TMA’s Precision Machining Competition One of the Most Significant and Effective Initiatives for Career Recruitment into Precision Metalworking
SCHAUMBURG, IL – The Precision Machining Competition, hosted annually by the Technology & Manufacturing Association for high school students, was honored with a 2026 ASAE Power of Associations Silver Award by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) in recognition of its initiative that demonstrates the powerful role associations play in solving challenges, strengthening industries and professions, and improving communities.
The Precision Machining Competition (PMC), now in its 34th year, is one of TMA’s most significant and effective initiatives for career recruitment into precision metalworking. Every year, hundreds of local high school students from nearly two dozen high schools participate in the competition, where competitors manufacture projects spanning 17 different categories that test their skills in a range of modern manufacturing areas, such as CAD design, CNC turning and milling, and grinding vice.
Those students who participate in the competition are the industry’s next generation of manufacturing professionals, with many local manufacturers attending to show their support and even provide apprenticeship and employment opportunities.
“Every year, the Precision Machining Competition makes one thing clear—it’s that the future of local and American manufacturing is in great hands,” said TMA Education Foundation Director Justine Ewald. “In fact, the students who competed proved their work is strong enough to make an impact in advanced manufacturing right now! It’s encouraging to know we have young men and women passionate about our important industry. We’re honored to receive ASAE’s Power of Associations Award, and this recognition affirms the importance of helping the next generation of manufacturers master their craft.”
The ASAE Power of Associations Awards recognize associations that leverage their unique ability to convene stakeholders, inspire collaboration, and drive meaningful change. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts, award recipients exemplify how associations create lasting impact that extends well beyond the members they serve.
“ASAE’s Power of Associations Awards recognize the very best of what our community can accomplish,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, AAiP. “This recognition honors organizations that don’t simply advance their own missions – they bring people together to solve complex challenges, strengthen industries and professions, and create lasting benefits for society. The Technology & Manufacturing Association has demonstrated the vision, leadership, and commitment to make a meaningful difference, and we are proud to recognize the Precision Machining Competition as one of this year’s outstanding achievements.”
Learn more here about TMA’s Precision Machining Competition.
About TMA: Founded in 1925, TMA is an independent trade association whose mission is to partner with small and midsize manufacturers to help protect, promote, and grow their businesses through practical products, programs, services, and solutions. TMA has nearly 900 members representing approximately 39,000 manufacturing employees and more than 27 million square feet of manufacturing plant.