"I read every day that the economy is near recession, and when I watch the news on the TV, most of it seems quite negative," Papke says. "The truth is that the facts are somewhat different for manufacturing than the economy as a whole."

Papke noted that one-fifth of all the goods manufactured in the world are from the U.S., while one-seventh are from China. He also noted the rebound in the automotive industry, the growing demand for commercial aircraft, and continuing demand for North American energy resources.

"Manufacturers are busy," Papke continues. "Who is measuring all these small companies who are very active? It seems that these small companies are more worried about finding skilled labor than not having manufacturing opportunities."

Mazak Corporation's own fortunes are an indication of the positive upswing manufacturing is experiencing. The company's 2010 orders were up 99% from the year previous, and thus far in 2011 are up 81%. Another positive indication was the company's announcement earlier this autumn that it is now exporting machine tools produced at its Florence, KY, headquarters.

And like many other manufacturers, Mazak has found it a challenge to fill certain positions. In discussions at the event, Papke noted that the company is actively looking for skilled welders, and they are not easy to come by in a tight skills market.

The T3 event was yet another indication of the positive atmosphere in the manufacturing community. More than 2,500 clients visit the Mazak headquarters in Florence over the two weeks of the event.

"These customers have opportunities, but they want to be more productive," says Papke. "They have to use highly innovative models of machines and process as well as get better use of equipment to compete in a tough global marketplace."

Tours of the Kentucky factory offered attendees ideas for how to successfully automate operations for greater productivity, as well as how to harness better networking technologies, and how to be more efficient through five distinct levels of multi-tasking.

Papke's sentiments regarding the health of manufacturing are writ large at this week's FABTECH show in Chicago. The first day alone saw a packed showroom floor - an enthusiastic and large crowd of attendees looking to invest in the future development of their companies. According to event organizers, the show has experienced record numbers of pre-show registrants. The result was clear to see on the show floor this Monday.

For more on Mazak's T3 event, check out the videos on MP&P's home page. Watch for more coverage on FABTECH in the coming weeks.