Manufacturing
Advanced Manufacturing in Central Alberta
A recent national study (including Central Alberta) conducted by the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) concluded that Canadian manufacturers are restructuring their businesses in response to the challenges they face in global markets.
A recent national study (including Central Alberta) conducted by the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) concluded that Canadian manufacturers are restructuring their businesses in response to the challenges they face in global markets.
Manufacturing is being transformed from a traditional model of individual companies working with mechanical mass production systems to produce standard products for local markets. Companies are beginning to operate with flexible and highly automated production systems, anchored in lean manufacturing, six sigma and other quality systems, producing customized goods and services.
The urgency need for these restructuring and transformation initiatives has intensified of late, due to the dramatic strengthening of the Canadian Dollar to parity versus the currency of Canada's main trading partner. Whereas Canada’s reported 24% deficit in manufacturing productivity formerly was mitigated at least in part by a currency exchange advantage.
Launched from the platform of the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing at RDC, the Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network (CARIN) is a partnership among industry, academia, government and local economic development agencies, with the purpose of promoting the creation and further growth of technology and innovation in SMEs in Central Alberta. CARIN program components include:
1. Prototype & process development and problem solving.
2. Innovation, technology and business training.
3. Industry networking and advanced technology applications
CARIN is led by Mr. Mark Burggren (mark.burggren@rdc.ab.ca), a manufacturing professional with over 41 years experience in the industry.
Partnering for the Success of Central Alberta Manufacturers
Innovation in product and process design is key to keeping manufacturers competitive in our global economy. The Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing is ensuring Central Alberta manufacturers have the resources they need to compete on the world stage by partnering with CARMA and CAEP.
These three organizations are working together to help manufacturers bring innovations to life, enhance productivity and achieve new levels of success!
Central Alberta manufacturers are invited to visit the Centre to develop new products and discover groundbreaking advanced manufacturing strategies. Working with the latest technology and equipment, faculty and students will work with you to come up with innovative solutions to your real-life manufacturing problems.
You'll see state-of-the-art equipment - including robotics - in action, and have the opportunity to work with students and instructors who are highly trained in prototyping, instrumentation and CNC machining.
CAEP - Your Connection to Innovation
The communities and organizations that make up the Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd. (CAEP) actively foster economic growth for everyone in this region, including manufacturers.
CAEP can connect manufacturers with businesses, municipalities and government so they can access critical information and resources. It also played a pivotal role in creating CARMA and is a strong supporter of the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing.
CARMA - Strength in Numbers
The Central Alberta Rural Manufacturers Association (CARMA) is a network of innovative manufacturers of all sizes, from a wide range of industry sectors, collaborating for everyone's success.
Through networking and educational events, members access an amazing depth and breadth of technology, expertise and information. CARMA members often compare notes on local issues and global challenges and work together to develop unique solutions to common problems.
Resources for Manufacturers:
The following web sites links will take manufacturers to some of the best sites available for information related to advanced manufacturing and skills development for manufacturers. There are also links to site where you can see state of the art technology.
The RDC Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing has recently opened with a mandate to engage companies in the development of new prototypes, processes, and the integration of new technology. This facility is strongly supported by the governments of Canada and Alberta as part of both of their strategic innovation investments. Please feel free to contact us and discuss how we might work together, and how to leverage linkages and resources from the below organizations and others in RDC's network.
2008 Red Deer Manufacturers Directory. Click on "Manufacturers Network" and scroll down to "Publications"
Best Practice and Resource Guide for Manufacturers. Click on "Manufacturers Network" and scroll down to "Publications"
Innovative Manufacturing Works
LEAN Manufacturing Resources
Society of Manufacturing Engineers
State of the Art Manufacturing Research Centre