Precision engineers target US opportunities

The Bracks government has granted $44,750 to the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) to help 10 Victorian precision engineering companies showcase their talents internationally.

The Minister for Manufacturing & Export, André Haermeyer, said the grant would help the companies take part in the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2006 Trade Fair, Chicago.

"As the largest manufacturing and technology show in North America, IMTS gives Victorian precision engineering companies the opportunity to get their foot in the door of the lucrative United States market," Haermeyer said.

"More generally, the mission will further enhance Victoria's excellent reputation for tooling and precision engineering, and facilitate the industry's continued growth and development."

The Victorian companies attending the trade fair focus on precision-machined components for heavy transport and waste disposal vehicles. Other specialities represented include data plate technology, precision grinding machines and off-road vehicle equipment.

Melbourne-based AMTIL has provided Victorian participants with pre-departure training and will follow them up on return.

It will also work with Austrade and the US Society of Manufacturing Engineers to deliver a package of services including business-matching and company visits.