On Friday January 26, 2024, we had the distinct honor of hosting Michigan State Representative Betsy Coffia at our headquarters in Traverse City, Michigan. The goal of this visit was for Rep. Coffia to get a better understanding of the manufacturing industry in Northwest Lower Michigan, including their needs, challenges and goals.

During her visit, significant emphasis was placed on the skills gap facing manufacturers of all types and the need for technology to fill that gap.  Rep. Coffia had the opportunity to use our latest approach to this type of technology, our artificial intelligence software, MAX.  Even though she had no prior experience using an injection molding machine, Rep. Coffia was able to diagnose that the process running on our press did not match the qualified process and then followed MAX’s step-by-step instructions to fix the problem on her own.

MAX utilizes AI technology powered by proven Master Molder® techniques to provide molders with real-time, expert guidance allowing them to keep their injection molding processes under control. This smart assistant monitors process parameters in real-time and offers troubleshooting advice to help molders rapidly resolve issues and improve productivity. Molding Automation Xperience, or MAX for short, marks a significant enhancement to the CoPilot system, demonstrating the company’s commitment to leveraging AI to deliver molders an unparalleled level of control, efficiency and quality.

“It was a pleasure hosting Rep. Coffia and demonstrating the future direction of our technology and innovation,” said  Mike Groleau, Chairman of the Board at RJG. “We are dedicated to preparing molders for tomorrow’s success while helping them overcome today’s challenges, and this was such a great way to showcase the hard work of our entire team.”

Prior to being named Michigan’s State Representative, Coffia held the title of Grand Traverse County Commissioner. She grew up in a working class family in rural Kalkaska County and has deep roots in northern Michigan.  Over the last decade, she has recruited and mentored multiple women who have run for office, including multiple Millennial and Gen-Z women now in political leadership positions.

This event was organized by Traverse Connect, the lead economic development organization for the Grand Traverse region, which supports area businesses through a combination of business attraction and retention strategies, talent development efforts and strategic coordination among partner agencies. 

“Thank you for the wonderful tour this past Friday. RJG is an exceptional organization with exceptional people,” stated Krista Esckilsen, Investor Engagement Coordinator at Traverse Connect.

“We truly appreciate Rep. Coffia and Traverse Connect for taking the time to visit RJG and learn more about the importance of technology and manufacturing businesses to the growth and vitality of our region,” stated Groleau.