5 Reasons to Join Your Local NTMA Chapter

We’ve all read the doom and gloom headlines surrounding the U.S. manufacturing sector. Facing challenges from outsourcing, a lack of skilled labor, and rising material costs, industry has certainly been facing a bumpy road.

The National Tooling and Machining Association’s (NTMA) sole purpose is to help manufacturers overcome these issues by connecting members and sharing resources.

Here we’ve outlined 5 benefits of joining your local NTMA chapter.

1. Training

The American skills gap has been one of the most pressing challenges for U.S. industrial companies. While many students have been told that they need a formal college degree to get anywhere in life, few are made aware of the opportunities present in manufacturing. Trade jobs are often seen as unglamorous, but they provide unmatched job security and earning potential. And as more Baby Boomers head toward retirement, it’s become abundantly clear that something has to change.

To fill this need, NTMA has developed numerous manufacturing training programs to create more skilled workers. The Los Angeles chapter even has two training centers right in our backyard that give students the technical skills to succeed in precision manufacturing and then places them with member companies who are in need of such workers. As a member company you would have access to a growing pool of new talent.

2. Networking

There’s no denying the power of networking. Across all industries, the benefits that come from bringing likeminded individuals together are numerous. Being a member of NTMA connects you with precision manufacturing companies around the country, in addition to those in your immediate vicinity. Even if your business has a limited budget that doesn’t allow travel to out of state events, your regional chapter will connect you with countless other companies and individuals who can see what you do and help you to grow.

NTMA members also have access to a national member directory and a private LinkedIn Group to further boost communication and networking.

3. Discounts

We can all relate to the limited budget quandary. You want to grow your business, but you need greater access to resources in order to do so. But you won’t have those resources until you get more business. Frustrating, right?

Fortunately, becoming an NTMA member means you now have access to group discounts. This will allow you to finally make those changes that will result in more exposure, more efficient operations, and eventually, more business. There are discounts available for a number of necessary products and services, including business support services, utilities, marketing and technology upgrades, office supplies, shipping rates, computer hardware, software, and more.

4. Information

Operating a successful tooling and machining business means staying updated on the latest technology, standards, and industry reports. Keeping track of all of this information can be difficult when you already have your hands full with other tasks. NTMA simplifies the process of gathering information by keeping it all available on the website.

The Resources page contains all the information you need in one central location. There’s a Document Library, Management Advisories which contain tax information and accounting help, HR Enviro Safety which outlines relevant HR, Environment, and Safety requirements, and many more sections that should prove helpful. There’s even a Job Board which connects job seekers with companies that are hiring.

5. Events and Conferences

The greatest benefit of NTMA membership is access to exclusive events, which incorporate learning opportunities, business growth ideas, and networking all into one. The next major event is The Wild Wild West 2015 Southwestern Regional Conference from July 31 to August 2,2015. The event is co-presented by NTMA’s Arizona, California, Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, and Utah chapters and will be hosted by the Arizona Tooling & Machining Association.

The event will include keynotes by industry pros, including Jennifer McNelly, Vice President of the National Association of Manufacturers. There will be many different breakout sessions to choose from that relate to technological advances, business development, and workforce training. This is a valuable experience that is only open to NTMA members. Join the Association to take advantage these opportunities.

In addition, LA/NTMA hosts regular Mastermind Meetings that are exclusive to local Chapter members. The Mastermind Meetings bring everyone together to build connections and come up with new ideas for promotion and growth.