The Texas Manufacturing Network: Transforming How Texas Manufacturing Find, Win, and Manage Work
2025-12-04 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Online
Connect, Collaborate, Compete – The Texas Manufacturing Advantage
During this No Cost 1-hour webinar, participants will learn:

· Visibility & Credibility: Build a verifiable company profile to showcase capabilities, certifications, quality systems and past performance
· Revenue Growth & Job Creation: Connect Texas Small & Medium sized manufacturers to in-state and out-of-state opportunities to expand sales and hiring
· Integrated Procurement Toolset: Manage RFIs, RFQs, and all supplier communications in one centralized workspace, improving speed, transparency, and traceability
· Free Access for Texas Manufacturers: Create your profile, explore opportunities, and collaborate with buyers with zero platform fees
TMAC is Texas’ trusted partner in manufacturing excellence, helping businesses grow, innovate, and compete globally. For 30 years, TMAC has delivered hands on training and implementation services that boost operational efficiency, workforce development and sustainable growth.
Who Should Attend
Owners | CEOs | General Managers | Supply Chain | Sales | Business Development
Presenters
Christopher McCole – Director Business Development – Sustainment
Amit Lopes – Regional Director Paso Del Norte
George Owens, CPIM – TMAC Supply Chain Manager
Join us for this FREE webinar to learn more!

Webinar: Building a Resilient Supply Chain with SBA Capital Programs
2026-01-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Access to capital is one of the biggest barriers to growth for small and medium-sized Texas manufacturers, and understanding SBA funding strategies can make the difference between stalled operations and sustainable expansion. SBA programs offer flexible, lower-risk financing options that support equipment purchases, facility upgrades, working capital needs, technology adoption, and recovery from supply chain disruptions. Many manufacturers are unaware of the range of programs available, or how to position themselves to qualify, making education on SBA lending, guarantees, and support tools essential for securing the resources needed to compete, innovate, and grow in the Texas manufacturing economy.

Machine Monitoring: Sensors, Systems, & Sustainability
2026-01-28 10:00 - 12:00 | UTA Research Institute (UTARI), 7300 Jack Newell Blvd. S., Fort Worth, TX, 76118, United States
Are you a manufacturing leader or interested in smart, sustainable production?

Join us to learn how machine monitoring can boost efficiency, cut downtime, and reveal process bottlenecks. We’ll share real-world solutions, cost-effective options, and live demonstrations of sensors such as electric current, fluid flow, air pressure, vision systems, thermocouples, vibration, humidity, laser distance and air quality sensors. See how data is collected and visualized in practical tools like Power BI and Excel.

The event is hosted by the Texas Defense Aerospace Manufacturing Community and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center.

Saving Thousands with Sensors
2026-01-28 13:00 - 15:00 | UTA Research Institute (UTARI), 7300 Jack Newell Blvd. S., Fort Worth, TX, 76118, United States
This hands-on class for manufacturers focuses on the practical application of sensors to dramatically reduce costs, improve uptime, and solve everyday production challenges. Learn which sensors – such as electric current, fluid flow, air pressure, vision, thermocouples, vibration, humidity, laser distance, and air quality – deliver the highest return on investment for manufacturers. Through live demonstrations and practical exercises, you’ll gain direct experience installing, configuring, and using these sensors in real-world scenarios.
Walk away with cost-saving strategies and the skills to immediately implement sensor solutions that transform your operations.
The event is hosted by the Texas Defense Aerospace Manufacturing Community and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center.

Metroplex Manufacturing Resource Expo
2026-01-30 08:30 - 12:00 | UTA Research Institute (UTARI), 7300 Jack Newell Blvd. S., Fort Worth, TX, 76118, United States
UPDATE: We have less than 20 seats remaining for the Summit. However, you can still register to attend the Expo Only. It is free for Manufacturers with qualifying NAICS codes and $50 for consultants or paid business services. Thank you!

For our third event in our series, join TMAC and the Arlington Economic Development Corporation for the North Texas Manufacturing Leadership Summit and Resource Expo. Manufacturing is the keystone sector to increase the sustainable development and economic competitiveness of the Metroplex.
During the Summit, we will discuss real action items to build a more robust and resilient local manufacturing ecosystem and help our manufacturers survive in global uncertainty.
After the summit discussion, stay for our Metroplex Manufacturing Resource Expo. Meet organizations who can help you grow. If you are interested in reserving one of our 20 available booths, please reach out to us at outreach@tmac.org.

Both the Summit and the Resource Expo are free for manufacturers with qualifying NAICS codes (check HERE and enter your type of manufacturing to find your NAICS code), municipalities, non-profits, ISD’s, and state and federal agencies.
For all others, cost to attend is $50.
Agenda

8:30 AM
Coffee & Networking

9:00 AM
Metroplex Manufacturing Leadership Summit

10:00 AM
Metroplex Manufacturing Resource Expo

AI for Manufacturers: Bring Defense Aerospace Manufacturing into the AI Era
2026-02-04 10:00 - 12:00 | UTA Research Institute (UTARI), 7300 Jack Newell Blvd. S., Fort Worth, TX, 76118, United States
Explore how AI can streamline your workflow, reduce errors, and improve communication.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Spring 2026 - Week 1
2026-02-16 08:00 - 2026-02-20 17:00 | T
TMAC’s Lean Six Sigma Program provides a systematic approach to dramatically improve cost, quality, and delivery. The course combines the strengths of today’s two most powerful business initiatives, Lean and Six Sigma, into one integrated program.
The DMAIC process provides the overarching structure for project management, helping ensure solutions are sustainable. Students learn through a combination of lecture, student project presentations, exercises, case studies, and simulations. Experienced instructors emphasize practical application of tools and provide coaching on student projects.
Schedule:
Week 1: Feb 16-20
Week 2: March 23-27
Price: $3,400
*** group discounts available ***

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Spring 2026 - Week 1
2026-02-16 08:00 - 2026-02-20 17:00 | T
TMAC’s Lean Six Sigma Program provides a systematic approach to combine the waste elimination methods of Lean with the variation reduction toolset of Six Sigma. The DMAIC process provides the overarching structure for project management, which helps insure that solutions are sustainable. Students learn through a combination of lecture, student project presentations, exercises, case studies, and simulations. Instructors emphasize practical application of tools and methods. The median payback for TMAC Black Belt projects is $144,500/year.
The LSS Black Belt class is a rigorous course incorporating both Basic and Advanced problem-solving methods. A partial list of tools covered includes value-stream mapping, Little’s Law, measurement system analysis, process control & capability, hypothesis testing, kaizen, pull systems, regression, setup reduction, process balancing, and design of experiments.
Schedule:

Week 1: February 16-20
Week 2: March 23-27
Week 3: APR 20-24
Week 4: MAY 18-22

Price: $8,500
*** group discounts available ***
Already have a Green Belt and looking for a quicker certification? Check out our Accelerator Option!

Lean Principles
2026-02-17 08:30 - 16:30 | Rio Bank – Corporate Banking Center, 701 E. Expressway 83, Room 4.100, McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Lean Principles covers concepts on customer value, minimizing unnecessary costs, process flow and understanding customer demand. Whether the setting is in an office or manufacturing plant, participants will learn how to effectively identify the sources of waste in a targeted area and work towards systematically reducing it and making processes more efficient.

Webinar: Lean, Not Risky: Smarter Safety Stock
2026-02-18 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
For small and medium-sized manufacturers, optimizing safety stock is essential to balancing customer service with cost control. Too much inventory ties up precious working capital and increases carrying costs, while too little inventory results in stockouts, missed shipments, and damaged customer relationships. Safety stock optimization helps manufacturers understand variability, lead times, and demand patterns so they can set the right buffers, protecting service levels without inflating inventory investment. With supply chain volatility continuing in 2026, mastering this balance is critical for maintaining competitiveness, reliability, and financial health.

Project Management
2026-02-25 08:30 - 16:30 | Rio Bank – Corporate Banking Center, 701 E. Expressway 83, Room 4.100, McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Successful projects don’t happen by chance, they happen by design. This full-day, hands-on workshop provides participants with the essential tools, techniques, and strategies to plan, manage, and deliver projects with conﬁdence and precision. Whether you’re leading your ﬁrst project or reﬁning your project management skills, this session will walk you through the core phases of the project lifecycle and introduce 5 actionable tools you can implement immediately in your workplace. With a structured approach, you’ll leave prepared to manage projects of any size with clarity and control.

Houston-Gulf Coast Workforce Roundtable
2026-02-27 11:30 - 13:00 | University of Houston – Katy Campus, 22400 Grand Circle Blvd., Katy, Texas, 77450
The Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) and Katy Area EDC invite you to join an industry roundtable on Friday, February 27, 2026. These two powerhouse entities have joined forces to provide you the financial and technical resources needed to upskill your workforce. Therefore, if your 2026 corporate priorities include:

Upskilling your workforce
Leveraging various Texas Workforce Incentive programs to fund your workforce priorities
Enhancing quality, safety, and employee retention
Increasing your corporate profitability and global competitiveness
Engaging with experts that can share National efforts and opportunities for Texas Manufacturers

Then we would like to invite you to join us for lunch at the University of Houston-Katy Campus. The goal is to work with priority focused manufacturing companies in the Houston-Gulf Coast area that are serious about securing and investing in one of their highest corporate assets, their employees.

Who Should Attend:

Manufacturing leaders whose responsibilities are to attract, retain, and upskill their employees

Human Resources
Directors of Manufacturing: production, quality, supply chain, safety, continuous improvement, etc.
IT/Security
Supply chain

TMAC, with 30-years of experience, has field engineers that can provide technical training, quality management, cybersecurity, supply chain optimization, AI, automation, and many more consultative, customizable resources to enhance the profitable growth and global competitiveness of manufacturers.

Katy Area EDC provides customizable resources for employers seeking workforce development and training solutions by leveraging strong partners, like TMAC and several others across the region. The experts at the Katy Area EDC provide a hands-on approach with assisting both new and existing companies in identifying, navigating, and applying for a range of workforce incentive programs, including the Skills Development Fund, Skills for Small Business, Lone Star Workforce of the Future, Self-Sufficiency Fund, and Registered Apprenticeship opportunities.

Secure your registration today for this roundtable collaborative lunch discussion with leaders in workforce development and Texas Workforce incentives. Space is limited!

Cost: $20.00

Manufacturing Supervisor Certification Program – Tuesdays
2026-03-17 08:30 - 16:30 | Southwest Research Institute, 6220 Culebra Road, Building 68, San Antonio, TX, 78238, United States
Today’s manufacturing supervisors must have human relation, conceptual and decision-making skills. Through lectures led by industry experts and hands-on exercises, the Manufacturing Supervisor Certification Program allows participants to obtain and practice these critical skills.
The Supervisor Certification curriculum targets first-line supervisors at manufacturing facilities with a comprehensive overview of supervisory principles. With a strong emphasis on continuous improvement, job instruction, employee relations, problem-solving, and effective communication, the course teaches students the interpersonal strategies to become a productive and respected supervisor. Based on Training Within Industry (TWI) job instruction and job relation programs. TWI is an improvement process that addresses the essential skills needed by supervisors (anyone leading others) and is a means to sustain improvements and achieve standard work. TWI has been successfully applied in hundreds of companies worldwide.

Earn both TWI: Job Instruction and TWI: Job Relation Certifications
Reduce turnover of employees
Improve employee morale
Successfully lead a team

This course is offered by the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), hosted by Southwest Research Institute.
For more information, please contact Sandra Hawkins at +1 210 522 5865.
Dates
Tuesdays – March 17, 24, 31, April 7, 14, 2026
Location
Southwest Research Institute
6220 Culebra Road
Building 68
San Antonio, TX
Schedule
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Partner
SAMA
Lunch will be provided
Cost
$1550 per person for member of Local Manufacturing Association
$1650 per person for non-member

Manufacturing Supervisor Certification Program - Wednesdays
2026-03-18 08:30 - 16:30 | T
Overview
Today’s manufacturing supervisors must have human relation, conceptual and decision-making skills. Through lectures led by industry experts and hands-on exercises, the Manufacturing Supervisor Certification Program allows participants to obtain and practice these critical skills.
The Supervisor Certification curriculum targets first-line supervisors at manufacturing facilities with a comprehensive overview of supervisory principles. With a strong emphasis on continuous improvement, job instruction, employee relations, problem-solving, and effective communication, the course teaches students the interpersonal strategies to become a productive and respected supervisor. Based on Training Within Industry (TWI) job instruction and job relation programs. TWI is an improvement process that addresses the essential skills needed by supervisors (anyone leading others) and is a means to sustain improvements and achieve standard work. TWI has been successfully applied in hundreds of companies worldwide.

Earn both TWI: Job Instruction and TWI: Job Relation Certifications
Reduce turnover of employees
Improve employee morale
Successfully lead a team

Dates
Wednesdays – March 18, 25, Apr 1, Apr 8, Apr 15, 2026
Location
Austin, TX
Schedule
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Partner
ARMA
Cost
$1,500 per person for member of Local Manufacturing Association
$1,600 per person for non-member
This course is offered by the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), hosted by Southwest Research Institute.
For more information, please contact Sandra Hawkins at +1 210 522 5865, email: sandra.hawkins@swri.org

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Spring 2026 - Week 2
2026-03-23 08:00 - 2026-03-27 17:00 | T

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Spring 2026 - Week 2
2026-03-23 08:00 - 2026-03-27 17:00 | T

LIT and TMAC Partner Celebration Launch Event
2026-03-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Lamar Institute of Technology, 855 E Lavaca St., Beaumont, TX, 77710, United States
LIT and TMAC Partner to Strengthen Workforce Training in SETX
Celebration Launch Event
Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) announce their partnership, expanding advanced workforce training and technical assistance opportunities for manufacturers across Southeast Texas.
Manufacturers, community members, industry partners and regional employers are invited to learn more about the combined workforce capabilities of TMAC and LIT at our Celebration Launch Event from 1-4 p.m. on March 24, 2026 at the Paul and Connie Szuch Multi-Purpose Center.
Agenda:

Opening Remarks
Texas Legislative Remarks
Chamber & Economic Development Remarks
TMAC Remarks
Open House & Tour of LIT Technical Resources
Social Connection

Manufacturers will have early registration opportunities for upcoming TMAC events in SETX.
Beverages and snacks will be provided.
Secure your registration today for this Celebration Launch Event so we can plan for your attendance. Space is limited!
Map provided in following link.
855 E Lavaca St – Google Maps

UTSA SBDC GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING CONFERENCE 2026
2026-03-25 08:00 - 16:00 | T
Join us for our 4th annual IN-PERSON UTSA SBDC Government Contracting Conference – Building Business in Government Markets. Our speakers will share insights on growing your business and take advantage of the one-on-one matchmaking and connect with government agencies and Primes.

More information to come but Register TODAY as space is limited! NO COST TO ATTEND! Sponsor: SAWS

We look forward to you joining the conversation!

Workforce Solutions for Food & Beverage Manufacturers
2026-04-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Unlocking Training & Funding for Food and Beverage Manufacturers
Join TMAC, the Texas Craft Brewers Guild, TWC, and ASC Consulting for a free webinar designed specifically for Texas manufacturers in the food and beverage industries. Discover how your business can access workforce development training and funding opportunities to scale operations and stay competitive. If you’re looking to grow your brand and build your team, this session is for you!
ASC Consultants collaborate with TMAC to:

Help manufacturers navigate complex challenges and deliver safe, high-quality consumables
Support growing companies in adopting new protocols, implementing effective programs, and improving existing systems for greater efficiency

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) offers valuable support:

Businesses can access training grants, apprenticeship support, and Work Opportunity Tax Credits to strengthen their workforce
TWC also provides hiring support and labor market data

Why should I attend:

Funding Resources: Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) will provide information regarding training funds for new and current workers
Industry-Specific: Guidance targeted to food and beverage product manufacturing to navigate the regulatory landscape
Stay Competitive in the Texas Market: Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) is here to assist you with strategies to scale sustainably and improve production

Join us for this FREE webinar to learn more!

South Central Texas Supply Chain Conference
2026-04-15 08:00 - 2026-04-16 12:00 | T
Elevate your expertise at our upcoming two-day supply chain conference. Engage in strategic dialogue with industry peers and expand your professional circle through dedicated networking sessions.
Event Highlights:

18 Educational Sessions: Tailor your learning to your specific challenges.

Expert Keynotes: Discover how technology and sustainability are driving supply chain resilience.

Strategic Networking: Build lasting partnerships with industry colleagues.

Professional Credits: ASCM certified members earn certification maintenance points.

Don’t just react to change—lead it.

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Spring 2026 - Week 3
2026-04-20 08:00 - 2026-04-24 17:00 | T

Lean Six Sigma Accelerated Black Belt Spring 2026
2026-04-20 08:00 - 2026-04-24 17:00, 2026-05-18 08:00 - 2026-05-22 17:00 | T
TMAC’s Lean Six Sigma Program provides a systematic approach to combine the waste elimination methods of Lean with the variation reduction toolset of Six Sigma. The LSS Black Belt class is a rigorous course incorporating both Basic and Advanced problem-solving methods.
To accommodate busy schedules, we are offering an accelerated Lean Six Sigma Black Belt class for certified Green Belts* who need to spend less time away from the office, but still want to increase their continuous improvement skill set.
Schedule:

Week 3: APR 20-24
Week 4: MAY 18-22

Price: $5,300
*Registration subject to approval by instructors

Introduction to Goldratt's Theory of Constraints Flow Solutions in Lufkin, Texas
2026-04-22 10:00 - 13:00 | T
We Welcome You to Join Rami Goldratt as He Introduces Goldratt’s Theory of Constraints Flow Solutions Program!

Sponsored by Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center, in this interactive session you will learn:
TOC Frameworks & Managerial Approach

This introductory session is for leaders looking to gain practical , foundational knowledge of TOC.
Learn about Goldratt’s TOC Solutions throughout the world via case studies
Participate in simulations and small group activities that you’ll be able to replicate with your own teams to illustrate the power ofTOC thinking
Understand the powerful mindset behind TOC
See how different applications of TOC apply to various work environments
Familiarize yourself with TOC Flow Solutions, the powerful TOC Certificate program coming to your area soon!

Aerospace Supplier Connection Symposium
2026-05-07 08:30 - 13:00 | The Grand View, 2201 Heritage Parkway, Mansfield, T, 76063, United States
TMAC, Mansfield EDC, Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) & Cross Timbers APEX Accelerator are excited to host a one day in-person only Supplier Connection Symposium. If your company is interested in collaborating with aerospace relevant manufacturers in the Metroplex, this event is for you!
Event Highlights:

Contracting with Goverment Panel: Engage with industry experts through insightful conversation.
Networking: Participate in both formal and informal networking opportunities.
Matchmaking: Apply to participate in matchmaking sessions with aerospace relevant manufacturers.
Exhibitors: Explore innovative solutions and opportunities from exhibitors.
Tours: Get a behind the scenes look at Linq’s first project, Verdexium , a manufacturing and innovation hug launching later this year. Live for the outdoors with a tour of Sellmark and see how they are leading the way in technology and innovation.
Lunch: A complimentary lunch will be provided.

Who Should Attend?
Aerospace manufacturers, suppliers, quality managers, business development professionals, and purchasing managers looking to expand business opportunities, connect with key industry players, and ensure compliance.
Note: This event is for manufacturing companies with qualifying NAICS codes only.
Matchmaking Sessions: Aerospace manufacturers may apply to participate in 1-1 matchmaking sessions with larger aerospace relevant contractor and prime representatives in attendance. These sessions will follow the panel discussion. If you are interested in participating, you must fill out and submit THIS FORM.
Submission and Approval Process: All form submissions will be vetted by our host staff. Upon review, you will receive an approval email advising on the status of your networking meetings.
For those not selected or participating in the Matchmaking Sessions, we will have Government Contracting or Aerospace Manufacturing Workshops available during that time.
Important Information:

Conference and Matchmaker: This event is in-person ONLY.
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026

Location: The Grand View, 2201 Heritage Pkwy, Suite 107, Mansfield, TX 76063

ISO 9001 Internal Audit
2026-05-11 08:30 - 2026-05-13 16:30 | Southwest Research Institute, 6220 Culebra Road, Building 68, San Antonio, TX, 78238, United States
Learn the fundamentals and applications of ISO 9001 Internal Auditing. This three-day internal auditing course covers the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) Standard, requirements and auditing techniques.

This internal audit training class will benefit individuals participating in an internal audit for the first time; employees of companies interested in implementation or management of ISO QMS; and quality professionals who want a refresher course. No prior audit experience necessary.

Topics covered in this Internal Auditing course will enable you to:

Understand the ISO 9001:2015 QMS requirements.
Plan and conduct effective internal audits.
Apply the proper interpretation of the standard in actual internal audit situations
Understand management’s role in the QMS and auditing process.

For more information, please contact Sandra Hawkins, email: sandra.hawkins@swri.org.

Dates
May 11, 12 & 13, 2026

Location
Southwest Research Institute
6220 Culebra Road
Building 68
San Antonio, TX

Schedule
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Cost
$650 (individual online registration required).

Registration Deadline
May 6, 2026

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Spring 2026 - Week 4
2026-05-18 08:00 - 2026-05-22 17:00 | T

Lean Manufacturing Certification Program - THURSDAYS
2026-10-01 08:30 - 16:30 | T
Overview
This unique program provides companies the opportunity to provide their employees with a strong foundation in the Lean concepts and tools that are used to drive continuous improvement and achieve world-class business performance. A “first-of-its-kind” in the San Antonio Metropolitan Area, the certification consists of nine “Lean Tools” that can be applied in any business environment (Principles of Lean, Value Stream Mapping, 5S Workplace Organization, Cellular Manufacturing, Standard Work, Pull Systems, Setup Reduction, Total Productive Maintenance and Kaizen Events and Facilitation). Participants completing the entire series will receive a certificate of completion on Lean Manufacturing. Continuing Education Units will also be available!
Dates
Thursdays – Oct 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2026
Location
Southwest Research Institute
6220 Culebra Road
Building 68
San Antonio, TX
Schedule
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Lunch will be provided
Cost
$1,450 per person for member of Local Manufacturing Association
$1,650 per person for non-member
For more information, please contact Sandra Hawkins, email: sandra.hawkins@swri.org
