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2023 Takes Shape; Diversity Included

Steve Plumb
By Steve Plumb Senior Editor, SME Media

Welcome to the January-February edition of Manufacturing Engineering! In 2023, the magazine will be published 10 times a year (June-July also will be a double issue).

While the frequency has changed, you can continue to expect the same industry-leading content. This includes in-depth coverage of key tooling and machining topics, with insightful analysis from industry experts throughout the publication. In addition to the print edition, we’ll be expanding our digital presence throughout the year.

One of the most exciting changes for 2023 is the addition of our Inclusive Insights section (see p. 18), which will appear in every other issue of the magazine. Highlighting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout the manufacturing industry, we’ll celebrate the progress that’s been made, as well as address systemic challenges, new opportunities, and the latest initiatives.

In the first installment, Sheronda Carr, SME’s senior director of membership, details our own DEI programs. As an organization, SME is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the manufacturing community. This means championing efforts to provide equal opportunities to underrepresented groups, and diversifying services to reach broader audiences.

In coming issues, we’d like to share more DEI success stories—I encourage you to tell us about your own programs—so we can all learn from the experiences of the manufacturing community.

Creating an inclusive environment requires greater input from more sources. This is evident in our 2023 Industry Outlook feature, which includes insights from a variety of experts. While “cautiously optimistic,” most agreed this year will be marked by significant challenges and uncertainty—especially when it comes to navigating labor shortages.

Workforce issues are central to several other features in the issue. In “A New Safety Age,” contributor Ilene Wolff details how manufacturers are creating safer work environments to attract and retain employees. While this is important for all ages, specific issues and strategies can vary significantly among younger and older workers.

We also explore an innovative partnership between Goodwill Industries’ Kansas City, Mo., branch and Tooling U-SME to provide training to underprivileged residents. Launched last year, the program already has delivered impressive results.

Meanwhile, in “The Cutting Edge on Tool Coatings,” we detail the latest advances and trends for cutting tool coatings. Spoiler alert: material science is becoming more sophisticated with an increasing number of custom applications. Speaking of materials, we also look at how ongoing advances in polymers, metals, and composites are reshaping advanced manufacturing, while another feature explores improvements in multi-axis machine systems.

To be sure, there’s no shortage of diverse and interesting topics. Enjoy!

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