The SMMA 2012 Spring Management Conference in early May included speakers on a variety of industry related topics; ample time for networking; and sponsorships, a new opportunity for companies to contribute to conference activities. The sponsorships, which have replaced table top exhibits at the SMMA Spring Management Conferences, provided differing levels of monetary contributions as well as sponsor recognitions. Another new Spring feature, a dinner cruise Wednesday evening on board the Sanibel Harbour Princess Yacht, was enjoyed by all.

Topics covered at the SMMA 2012 Spring Management Conference included updates on rare earth materials, the U.S. Department of Energy ARPA-E programs, Underwriters Laboratories, and a number of industry specific business presentations: valuation trends of companies in this industry, global markets, an investor's perspective and an economic forecast.

"Make Your Move," the economic forecast presented by Alan Beaulieu, Institute for Trend Research (ITR), provided business cycle directives plus seven "Must Watch" items. For information about how to obtain a complimentary copy of the ITR Advisor, a monthly snapshot of economic activity and the events impacting that activity, send an email to Betsy Chambers. SMMA members receive an ITR quarterly report prepared expressly for the motor and motion industry.