TPT January 2012

I ndustry N ews

is demonstrating its belief in Germany as a production location. Dr Schönbeck commented, “Germany as a location offers benefits, particularly thanks to our committed, well-trained employees. If we can retain our place at the top here, then Germany, too, still has a good future in front of it as a production Boosting productivity and delivery times location.” The investment is not linked to a reduction in the workforce. SMS Meer GmbH – Germany Fax: +49 2161 350 667 Email: info@sms-meer.com Website: www.sms-meer.com

SMS Meer, Germany, has announced that it will invest around €60mn in the expansion of its Mönchengladbach site by 2015. “We are increasing productivity, reducing delivery times and thereby safeguarding jobs at the site over the long term,” said Dr Joachim Schönbeck, president and CEO of the plant construction and mechanical engineering company, at the symbolic groundbreaking on 14 July. The modernisation of the machinery will reduce unit costswhile shortening lead times. The expansion of the heavy-equipment bay will further improve production processes. “Overall we will be able to improve our ability to deliver considerably and can offer our customers an even better service,” explained Dr Schönbeck. Extensive training measures and the modernisation of the workshop will ensure that staff can operate the machinery perfectly, right from the outset. While other companies are shifting production to Asia, SMS Meer ROLL-KRAFT is pleased to announce that Patrick J Hopkins has been selected to be a part of the Young Professional Council. This is a group sponsored by the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association (FMA). Their mission is to identify, create, and establish mentoring and networking opportunities to reach potential entrepreneurs, business owners, and those interested in a manufacturing career. The group provides speakers for manufacturing conferences, local schools, and various other opportunities, to enumerate the advantages and benefits of being involved in the manufacturing community. Often, the group works directly with school guidance counselors to answer questions and challenge America’s youth to investigate the field of manufacturing. Their effort is to dispel the old stereotypes of dirty and dangerous factory workplaces, and expose them to the updated, modern factory floor, with automated systems,

The symbolic groundbreaking ceremony

Roll-Kraft staffer named to Fabricators and Manufacturers Association Patrick J Hopkins

and clean working conditions. There are many advantages in pursuing a career in manufacturing these days. Roll-Kraft is a leading producer of tube and pipe tooling and roll forming tooling. With 48 years of

manufacturing experience, Roll-Kraft is very dedicated to the efforts of this council. Roll-Kraft – USA Website: roll-kraft.com

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J anuary 2012

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