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Industry News
October 4, 2015

Production Machining Magazine Features Precision Plus’s Internship Program

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Michael Reader

Production Machining Magazine’s Chris Koepfer, Editor in Chief, writes a monthly column to its readership, expressing his thoughts on certain topics. In September of 2015, his column focused on talent acquisition and featured Precision Plus as a game changer.

Koepfer recounted a recent trip to visit Horn, a cutting tool manufacturer in southern Germany. Horn, as most companies in Europe regardless of size, has an apprenticeship program in place. This manufacturer regularly employs 60 apprentices, contributing to the creation of a pipeline of qualified manufacturing professionals.

Koepfer remarks that although the U.S. lags behind, there is a “maker movement” afoot, a grassroots initiative which has begun to change the course of manufacturing. In his column, he spotlights Wisconsin’s Precision Plus and President Mike Reader as examples of what some manufacturers are doing to promote the trend, including establishing internship and apprenticeship programs that nurture future manufacturing professionals. “The idea is to give these candidates real-life experience on the shop floor with the goal of showing that manufacturing’s historic image is simply not relevant in a modern shop.”

For a PDF of this article, please click HERE.
To read it online on Production Machining Magazine, click HERE.

Precision Plus appreciates the recognition and thanks Chris Koepfer and Production Machining Magazine for the inclusion.

 

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Industry News
September 25, 2015

Stefan Brusky of Tsugami/Rem Sales Rebuilds a Petermann No. 0 Lathe, and Brings Swiss Precision History to the 21st Century

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Michael Reader

Stefan Brusky serves as Midwest Regional Sales Manager at Tsugami/Rem Sales Machine Tools. Rem Sales is the exclusive North American importer of Tsugami’s extensive range of Swiss precision CNC machines and tools. This technical sales position keeps Brusky quite busy, as he oversees Tsugami/Rem’s sales operations in Minnesota, North Dakota, Northern Illinois, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Machines have been a part of Stefan Brusky’s life from the time he can remember, learning all about them hands-on from his father. However, he admits that one of his favorite pastimes has always been taking engines and machines apart and rebuilding them. “I typically don’t work from plans,” he says, “I’ve been rebuilding engines and machines since I was 14 years old…so I know how these things work.”

A few years ago, Brusky came across a No. 0 Petermann Swiss-Auto lathe, which was collecting dust in his father’s basement and appeared to be in dire need of restoration. So, he took it upon himself to take it apart and rebuild it…”a fun labor of love that took about two months to complete,” he adds.

The Petermann automatic lathes originate from the French-speaking town of Moutier in Switzerland, one of the most important Swiss watch and Swiss precision centers, also the home of Swiss precision pioneers such as A. Bechler and Tornos.

The Swiss precision industry was revolutionized in the 1870s by the introduction of the automatic lathe, where some its actions could be mechanically automated, by being driven by flat belts from overhead line shafting. By 1930, most Swiss-Auto machines had self-contained drives with built-in motors and countershafts or speed-change gearboxes. However, their complex design did not yield the spindle speeds range the industry consistently demanded.

Petermann solved this issue when the company introduced its No. 0 model, accomplished “by passing the drive through a simple gearbox fitted with ‘pick-off’ wheels that the operator could change himself.” This pre-WWII jewel, was the smallest Petermann lathe, and was intended “for material up to 4 mm (0.157″) diameter in brass, and 2.5 mm (0.098″) in steel.” Additionally, with the No. 0 model, Petermann also was able to introduce the ‘micro-differential apparatus’, where a micrometer was mounted on the end of each tool holder, which allowed for very precise adjustments when making small parts. “The first setting took accuracy to within 0.01 mm of turned diameter and the second to within 0.001 mm (0.00004″).” Petermann subsequently produced larger machines that could handle diameters up to 30 mm.

For Brusky, rebuilding the No. 0 Petermann Swiss-Auto lathe meant experiencing the history of an industry he loves. Over 200 parts came apart and came together after castings were blasted and repainted, ways were hand scraped, and missing parts were made and incorporated. Today, Stefan Brusky’s No. 0 Petermann  is a completely restored, operational and fully functional gem and piece of history.

Fully-involved in today’s Swiss precision industry, Stefan Brusky has shown his Petermann No. 0 Swiss-Auto lathe at trade shows, and has granted Precision Plus the opportunity to showcase this amazing piece of Swiss precision history.

Stefan Brusky and his wife Barbara, also own and run SJB Engineering LLC, where they design and produce fly fishing reels, medical parts, and are also involved in gunsmithing and rebuilding machinery.

Mike Reader, President of Precision Plus and the Precision Plus Team give Stefan Brusky a shout out on his outstanding job for rebuilding the Petermann No. 0, and for reminding us of the arduous work and achievements made by so many to make our industry what it is today. ”This is a skill that may soon to be lost if we cannot find the next generation willing to embrace it and carry on the legacy of great accomplishments,” notes Reader.

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Industry News
September 24, 2015

What Manufacturers Can Do to Attract, Retain and Keep Connected with Employees

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Michael Reader

On September 18, 2015, the Independent Business Association of Wisconsin, in cooperation with the New Berlin Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Bank Mutual and Sikich, presented the Wisconsin Manufacturing Summit 2015, which took place at The Wisconsin Club Ballroom in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Mary Spaight, HR Coordinator, and Mark Beilman, Director of Education and Training at Precision Plus attended the conference.

The keynote presenter was Christine McMahon, whose program entitled “Workforce Strategies: Attraction. Retention. Connection.,” addressed a hot topic among prospective employees: “Why should I work here?” This topic is especially of importance to the manufacturing industry, which is plagued with a shortage of high-skilled personnel. McMahon spoke about the role which company culture plays in answering that question, as well as about taking tangible steps for attracting and retaining the right talent.

Talent procurement is an ever-changing science that adjusts to current social sentiments. Employees are looking for a total proposition and a corporate culture they can trust. McMahon cited a statistic, which indicates that a high trust culture yields, on average, 30 percent better performance.

So, what makes a company a great place to work, and how can employees and employers be sure that it is a right match? McMahon suggests pre-qualifying employees by outlining the qualities which a successful candidate must possess for the position, prevents future disconnects and discords.

Jeff Lemmermann, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Information Officer at Precision Plus explains that the company currently gives every prospective employee a short survey which creates a ‘Predictive Index’ (PI). “This index provides an insight into what motivates each person, as well as their preferred internal style of giving and receiving information,” he continues. “This is essential in placing someone in the right position or team. The survey does not measure any type of skill level, but addresses the type of situations in which the employee can best engage.” Precision Plus has been using the PI program for workforce analytics since 2011.

Talent acquisition often carries a pricey investment tag, which includes advertising, marketing, interviewing and training, among other costs. What can companies do to retain their employees? McMahon suggested that hiring an employee is only the beginning of the journey. Employees must have a feeling of inclusiveness from the get go, need to feel the company’s story, and must be on board with the company’s values.

Additionally, employees must have clear performance expectations as well as a clear knowledge of what they can expect from the company. “Performance reviews are going away,” said McMahon, “being replaced by ongoing documented performance conversations and real-time feedback that can correct or improve performance midstream.”

Lemmermann states that transparency and understanding members’ style is vital for team building and team cooperation. Employees at Precision Plus are encouraged to learn each other’s predictive index in order to have a better understanding of how people prefer to communicate and work together.

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Industry News
September 17, 2015

Machining a Great Career Path: Matt Schowalter’s Steps to Success in Manufacturing Technology

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Michael Reader

When you ask what machining means to me, I could go on for hours with stories about how I made very complex parts on machines that are even more complicated than the parts themselves. Machining is by far more interesting than what most people know. From the challenges of implementing new complex equipment in the shop, to CNC programming, or even making complex parts in one setup. It is definitely a career choice that most don’t know how advanced it can be, especially the machining of today. Now, we can make parts in one setup that were once made in many setups on multiple pieces of equipment over a long time frame. My career is a success story in manufacturing technology as I have embraced the technology of today and here is how I made it happen with six easy steps in career success.

I started my career in metalworking when I was in high school after I enrolled in the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship program. It is a program that is a partnership between the school, state, and industry. I learned all about machining from both high school shop classes and while working in a machine shop. It proved to be an excellent foundation for my career. The shop that I worked at turned out to be an excellent learning environment. The mentors were great, they encouraged me to go on in my career and do great things. – Matt Schowalter

Matt Schowalter, CMfgT (Certified Manufacturing Technologist) is Machining Group Lead at Gauthier Biomedical. He recently wrote a four-page brochure to not only tell his manufacturing story, but to reach out to high school students and their parents to inform them about machining career paths.

Schowalter feels that is his way of giving back after being rewarded with a satisfying career in manufacturing, and represents the guideline he himself would have liked to have received when he was 16 years old.

To have a great career in manufacturing I have come up with six steps that I used to develop career success. They all are building blocks to great career accomplishments and are easily obtained by applying yourself to your career goals. You can do it, here’s how:

  1. Get a Technical Degree -A solid educational foundation is a critical building block, you will make a lot more money in your career if you follow through with a Technical College education.
  2. Serve a State Sponsored Apprenticeship -This is an excellent way to learn the skills of the trade and climb the pay scale also. It also will ensure that you are viewed as a professional in your career. By finishing an apprenticeship and becoming a journeyman, you will be put in a position to make a good wage for the rest of your career.
  3. Never Stop Learning – Enroll in at least two specialized classes per year. It is an excellent way to build a great resume also, as it shows future employers that you are a dedicated career professional.
  4. Become Proficient in Working with Others – This is the most important factor of the six steps. You will have more opportunities presented to you if you have the ability to work with everyone effectively
  5. Gain the Ability to Turn Manufacturing Issues into Career Opportunities – some may look away from the major issues that hinder the shop. These are the challenges that build a great resume, so ask your boss how you can help fix the major issues they encounter throughout the shop.
  6. Become a Certified Professional in Manufacturing – Consider this the bow on your career package.It will set you apart from the others in the industry. A certification from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers ensures that you have the knowledge to make a difference in the manufacturing industry. It also challenges you to be your best, by obtaining credits for recertification.

By following these steps you will become a leader in the manufacturing industry. You may ask what is next in my career. I can tell you working with others on machining issues and keeping up on the latest technology, more technical classes too, the keys to success in the manufacturing industry.

Schowalter encourages people to read his guideline and share it with others. To obtain a printed version to distribute, please contact Matt Schowalter via email, or download a PDF of his Machining a Great Career Path – The Steps to Success in Manufacturing Technology HERE.

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Industry News
August 27, 2015

Gateway Technical College Elkhorn Campus Launches First Midwest Micro Machining Advanced Manufacturing Lab

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Michael Reader

By Dana Runimas-Plazyk
Reporting for Precision Plus

Recently, I had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Bryan Albrecht, President of Gateway Technical College (GTC), about the launch of a micro machining (Swiss screw machining) advanced manufacturing facility at the school’s Elkhorn, WI Campus.

When Albrecht joined GTC as its president in 2006, he was charged with creating curricula that directly responded to the need for a highly skilled workforce by Southeast Wisconsin employers, imperative to have in place in order to grow the local economy. He began his tenure by holding “listening sessions,” with local businesses, to enable GTC to understand that need.

The requests were vast and included a ready workforce need for manufacturing, HVAC, IT, health sciences, aeronautic, automotive, hospitality, law enforcement and everything in between. Over the last nine years, many programs have been developed and are successfully in place, addressing the needs of the local business community. Today, Gateway Technical College operates from three campuses in Racine, Kenosha and Walworth counties, and offers advance technical certificates, associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificates, some online classes, and dual enrollment options with the University of Wisconsin, Parkside.

“On an annual basis, 23,000 students attend Gateway,” says Albrecht. “We currently offer 100 certificate programs and 65 degree programs. Last week alone, we graduated EMS technicians, certified police officers, and SharePoint developers. Additionally, we are working with primary and secondary schools on K12 articulation.”

However, Albrecht points out that in as much as the workforce needs of manufacturers in Kenosha and Racine counties had been met, GTC “couldn’t wrap up” their thoughts for the needs of manufacturers in Walworth County.

He recalls meeting Mike Reader, President of Precision Plus, in 2012 at a career and technical education advisory committee meeting. “Mike’s concern about the lack of a qualified workforce to address the requirements of Walworth County manufacturers struck a chord,” says Albrecht. “Mike and Precision Plus were adamant about changing the situation, and had launched, single-handedly, an educational initiative geared to correct this issue, while bringing attention to–and gaining the support of–educators, organizations and legislators.”

“Changing the situation would also require higher-level technical education,” reflects Albrecht. “Both the Racine and Kenosha Campuses offered associate degrees in manufacturing and machine tool, as well as CNC programs. None was available in Walworth County.” Albrecht recalls Reader’s words: “We have to get this done, Bryan.”

Albrecht considers Mike Reader “a true champion,” who enlisted the help of fellow manufacturers, vendors, customers, legislators, educators, students, and organizations to “get things rolling.” A preliminary study conducted by GTC indicated Walworth County was one of two national hubs (the other being Kosciusko County, IN) for Swiss-type precision manufacturers (micromachining), and that the absence of technically skilled employees to run the specialized equipment, made it hard to grow the local economy.

Albrecht presented Gateway’s Board of Trustees with a plan: To expand the Walworth Campus to include a state-of-art manufacturing center, offering the traditional manufacturing programs already in place at the other two campuses, plus a unique Swiss screw (micromachining) advanced manufacturing program. The latter, would make Gateway Technical College the first institution in the Midwest to offer this specialized training, also contributing to better position Wisconsin in the overall global market.

The current plans for the new manufacturing center include remodeling of the the Elkhorn Campus South Building and an expansion which will bring the total area dedicated to the center to 4,000 sq. ft. The center (yet to be named) will house welding, fabrication, rapid prototype, computer aided design (CAD), engineering, and full-scale precision machining labs. The footprint construction will start in November with an estimated Spring of 2016 completion date.

GTC’s Manufacturing Center officially opened over the summer by offering a Youth CNC Boot Camp, a program designed for high school seniors to finish the school year with a high school degree and a CNC operator certificate.

The CNC adult programs will begin to be offered at the Elkhorn Campus in September.   “We have recently added two new instructors, as all CNC classes at all three campuses are fully enrolled,” adds Albrecht.

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Equipment has been steadily arriving to the new manufacturing center over the last couple of months, and Albrecht reiterates that the total endeavor would not have been possible without Mike Reader’s resolve, his ability to see the big picture, and his talent to simultaneously engage all the pieces that were needed to make the center a reality.

Thus far, four brand new Haas ST-10 lathes, one Tsugami S205 CNC Swiss machine, and an MTA barfeeder are already in place thanks to the tremendous help from Brad Morris of The Morris Group, and Jamie Schwartz of CNC Indexing & Feeding Technologies. Precision Plus not only assisted with the equipment installation, but also with a generous donation of $50,000, which facilitated the purchase of the equipment. Plans are to have at least eight Haas machines, 4 turning and 4 vertical machining centers, when the center is in full operation.

Industry support for GTC’s manufacturing center has been unprecedented, notably, a long-term agreement reached by GTC with Hanan Fishman of PartMaker who will provide computer aided manufacturing (CAM) software for students in the center. Also, a recent $2,500 tool donation by Grainger for the CNC Boot Camp, will contribute to the student experience.

On August 15, 2015, Mike Reader and Mark Beilman, Director of Education and Training at Precision Plus, toured the repurposed space housing the equipment. “We met with Dean of Students Michael O’Donnell and instructor JD Jones,” mentions Reader. “We had a great meeting and everyone is excited about the new equipment rolling in.”

The next few months promise to be exciting for the Elkhorn Campus of Gateway Technical College, and for the local industry, community, and economy. Precision Plus thanks Dr. Albrecht for his time to conduct this interview, and looks forward to continue to report on the progress of Gateway Technical College Elkhorn Campus’s new manufacturing center.

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Industry News
August 14, 2015

How Revolutionary Technology for the Minimally Invasive Spinal Tool Market Made Its Transition to the Aerospace Industry

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Michael Reader

While attending the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)’s July’s AirVenture Convention in Oshkosh, WI, Mike Reader, President of Precision Plus met with Harold Hess, M.D., a neurosurgeon, also CEO and Co-Founder of Enduralock, an exhibitor at the convention.

Mike Reader was impressed of how Enduralock transitioned to this industry.  Here is a recap:

Enduralock is a leader in vibration resistant technology for the aerospace industry, featuring a portfolio of innovative fastener technologies: Radial Lock Fastener, Axial Ratcheting Fastener and Radial Ratcheting Fastener, fasteners that are permanently locking, fully reversible, and reusable.

This technology, however, was not originally designed for the aerospace industry, but for lateral MIS lumbar fusion, allowing for minimally invasive tools to treat cervical conditions of the spine, as well as fractures, fusion and osteotomies of the extremities. Dr. Harold Hess co-founded Spinal Simplicity, LLC in 2008, along with Todd Moseley, an entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in orthopedics.

Spinal Simplicity has a sophisticated intellectual property portfolio covering the unique devices and instrumentation designed by our team. The extensive pathway that protects the innovative designs created by Spinal Simplicity is forging new territory in the spinal and orthopedic markets.

The company has successfully been awarded over 20 patents in the U.S. and on a global basis, with more than 35 patent applications pending.

“Out of the box thinking” led Dr. Hess and his children to consider the application of their innovation to other industries, where vibration could be detrimental if fasteners loosened up. The aerospace industry was a logical choice, and so Enduralock was launched in 2013 to serve that industry.

Precision Plus gives a shout out to Dr. Hess and his associates for innovative thinking and subsequent repurposing of a proven solution.

To learn more about both companies, visit Enduralock and Spinal Simplicity.

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Community Involvement Industry News
August 12, 2015

Mike Reader and Other Members of the Wisconsin Aerospace Partners Join Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2015 to Promote Wisconsin’s Aerospace Supply Chain

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Michael Reader

Every July, Oshkosh, Wisconsin turns into the “busiest airport in the world.” Over half a million attendees flood the city of nearly 70,000 inhabitants, located off the shore of Lake Winnebago for the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)’s AirVenture Convention.  This year, the convention took place from July 20th through the 26th.

According to data recently published by the organizers, more than 10,000 aircraft arrived at Wittman Regional Airport and other nearby airports for the event, including 2,668 showplanes. In addition, there were state, national and foreign exhibitors, as well as visitors from a record 80 nations around the world.

Over 1000 workshop sessions were attended by more than 75,000 people, featuring drone to spacecraft technology, metal to wood construction techniques, and anything imaginable having to do with aviation and aerospace.

One of the groups exhibiting at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2015, was the Wisconsin Aerospace Partners (Booth #3039, Hangar C), whose mission is “to promote, stimulate and facilitate aerospace related education, and economic opportunities, capabilities and activities in Wisconsin.”

Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, present at the EAA AirVenture Convention, singled out the group  as a supply chain resource, as she encouraged job creators to expand their business into the State of Wisconsin. In the short video below, Lt. Governor Kleefisch talks about the infrastructure already in place in the state that makes Wisconsin the right place in which to do aerospace business.

Two hundred aviation and aerospace companies already make their home in the state. Additionally, in 2013 alone, 3600 academic degrees related to aerospace were awarded from Wisconsin colleges and universities to support the industry’s initiatives.

“The Wisconsin Aerospace Partners supports organizations engaged with the aerospace industry in the State of Wisconsin by establishing a strong network and support system designed to grow the economic vitality of the State and the aerospace industry.” These organizations represent  over 14,000 qualified, capable, and experienced manufacturing individuals who can to serve this industry.

Partner companies are committed to:

  • Communicate the importance of aerospace and technology as a priority for business, economy and community in Wisconsin;
  • Foster education and growth of science, technology and engineering in Wisconsin;
  • Educate positions and develop proposals that support Wisconsin’s aerospace industry;
  • Provide support, infrastructure, and special activities to grow Wisconsin aviation and aerospace business activities; and,
  • Create a focused pipeline to create and grow entrepreneurship in Wisconsin’s aerospace industry.

 

Precision Plus is proud to be a Wisconsin Aerospace Partner.  For more information about the Wisconsin Aerospace Partners, click HERE.

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Company Updates Industry News
July 16, 2015

How to Keep Students Awake in Class – Precision Plus in the News

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Michael Reader

This is a reprint of an article authored by Susan Pohorski, which first appeared on Wisconsin Technical College System’s website.

How to keep students awake in class

By Susan Pohorski

It’s an age-old problem that has challenged teachers forever. How do you keep students awake and engaged in a classroom setting?

Several Elkhorn High School students took on this problem as the capstone project for their Engineering Design Development class. The students conducted research, designed prototype products and tested the products until they felt they had a viable answer.Their product is a pen that vibrates when the user has been inactive for a certain time period. Nod off and your pen will wake you.

A new way of teaching and learning
Hundreds of Wisconsin high schools and middle schools from Appleton to Winneconne are using an activity, project, and problem-based curriculum developed by Project Lead the Way (PLTW) to help students develop skills they need for success in post-secondary education and beyond.  As a result, students rarely fall a sleep during class.

Since 2009, Elkhorn Area School District (EASD) has implemented PLTW curriculum throughout all levels to teach science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Courses cover biomedical science, computer science and engineering concepts. EASD is one of only two districts in the country where every student has access to PLTW curriculum.

“PLTW courses are very engaging and reach students with different learning styles,” commented Jason Tadlock, superintendent of the EASD. “Kids see the relevance of math and science in real life.”

Second grade students engineer a device for planting seeds. Fourth graders create vehicles and put them through crash testing. In fifth grade, the students learn to build and operate robots.

“We hear consistent feedback from employers who look for PLTW students because of their academic and teamwork skills,” Tadlock added.

Business partners with schools
The district also has a unique partnership with a major employer in the area. In 2012 Precision Plus invited 24 area educators to tour their facilities to discuss the career possibilities available for high school graduates. The school district also hosts an annual Manufacturing Career Panel discussion for students sponsored by Precision Plus Representatives of Elkhorn area employers discuss the state of industry and the possibilities manufacturing offers. This year Mike Reader, president of Precision Plus, moderated the discussion.

Students who toured local manufacturing facilities asked if they could have internships with the companies.

“We had 10 student interns the first year,” said Barry Butters, director of education and training for Precision Plus, who was hired to coordinate and grow the program. He teaches some of the PLTW engineering courses, including the one mentioned above.

“Mike Reader is a true visionary,” Butters explained. “He saw the need to develop a talent pipeline and engage the schools.”

With the partnership of Precision Plus and a grant from the Kern Foundation, teachers from the Elkhorn Area School District attended PLTW training.

Work skills, life skills
“Project Lead the Way makes better thinkers and problem solvers,” Butters adds. “When young students understand they can make things and solve problems, they will go far in life.”Chris Trottier, principal of Elkhorn High School enthusiastically supports the new style of learning for his students.“Kids develop skills to enter the workforce,” he said. “Like problem solving and critical thinking.”Tadlock points out that students in these classes learn to take risks and learn from their mistakes. “Kids come out ahead when they can overcome trials. That skill carries over into the world of work,” he continued.Does your school use project-, activity- and problem-based curriculum? Employers want job candidates who are thinkers and problem solvers.“Challenge businesses to get involved,” Butters urged parents. “Schools cannot do it alone with the fiscal constraints they are under.”

Read the original article HERE.

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Industry News
July 9, 2015

Skill Shortage vs. Wages Offered: A Controversy in the Perception of the Manufacturing Industry

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Michael Reader

Recently, an article on BizTimes.com (Milwaukee Business News) reported on the results of a semiannual survey conducted by the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) to assess the current concerns of its members, including the inability to hire skilled employees. Comments by some of those who read the article suggested manufacturing wages are too low to secure qualified employees.

CEOs and top executives of 306 WMC member companies responded to the survey, which included questions about employment, taxes, healthcare, and more.

According to those who answered the survey,  the “shortage of qualified and/or willing workers is getting worse and is holding back Wisconsin’s economy,” with the number of manufacturers unable to hire qualified employees rising from 53% a year ago, 64% six months ago, to an unprecedented 77% at this time.

“Wisconsin business leaders are becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of qualified workers as well as the lack of action by politicians to address the issue,” said Kurt Bauer, WMC president and chief executive officer. “The sad irony is that as the economy improves, there is greater demand for workers. But if businesses can’t find workers, then the economy can’t achieve its full potential.”

Although, 91% of respondents believe Wisconsin is “headed in the right direction,” others indicated the strong dollar might make outsourcing appealing once again.

Comments made by readers alluded to skilled positions being compensated $12.50 to $14.00/hour, and CEOs being “out of touch with reality” when expecting a fair exchange of skills for wages offered.

The reality, however, is that there are different manufacturing positions within a company, which require different sets of knowledge, experience and skills, with wages commensurate with the responsibilities.

For example, the average base pay for a machinist at Precision Plus is $17.11/hour and the average total earnings over a year’s period is $49,921. To calculate the average hourly wage, base pays for intern, trainee, operator and setup machinists on a variety of equipment were included. The average year’s compensation included overtime and bonuses.

Precision Plus reiterates that a candidate may start their career at a community college for operator certificate and credentials. Subsequently, however, skilled candidates can qualify for on the job training to develop their skills and aptitudes.

To inquire about available positions at Precision Plus, please click HERE.

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Industry News
June 8, 2015

Barry Butters of Precision Plus Speaks at the June 2, 2015 Milwaukee7 Council Meeting About Talent and Workforce Development for the Area

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Michael Reader

“The Milwaukee7 represents Milwaukee, Kenosha, Racine, Washington, Ozaukee, Waukesha, and Walworth Counties.  The aim of the Milwaukee7 is to compete globally in an innovation economy through the unification of this region. Aiding the growth, expansion, and attraction of export driver industries and emerging business sectors, as well as strengthening this region’s ability to innovate, are the key goals of this organization.”

Walworth County hosted a Milwaukee7 Council Meeting on June 2, 2015 at the Riviera Ballroom in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The agenda included presentations by local business leaders to address initiatives already in place to promote regional export of goods and services, as well talent development and acquisition.

Barry Butters, Director of Education and Training at Precision Plus spoke to the group about the company’s talent procurement initiatives. He used some of the slides from Precision Plus’ “13-Step Playbook for Workforce Development” presentation to show examples of how companies can engage their communities for this purpose. He also made reference to Mike Reader, president of the company, as a true visionary on workforce development issues.

Butters invited companies with similar interests in workforce development to reach out to Precision Plus to share and collaborate on solutions, and was commended for delivering an engaging presentation with a great overview on the ways companies can fill their future talent pipeline, and the willingness to help out and promote engagement and partnership.

Contact Barry Butters via email or by phone.

 

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