Modern CNC machine shops have a choice to make. They can approach sales as just another part of doing business, or they can do more to stand out. For the most successful shops, the sales process is really seen as a technical sales process – a way to share technical know-how, add a unique value prop

What do you need from CNC tooling? Precision (of course) — Th​​e ultimate measuring stick of every CNC machining project, precision requires more than just the right capabilities Reliable rigidity — A tool must maintain its shape, remain stable, and resist flexing or vibrating during cutting opera

Most modern manufacturers are dealing with a new norm: fewer skilled humans to handle rising production demands. The only way to succeed is by automating production processes to save time, achieve desired results, and reduce errors. Manufacturing automation uses technology and machines — programmab

Precision machining, particularly CNC (computer numerical control) machining, is vitally important in today’s economy, specifically for industries needing parts with unparalleled accuracy and complexity. What industries? Aerospace, automotive, medical, defense, industrial machinery, electronics, an

AI in CNC machining — that is, using artificial intelligence within the CNC machining process — feels natural, doesn’t it? CNC machines by definition are computer numerically controlled, allowing for rapid production of incredibly precise parts, with their impact being felt throughout so many indus

We’ve raved for years about the capabilities of CNC (computer numerical control) machines. And with good reason! CNC machined parts repeatedly meet exact specifications and achieve extremely tight tolerances in large quantities. Transforming materials into finished, usable parts is valued throughou

CNC (computer numerical control) machining has revolutionized the manufacturing industry, empowering the production of precise, complex parts with unparalleled efficiency. As intimidating as that may sound, it’s not. There are various paths to learning and, eventually, mastering CNC machining. We’l

CNC machining (computer numerical control machining), is precision machining thats fully automated, ensuring exceptional accuracy and remarkable precision. CNC machining achieves levels of complexity beyond conventional precision machining, plus it’s cost-efficient, particularly for complex compone

Few industries are growing as rapidly as electric vehicle (EV) production. This urgency is pushing manufacturers to constantly seek innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, precision, and reliability while integrating advanced manufacturing techniques. Two particular EV components — the lithium

Sustainability has become a crucial part of nearly every industry, and manufacturing is no exception. As someone involved in partnering with a CNC machine shop that aligns with your company’s goals, you may first want to understand how sustainability is being incorporated into a machine shop’s proc

When designing a machined part, one of the main considerations is its material. Aluminum alloys are commonly used in CNC machining for a variety of industries and applications. However, before it can be shaped into precision parts, it must first undergo one of several casting processes.  Each casti

Sourcing and procuring precision parts with complex designs requires a balance between cost, quality, and on-time delivery. And when CNC machined parts enter the equation, precision, complexity, and speed of production add even more complexity to the task, making your choice of CNC engineering part

Stecker Machine is proud to be a leader in the CNC machining industry, and we occasionally — and humbly — like to toot our own horn. Today’s topic is a tough one: selecting just four CNC automotive parts to talk about. It almost feels like being asked to choose a favorite child!  While we truly put

For more than 50 years, Stecker Machine has been a leader in CNC machining, serving customers both big and small. So, why talk about our vision, mission, and core values now when it’s been a driving force for decades? We’ve always had a strong purpose, and our core values of integrity, honesty, res

Many factors make an industrial CNC machining project challenging, from materials and tooling to complexity and tolerances. Sometimes the circumstances make it a challenge, like supply chain issues, tight timelines, or hitting budgetary goals with limited volume. Stecker (SMC) has seen it all and w

In today’s world, people don’t just want a job. People want fulfilling careers, with opportunities to learn, grow, and advance while doing work that matters. Just as important are the people you work alongside, knowing that your coworkers have your back and enjoy sharing a laugh or two. The modern

Do you rely on a request for quote (RFQ) to get accurate pricing from your CNC machining partners? This vital process not only results in a quote but also provides details about timelines, capabilities, machining techniques, external services, and more. It also serves as a guide after the work has

While Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) design their own custom parts for a product, they can be manufactured in-house or manufactured to specifications by a contracted supplier. This is especially true for precision CNC machined parts.  Today, we’re taking a look at why it makes sense to con

Complex parts for industrial applications often feature intricate geometries, tight tolerances, and demanding machining requirements. Not all CNC shops are equipped to tackle that kind of complexity nor have a skilled workforce capable of bringing a product engineer’s design to production manufactu

When a CNC project seems too complex, that’s when OEMs and parts designers know to call on Stecker Machine. And it’s not just because our team can figure out how to get it done, but because we know how to get it done in collaboration with the customer. In an industry where suppliers will easily quo