Sir Paul Callaghan was an inspiration to us all and the launching of Callaghan Innovation is to be applauded.

Sir Paul was an advisor to this publication and in his own unassuming and thoughtful way contributed some great articles on New Zealand’s future through innovation and the development of high value manufacturing.

The Callaghan Innovation Board includes some notables, businesspeople with the right mix of science experience and business skills needed for our manufacturing and services sector.

In this issue we continue our focus on the Manufacturing Heartland and from Christchurch the views of Gordon Sutherland, A W Fraser on the company and how he sees its future are shared. Incidentally, Gordon attended the NZMEA arranged and opposition party’s gathering in Wellington this week which considered key issues for manufacturers including the exchange rate.

Spread through the pages are some wonderful insights on tools and technology for enhancing the lot of our manufacturers. On Page 20 we discuss Manufacturing’s role in creating a smarter planet. On Page 29 3D ‘virtualisation’ software to empower quality decision-making, on Page 30 Laser-based production which revolutionises manufacturing and on Page8 a CADCAM software to make complex designs easy.

And amongst these pages John Blakey CEO of Competenz looks at industry training and Nick Inskip tells us manufacturing is An all weather Industry (Page 31).

Plus plenty of other news and developments to assist your company and its growth.

NZ Manufacturer has always had a very clear position in the future of our innovators and developers. And that is we share with you information to make your ‘lot’ better and assist in your success by having your story read about on local and international markets.

It’s a two way street for a brighter future.