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For aerospace manufacturers, AS9100 certification is more than a customer requirement. It demonstrates a commitment to quality, consistency, risk management, and continuous improvement. While many organizations focus heavily on preparing for external certification audits, the most successful companies recognize that internal audits are what keep a quality management system healthy throughout the year. Rather than viewing internal audits as a compliance exercise, small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMMs) can use…

By Trip McSorley and Lou Musante Digital transformation is often associated with artificial intelligence, automation, and smart factories. But for many manufacturers, innovation begins by looking at existing products and asking a simple question: How can we create more value for our customers? MSA Safety, headquartered in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, provides an excellent example of this approach. Founded in 1914, MSA has spent more than a century designing products…

By Trip McSorley and Lou Musante, Catalyst Connection Growth is a priority for nearly every manufacturer, but deciding how to grow can be just as important as the decision to grow itself. Should you pursue new customers, develop new products, enter new markets, or focus on strengthening relationships with the customers you already have? One of the most widely recognized frameworks for answering that question is the Ansoff Matrix.…

Why Quality Tools for Problem Solving Matter7 Quality Tools for Problem Solving Every Manufacturer Should KnowBuilding a Culture of Continuous ImprovementMoving Beyond Quick FixesTurning Data Into Better Decisions Quality Tools for Problem Solving help manufacturers identify the root causes of recurring issues, reduce waste, and improve operational performance. Whether a company is dealing with production delays, quality defects, or process inefficiencies, using structured problem-solving methods allows teams to make…

The Evolution of Manufacturing TechnologyWhy Mechatronics Skills Are in High DemandImproving Equipment ReliabilitySupporting Smarter AutomationBuilding a Future-Ready WorkforcePreparing for the Next Generation of ManufacturingFAQsWhat is mechatronics in manufacturing?Why is mechatronics important for manufacturers?How does mechatronics support manufacturing automation?What skills are included in mechatronics?Can small and mid-sized manufacturers benefit from mechatronics?How can manufacturers prepare employees for automation? Mechatronics in manufacturing is becoming a foundational skill as manufacturers adopt more advanced…