Industrial Manufacturing News

Unlike computerized machines that turn hundreds or thousands of like parts, small job shops in the repair business usually only repair one part at-a-time, or they have to make a new part to fix something that is so old that there are no parts sitting on a shelf in some warehouse. And here's where the problem begins.

Schools and government programs encourage those interested in becoming machinists to learn CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. No one seems to be training younger workers on the conventional machines. When older, experienced conventional (manual) machinists retire, there is no one to take their place.

Job shops like Zwerner Industries own machines that are 30 to 50 years old, some dating back to World War II. Keeping them running is also a challenge. "The only maintenance mechanic we know of that is skilled in fixing our machines was pulled out of retirement," said Kim Zwerner, Owner. "At times, we have to make the parts to fix our own machines."

Eighty percent of Zwerner Industries' business is emergency repair work. A company may be in the middle of a scheduled job when their equipment breaks. These types of emergency repairs are almost a daily occurence. When their job stops, it means money lost for them. Zwerner Industries specializes in fixing their problems. But for how long? Without the trained machinists in the personnel pool, things are looking grim.

In an effort to plan for their future business, Zwerner Industries has hired a couple of young, talented trainees. Zwerner Industries is taking the time to train and give these young men the skills that are needed, but it takes time. And they will still be faced with trying to find maintenance mechinics able to keep their machines running.

It is Zwerner Industries' hope that schools and government programs will soon realize the importance of returning to conventional machines and give future machinists the training that will provide them with a secure future.