Technology investments pay dividends in a slow economy

As a managing partner and CEO of Millstar LLC. a manufacturer of cutting tools for the die and mold industry, I keep a close eye on the die and mold making industry around the world. And in my opinion, the mold builders in the U.S. and Canada are the best in the world. Most North American customers

realize this and appreciate the ongoing improvements many top die and mold makers have made: investments in equipment and technology for high-speed and hard milling, CAD/CAM improvements, engineering and communication upgrades, and improvements in the skills of their workforce. These investments have been the catalyst for newfound enthusiasm, work ethic, and interest displayed by all the skilled trades involved in the die and mold industry, making it once again fun to go to work and experience the rush of accomplishment and self-worth.

I'm convinced that when the economy slows down and profits are squeezed, moldmaking shops that have invested in technology and work at "the cutting edge" of the industry will stay busy and profitable, while shops with too little or no investment will suffer.