Associate with the Best

I’ve had the pleasure of working with the Precision Machined Products Association since 1992. Back then, it was the association for the screw machined products industry. The PMPA is a trade association the represents a tight group of precision parts manufacturers that reflects the migration of the screw industry to precision machine parts makers.

Among the many services this organization provides its member is one called the List Serve. It’s essentially a private chat room where members can ask and answer questions about their businesses, get technical information, consult on human resources issues and even get the latest details about Uncle Sam’s efforts to regulate pretty much everything.

Sometimes, when it seems we’re trying desperately to muddle through our business careers alone, it might be mice to know there are resources available to get good, usable advice from others in the same boat. Independence is fine, but learning from other mistakes can also be very useful.

I recommend the PMPA and other trade associations like it to anyone involved in manufacturing. After all, we’re really all we have. Check out their website.