August 26, 2024 by SME Communications Look at what some of our chapters have been up to recently, exploring innovation, technology, and industry connections. SME’s Japan Chapter 180 Nikon Corporation Kumagai Factory Tour On July 12th, members of the SME Japan Chapter 180 embarked on a remarkable journey to the Nikon Corporation Kumagai Factory. This visit was particularly significant as it marked the return of our factory tours, which had been on hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The tour began with an enlightening lecture on Nikon’s historical impact and their latest advancements in optical equipment and integrated circuit (IC) units. The Kumagai Plant, a crucial component of Nikon's Next Generation Project Headquarters, plays a vital role in the production of ArF immersion scanners essential for semiconductor manufacturing. With around 2,000 employees, including those from affiliated companies, the facility is a powerhouse of innovation. Members headed to the cleanroom to gear up and venture into the production areas, where they witnessed the meticulous assembly of IC units—some with up to 50 layers. The precision and speed involved in these processes were nothing short of mesmerizing. "Visiting production lines showed that precise, high-speed production with advanced IC control is crucial. Rapid model updates and high-quality equipment are key, and Nikon’s growth from desk-sized to larger models highlights its commitment to technological advancement." said Tatsumasa Arita, secretary of chapter 180. Nikon’s state-of-the-art technology, featuring large-diameter lenses and sophisticated error-correction systems, underscored the company's commitment to remaining at the forefront of the semiconductor market. The visit to Nikon's Kumagai Factory provided Japan Chapter 180’s members with a profound insight into the cutting-edge advancements driving the semiconductor and optical equipment industries. The tour highlighted Nikon's dedication to precision, innovation, and technological leadership, highlighting the remarkable progress from their earlier models to state-of-the-art machinery. This experience not only underscored the importance of high-speed, high-quality production but also demonstrated how ongoing advancements and meticulous craftsmanship continue to propel the industry forward. SME’s Southern Piedmont Chapter 182 Chapter 182’s Visit to the Chiron Open House Southern Piedmont Chapter 182 had the pleasure of attending the Chiron Open House on July 16th and 17th. This event provided an engaging look into innovative manufacturing technology and offered valuable networking opportunities. The open house featured presentations and interactive sessions, allowing attendees to explore advanced equipment and engage with representatives from 16 partner stations. This setup facilitated meaningful interactions, helping the SME team establish important connections with industry professionals and potential new members. A standout aspect of the event was Chiron’s Apprenticeship 2000 program. The program, which targets high school students from North and South Carolina, aims to nurture future talent for the manufacturing sector. The presence of five apprentices at various stages of their training displayed the program’s success and emphasized the importance of hands-on training and industry engagement. The Chiron Open House also served as a platform for networking with Apprenticeship 2000 sponsors and other manufacturing professionals. Chapter 182 explored potential speakers for future events and distributed SME membership information and resources. Chapter 182 is planning a special meeting featuring Robert Shook, Chiron’s Operations Manager, who will discuss the advantages of SME membership with apprentices. Insights from Robert Boice, a former apprentice who advanced his career through SME resources, will further illustrate the benefits of SME involvement. In October, Chapter 182 will host a Manufacturing Month tour at Chiron, open to members, students, and FIRST Robotics teams. This tour will offer a behind-the-scenes look at Chiron’s operations and equipment, provide career insights from Chiron employees, and challenge outdated views of manufacturing with a showcase of their modern, clean facilities. Why These Visits Matter Both the Nikon Corporation visit, and the Chiron Open House demonstrated the incredible advancements in manufacturing technology and the importance of staying connected with industry leaders. For our SME chapters, these experiences are more than just tours—they are opportunities to gain experience, grow, and connect with the broader manufacturing community. Does your chapter have an event they would like to share? Email membership@sme.org
