MTI Kicks Off 2025 in High Gear for Economic Growth

As 2025 approaches, the Metal Treating Institute (MTI) is preparing its Members for a year of growth, as forecasted by ITR Economics. To capitalize on these opportunities, MTI’s Board of Trustees, volunteer committees, and task forces are diving into critical industry issues and strategic planning initiatives.

Strategic Planning: Aligning with Member Needs

In late January, MTI’s 20-member Board of Trustees will conduct its bi-annual strategic planning session during the Winter Board Meeting. This session will focus on addressing key challenges and opportunities in the heat treating industry, ensuring MTI’s programs and services are aligned with Member needs. Topics of discussion will include:

• Compliance with evolving air quality standards
• Technical specifications
• How to minimize economic uncertainties
• Workforce development and retention
• The impact of emerging technologies and AI

Task Force and Committee Initiatives in January:

AI Task Force: Enhancing WallyBot
MTI’s AI virtual assistant, WallyBot, continues to grow as a vital resource for Members. Initially trained on over 1,500 articles covering safety, quality, automation, HR, and more, WallyBot recently expanded to include technical content from over 70 presentations at Furnaces North America and its ABC’s of Heat Treating program. The AI Task Force aims to further enhance WallyBot, making it an indispensable resource for all MTI Member employees.

Jobs of Tomorrow Task Force: Attracting and Retaining Talent
Launched in 2024, MTI’s Jobs of Tomorrow docuseries and digital job board have become essential tools for attracting the next generation of workers. The Task Force will focus on expanding the reach of these resources and creating additional tools to help Members recruit and retain top talent.

Education Committee: Preparing for Spring Meeting
MTI’s national meetings provide Members with cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities. The Education Committee is finalizing the program for the Spring Meeting, set for May 5–7 in Puerto Rico. Topics will address current and future challenges in the heat treating industry. Additionally, MTI will launch its new Employee Onboarding Certificate Program in January, providing essential training on heat treating, workplace safety, and more.

Technical Standards Committee: Advancing Compliance
MTI’s Technical Standards Committee will engage with industry leaders at the AMEC and Nadcap meetings in January and February, addressing aerospace specifications and audit compliance. They will also participate in CQI-9 and ASTM meetings. Members can stay updated by tuning in to the Technical Standards LIVE webcast on March 4.

Staying Ahead in 2025

MTI is committed to providing its Members with the data, resources, and connections needed to thrive in 2025. As a Member of MTI, your key management and staff are eligible to receive MTI’s flow of industry content to enhance their growth and knowledge. To add any of your team to your membership, contact MTI at info@heattreat.net for details.

For more information about upcoming initiatives, meetings, and resources, contact MTI at info@heattreat.net.

Mark your calendar and stay tuned for announcements as MTI leads the charge into a promising year of growth!