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Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)

Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC)

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Montana Manufacturing Extension Center logo

The Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC) is a statewide manufacturing outreach and assistance center focused on growing Montana’s economy by helping manufacturers succeed in a nationally and globally competitive environment.  Part of the NIST MEP National Network, we have access to an extensive network of resources throughout Montana and the U.S.  

In today’s rapidly changing business environment, MMEC provides Montana manufacturers with hands-on assistance plus the knowledge and resources needed for growth, innovation and profit enhancement.  Staffed by proven professionals with extensive manufacturing and business experience in a variety of industries, our team can help you achieve positive, measurable, and sustainable growth for your top and bottom line.  Our areas of expertise include product and market development, strategic and exit planning, workforce/talent development, business financials, food safety and processes, quality management, lean manufacturing, supply chain optimization, and many others. 

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Success Stories

Tapping into sustainability: Brewery improves production by reducing waste

Reported Year
2021
Jeremiah Johnson Brewing Company now produces an estimated 10,000 barrels of beer each year. With growth, the company began to experience filtration throughput issues that limited further capacity expansion. In addition, management wanted to explore other efficiencies that could be implemented to reduce waste throughout the business and improve

A Generous Spirit: Distillery Focuses on Community and Employee Needs During Pandemic

Reported Year
2021
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many food and beverage companies closed their restaurants, bars, and tasting rooms, including Headframe Spirits. A significant portion of the business sales were negatively impacted when the tasting room was closed, and employee jobs were at risk. The company pivoted to the manufacture of hand sanitizer. Headframe

Gibson Guitars Expands Montana Production Facility

Reported Year
2021
Over the last few years, demand has increased significantly for Gibson’s acoustic guitars. In 2019, management began planning an expansion at the Bozeman facility that would increase production capacity by more than 100%. The proposal required approval by the Board of Directors, who requested presentation of a detailed, data-driven investment case

"The return on investment for us has been tremendous, and we’re continuing to partner with MMEC to improve our overall competitiveness and ensure long-term success."

—Shane Pence, North American Strategic Projects Manager

Created March 18, 2019, Updated May 18, 2021