Passing the torch and igniting a new passion.

áIÆve been the editor of Advanced Manufacturing since its premiere issue in March 1999. At that time, and even more so today, the publishing team determined that Advanced Manufacturing could play a key role in bringing Canadian manufacturers vital information they weren't getting anywhere else.

The first question we asked potential readers back in 1999 was this: ôWhat information do you most need, but aren't getting from any other information source?ö We were flooded with hundreds of suggestions that proved to us that manufacturers needed better information.

Our mission was to go out and deliver it to them. From stories on the latest in automation, design, and information technology to in-depth features on manufacturing strategies like lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement and everything in between, weÆve delivered on that initial promise to bring manufacturers the best information available.

IÆve really enjoyed meeting with readers and industry leaders over the years, and IÆm confident that Canadian manufacturing is in good hands. I'm also confident that the new editorial and publishing team, led by Publisher Nigel Bishop and John will ensure that Advanced Manufacturing's best and brightest days lie ahead.

Now, over to John.
Thanks Todd. It was quickly apparent to me that I would have some big shoes to fill. When the announcement about the changes at Advanced Manufacturing were made, numerous emails poured in lauding Todd and the job he has done with the magazine. It was also very obvious that its readers hold the magazine in high esteem and that they have come to expect a certain standard of quality.
The world of manufacturing is new to me and I have to admit that all the acronyms associated with advanced manufacturing left me a little dizzy. But now I know that CAD is not a man behaving badly.

Having been immersed now for a few months in the manufacturing culture I am in complete agreement with Todd that Advanced Manufacturing plays a vital role in delivering useful information to Canadian manufacturing decision makers.

Proof can be found in our cover feature in this issue about smart software. While we all know there is no ômagic pillö that can solve all the problems associated with connecting the shop floor to the top floor, true connectivity might be closer than you think.

We are not about to rest on our laurels though. Our job is to find the most relevant news and product information to help our readers thrive and survive in the shifting world of global manufacturing.