Metalforming Matters

CLEVELAND, OH—April 17, 2015—According to the April 2015 Precision Metalforming Association  (PMA) Business Conditions Report, metalforming companies expect little change in business conditions during the next three months. Prepared monthly, the report is an economic indicator for manufacturing, sampling 120 metalforming companies in the United States and Canada. The April report shows that 33% of participants predict that economic activity will improve during the next three months (down from 35% in March), 58% expect that activity will remain unchanged (the same percentage reported last month) and 9% believe that economic activity will decline (up from 7% in March). Metalforming companies also forecast that incoming orders will remain steady during the next three months, with 41% predicting an increase in orders (down from 43% in March), 47% anticipating no change (the same percentage reported in March) and 12% expecting a decrease in orders (up from 10% last month). Current...

Each month, the PMA Member Spotlight features outstanding members sharing their insights into the latest industry trends and technologies. PMA is pleased to introduce Julius Feitl, President of Progressive Machine Die, Inc , Macedonia, Ohio. Julius Feitl, President, Progressive Machine Die, Inc.  Q:  Which job classifications are the most challenging to find skilled workers? A:  Press Operator and Setup Person – Most schools tend to focus on CNC operators, machinists and laser cutting, but there aren't any programs in schools specifically designed for press operators and setup people. At this point, the best way to find a skilled press operator or setup person is to hire them away from a competitor. This position is essential to stamping. I hope that in the future, schools start to offer training programs to develop these roles. Q:  What is the biggest technology challenge metalformers face today? A:  Understanding the benefits that ser...