Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium

06/03/2026

How does a Nova Scotia-based startup go from university lab to serving over 600 vessels worldwide?

In Episode 10 of the EMC Factory Focus Podcast, host Jason Bates sits down with Mark Kotzer, P.Eng, MBA, COO of GIT Coatings — a graphene-based, biocide-free marine coating company that's helping ship owners reduce fuel consumption, lower CO₂ emissions, and protect our oceans from harmful pollutants.

From innovation and sustainability to leadership, workforce development, and exporting Canadian manufacturing to global markets — this conversation offers something for every manufacturer looking to grow beyond borders.

Plus, EMC's Nova Scotia Manufacturing Consortium Manager Deanna McDonald shares updates on Atlantic Canada's manufacturing sector.

Tune in: https://hubs.li/Q04j_rNS0

06/01/2026

Reactive maintenance. Preventative maintenance. Predictive maintenance. Each serves a purpose — but what if you could combine all three into one powerful system?

EMC's Total Productive Maintenance course — next session July 14, 2026 — brings together the best of reactive, preventative, and predictive maintenance practices into one comprehensive approach. Participants learn every aspect of TPM and its various components, helping them optimize equipment performance, reduce downtime, and improve overall productivity in their manufacturing environment.

Learn more and register your team: https://hubs.ly/Q04jGjrs0

05/27/2026

EMC's Industry Connect is launching soon!

This is a new, growing network of Canadian manufacturing companies working together to build a searchable platform where manufacturers can discover each other based on capabilities, processes, and services. Companies create and maintain their own profiles — meaning the platform stays accurate, up-to-date, and powered by the people who know their operations best.

The more companies that participate, the stronger the network becomes. If you're a Canadian manufacturer, this is your chance to be part of building a stronger, more connected domestic supply chain from the start.

Sign up to join the network: https://hubs.ly/Q04j626C0

05/27/2026

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=122286478268017955&id=61550538673197

05/25/2026

Do you know if your organization handles Controlled Goods — and whether you need to register?

Join us June 16, 2026 at 1:00 PM ET for a high-level overview of Canada's Controlled Goods Program, an essential resource for manufacturers exploring defence, aerospace, and other regulated sectors.

We'll cover:

- What Controlled Goods are and how to determine if your products fall under the program
- Who is required to register — and who isn't
- Why this matters as Canadian manufacturers look to expand into domestic and defence procurement

Whether you're already in the sector or considering entry, this session will give you the clarity you need to navigate the program with confidence.

Register here: https://hubs.li/Q04hQwcJ0

05/21/2026

Planning or building a food and beverage production facility? Getting it right the first time matters — from contracts to construction.

Join EMC on May 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM ET for a virtual session on best practices for successful builds in the F&B industry, featuring Nate Fehrman, Founding Partner & CEO of michael + clark construction (the builders behind Andriani Pasta and many other F&B production facilities).

Covering:

- Construction contracts and delivery methods

- Design & planning processes, expectations, and timelines

- Project schedules across pre-, during, and post-construction

- Real-world pitfall examples and how to avoid them

With over 25 years of experience in food and beverage construction, Nate brings insights that can help you plan smarter, build better, and avoid costly mistakes.

Register here: https://hubs.li/Q04hzv4J0

05/21/2026

05/20/2026

Every employee learns differently — and understanding HOW can unlock their full potential at work.

EMC's Supporting Learning Differences Initiative is offering a fully funded program (valued at up to $13,000) that helps manufacturing employees better understand how they learn and access personalized supports to improve performance, communication, and confidence on the job.

It starts with a short, confidential online learning profile assessment delivered in partnership with VLS Canada — followed by personalized coaching and tools tailored to each individual.

If you're an employer, share this opportunity with your team. If you're an employee in manufacturing, this one's for you.

Sign up here: https://hubs.li/Q04hqHWY0

05/13/2026

Mental health is a workplace issue — and it belongs in your health and safety conversation.

EMC's Mental Health in the Workplace: The Essentials — next session May 26, 2026 — gives participants the confidence to navigate mental health situations sensitively and effectively, and to incorporate employee mental health into occupational health and safety policies and day-to-day practices.

Learn how to recognize the signs, respond with care, and become part of making your workplace a psychologically safer and healthier environment for everyone.

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/4bwj88pm

05/12/2026

How do you take a 45-year-old machining business and double its size in just a few short years?

In the latest episode of the EMC Factory Focus Podcast, host Jason Bates sits down with Nik Paukkunen, Director and Co-Owner of Mahler Machining, alongside EMC's David Munro. Nik shares the story behind acquiring the Coquitlam-based precision machining company and the strategic decisions, leadership, and operational discipline that drove that growth — all while navigating the realities of today's manufacturing landscape.

Mahler Machining has been manufacturing high-complexity precision components for aerospace, medical, marine, robotics, and alternative energy sectors for over 40 years — delivering on a promise of quality that's kept them at the top of their game.

This is a must-listen for any manufacturer thinking about growth, acquisition, or the role of leadership in building a resilient shop floor.

Tune in: https://hubs.li/Q04gjH5T0