I've spent a lot of time over the last year reflecting, learning, and talking about the humble beginnings of NEM as we approached and celebrated our 50th anniversary. Our focus now returns to meeting the challenges of the next 50 years. As we enter this new era, manufacturing in the US is on the rise and it is our job to remain competitive, push the limits of productivity, and expand our capabilities. Our current Workforce Training Grant is the cornerstone of this effort.  It is allowing us to help our employees be among the best and brightest. We are also doing our part to help educate and prepare the worker of tomorrow. Our management team sits on many vocational high school advisory boards; they are working with college engineering programs, the National Robotics League and many government agencies. We are working through our local town government to bring new industries to our area.  We are also working to educate our customers on the benefits of partnering.   Anyone who has taken a team building course knows the power of people working together. This same principle applies to companies working together in a partnership. So much more can be accomplished in areas like process improvement, cost containment, and quality, through collaborative efforts.   As partners, NEM and our customers can reduce cost, lead time and increase ease of assembly.  As I have stated in the past this is not my father's manufacturing industry. Not only has manufacturing evolved but so has the purchasing process.  True savings and success is no longer found with the low bidder. If you are not tapping into the knowledge and abilities your supplier brings to the table, you could be missing your biggest opportunity for success! Contact the team at NEM to learn how you can put our experience to work for you!