Austin Weber

Putting Cars on a Diet

July 24, 2008

Automakers and suppliers have been focusing on vehicle weight for decades. But, rising fuel prices and strict government fuel-economy mandates are forcing the industry to explore new applications for lightweight materials, such as aluminum, composites and magnesium.

Are You Dying For Work?

Austin Weber

July 11, 2008

If you think you work too much, maybe you better slow down. If not, you may end up like an engineer at a Japanese automaker who recently worked himself to death.

State of the Profession: A Decade of Change

Austin Weber

July 8, 2008

A look back at the 1998 State of the Profession survey reveals some sobering statistics.

State of the Profession: How Bad Is It?

Austin Weber

July 8, 2008

The last time the U.S. economy suffered a recession was in 2001. While economic conditions today are similar, the overall outlook remains much healthier.

"State of the Profession" Salary Snapshot - Manufacturing Engineers

Austin Weber

July 7, 2008

Manufacturing engineer salaries are influenced by factors such as age, experience, industry and company size.

Be Careful With Those Scissors!

Austin Weber

July 7, 2008

Many manufacturers are faced with skyrocketing costs these days. As a result, the tendency at some companies is to cut, cut, cut. But, it may not be the best strategy to follow.

GM Centennial: 100 Years of Manufacturing Milestones

Austin Weber

July 2, 2008

A timeline of key engineering and manufacturing milestones from GM's first century.

GM Centennial: Worldwide Growth Is Driven by China

Austin Weber

July 2, 2008

Last year, more than 50 percent of the vehicles that General Motors assembled were sold outside North America. The company's operations in China are among the most profitable in the company's vast production portfolio, which includes assembly plants on six continents.

GM Centennial: Show & Tell

Austin Weber

July 1, 2008

GM has always loved to put on a good show.

GM Centennial: The World in 1908

Austin Weber

July 1, 2008

General Motors was formed in New Jersey on Sept. 16, 1908. At the time, automobiles were still considered to be a novelty and the industry was extremely fragmented, with more than 250 automakers in the United States.