While manufacturers tune up their production processes with the ever-increasing use of automated technologies and robotics, a level of distrust has festered between flesh and blood employees and their machined counterparts now working alongside. Not only are some of these workers scared of losing their jobs, Clemson…
The most important resources in manufacturing are the operators and mechanics that make the production process work. Even as automation is increasing in the workplace, the human factor is essential. To keep your manufacturing running smoothly, it is essential to take care of the human resources. This…
As Lockheed Martin and Boeing patrol the Palmetto State’s borders to the north and south, the aviation and aerospace sector in South Carolina has become a sledgehammer, pounding out $19 billion in economic impact every year. With the 787-10 assembly in Charleston, the F-16 being built in…
I have been told that aerospace engineers have a reputation of being “arrogant.” In fact, my specific discipline of expertise (air-frame structures) had a reputation of being some of the most arrogant even among aerospace engineers. Arrogance is defined as “being proud in an unpleasant way and…
For as long as I can remember, my father and mother emphasized the importance of a college education. When I was considering what I would do after high school, there was no question that I would start a college career. Since I always wanted to be an…
How do labor unions and tariffs impact our economy and manufacturing in the US? I’ve heard statements that tariffs are generally assumed to favor corporations where labor unions favor the worker. Both of these ideas usually lead to politically charged discussions where the opinion on the effectiveness of each usually tends to follow political party […]
The recent reports about production short cuts, blind-eye approvals, optional safety devices, and corporate management failures have been painful to read. I can’t comment on the truthfulness of the statements made about Boeing and their senior managers as I certainly don’t know all the facts. I spent…
One can’t attend an economic development forum, technical college recruitment, or any chamber of commerce meeting without hearing the mention of high paying jobs in South Carolina. In addition, employers (large and small) continue to scream for skilled workers. I’ve heard comments like, “Attend a trade school;…
Ask any manufacturing executive across South Carolina to name the sector’s most critical need and the answer is almost always, workforce. No doubt, the state’s economy and manufacturing firms benefit from recruiting employment from all over the world and bringing them here to live, work and play….
I received my first recreational drone for Christmas three years ago. It was a pretty simple system. The frame was light weight plastic with four independently powered props. It had an on-board camera that could take still pictures and videos. It also had colored tip lights to…