Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center

06/01/2026

Did you know Northern Michigan may have helped inspire one of the most iconic characters in movie history? According to the story, George Lucas’ family owned a Rainbow Vacuum Model D2 manufactured by Rexair in Cadillac, and the name “R2D2” is believed to have been inspired by the Rexair Rainbow (R2) Model D2. A pretty incredible piece of manufacturing history connected right back to Michigan.

That spirit of innovation was on full display May 14 as the Continuous Improvement Group (CIG) brought together more than 10 manufacturers for an outstanding event hosted by Rexair and 7th Street Solutions. Attendees had the opportunity to see advanced technologies, automation, AI applications, and continuous improvement efforts in action throughout the facility. A huge thank you to Rexair and 7th Street Solutions for opening their doors and showcasing the innovation happening in Northern Michigan manufacturing. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing like this continue to strengthen the future of manufacturing across our region.

05/29/2026

Please join us in welcoming Lezlee Downing to MMTC as our new Business Operations Manager!

Lezlee brings experience in operations, event coordination, scheduling, and workflow management, helping ensure MMTC continues to provide a smooth and professional experience for manufacturers, partners, and training participants across Michigan. Welcome to the team, Lezlee!

05/29/2026

🏆 Nominations are now open for the 2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards!

This is your opportunity to recognize the companies and individuals driving Michigan manufacturing forward through innovation, workforce development, operational excellence, and community impact. Know a manufacturer, leader, or team making a difference? Submit a nomination and help celebrate the people shaping the future of manufacturing in Michigan. Nominations close June 11, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Michigan Manufacturers Association

Learn more: https://mimfg.org/excellence/excellence-categories

Celebrate manufacturing excellence by nominating a deserving individual, outstanding company or noteworthy product for the 2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards. Nominations are open until Thursday, June 11, 2026. Check out the Award categories and nominate today!

05/28/2026

The food and beverage industry is evolving fast, and manufacturers who stay ahead of changing technology, workforce challenges, and operational demands will be best positioned for long-term success.

Join MMTC for Re Michigan 2026: Next Era Food & Beverage Manufacturing to connect with industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and gain practical insights that can help strengthen your operations and improve competitiveness. From innovation and automation to networking and collaboration, this event is designed to help Michigan manufacturers prepare for what’s next.

📅 June 11, 2026
📍 Sterling Heights, MI

Register today: https://education.the-center.org/explore/remaking-michigan-2026-next-era-food-beverage-manufacturing

05/22/2026

MMTC’s Anthony Welsh recently visited Brooks Utility Products to check out their upgraded work cell using Detect-It technology.

Looking to identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, or smart manufacturing in your facility? Contact MMTC to schedule a free Technology Opportunity Assessment today. https://www.the-center.org/Our-Services/Advanced-Technology/Technology-Opportunity-Assessment

05/21/2026

Michigan manufacturing continues to lead the way, and MMTC is proud to help small and midsize manufacturers grow, innovate, and stay competitive. This recent feature highlights how MMTC supports manufacturers across the state with expert guidance, workforce development, technology adoption, and more.

Give it a read!

Melinda Keway always loved helping her dad, owner of Epic Machine in Fenton. As a middle-schooler, she counted the shop’s inventory on summer vacations. As a college graduate, she developed a new quality management system.

05/18/2026

Michigan manufacturers: ready to grow beyond the automotive supply chain?

MMTC is proud to support the new Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MAST-P), a statewide initiative helping small manufacturers explore opportunities in industries like aerospace, defense, EVs, and clean energy. Eligible companies can receive expert guidance, technical assistance, and financial support resources at no cost.

If your company is looking to diversify, strengthen operations, or prepare for the future of manufacturing, now is the time to apply.

Learn more and apply for support: https://automationalley.com/mast-p/?utm_source=MMTC&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=###&utm_term=###&utm_content=###

Automation Alley
Michigan Manufacturers Association
Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council
Economic Growth Institute

05/15/2026

Thank you, WILX News 10, for featuring our latest event, Re:Making Michigan 2026: The Next Era of Manufacturing at Jackson College! The incredible turnout in Jackson, Michigan, showed the growing interest manufacturers have in adopting the latest technology to upscale and improve their efficiencies. Check it out!

The event focused on how artificial intelligence is transforming the manufacturing industry and the best way to use AI as a tool to work smarter.