Manufacturing leaders from the Kansas City and St. Louis chapters of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) discuss how their organization creates value for members and fosters collaboration across regional boundaries. The conversation explores both national and local benefits of NTMA membership while highlighting upcoming initiatives to strengthen manufacturing throughout Missouri.

• NTMA operates on national and local levels with three key pillars: networking, learning, and advocacy
• National membership provides critical lobbying in Washington DC, industry benchmarking reports, and conferences that connect manufacturers across the country
• Local chapters focus on workforce development through apprenticeship programs and educational opportunities
• Both Kansas City and St. Louis chapters emphasize relationship-building and breaking down competitive barriers
• Joint Business Summit planned between chapters to keep manufacturing business local through strategic partnerships
• Presidents of both chapters have 40+ year company involvement with NTMA, demonstrating long-term value
• "She Leads: Women Driving Manufacturing" initiative supports female leadership in the industry in Kansas City
• NTMA membership benefits owners transitioning businesses by establishing valuable industry relationships
• Associate members (vendors/suppliers) are encouraged to build genuine relationships rather than directly selling
• Upcoming Manufacturing Expo will showcase regional capabilities to OEMs and potential customers

Register for the Joint Chapter Business Summit happening this April in Kansas City to connect with manufacturers across Missouri and explore partnership opportunities.