A New Crew

MoldMaking Technology has used an Editorial Advisory Board (EAB) since its first issue, back in 1998. We see great value in turning to the folks who work in the trenches of this industry for feedback, support and guidance as we plan content, because this is a publication for the industry, by the industry.

We believe an engaged EAB enhances the standing of the publication, and strengthens its professional and industrial integrity. The board represents all aspects of the mold manufacturing industry, with a balance of moldmakers, molders, OEMs and academia, and various moldmaking segments and job functions. A member is selected based on his or her experience and knowledge of the moldmaking industry.

This year, we have a new crew on the board, including a director of human development and marketing, a technical sales engineer, a senior advanced manufacturing engineer, a president and general manager, a plant manager, an injection tooling engineer, a training consultant, an engineering manager, and an instructor (see page 8 for the new EAB masthead and for new-member introductions).

Overall, the EAB provides us with new ideas and perspectives on the industry, and thereby assists the editors with the direction of the magazine. This intimate involvement from industry leaders ensures that MMT covers the hot topics that are of utmost importance to our readers. More specifically, EAB members are tasked with encouraging the submission of topics, news and leads; providing occasional guest commentaries; moderating panel discussions at Amerimold; representing and promoting the magazine’s mission at industry events; providing helpful comments to the MMT team to assist in the development of the publication; helping the editors stay on top of moldmaking-related industry trends, news and products; and acting as a reviewer of editorial ideas, recommendations and contributions.  

The current agenda for the new board includes forming committees in eight targeted content areas: software, culture, shop floor/process/workflow, equipment, mold materials, mold components, disruptive technology and education/workforce development. We also plan to create an exclusive LinkedIn group for communication. 

In addition to the new advisors, we have a few changes to our lineup of regular columnists. We welcome back training consultant Ryan Pohl of Praeco Skills through his Skills Center column and our new European correspondent, Barbara Schulz, who will lend us her International Perspective. We also have brought back our Profile department, but in a new Q&A format, to help promote various shops across North America. As a matter of fact, this month’s shop also made the cover! 

Spend some time this year getting to know this new crew and reading what each of them has to offer. Most importantly, share your insights with me (cfuges@gardnerweb.com).