Recent research shows significant manufacturing job deficits, particularly in Wyoming, while Illinois had many open roles but left 70% unfilled. This reflects a broader workforce shift post-pandemic, with millions retiring early and many changing jobs for better opportunities.
In 2025, medical device manufacturers are grappling with heightened regulatory uncertainty, leading to slower reviews and communication difficulties with the FDA. This situation drives them to reassess operations for compliance and risk management, with a strong emphasis on maintaining product quality, which is vital for patient safety.
Periodic analysis in manufacturing is essential to avoid complacency and adopt the latest techniques. If corrective actions or improved training can reduce costs and enhance quality, it's time to make those investments.
America Makes, the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute, recognizes the urgent need for education and workforce development initiatives.
The U.S. manufacturing supply chain faces challenges, especially for small- to medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) in additive manufacturing. To tackle talent shortages, America Makes has partnered with organizations to develop education and workforce initiatives to enhance SMM capabilities and competitiveness.
Risk assessment is not a one-time exercise but a continuous cycle that must adapt to changes in organizational context, industry regulations, and emerging threats.
This article highlights the importance of risk management in Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs). It discusses key principles and tools to help CABs identify and mitigate risks, enhancing resilience and assessment accuracy. Read one to see what practical insights are offered for integrating risk management into CAB operations.
Unlock the power of reflective self-talk to enhance your productivity and drive continuous improvement. Explore its benefits and discover practical strategies to integrate this transformative practice into your daily routine.
A vital shift is taking place in the workplace as we recognize the often-overlooked contributions of frontline team members. From warehouse workers to healthcare providers, their hard work is essential, reminding us that true quality starts with the people behind the results.
This article highlights how thoughtful automation can reduce variation, improve process stability, and support lean goals like flow and quality. When integrated within a lean framework, automation complements the human-centered philosophy of lean and enhances its effectiveness across the value stream.
A defect on the production floor may seem minor, but its true cost is often hidden across operations. Manufacturers should quantify the financial impact of quality failures by assigning costs to events.
The aerospace industry is grappling with a shortage of auditors for AS9100 Quality Management Systems certification, crucial for safety and compliance, as demand for aircraft and services increases in 2025. This shortage affects manufacturers and suppliers globally, emphasizing the need for improved recruitment and retention in auditing.