Reprint of: The 50th anniversary of NAMRC

In 1973, a group of eminent manufacturing engineering researchers, known today as the Founders, organized the first North American Metalworking Research Conference (NAMRC). Seven years later, the name was changed to the North American Manufacturing Research Conference. In 1982, the institution known today as the North American Manufacturing Research Institution (NAMRI), with a formal board, Scientific Committee, and membership formally became part of SME. As we commemorate 50 years of its continuing success, we use this opportunity to recall and summarize our past: the achievements, milestones reached, and evolving themes. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges that we face today and on how we can better contribute and innovate into the future in terms of advanced manufacturing.

Automated summary

In 1973, a group of distinguished manufacturing engineering researchers held the first North American Metalworking Research Conference, which later became the North American Manufacturing Research Conference. In 1982, the North American Manufacturing Research Institution (NAMRI) merged with SME. This article commemorates 50 years of accomplishments, milestones, and evolving themes while reflecting on current challenges and exploring ways to contribute and innovate in advanced manufacturing.