Stecker Machine Blog

AI CNC Machining: How are Robotics & Automation Shaping the Future of CNC Machine Shops?

03/01/2023 | Matt Oswald

AI CNC machining — that is, using artificial intelligence within the CNC machining process — feels like a natural union, doesn’t it?

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Quality Control For CNC Machining: What Is A QMS? Why Is It So Important?

01/31/2023 | Matt Oswald

We’ve said it before, and we’ll continue to say it: Quality is everything in CNC machining.

It’s the reason why manufacturers use CNC machining to produce precise parts. Of course, every CNC machine shop will say that they highly value quality and meet quality requirements. But, how do you know for sure?

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Celebrating Custom CNC Machining: 3 Cool CNC Machined Parts Made By Stecker

11/30/2022 | Matt Oswald

Stecker Machine is proud to be a leader in the incredible CNC machining industry, and we occasionally — and humbly — toot our own horn. However, today’s topic is a tough one: selecting just three CNC machined parts to talk about.

With nearly 50 years of custom CNC machining success to consider, this is tougher than choosing a favorite child. They’re all precious (in their own ways, of course).

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How Does a CNC Machine Shop Rise to the Top? Stecker Machine’s Experience at IMTS

11/01/2022 | Matt Oswald

“It’s a long way to the top, if you want to rock and roll.”

Thank you rock legends, AC/DC. Yet, it’s a long, tough road to reach the top in the manufacturing world, too, especially CNC machining.

So, what does it take to not only be recognized as a “Top Shop” by industry influencer Modern Machine Shop, but also make the cover (and be the feature article) of their annual Top Shops issue? Let’s find out, and also hear about the award presentation during the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS).

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Stecker Machine Company Honored as “2022 Top Shop” by Modern Machine Shop

09/12/2022 | Matt Oswald

MANITOWOC, WI, September 2022 – Stecker Machine Company, a family-owned CNC machine shop with 250+ employees, was recently honored as a 2022 Top Shop for “shopfloor practices & performance” by the editors of Modern Machine Shop.

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2022 Stecker Youth Employment Spotlight

08/17/2022 | Matt Oswald

Investing in youth employees provides a footing for success. Solid business is built on partnerships, and successful companies develop long-term relationships with employees, customers, and suppliers. Offering youth job experiences is key investment in developing partnership at an early stage.

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CNC Machining Center — The Key to Production Efficiency Provides 5 Huge Advantages

06/22/2022 | Matt Oswald

In production manufacturing, efficiency is king. Any opportunity to reduce production time gets immediate attention.

CNC machines are an important tool for automating the production of mechanical parts to increase throughput while maintaining consistent quality. CNC machine centers play a critical role in a machine shop’s efficiency.

This article explains five big advantages of CNC machine centers and shares some experienced insights from a leader in CNC machining.

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Manitowoc Area High School Students Launch Careers With Machinist Apprenticeships

04/20/2022 | Matt Oswald

High school students are bright, talented, and enthusiastic. And, many are ready to begin a fulfilling career right now!

College debt can be a burden for decades. The military isn’t for everyone. Retail jobs offer limited advancements. However, a paid, part-time youth machinist apprenticeship right here in the Manitowoc County area can kick-start a career.

A CNC (computer numerical control) machinist uses computer technology to produce highly precise machined parts. This is high-tech work in a clean environment that stresses safety.

Youth machinist apprenticeship programs:

  • Pay well and train well
  • Match a young person’s schedule
  • Open up career advancements
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Your High Schooler in a Machinist Apprenticeship? The Opportunities — and Benefits — are BIG

04/06/2022 | Matt Oswald

20 years. That’s the average amount of time it takes for a college student who borrows money to pay off their student loan debt.1

That 20 years is likely longer than you’ve been a parent of your high schooler. Imagine your child taking that much time just to pay off student loans. It’s scary!

Now, imagine a better way for many young people. How about a paid, part-time apprenticeship that kick-starts a career without additional formal education?

Youth machinist apprenticeship programs are available now in Manitowoc County that:

  • Pay well while training happens
  • Introduce students to high-tech equipment and computer-driven tasks
  • Fit a young person’s schedule
  • Emphasize safety in the workplace
  • Encourage career advancement
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Awareness and Action: Promoting a Positive Work Environment

11/29/2021 | Matt Oswald

Happiness makes people about 12% more productive at work, according to the latest research from the University of Warwick. No surprise, right? Promoting a positive culture is crucial in retaining employees.

But, did you know that businesses with highly engaged employees enjoy 100% more job applications, according to research published in the Harvard Business Review? So, word gets around about a company’s solid culture and attracts great employees.

What is surprising is how some organizations fail at establishing, maintaining, and promoting a positive work environment. I’m happy to share what we’ve discovered at Stecker Machine, a high-end CNC machine shop that excels in teamwork, clear communication, and quality workmanship.

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