Steel Output Rises Again

According to the data released by World Steel Association (Worldsteel), global crude steel production for the 66 countries reporting to Worldsteel improved 24.2% year over year to 107.5 million tons in November 2009. Crude steel production has been showing a positive growth rate since September 2008. Total crude steel production in the 66 reporting countries for the first 11 months of 2009 was 1,090 million tons, a decrease of 10.8% from the same period of 2008.- Full Article

EASTEC Eastern States Exposition

May 25-27, 2010
West Springfield, Massachusettes USA
There's no doubt about it: manufacturing is at a crossroads. New industries are coming over the horizon: medical, alternative energy, environmental, rapid transit, and more. The competition's never been greater. If you hope to survive, applying the latest methods, technologies, and management strategies should be your top priority. - Full Article

Air Filtration Unit suits laser/plasma cutting operations.

Designed for metal cutting air filtration for plasma, laser, and torch cutting applications, Plaser supplies complete, integral package, including filters, blower, spark arrestance, and electrical controls. System provides consistent air flow and optimum filter life. - Full Article

FABTECH Success Demonstrates Manufacturing Industry Viability

The manufacturing industry is quite alive, well and optimistic about its future, based on the buzz, business and booth traffic at the just-concluded 2009 FABTECH International & AWS Welding Show, including METALFORM. Some 25,000 visitors from more than 90 countries visited McCormick Place in Chicago to discover, evaluate and purchase innovative manufacturing technologies and solutions. The annual event is the largest tradeshow in North America dedicated to showcasing a full spectrum of metal forming, fabricating, stamping, tube and pipe, and welding equipment and technology. - Full Article

2010 ABC National Convention

Feb. 3-7 in San Diego, and be part of history in the making. The West Coast's newest waterfront hotel provides a premier setting to participate in five days of convention activities, including targeted networking, education and much more! - Full Article

ABC Launches Construction Employment Website

ABC launched Construction Job Network, an online service that connects construction professionals with available job opportunities in the construction industry. For more information go to the website at www.ConstructionJobNetwork.com.

Renovations and Restorations Breathe Life into Commercial Building Sector By Lauren Pinch

Are restoration and renovation projects the way to go when new commercial construction starts are stagnant (or worse, nonexistent)? Some contractors say yes. While lodging and commercial construction is down almost 35 percent from last year, a few specialty contractors are keeping busy restoring older buildings—many with historic value—to rejuvenate everything from office headquarters to high-end condominiums. - Full Article

Are "Green Job" Initiatives a threat to Traditional Skills Programs?

September 11, 2009
Some leaders in workforce development are concerned that more traditional skill trades within the manufacturing and construction fields are being deemphasized by community colleges looking for federal dollars to support newfangled programs. Among those worried are advocacy groups like the American Welding Society. - Full Article