Quebec manufacturers cite workforce productivity as major concern in 2012: SME

The most pressing challenge facing Quebec manufacturers in 2012 is the need to do more with less, reports a recent survey conducted by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). The survey is being released just weeks before the launch of a newly expanded Montreal Manufacturing Technology Show (MMTS), which features a keynote address by Canadian senator and former CFLer Larry Smith.

More than half of the manufacturers surveyed by SME cited improving workforce productivity as a primary concern, followed closely by the need to update equipment and processes, and to lower overall production costs.

“These findings demonstrate the important role that technology plays in the Quebec manufacturing sector,” said Nick Samain, group show manager with the SME, organizer of MMTS, to be held May 14-16 at Montreal’s Place Bonaventure. “Manufacturers need up-to-date technology, equipment and services to remain competitive, and it’s our job to present those solutions in a format that makes it easy for them to find the answers they need.”

Other challenges facing Quebec manufacturers, as identified by the SME survey, include: finding ways to expand into new markets; attracting and retaining qualified personnel; keeping up with industry trends; and dealing with uncertain customer demand.

At MMTS, show visitors will receive a motivational message from Smith, former star fullback and president of the Montreal Alouettes Canadian Football League franchise, former president and publisher of the Montreal Gazette, and one of Quebec’s most respected business leaders, who will show how mastering the three elements of change, vision and mission can help to overcome such hurdles and lead to business success.

One of Canada’s most inspiring sports heroes, Smith will share his business acumen and belief that how well you build your team – or business – depends on how well you sell your vision for change. Combining his powerful and successful leadership models with interesting anecdotes from his years as a leadership legend in the CFL, Smith will deliver measurable tools that manufacturers can use to bring the best out in their employees and processes.

Additional MMTS highlights include a new format with a greater emphasis on social media as a means to deliver a truly interactive user experience; a first-ever Interactive Practical Education Component (iPEC) that delivers open, informal, hands-on technical sessions presented in a modern, innovative Presentation Hub situated right on the show floor; and, a larger-than-ever product exhibition featuring a 15 percent increase in show floor space.

The event will highlight key advances in such areas as high-speed machining, aerospace, transportation, energy, efficiency, Lean manufacturing and more. Five thousand attendees are expected to visit the show, representing a cross-section of more than 20 manufacturing industries.

For more information about MMTS, to exhibit or to register for the event, visit www.mmts.ca or call 1-888-322-7333 ext. 4435.