5 Reasons to Join a Manufacturing Association

on May 1, 2023

Leaders in manufacturing often have a very demanding schedule. However, one thing that they (and their team) should make time for is participation in a manufacturing association. 

Membership in a manufacturing association offers numerous benefits, including keeping members knowledgeable about important, ever-changing issues and trends within their marketplace. Many members believe the greatest benefit of being a member of an association is the networking.

“As a privately held medium size manufacturing business, KCMN provides SOR a readily available network of other businesses to seek advice from, bounce ideas off of, share best practices, and develop lasting relationships with.” - Bert Benton, COO, SOR, Inc.
(KCMN is a manufacturing association in Kansas City)

Here are 5 reasons why manufacturing business leaders should consider joining a manufacturing association:

Networking Opportunities

Manufacturing associations provide an excellent opportunity for professionals to connect with others in the same industry. Through events, conferences, and online communities, members can share ideas, collaborate on projects, and learn from one another.  Participation can also serve as a social connector where business leaders know one another through work as well as outside of it. 

Access to industry knowledge

Manufacturing associations typically offer members access to the latest news, research, and industry trends. This information can help members stay up-to-date on the latest technologies, regulations, and best practices.

Advocacy and representation

Manufacturing associations advocate for the interests of their members to government bodies, regulatory agencies, and other organizations. By joining an association, members can leverage the collective influence of the industry to shape policies and regulations that affect their businesses.

Professional development

Many manufacturing associations offer training, certification programs, and other educational resources to help members improve their skills and advance their careers. These programs can help members stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

Best Practices

Sharing best practices is an excellent way to improve the performance and productivity of a manufacturing organization. Best practices can help organizations fill knowledge gaps, improve effectiveness, become more competitive, and provide many other benefits.  The fast pace of technology and alternative manufacturing processes mean these practices are constantly updating and changing, and it is important to take advantage of the opportunity to learn from the successes of your peers.

(Here is a bonus 6th reason to join a manufacturing association)  Exposure for your Business

Being a part of a strong association can provide business exposure.  Often associations participate in community initiatives, which provide members publicity and creates a goodwill perception.  Association members can help one another directly with referrals for services.      

Manufacturing associations give their members many advantages in a fast-paced, competitive, global economy.  Some manufacturing associations to consider are:

  • KCMN – Kansas City Manufacturing Network, supporting manufacturers in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
  • SEK – Southeastern Kansas, Inc, representing 12 counties in the southeast part of Kansas.
  • CKMN - Central Kansas Manufacturing Network, connecting manufacturers in the central and north central part of Kansas
  • WKMA – Western Kansas Manufacturing Association, representing 46 counties east of Colorado to the tier of counties bisected by U.S. 281.
  • WMA - Wichita Manufacturing Association, with members from the Wichita, KS metropolitan area.
  • Kansas Manufacturing Council – located in Topeka, KMC is part of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce.

Check your local area for industrial associations and other associations and organizations.

Contact KMS if you would like more information on a Kansas Association.