​Our new Robo-Job Lathe-Assist Essential robot has officially landed in our shop. This new robot aids our Okuma lathe in more capacity and allows for larger production runs. We can’t wait to see the new improvements that this robot will provide. The manufacturing industry is advancing in both automation and technology and we are fortunate to be a part of this growth towards an impressive future. 

President and CEO, Nicole Wolter, joins the Making Chips Podcast as this season’s new host. Throughout this season she will be discussing a variety of different topics with other influential people within the manufacturing industry. ​

​CEO, Nicole Wolter,  joined Andrew Crowe and Chris Czarnik to continue their discussion from their IMTS 2022 JobShop Workshop. They spoke about the value of appealing to a younger audience and what approaches can be taken in order to get those interested in the manufacturing industry. Nicole also spoke about her personal philosophy with paid internships and the importance of showcasing the exciting and innovative aspects of our industry over social media.
 
Click here to watch the full video: https://www.imts.com/watch/video-details/Workforce-Development-and-Retention-Part-2/347

What a week at IMTS 2022!

    The team at HM Manufacturing had an incredible week at IMTS 2022. The show was very busy and it was great to be able to see old friends and meet many new people. The large amount of innovation and technology showcased the exciting places our industry is headed. President and CEO, Nicole Wolter, spoke at many events throughout the week discussing a variety of different topics. 

    On Monday, Nicole spoke alongside Andrew Crowe and Chris Czarnik to discuss workforce development and retention at the IMTS Job Shop Workshop. Formatted like a Ted Talk, the three spoke on the issues in front of an audience and answered questions at the end from the crowd. The session was very insightful and had many meaningful thoughts from all three panelists.

    Over at the Okuma booth, Production Specialist, Wade Anderson, invited Nicole to speak on the podcast and talk about her background along with the purpose of attending IMTS. The full podcast will be out on Okuma’s platforms soon. Not to mention, NTD News interviewed Nicole for a segment on their channel about using social media resources and trends to recruit new members to the workforce. Nicole is a strong believer in using platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to appeal to a younger generation.

    Marley led a discussion between Nicole and Anessa Muthana on the IMTS Main Stage on Wednesday afternoon. The three talked about what they had seen at IMTS so far and what they hope young women can take away from the event. Both also touched on what it was like to take over a family business and what it meant to them to continue their family’s legacy. Along with that, Marley specifically asked Nicole to speak on how investing in technology helps recruit and retain a younger workforce. The entire main stage session will be available through IMTS. 

A busy day on Thursday included a session about cell phone etiquette for Edge Factor in the Student Summit section of IMTS. This short interview talked about the appropriate way to use your cellphone in both the classroom and the workplace. Not only that, Nicole spoke with three others on issues facing women in technology. This group of women spoke for over an hour and answered audience questions regarding their discussion. Nicole was also delighted to speak with Milachi Greb, of Elite Automation, to highlight her background and how she got into the manufacturing industry. The two had an insightful discussion, and the full interview will be up on Elite Automation’s platform.

As the week came to a close, the entire HM Manufacturing team came to IMTS on Friday to explore the various different booths and spot anything they believed could aid in the production on the plant floor. We ended the day with a team lunch where we were able to discuss everything that was seen and any ideas that they had. Team member, Eric Taylor, found many interesting aspects including a vice fixture that could pick up gears of any shape. Our whole team had a great time at IMTS 2022 and we cannot wait to be back in two years!

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Nicole Wolter sat down with Wade Anderson of Okuma to discuss how she approaches IMTS as someone looking to buy new machines. They also discussed Nicole’s background and HM’s own story.

Later in the week, HM Manufacturing purchased a GENOS M460-VE mill from Okuma. This machine offers thermal stability, economic energy consumption, and quick tool change times. We are very excited for the new innovation that this machine will offer our company.

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HM Manufacturing hosted the Lake County Workforce Development Board at the company to talk about workforce development needs, funding and ways to work with the community to promote manufacturing. This partnership aids both the internship and apprenticeship programs at HM, as well as our current team with more training and certification opportunities. 

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HM Manufacturing president and CEO, Nicole Wolter, was featured in this year’s FindMe Campaign put on for IMTS 2022. As part of this campaign, IMTS created a short video for viewers to understand the background and values of the company as well as Nicole’s role as the leader.  Nicole also speaks on why she chooses to attend IMTS and how she approaches the show as someone looking to purchase machines. IMTS is a huge event for the company as every year they go to either replace or purchase a new machine. They choose to do this mainly through IMTS because they are able to see the newest technology and innovation in person to decide what suits their current demand best. 


Be sure to check out her webpage to watch the video and learn more: https://www.imts.com/watch/video-details/Find-Me-at-IMTS-2022-Nicole-Wolter/142

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Lake Zurich School District 95 awarded HM Manufacturing with the Outstanding Internship Partner Award. We are proud to have taken high school interns and taught them about the manufacturing industry over the past five years. We look forward to many more years of interns at HM and our continued partnership with the district.

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