DEARBORN, MI-Richard C. Peters was named the 2004 president of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). As SME's president, Peters' goals are to strengthen the core engagement opportunities and foster more member involvement. "SME is the place ‘where manufacturing comes together' to provide manufacturers with the winning edge," says Peters. "The Society plays a critical role in bringing the manufacturers' voice to the forefront on the issues that support their ability to compete. My focus will be on providing strong support for our local leadership and enhancing relevance, content, and focus of technical events and information resources. By strengthening members' awareness of how they can utilize the Society to make an even greater impact on manufacturing, we will increase engagement, excitement and commitment to the future of our industries."

Peters, an SME member since 1979, is an incumbent international director and served as president-elect of the organization in 2003. He is past chair of Region 7 and Greater Canton Chapter 110. He previously served on SME's Professional Licensure Committee and remains active in SME's Manufacturing Engineering Certification Institute (MECI/SME) activities. Peters is also active with National Engineers Week, Science Fair, Mathcounts, and other student and community programs including Engineer-For-A-Day and Rotary International.

Joining Peters on the 2004 Executive Committee are: Eugene M. Nelson, president-elect, William J. Geary, vice president; and Edward H. Abbott, secretary/treasurer. The 2004 SME directors include F. Brian Holmes, Richard L. Kegg, and George E. West Jr.