It Has Been My Pleasure

Five years ago, I wrote my first column for Production Machining’s second issue. At the time, I’d had 5 years under my belt as the editor of MMS Online. I’d already met many folks in the industry and had a marginal grasp on the unique qualities of high-volume precision machining businesses.

This column is my last for PM. Today, I can say I have much better relationships with the industry, the technology and, of course, the people. There were many folks who have helped me over the years to get me on the right paths and into the right positions to recognize the subtle differences that define your businesses.

First, let me thank the readers of PM. We, at Gardner Publications, try hard to deliver information that helps our industry work. You are the lifeblood of it, and I thank each and every one of you for your kindness and willingness to share your impressions.

I’d like to thank Mike Duffin and his staff at PMPA. I appreciate both the personal support and the professional relationship enjoyed between our two organizations through the years. And yes, Art—absolutely you, too.

To the many folks in the business of building and supplying the machines to the industry, I thank you for your patience and hospitality. You made me much better at what I do, and I really appreciate that.

Lastly, my gratitude goes out to the PM staff—Lori and the two Chrises. You guys are awesome.

I’m not actually “going” anywhere. I will still be working behind the scenes at Gardner to support its Web strategies. Taking the reigns of this column and the PM site is Chris Felix. Chris is dedicated to this industry, and if you offer him some of the same support you gave me, he can’t lose.

Thanks again, and Godspeed.