Every customer interaction is a chance to build loyalty—or lose it. In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, customer service isn’t just a department—it’s a differentiator. Join NWIRC’s 'Moments that Matter' training on Sept 16 in St. Marys.

Lean isn’t just about process—it’s about people. Lean Together™ helps emerging and seasoned leaders build trust, solve problems faster, and identify and elevate key players. Now it’s your turn! New cohort launches September 9.

Last year, NWIRC started Manufacturing 'Family' Day in October for MFG Month- encouraging companies to open their doors specifically for children, grandchildren, etc. of their employees. Sign up by Sept 25 to receive a toolkit for your event.

What happens when your go-to tech retires? If your maintenance knowledge lives in one person’s head, it’s time to build systems that last.

Countdown to culture shift. Ready to rethink how your team works together? Lean Together™ 1.0 kicks off soon! This 9-month journey blends hands-on learning, company tours, and real-time shop floor improvements.

Tech transformation isn’t just about upgrading equipment—it’s about uplifting your team.

Audits to certify or maintain your company's ISO 9001 registration don’t have to be scary. Learn how to make them strategic, not stressful. Stay audit-ready with some additional training and lead your team with confidence.

Are you a champion of manufacturing who’s tired of seeing great ideas stall? A data-driven problem solver who craves real impact. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and help manufacturers transform how they work, NWIRC wants you on our team! .

Ready to rethink how your team works together? Lean Together™ 1.0 kicks off next month! This 9-month journey blends hands-on learning, company tours, and real-time shop floor improvements. 👉

AI is transforming work in the manufacturing back office. From streamlining emails to simplifying presentations, AI tools are helping manufacturers reclaim time and boost consistency. It’s not about replacing expertise—it’s about amplifying it.

🔍Tackle problems with precision! Hands-on 8D Problem Solving workshop to learn proven tools like 5W2H, Pareto charts, and the 5 Whys to drive real operational impact. Perfect for teams focused on quality, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement.

Automate 2025 held this past May in Detroit is in the rearview mirror, but NWIRC's Operational Excellence Specialist, Shane Cantrell, recently penned some takeaways and insights from his experience at the show.

We are rolling into August tomorrow (and the dog days of summer 🙂)! And, excited to roll-out our August newsletter as a special 8-page edition dedicated to 'smart manufacturing technology'.

Tomorrow (July 30) - a new episode of the Survive + Thrive series of the Quality Hub Podcast airs - featuring .NWIRC President/CEO Sara Hanks. Discussion is about how small businesses can make smart, data-driven decisions in the face of uncertainty.

Navigating new responsibilities or guiding former peers? - this 3-part experience delivers practical tools for mindset, coaching, and communication. It’s built for real-world impact in manufacturing teams. Next series starts Aug 14 in St Marys.

The triple bottom line of 'upskilling' is employee loyalty, increased productivity, and business growth. Upskilling is more than just training — it’s a strategic investment in people that transforms your workforce.

When problems arise, do your teams jump to solutions—or dig deep to understand the root cause? Building a company of problem-solvers means equipping people with the mindset and tools to investigate, collaborate, and resolve issues.

Big thanks to the engaged participants at our Creating a Culture of Accountability training - who showed up ready to lead with clarity and ownership- More sessions are on the way in St Marys and Hermitage—don’t miss your chance to build stronger teams and drive results.

“On good teams coaches hold players accountable, on great teams players hold players accountable.” — Joe Dumars (professional basketball executive and former player). Are the teams at your company good or great?.

Going from reactive to proactive maintenance with support from NWIRC's Maintenance Masters Certification program. Discover how this shift is driving efficiency and reliability on the shop floor. (The next Maintenance Masters cohort starts in October!).