Strategic Interest Group events prove to be an excellent resource for manufacturers, so they can meet these challenges head on with the help of their trusted peers.

I must first commend all members on the strength of their resolve, as 2011 has shown that manufacturers in Ontario are strong and ready to increase their manufacturing competitiveness with all the vim and vigor that they have shown in the past.  We came into the year with trepidation and hoped that 'the worst was over'. While we are not back to the historic highs of the past, manufacturers are ready to show the world that no challenge is insurmountable if we use the expertise and tools in our respective communities. 

During SIG discussions, we tackled:

Environmental Sustainability, Continuous Improvement Initiatives with members sharing best practices on engaging employees in continuous improvement, 5S program challenges, project management office, committing time to your CI program.  Human Resources SIGs focused on - hiring practices, Turnaround Interview, culture change, Employment Law Update and Health & Safety SIGs focused on hazard & job safety analysis, behaviour based safety programs, Ministry of Labour Updates.  We had a great discussion and subject matter expert to cover how manufacturers can find untapped hidden potential in their facilities and utilizing new technology to improve your business flow at Oakville Stamping and Bending and AXYZ Automation. I think that these discussions will continue to happen in manufacturing and will see increased benchmarking opportunities in the year ahead.

We were able to tour fabulous member facilities in Guelph at Teutech Industries, Sleeman Brewery, CpK Interior Products, NGF Canada, Tiger Drylac, Ellis Packaging.  In Burlington/Oakville region we were hosted to some great benchmarking at Procor, Promation Engineering, Comtek Advanced Structures, Oakville Stamping & Bending, AXYZ Automation. In Brampton region, we visited member facilities Brampton Engineering, Almag Aluminum, Canada Colors & Chemicals, KTH Shelburne, Par-Pak, ABB Robotics.  I want to thank all of these members for opening up your doors and allowing us an inside look at what you do and how you do it.  These events were much more successful and the learning opportunities that we received help each manufacturing individual that attends a chance to do their job a little bit better with a little more ease.   We love to get on the floor of member facilities and see how they have been so successful.

The 2012 schedule starts in earnest the last Tuesday in January and it will be great to watch the continued growth and evolution of Guelph area members.  If you want to host a future event let me know.  Hosting provides a great opportunity to showcase your facility and solicit free advice from your peers on any current challenges.

Thanks to all the long time members of EMC in each of these regions and to all new members in 2011!  We look forward to continue 'sharing and stealing with pride' for years to come.  Take this moment to give yourselves a pat on the back for a job well done.

The new year will promise to bring exciting new opportunities for EMC members, as well as, creating new relationships between peers and A LOT of learning through benchmarking. 

2012 is the year to finally get engaged in the SIGs if you haven't before or lately. I wish you a healthy and fun-filled holiday season and a prosperous new year.