety Excellence. The award is presented annually by FMA, sponsored by CNA and created by FMA’s Safety Council to recognize a company ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/04/19/2018-rusty-demeules-award">AK Tube LLC Receives the 2018 Rusty Demeules Award</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Rusty Demeules Award Recognizes an Organization with Commitment to Excellence in Safety</strong></h2>
<p>The Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) and CNA announced <a href="http://www.aktube.com/">AK Tube LLC</a> of Columbus, Ind., as the winner of the 2018 <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/membership/safety-awards">Rusty Demeules Award for Safety Excellence</a>. The award is presented annually by FMA, sponsored by CNA and created by FMA’s Safety Council to recognize a company with a demonstrated safety culture. The award is named in honor of Rusty Demeules, an outstanding volunteer contributor who made significant contributions to FMA while serving as the President of its Safety Committee from its inception in 1989 until 1996.<span id="more-18538"></span></p>
<p>“FMA is pleased to present the Rusty Demeules Safety Award to AK Tube,” said Edward Youdell, President and Chief Executive Officer, FMA. “Beginning with its formal safety orientation program for new employees, dedicated record keeping, ongoing management commitment and the CEO’s signature on its safety policy, it’s clear AK Tube is a worthy recipient of this award.”</p>
<p>AK Tube LLC converts flat rolled steel into round tubes to be used in a range of applications. Their safety plan reflects the safety plan of its parent company, AK Steel.</p>
<p>Management commitment is evident within the program. Supervisors and managers conduct monthly toolbox meetings and participate in monthly safety meetings which have been converted into a game format which the employees enjoy. In addition to classroom training, the new hire on-boarding program includes hands-on training, which allows employees to experience their job without the expectations of production. Each new employee also receives OSHA 10-hour training, as well as environmental, quality and production training.</p>
<p>“We are proud to sponsor the Rusty Demeules Award and are very proud to recognize AK Tube as the 2018 Rusty Demeules Award recipient for their conscious work to create a culture of safety,” said Roger Wilson, Assistant Vice President and Industry Leader for Manufacturing, CNA.</p>
<p>AK Tube was honored at a dinner ceremony during FMA’s Annual Safety Conference held April 18 – 19 at FMA’s headquarters in Elgin, Ill. As the recipient, a representative of the company received complimentary registration, travel, and hotel accommodations to the conference.</p>
<p>CNA has been FMA’s endorsed business insurance provider for more than 30 years. The FMA/CNA insurance program offers asset protection tailored to the needs of metal manufacturing companies, dedicated customer service from an independent agent and industry-specific counsel. To learn more about the FMA/CNA insurance program, please visit <a href="https://www.cna.com/web/guest/cna/ps/!ut/p/b1/5ZLLkqJAEEW_pT-AsIASyiVPLYqHD1BgQwAK8iwRQfDr246Zxcxiuj9gcpcRJ-6NPJGLcOEvwjYeizx-FLSN6689FCIICHFN6HEGzy-B5KwBZG3CEQcsTm8keCPgHyOBnxPCXwiCiicdENZcaQUkRDhDZzkAHP438E1F8AbEP0pYUQQSdFTZUQkPBXFxbOm9ed_jLvw2WMkKwk8VH6Myzfb5_jIGYo8JtW6DzlXnVtPYao6P9j5LuEsraJzm24KPbMGMa7ec9oL1aC72Jq5j2TdBKbmWfl7KbFY1BKpqeguHngeHm9z2psW9koRU7N2BHJ8HBy_c0kOYKTMrrFkuc3aWUWm7XavdzztXmGNOrW9XOrVonYvjepB3mWDsGZmyyzsqzo9JHaqkwvnQRjpilHMeFo5PJBW_Rr9juzTj01Oq22Vri-KItptmHuBOu5L6yFsjE8h94UdE-vj4XhjRhb-FoUmFhvQlrHhapbPHPvvsB9U0KVbmZmN4AO66pYB8fJ9SVOLX-qZts3i1HY_nU6c3BTnWxy6h26B5aqLUeml7CGEwuowrOx0pIlbLAHJNYo5d_LKxbff1lAFqJtDyVjXyabwRzGVAw5Oh1DJ-ZJV1OuUPToIsBhEu1pSkxlVKmKv3ovQF5eurD5RAgKcZeIKK0u1z39plpfFhp7DXiJnmWuTWUdf7vRymw9TlP0uB_6UUe0Oby-LW6CvMBGNjLgvm_UCfvy3U4w!!/dl4/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/">www.cna.com/fma</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/04/19/2018-rusty-demeules-award">AK Tube LLC Receives the 2018 Rusty Demeules Award</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>Congratulations 2018 FMA/CNA Safety Award Winners</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/04/06/congratulations-2018-fma-cna-safety-award-winners</link>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Apr 2018 12:50:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nancy Hatten]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CNA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[membership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety Awards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety Conference]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18527</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>FMA Members Recognized for the High Priority they place on Safety The Fabricators &#38; Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Safety Awards. Open to all FMA company members, the program recognizes metal fabrication companies that have a commitment to excellence in safety. Award winners are determined by the FMA Safety Council and the ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/04/06/congratulations-2018-fma-cna-safety-award-winners">Congratulations 2018 FMA/CNA Safety Award Winners</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>FMA Members Recognized for the High Priority they place on Safety</h2>
<p>The Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/membership/safety-awards">Safety Awards</a>. Open to all FMA company members, the program recognizes metal fabrication companies that have a commitment to excellence in safety. Award winners are determined by the FMA Safety Council and the awards are sponsored by <a href="https://www.cna.com/web/guest/cna/ps/!ut/p/b1/5ZLLkqJAEEW_pT-AsIASyiVPLYqHD1BgQwAK8iwRQfDr246Zxcxiuj9gcpcRJ-6NPJGLcOEvwjYeizx-FLSN6689FCIICHFN6HEGzy-B5KwBZG3CEQcsTm8keCPgHyOBnxPCXwiCiicdENZcaQUkRDhDZzkAHP438E1F8AbEP0pYUQQSdFTZUQkPBXFxbOm9ed_jLvw2WMkKwk8VH6Myzfb5_jIGYo8JtW6DzlXnVtPYao6P9j5LuEsraJzm24KPbMGMa7ec9oL1aC72Jq5j2TdBKbmWfl7KbFY1BKpqeguHngeHm9z2psW9koRU7N2BHJ8HBy_c0kOYKTMrrFkuc3aWUWm7XavdzztXmGNOrW9XOrVonYvjepB3mWDsGZmyyzsqzo9JHaqkwvnQRjpilHMeFo5PJBW_Rr9juzTj01Oq22Vri-KItptmHuBOu5L6yFsjE8h94UdE-vj4XhjRhb-FoUmFhvQlrHhapbPHPvvsB9U0KVbmZmN4AO66pYB8fJ9SVOLX-qZts3i1HY_nU6c3BTnWxy6h26B5aqLUeml7CGEwuowrOx0pIlbLAHJNYo5d_LKxbff1lAFqJtDyVjXyabwRzGVAw5Oh1DJ-ZJV1OuUPToIsBhEu1pSkxlVKmKv3ovQF5eurD5RAgKcZeIKK0u1z39plpfFhp7DXiJnmWuTWUdf7vRymw9TlP0uB_6UUe0Oby-LW6CvMBGNjLgvm_UCfvy3U4w!!/dl4/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/">CNA</a>.<span id="more-18527"></span></p>
<p>The 2018 Safety Award of Honor is presented to companies having perfect safety records – no recordable injuries or illnesses for calendar year 2017.</p>
<p><strong>Companies receiving the 2018 Safety Award of Honor are:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>AK Tube, LLC, Columbus, Ind.</li>
<li>AmeriChem Systems, Inc., Aurora, Ill.</li>
<li>Eberl Iron Works, Inc., Buffalo, N.Y.</li>
<li>Eskay Metal Fabricating, Buffalo, N.Y.</li>
<li>General Stamping and Metalworks, Tomah, Wis.</li>
<li>Haven Manufacturing, Brunswick, Ga.</li>
<li>Horizon Metals, Inc., Berea, Ohio</li>
<li>Johnson Bros. Metal Forming Co., Berkeley, Ill.</li>
<li>Material Fabricators, Inc., Buellton, Calif.</li>
<li>Nova Group, Inc., Napa, Calif.</li>
<li>Olympic Steel, Clarence Dr., Mt. Sterling, Ky.</li>
<li>Plymouth Tube, Streator, Ill.</li>
<li>Progressive Metal Manufacturing, Warren, Mich.</li>
<li>Standard Iron, Monticello, Minn.</li>
<li>Superior Joining Technologies, Inc., Machesney Park, Ill.</li>
<li>J. Snow, Chattanooga, Tenn.</li>
<li>Waukesha Metal Products, Sussex Wis.</li>
</ul>
<p>The 2018 Safety Award of Merit is presented to companies posting an <a href="https://www.bls.gov/iif/home.htm">injury and illness incidence rate</a> for calendar year 2017 that is better than the published Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) rate by 10 percent or greater, based on their <a href="https://www.census.gov/eos/www/naics/">North American Industry Classification System</a> (NAICS) code.</p>
<p><strong>Companies receiving the 2018 Safety Award of Merit are:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Actron Entities, Inc., Clearwater, Fla.</li>
<li>Anderson &amp; Dahlen, Inc., Ramsey,</li>
<li>BTD Manufacturing, (Three facilities &#8211; Detroit Lakes, Minn.; Washington, Ill.; and Dawsonville, Ga.)</li>
<li>Buhler Aeroglide, Cary, N.C.</li>
<li>Dupps Company, Germantown, Ohio</li>
<li>General Stamping and Metalworks, South Bend, Ind.</li>
<li>GH Metal Solutions, Inc., Fort Payne, Ala.</li>
<li>GSM Industrial, Lancaster, Penn.</li>
<li>H &amp; H Tube, Vanderbilt, Mich.</li>
<li>Integrity Stainless, Streetsboro, Ohio</li>
<li>KMS Fab, Luzerne, Penn.</li>
<li>Lock Joint Tube of Tennessee, Chattanooga, Tenn.</li>
<li>Mech-Tronics, Melrose Park, Ill.</li>
<li>Olympic Steel, (Six facilities –Bedford Heights, Ohio; Gary, Ind.; Milford, Conn.; Owingsville Rd., Mt. Sterling, Ky.; Plymouth, Minn.; and Schaumburg, Ill.)</li>
<li>PlayCore Wisconsin, Inc., Fort Payne, Ala.</li>
<li>R-V Industries, Inc., Honey Brook, Penn.</li>
<li>Richards Sheet Metal Works, Inc., Ogden, Utah</li>
<li>Shickel Corporation, Bridgewater, Va.</li>
<li>SPX Cooling Technologies, Olathe, Kans.</li>
<li>Standard Iron, Grand Island, Neb.</li>
<li>Tri Tool, Inc., Rancho Cordova, Calif.</li>
</ul>
<p>The 2018 Safety Award – Honorable Mention is presented to companies posting an injury and illness incidence rate for calendar year 2017 that is at least equal to but less than 10 percent better than the published BLS rate based on their NAICS code.</p>
<p><strong>Companies receiving the 2018 Safety Award – Honorable Mention are:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Cerro Flow Products, LLC, Shelbina, Mo.</li>
<li>Olympic Steel, Bettendorf, Iowa</li>
</ul>
<p>The 2018 Most Improved Safety Record was awarded to Integrity Stainless, Streetsboro, Ohio for being the Safety Awards winner with the greatest percentage of improvement over the prior year.</p>
<p>“On behalf of the FMA, I’m pleased to announce this year’s FMA/CNA Safety Award Winners,” said Edward Youdell, president and CEO of FMA. “The companies that are receiving safety awards this year have set a standard of excellence that all manufacturers should try and match. FMA, along with CNA, are proud to recognize these manufacturers for their outstanding achievements in the area of safety.”</p>
<p>To be eligible to receive recognition, companies were required to submit OSHA Form 300A, Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, for the period Jan. 1, 2017 through Dec. 31, 2017. Firms of all sizes were eligible. Winners were determined based on NAICS code categories and BLS injury and illness incidence rates.</p>
<p>The awards will be presented at a recognition dinner at the <a href="https://ebizp76.fmanet.org/PersonifyEbusiness/10th-Annual-Safety-Conference/MeetingDetail/321504833">10th Annual FMA Safety Conference</a>, which will be held April 18-19, 2018 in Elgin (Chicago), Ill. at FMA’s headquarters. For more information on the awards program, the Safety Conference, or <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/membership">FMA membership</a>, please visit <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/">fmanet.org</a> or call 888-394-4362.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/04/06/congratulations-2018-fma-cna-safety-award-winners">Congratulations 2018 FMA/CNA Safety Award Winners</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>FMA Announces Concerns Over Announced Steel &#038; Aluminum Tariffs</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/03/02/fma-announces-concerns-announced-steel-aluminum-tariffs</link>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Mar 2018 22:20:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ed Youdell]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18497</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>“The Fabricators &#38; Manufacturers Association, International (FMA), the association which represents the interests of the 1.4 million people employed in the Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing industry (Bureau of Labors Statistics, January 2018 Data) is disappointed in President Trump’s announcement to levy a 25% tariff on imported steel and 10% on imported aluminum,” said Ed Youdell, FMA President and CEO. “One ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/03/02/fma-announces-concerns-announced-steel-aluminum-tariffs">FMA Announces Concerns Over Announced Steel &#038; Aluminum Tariffs</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>“The <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/14/18233" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association, International (FMA)</a>, the association which represents the interests of the 1.4 million people employed in the Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing industry (<a href="https://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag332.htm#workforce" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bureau of Labors Statistics, January 2018 Data</a>) is disappointed in President Trump’s announcement to levy a 25% tariff on imported steel and 10% on imported aluminum,” said Ed Youdell, FMA President and CEO.<span id="more-18497"></span></p>
<p>“One likely result of this action is to add headwinds to the market for American-made fabricated metal product producers. Just when this market had some sustained momentum, the specter of retaliatory duties and tariffs now hangs over this important manufacturing sector. The association is concerned that jobs and job creation are at risk; those countries affected by this announcement will likely choose to circumvent the tariffs by producing and exporting low cost fabricated metal parts rather than exporting steel and aluminum. “</p>
<p>Added Phil Kooima, president of <a href="https://kooima.com/">Kooima Company</a>, an agricultural machinery fabricating firm based in Rock Valley, IA: “This proposed tariff will disproportionately harm U.S. metal fabricators. Rising steel costs at home, but not in the world market, favors the importing of fabricated metal products from overseas suppliers. A better policy would be to import low cost steel coil and plate and produce the fabricated products here in America. There are many more fabricating jobs here in U.S. than steel mill jobs so it is disappointing to have the President choose to help one industry over another.”</p>
<p>“Frankly, most analysts and observers never thought it would come to this,” stated Dr. Chris Kuehl, Economic Analyst for FMA. “There were so many reasons that <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/14/18233">imposing tariffs on imported steel was a bad idea</a>. It instantly makes everything made of steel more expensive in the US&#8211;cars, buildings, equipment, etc. It instantly pits the US against its major allies as we get the vast majority of our steel from countries like Canada, Japan, South Korea, Mexico and other friendly states. It also guarantees a trade war as these nations are prepared to retaliate immediately.</p>
<p>“Additionally, I don’t believe it is an overstatement to assert that <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-eu/eu-promises-firm-response-to-u-s-steel-tariffs-idUSKCN1GD689">US allies are extremely angry at the Trump plan</a> to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum and many have wasted little time in terms of reaction. The US will likely be hit immediately with tariffs and restrictions from Europe, Japan, Canada and dozens of other nations. The initial estimate is for these new barriers to cost the US as much as 5% of its export volume–a serious blow considering that exports are 15% of the U.S. GDP.”</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/03/02/fma-announces-concerns-announced-steel-aluminum-tariffs">FMA Announces Concerns Over Announced Steel &#038; Aluminum Tariffs</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>2017 Steel Man of the Year Award Winner Announced</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/01/29/2017-steel-man-of-the-year-award-winner-announced</link>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Jan 2018 17:07:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Report]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ASD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA Annual Meeting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Steel Man of the Year]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18447</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>ASD Announces Brian Robbins as 2017 Steel Man of the Year Award Winner The Association of Steel Distributors (ASD) is proud to announce that Brian D. Robbins, CEO of MidWest Materials, Inc. in Perry, Ohio, has received the 2017 Steel Man of the Year Award. Since 1956, this award has recognized individuals who have made lasting contributions to the steel ... </p>
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]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>ASD Announces Brian Robbins as 2017 Steel Man of the Year Award Winner</h2>
<p>The Association of Steel Distributors (ASD) is proud to announce that Brian D. Robbins, CEO of <a href="http://www.midwestmaterials.com/">MidWest Materials, Inc.</a> in Perry, Ohio, has received the 2017 Steel Man of the Year Award. Since 1956, this award has recognized individuals who have made lasting contributions to the steel distribution industry over a significant period of time, and it is the most distinguished honor in the industry.</p>
<p><span id="more-18447"></span></p>
<p>Brian Robbins served as president of ASD from March 2014 to April 2016. He led a major effort on behalf of ASD to rebuild and ensure the future of steel manufacturing by encouraging young talent to join steel’s ranks and inspiring companies and industry leaders to get involved with their greater communities.</p>
<p>ASD chair Andrew Gross, president at Alliance Steel, LLC., Bedford Park, Ill., says, “Brian has been and remains a tremendous leader in the steel industry and has always been at the forefront of promoting and expanding our industry in a very favorable way. He has tirelessly served the ASD for many years and embodies the full essence of a Steel Man of the Year Award winner.”</p>
<p>Upon receiving the award, Robbins felt humbled to become part of this rich legacy. “I am honored to be chosen for this prestigious award. My family has been associated with the steel industry for more than 65 years, and it is humbling to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather, Joseph Koppelman, founder of MidWest Materials, who was one of the earliest members of the ASD and served as its president 50 years ago,” Robbins said. “I look forward to continue working with the FMA (<a href="https://www.fmanet.org/">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association, International®</a>) and ASD to promote another active year of growth, education, communication, and furthering friendships.”</p>
<p>As a third-generation, family-owned business, MidWest Materials, under Brian’s leadership since 2002, has achieved great success and been dedicated to increasing quality, achieving greater efficiencies, and improving safety. Brian is very proud of the relationships built with MidWest’s vendors and customers along with the steel community, and he recognizes that this honor could not be achieved without the support of his dedicated management team and employees.</p>
<p>Robbins will be honored at a special celebration during the FMA Annual Meeting on March 7 in Scottsdale, Ariz. To learn more, visit <a href="https://ebizp76.fmanet.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Events/FMAEventCalendar/SessionDetail.aspx?productId=320050108&amp;MtgId=316141958&amp;SelectedFilters=3/7/2018">fmanet.org/asddinner</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About the Association of Steel Distributors</strong></p>
<p>Founded in 1943, the Association of Steel Distributors (ASD) is a technology affiliate of the Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association, International. ASD strives to provide high-quality information, education, and networking to steel distribution professionals, increasing their success and strategic value within their companies and in their careers. As a result, membership in the ASD is an investment that can bring valuable returns to your business.</p>
<p>Interested in more information? Contact ASD Program Manager <a href="mailto:pattye@fmanet.org">Patty Elliott</a> at  or call 815-2278217.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2018/01/29/2017-steel-man-of-the-year-award-winner-announced">2017 Steel Man of the Year Award Winner Announced</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>FMA Annual Meeting 2018: Early Bird Registration is Open!</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/13/early-bird-fma-annual-meeting-2018</link>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 22:06:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mary Diamond]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[educational events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA Annual Meeting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[networking]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18391</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Are you ready to explore your next frontier? Each year, the FMA annual meeting is open to metal fabricators, processors, distributors, and OEMs around the country. Our networking opportunities and educational programs attract several hundred professionals each year. If you&#8217;re interested in keeping up with the rapid pace of changing technology and innovation in the metal fabrication industry, this is one ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/13/early-bird-fma-annual-meeting-2018">FMA Annual Meeting 2018: Early Bird Registration is Open!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Are you ready to explore your next frontier? Each year, the <a href="https://annualmeeting.fmanet.org/">FMA annual meeting</a> is open to metal fabricators, processors, distributors, and OEMs around the country. Our networking opportunities and educational programs attract several hundred professionals each year. If you&#8217;re interested in keeping up with the rapid pace of changing technology and innovation in the metal fabrication industry, this is one experience you do not want to miss!<span id="more-18391"></span></p>
<h2>Three days of knowledge, experience, and engagement</h2>
<p>Tailor your own conference experience by choosing from a variety breakout sessions, expert panels, and keynote speeches throughout the week. On March 7 take a plant tour of <a href="http://www.kzell.com/">K-Zell Metals, Inc.</a> a custom fabricator and welder in the greater Phoenix area and participate in the silent auction to benefit the <a href="https://www.nutsandboltsfoundation.org/">Nuts, Bolts &amp; Thingamajigs Foundation</a>. On March 8 keynote speaker Ladd Hall, Executive Vice President of Flat-Rolled Products for <a href="http://www.nucor.com/governance/executives/">Nucor Corporation</a> will provide valuable insights to the steel and metals industry. March 9 will be packed with breakout sessions, roundtable discussions, and ideas from keynote <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/11/21/expert-in-design-thinking-to-keynote-fma-annual-meeting">Tamara Christensen, an expert in design thinking</a> &#8211; Founder of <a href="http://ideafarmco-op.com/">Idea Farm</a> and Faculty member at Thunderbird School of Global Management. All three days of the annual meeting also feature opportunities to network with fellow professionals while enjoying the tranquil backdrop of the Sonoran Desert in The Valley of the Sun.</p>
<h2>Take Advantage of Early Bird rates</h2>
<p>Registration is open now! The <a href="https://goo.gl/ecHM8R">FMA annual meeting</a> will be held March 7-9, 2018 at the <a href="https://goo.gl/WHKpJg">Talking Stick Resort</a> in Scottsdale, Arizona. <strong>From now until December 31, 2017</strong>, registration is discounted for non-members and members alike. If you register online today, you can save an additional $50 off the early bird rate.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a class="x-btn x-btn-global" style="outline: none;" href="https://ebizp76.fmanet.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Events/FMAEventCalendar/MeetingRegistration.aspx?productId=316141958" data-options="thumbnail: ''"><i class="x-icon mvn mln mrs x-icon-external-link" data-x-icon="" aria-hidden="true"></i>Register Now!</a></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/13/early-bird-fma-annual-meeting-2018">FMA Annual Meeting 2018: Early Bird Registration is Open!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>Happy Milestone Anniversaries FMA Members!</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/11/18389</link>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 Dec 2017 16:19:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Report]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Membership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Member Anniversaries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[membership]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18389</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Congratulations to these FMA Individual and Company members celebrating anniversary milestones during the second half of 2017! FMA would like to thank you for your loyalty and continued support through the years. 45 Years Nidec Minster Corporation &#124; Minster, OH   40 Years  Braner USA Inc. &#124; Shiller Park, IL   30 Years Atlas Manufacturing &#124; Minneapolis, MN Haven Manufacturing ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/11/18389">Happy Milestone Anniversaries FMA Members!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Congratulations to these FMA Individual and Company members celebrating anniversary milestones during the second half of 2017! FMA would like to thank you for your loyalty and continued support through the years.<span id="more-18389"></span></p>
<h2><strong>45 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Nidec Minster Corporation</strong> | <em>Minster, OH</em></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<h2><strong>40 Years</strong><em> </em></h2>
<p><strong>Braner USA Inc.</strong> | <em>Shiller Park, IL</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<h2><strong>30 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Atlas Manufacturing</strong> |<em> Minneapolis, MN</em></p>
<p><strong>Haven Manufacturing Corporation</strong> | <em>Brunskwick, GA</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<h2><strong>25 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Cincinnati Incorporated</strong> | <em>Cincinnati, OH</em></p>
<p><strong>International Rollforms Inc</strong> | Deptfortd, NJ</p>
<p><strong>Richard Keehn</strong> | Welding Fabricators &#8211;  <em>Sebastopol, CA</em></p>
<h2><strong>20 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>James AmRhein</strong> | Florida Stainless Fabricators – <em>Oviedo, FL </em></p>
<p><strong>ASKO Inc.</strong> | <em>Homestead, PA </em></p>
<p><strong>Steve Benson</strong> | ASMA/Chronicle – <em>Salem, OR </em></p>
<p><strong>John Conover</strong> | Conover Fabrication Inc. – <em>Indianapolis, IN </em></p>
<p><strong>Peter Diesing</strong> | Aggressive Tube Bending – <em>Surrey, BC Canada </em></p>
<p><strong>Eberl Iron Works Inc.</strong> | <em>Buffalo, NY</em></p>
<p><strong>Feralloy Corporation</strong> | <em>Chicago, IL</em> <em> </em></p>
<p><strong>Jamat Inc.</strong> | <em>Keswick, ON Canada</em></p>
<p><strong>K-Zell Metals Inc.</strong> | <em>Phoenix, AZ </em></p>
<p><strong>Lowell Manufacturing Company</strong> | <em>Pacific, MO </em></p>
<p><strong>Cliff McBride</strong> | Dependable Precision Mfg Inc. – <em>Lodi, CA</em></p>
<p><strong>Tim Piepenbrink</strong> | Passline Performance – <em>Crete, IL  </em></p>
<p><strong>Shickel Corporation</strong> | <em>Bridgewater, VA  </em></p>
<p><strong>Charles Smida</strong> | Airmo Inc. – <em>Minneapolis, MN </em></p>
<p><strong>Specialty’s Our Name Inc.</strong> | <em>Ashland, VA  </em></p>
<p><strong>Venture Industrial Products</strong> | <em>Lees Summit, MO  </em></p>
<p><strong>Welfab Inc.</strong> | <em>North Billerica, MA  </em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<h2><strong>15 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Jordan Craig</strong> | Jordan Craig Machinery Intl LLC – <em>New City, NY </em></p>
<p><strong>Sam Krage</strong> | Krage Mfg – <em>Pueblo, CO</em></p>
<p><strong>Roll Machining Technologies &amp; Solutions Inc.</strong> | <em>Romeoville, IL</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>10 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Mark Ernst</strong> | Ernst Enterprises LLC – <em>Cerritos, CA </em></p>
<p><strong>IGS Industries</strong> | <em>Meadow Lands, PA  </em></p>
<p><strong>Industrial Service &amp; Installation Inc.</strong> | <em>East Berlin, PA </em></p>
<p><strong>Insternational West Inc – DBA Continental Industries</strong> | <em>Anaheim, CA</em></p>
<p><strong>Kirkwood Community College</strong> | <em>Cedar Rapids, IA  </em></p>
<p><strong>Metal Solutions Inc.</strong> | <em>Utica, NY </em></p>
<p><strong>David Montgomery</strong> | Valco Industries – <em>Springfield, OH </em></p>
<p><strong>Danny Ng</strong> |Titan Metal Works Sdn Bhd – <em>Port Klang Selangor, Malaysia</em></p>
<p><strong>Pegasus Steel</strong> | <em>Goose Creek, SC  </em></p>
<p><strong>Philpott Rubber Co.</strong> | <em>Brunswick, OH  </em></p>
<p><strong>Steve Proell</strong> | D &amp; H Industries – <em>Oconomowoc, WI</em></p>
<p><strong>SMS Group</strong> | <em>Cranberry Township, PA </em></p>
<p><strong>Sureway Tool &amp; Engineering Co.</strong> | <em>Franklin Park, IL  </em></p>
<p><strong>Voestalpine Roll Forming Corp.</strong> | <em>Shelbyville, KY  </em></p>
<p><strong>Wilson Tool International</strong> | <em>White Bear Lake, MN  </em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<h2><strong>5 Years</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Central States Mfg</strong> | <em>Lowell, AR    </em></p>
<p><strong>Chrima Iron Work Ltd</strong> | <em>Stratford, ON Canada</em></p>
<p><strong>Festo Corp</strong> | <em>Islandia, NY</em></p>
<p><strong>Fresno City College</strong> | <em>Fresno, CA</em></p>
<p><strong>GSM Industrial Inc.</strong> | <em>Lancaster, PA</em></p>
<p><strong>Halton Co.</strong> | <em>Scottsville, KY</em></p>
<p><strong>Craig Hanela</strong> | Buyken Metal Products – <em>Kent, WA</em></p>
<p><strong>Harper College</strong> | <em>Palatine, IL</em></p>
<p><strong>Paul Horney</strong> | Innovation Industries Inc. – <em>Russellville, AR</em></p>
<p><strong>Innovo Corp</strong> | <em>Elk Grove Village, IL </em></p>
<p><strong>Kent Corp / TesGo Inc.</strong> | <em>North Royalton, OH</em></p>
<p><strong>Ludlow Manufacturing Inc.</strong> | <em>Waukegan, IL</em></p>
<p><strong>Michael McGuire</strong> | Novus Machine Group – <em>Wheaton, IL </em></p>
<p><strong>Sable Metal Fabrication Inc.</strong> | <em>Markham, ON Canada</em></p>
<p><strong>SPI Lighting</strong> | <em>Mequon, WI</em></p>
<p><strong>Gerardo Villarreal</strong> | Metal Sa De Cv – <em>Monterrey, NL Mexico</em></p>
<p><strong>Weil Engineering North America</strong> | <em>Novi, MI</em></p>
<p><strong>Williams-Manny</strong> | <em>Rockford, IL </em></p>
<p><strong>Wingard &amp; Company Inc.</strong> | <em>Baltimore, MD</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><em><strong>Interested in becoming a member of FMA?</strong> <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/membership/member-benefits">See all of the great membership benefits and join online</a> or contact customer service directly at 888-394-4362 and <a href="mailto:membership@fmanet.org">membership@fmanet.org</a> to learn more.</em></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/11/18389">Happy Milestone Anniversaries FMA Members!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>New Members Join FMA Board of Directors</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/04/new-members-join-fma-board-directors</link>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 Dec 2017 17:35:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Report]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Membership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA Board]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[membership]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18380</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>The FMA board of Directors held their fall meeting in October at FMA headquarters in Elgin (Chicago), Ill. During the meeting, the chairman’s gavel passed from Vivek Gupta, president of Texas ProFab Corp. in Carrolton, Texas, to Lyle Menke, CSO at Peddinghaus Corp. in Bradley, Ill. Lyle began his first term on the FMA board in 2011. NEWLY ELECTED TO ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/04/new-members-join-fma-board-directors">New Members Join FMA Board of Directors</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The FMA board of Directors held their fall meeting in October at FMA headquarters in Elgin (Chicago), Ill. During the meeting, <strong>the chairman’s gavel passed from Vivek Gupta, president of Texas ProFab Corp. in Carrolton, Texas, to Lyle Menke, CSO at Peddinghaus Corp. in Bradley, Ill.</strong> Lyle began his first term on the FMA board in 2011.<span id="more-18380"></span></p>
<h2><strong>NEWLY ELECTED TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Rob Bohn Jr.</strong><br />
President, Nema Enclosures, Houston</p>
<p>Rob purchased Nema Enclosures in 2000 and has grown the business to more than $10 million in revenue with 80 employees. Nema is a made-to-order electrical enclosure manufacturer that specializes in low-volume, highly complex enclosures for a variety of applications that require third-party certification. In a typical month Nema Enclosures’ website has 25,000 visitors, and has generated more than $600,000 in e-commerce orders.</p>
<p><strong>Jay Phillips<br />
</strong>Plate Processing Manager, Valley Iron Fabrication, Fresno, Calif.</p>
<p>When Jay began college at Fresno State he started to work part-time at Valley Iron, a business established in 1958 that has grown to be one of the largest independent family-owned metal service centers in northern and central California. Valley Iron offers a diverse inventory and has the capability to process flat-rolled products in carbon, stainless, and aluminum.</p>
<p><strong>Sarah Richards<br />
</strong>President/CEO/Board Chair, Jones Metal Inc., Mankato, Minn.</p>
<p>Jones Metal is a family-owned business founded by Sarah’s grandmother and now owned by Sarah and two other members of the third generation. Before joining the company in 2008, Sarah was a golf pro and played on the Futures Tour. She still maintains her PGA professional status.</p>
<p><strong>Lori Tapani<br />
</strong>Co-president, Wyoming Machine Inc., Stacy, Minn.</p>
<p>Lori left a career in finance and banking in 1994 to join her sister Traci to become the second-generation owners of Wyoming Machine, founded by their father in 1974. The company is a precision metal fabrication job shop that provides components for OEMs in a variety of industries, including computer/electronics, aerospace, navigation/instrumentation, and defense.</p>
<p><strong>Lisa Wertzbaugher<br />
</strong>Sales Manager and National Accounts, Superior Tube Products, Davenport, Iowa</p>
<p>Lisa leads the sales and marketing strategy for Superior Tube Products and manages all national accounts. She also manages IT, human resources, estimating, and sits on the board of directors. Superior Tube Products is a contract manufacturer that specializes in supplying fabricated metal tube parts and assemblies to large and small OEMs.  It and was started by Lisa’s parents in 1991.</p>
<h2><strong>ELECTED TO A SECOND TERM</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Jim Rogowski</strong><br />
Vice President of Technical Services, TRUMPF Inc., Farmington, Conn.</p>
<p>James joined TRUMPF in 1998. Since then he has held various positions including product manager, managing director of TRUMPF Canada, and director of machine and power tool sales. Currently serving as vice president, technical services, James is responsible for customer service and training for TRUMPF machine tools installed across the U.S.</p>
<p>Congratulations to all!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/12/04/new-members-join-fma-board-directors">New Members Join FMA Board of Directors</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>Share Your Success Story</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/10/19/share-your-success-story</link>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Oct 2017 06:00:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Report]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18322</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Has your fabricating company been successful in adopting new technology? Has the shop totally changed and become a streamlined production machine? Has the business successfully entered new markets to diversify the customer base? If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, then your shop might be a worthwhile candidate for The FABRICATOR®’s 2018 Industry Award. Metal fabricators that ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/10/19/share-your-success-story">Share Your Success Story</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Has your fabricating company been successful in adopting new technology? Has the shop totally changed and become a streamlined production machine? Has the business successfully entered new markets to diversify the customer base?</p>
<p>If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, then your shop might be a worthwhile candidate for <em>The FABRICATOR<sup>®</sup></em>’s 2018 Industry Award.<span id="more-18322"></span></p>
<p>Metal fabricators that have invested in new production technology, adopted lean manufacturing techniques, and worked to grow their businesses will be considered for the award. You are encourage to visit <a href="http://www.fmanet.org/industry-awards/fabaward">www.fmanet.org/industry-awards/fabaward</a> and share your success story with us.</p>
<p>The 2018 Industry Award winner is featured in a cover story in the February 2018 issue. Also, two representatives from the winning company are given round-trip airfare and overnight accommodations to attend <a href="https://annualmeeting.fmanet.org/"><em>The FABRICATOR</em>’s Leadership Summit</a>, which is scheduled for March 7-9, 2018 at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz.</p>
<p>We know that shops are doing some fantastic work. Let the world know just how special your company is. Industry recognition is invaluable when it comes to growing your business, year over year winning companies have seen a measurable boost in their business as a result of this award.</p>
<p>Sharing is easy ― visit <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/industry-awards">fmanet.org/industry-awards</a> or call 888-394-4362 for more information. <strong>Award entries must be received by Oct. 31, 2017, at 5 p.m. CDT.</strong></p>
<p>Past winners include:<br />
<a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/article/shopmanagement/fabricating-lessons-that-stand-the-test-of-time">AT&amp;F Co.</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/article/shopmanagement/being-better-while-being-bigger">Mayville Engineering Co. (MEC)</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/article/stamping/the-pursuit-to-be-the-best-value-added-supplier">Waukesha Metal Products</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/article/shopmanagement/professionalism-in-precision-sheet-metal-manufacturing">DeWys Manufacturing Inc.</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/article/shopmanagement/growing-in-the-face-of-uncertainty">A &amp; E Custom Manufacturing</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/article/shopmanagement/more-than-a-metal-fabricator---a-problem-solver">Airtronics Metal Products Inc.</a></p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="https://www.fmanet.org/industry-awards">Share your story today for your chance to be an Industry Award winner!</a></strong></h2>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/10/19/share-your-success-story">Share Your Success Story</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>FMA Publishes New Industry Handbook</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/18/fma-publishes-new-industry-handbook</link>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Jul 2017 20:16:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Report]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bending Basics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bookstore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[press brakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Steve Benson]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18244</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>FMA releases Bending Basics, an A-Z reference guide celebrating the art of press brakes in the era of retiring baby boomers. This new book,  designed for the metal fabricating industry, specifically press brake operation, showcases information new operators need that may otherwise leave with those phasing out of the workforce, and serves as a reference handbook for seasoned operators. It ... </p>
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]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>FMA releases Bending Basics, an A-Z reference guide celebrating the art of press brakes in the era of retiring baby boomers.</p>
<p>This new book,  designed for the metal fabricating industry, specifically press brake operation, showcases information new operators need that may otherwise leave with those phasing out of the workforce, and serves as a reference handbook for seasoned operators. It is also for classroom and on-the-job-training.</p>
<p><span id="more-18244"></span></p>
<p>Seven sections feature 61 chapters that cover everything from the basics, such as the history of metal and mathematics, to machine operations and safety. “When I began teaching, I found few sources for modern press brake instruction. My new book brings together information that needs to be shared in the transfer of knowledge to those being trained,” said author Steven D. Benson.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in; margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;"><a href="https://ebizp76.fmanet.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Store/Bending-Basics/ProductDetail/317595380"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18246" src="https://www.fmanet.org/wp-content/uploads/BendingBasics.jpg" alt="Bending Basics" width="600" height="400" /></a><br />
</span></p>
<p>Benson, President of Asma, LLC, is a press brake industry expert, sought-after trainer, and writer of the Bending Basics column for The FABRICATOR® magazine. He has over 40 years’ experience, including 30 on the shop floor as a press brake technician, lead man, and department manager.</p>
<p>He is a retired 20-year member of the Sheet Metal Workers Int. Local 16, has been a precision press brake instructor at Oregon Advanced Technological Center (OATC), and has authored and co-authored 11 textbooks with the release of Bending Basics, and has over 70 published articles to his credit.</p>
<p>Benson travels both nationally and internationally educating engineers on how to efficiently design for precision sheet metal fabrication, and trains operators and technicians on press brake operation theory through practical hands-on instruction.</p>
<p>“In the age of retiring baby boomers, technicians who know how to shape and customize materials into a variety of forms are hard to find,” said Jim Warren, Executive Director-Member Services, Education &amp; Foundation for the Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association, Intl (FMA). “We hope this text serves as a foundational resource for skill development.”</p>
<p>The book is available for purchase at <a href="https://ebizp76.fmanet.org/PersonifyEbusiness/store/store.aspx">fmanet.org/store</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/18/fma-publishes-new-industry-handbook">FMA Publishes New Industry Handbook</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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		<title>Help Ensure a Level Playing Field for Trade</title>
		<link>https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/14/18233</link>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jul 2017 18:13:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Report]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ed youdell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[metal fabricators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trade]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.fmanet.org/?p=18233</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>FMA President and CEO Ed Youdell is urging metal fabricators to take action to ensure a level playing field in the metal fabrication industry. With the current investigation into threats of national security interests posed by imported steel, domestic metal fabricators’ livelihoods could be at risk. If a move is made to protect the domestic steel industry it may results ... </p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/14/18233">Help Ensure a Level Playing Field for Trade</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>FMA President and CEO Ed Youdell is urging metal fabricators to take action to ensure a level playing field in the metal fabrication industry. With the current investigation into threats of national security interests posed by imported steel, domestic metal fabricators’ livelihoods could be at risk. If a move is made to protect the domestic steel industry it may results in steel prices at levels that haven’t been seen in years. We encourage fabricators to contact Washington to let officials know the U.S. fabricating base matters. Read Ed’s letter below <a href="http://www.thefabricator.com/blog/take-a-stand-for-free-and-fair-trade">originally posted</a> on FMA’s publication site thefabricator.com.<br />
</em></p>
<p><span id="more-18233"></span></p>
<p>Dear Metal Fabrication Industry Professional,</p>
<p>Under the authority of the <a href="http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=8946">1962 Trade Expansion Act</a>, Section 232, President Donald Trump’s administration is currently taking a look at whether the importing of steel is hurting the domestic steel industry to the point where national security may be at risk. The outcome of this investigation and the potential of tightening the steel supply chain with resulting trade barriers have the potential to harm the future health and competitiveness of the U.S. metal fabrication sector.</p>
<p>Protecting the 149,000 people who work in the steel industry sounds prudent on the surface, but not if it comes at the expense of many more jobs in the U.S. metal fabricating industry. For instance, the National Institute of Standards and Technology believes that 1.4 million people are employed by companies identified as “fabricated metal products manufacturers.” (That’s <a href="https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/naics3_332000.htm">North American Industry Classification System 332</a>, to be exact.) If steps are taken to protect domestic steel industry jobs while putting several thousand more at risk, then nothing will be accomplished.</p>
<p>In today’s globally competitive environment, it is an unfortunate reality that some foreign countries, as well as individual companies, seek to circumvent U.S. trade laws when importing into the U.S. Enforcement against those who violate our laws must be approached with care, as the unintended result will most certainly be higher material costs for metal fabricators. This also is happening at a time when the U.S. dollar’s value is high, making U.S. exports more expensive around the globe. Metal fabricators that sell goods to other countries and that are in supply chains where the end product is exported don’t have the ability to absorb huge steel price increases because market dynamics simply don’t allow those increases to be passed along to their foreign customers.</p>
<p>As the U.S. steel industry rushes to ramp up production to fill the supply gap that is sure to result from any trade penalties placed on foreign steelmakers, metal fabricators are sure to face shortages and allocations as they look to fill orders. The increased demand in the face of limited supply will cause prices to increase further.</p>
<p>Finally, any sanctions leveled against foreign steel producers that do not go far enough in their scope could lead to a flood of imported fabricated parts as foreign competitors look to circumvent paying duties on foreign steel. Over the past several years, the U.S. metal fabricating base has stepped up in its battle against global competitors, which benefit from cheap labor forces and lax governmental regulations, but it can’t sustain further assaults that may arise as foreign countries look to bypass trade penalties related to steel. This is the worst possible scenario that I can imagine. This realistically will lead to hundreds of job losses and reduced operating capacity for U.S. metal fabricators. What will have been gained by protecting the U.S. steel industry if its domestic customer base shrinks in the process?</p>
<p>We know that metal parts are being competitively fabricated in the U.S. today, and with your support, we want to ensure that a level playing field remains in place for domestic <a href="https://www.fmanet.org/membership-directory">metal fabricators</a>. History shows us that free and fair trade is the foundation of our country’s manufacturing might and represents the best path forward for greater prosperity for all U.S. citizens.</p>
<p>I urge you to make your voice heard to President Trump, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer.</p>
<p><strong>President Trump can be reached at:</strong><br />
The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20500, Phone: 202-456-1111<br />
Website: <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/">www.whitehouse.gov/contact/</a></p>
<p><strong>Ross can be reached at:</strong><br />
U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20230, Phone: 202-482-2000</p>
<p><strong>Lighthizer can be reached at:</strong><br />
Office of the United States Trade Representative, 600 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20508, Phone &#8211; Trade &amp; Development: 202-395-2839, Email: correspondence@ustr.eop.gov</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>Edward Youdell</p>
<p>President and CEO</p>
<p>Fabricators and Manufacturers Association, International</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org/blog/2017/07/14/18233">Help Ensure a Level Playing Field for Trade</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.fmanet.org">Fabricators &amp; Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA)</a>.</p>
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