Engineer-to-Order Enterprise Resource Planning Expert Profiles Michigan's Orbitform President

In the increasingly competitive world of engineer-to-order and project-based manufacturing, companies have to operate at maximum efficiency to compete with not only domestic, but also the growing number of overseas competitors. The companies that will thrive in this environment are those that are continually looking for improvement. One such company is Encompix customer Orbitform. Located in Jackson, Michigan, Orbitform manufactures precision orbital forming and impact riveting equipment for a wide range of industries and applications. With over 20 years' industry experience, Orbitform provides prototype engineering services for assembly of parts and specialized forming and fastening. >From aerospace to automotive, Orbitform's intelligent machines can monitor and control the manufacturing and assembly process. In the Spotlight this month is Mike Shirkey, President, Orbitform. In this interview with The Cutting Edge Mike explains how the machine tool industry has changed during the past two years and highlights some of the key initiatives Orbitform has undertaken to respond to the changing market conditions and demands of their customers. For a complimentary copy of The Cutting Edge contact Roger Meloy at e-mail protected from spam bots. According to ETO Institute (www.etoinstitute.org) spokesperson, Thomas R. Cutler,