Technical Community Network

SME's eight technical communities focus on specific manufacturing disciplines. Each community consists of "tech groups" where members meet and collaborate both virtually and face to face. Communities also produce technical content for SME programs and other industry events. Technical Communities are your way to connect with peers, find experts and gather technical knowledge in specific disciplines.

•  TCN Schematic (PDF)  
•  Volunteer Leader Identification, Recruitment and Nomination Process 

	Automated Manufacturing & Assembly Identifies and pursues advancing technologies and techniques in automation and assembly.
	Forming & Fabricating Concentrates on key metalforming and fabricating technologies.
	Industrial Laser Promotes laser technology in North America with high intensity by educating the market and advancing the laser technology base.
	Machining & Material Removal Discusses, explores and advances ideas related to cutting processes and machining systems.
	Manufacturing Education & Research Advances education and research in manufacturing, career and professional development, and the manufacturing enterprise's need for a skilled workforce.
	Plastics, Composites & Coatings Addresses the manufacturing processes of plastics, composites, and finishing and coatings technology.
	Product & Process Design and Management Discusses, investigates and advances ideas related to the design and management of products and processes, as well as lean manufacturing concepts.
	Rapid Technologies & Additive Manufacturing Concentrates on the technologies and processes that help conceive, develop, test, improve and manufacture new products to bring them to market faster and more cost effectively.