Workforce development is crucial to the future of the precision machining industry. Reata Engineering works to inspire the next generation of manufacturers through community involvement, internship programs, and more, but we believe it’s just as important to uplift the current workforce!
That’s why we’re supporting four of our precision machine shop employees’ participation in the prestigious National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) Emerging Leaders Program.
The Emerging Leaders Program is an industry-recognized leadership development program for up-and-coming professionals in the manufacturing sector. This two-year program equips the next generation of manufacturing leaders with essential business, technical, and soft skills that will help drive forward not only Reata but also the industry as a whole.
The program has a notable reputation in the industry and is supported by a prominent leader in American manufacturing. NTMA is the host and organizer.
Here’s why customers and other precision machine shops should be as excited about this program as we are.
An Overview of the NTMA Emerging Leaders Program
The NTMA Emerging Leaders program is a two-year program divided into two cohorts. Each section is nine months long and consists of monthly online courses and workshops, as well as two in-person, multi-day conferences. This structure provides an excellent balance for working professionals.
Four of our management team members have already completed Cohort 1, which focuses on foundational skills such as:
- Understanding business concepts like production, finance, and operations
- Developing soft skills in communication, leadership, and decision-making
- Identifying best practices and trends in the manufacturing industry
Cohort 2, the second section, builds on the previous year, with a deeper dive into concepts like:
- Implementing learned skills in real-world scenarios
- Training in advanced leadership and management techniques
- Networking and knowledge-sharing among industry professionals
After completing the program, our employees can implement learnings, lead improvement initiatives, and contribute to Reata’s growth.
Meet the program participants
We’re proud to introduce the four Reata team members improving their leadership and management skills through the Emerging Leaders program:
The Benefits of Investing in Leadership Programs
Investing our employees’ time, energy, and resources in a leadership course like the NTMA Emerging Leaders program has numerous benefits for participants and our precision machine shop.
Key benefits for participants
When it comes to workforce development, our employees must get as much as they give. Stacy, Christina, David, and Dustin will come away from the Emerging Leaders program with:
- Improved communication, listening, and people management skills
- Strategic mindsets and a holistic understanding of business operations
- Connections with peers and suppliers nationwide
- Exposure to diverse perspectives, best practices, and industry trends
- Personal and professional growth as leaders
The program develops their skills not only as manufacturing leaders but also as people! We know they will carry that knowledge throughout their professional interactions and reap the rewards of their hard work for the rest of their lives.
Key benefits for our company
An essential aspect of Reata’s success is having skilled leaders at the helm of our precision machining company. When our employees participate in programs like NTMA Emerging Leaders, Reata benefits by:
- Developing a pipeline of future leaders from within our team
- Enhancing our talent pool with well-rounded, skilled professionals
- Fostering a culture of continuous learning, growth, and knowledge-sharing
- Strengthening relationships and networking with vendors, suppliers, and other manufacturers
- Gaining insights into industry best practices and trends to stay competitive
All precision machine shops can benefit from enrolling employees in programs like this. Investing in leadership development means thinking long-term—exceptional leaders are one of the best ways to cultivate and retain industry talent and growth.
A great first step for companies considering the NTMA program is attending the annual Emerging Leaders Conference. There, you’ll experience the excitement generated by bringing future manufacturing leaders together under one roof.
Want to discuss the program or talk about how great leaders benefit customers? Call 303-936-1350 or email info@reataeng.com.