ZOLLER launches “Toolroom of the Year 2026” to spotlight digital manufacturing excellence!

ZOLLER Inc. has announced the launch of its “Toolroom of the Year 2026” competition, an initiative aimed at recognizing manufacturers that are driving efficiency, precision and digital transformation in toolroom operations across North America. The competition invites ZOLLER customers to showcase how they are enhancing toolroom performance through advanced practices such as integrated tool management, automation, digital connectivity and optimized workflows. As manufacturing environments increasingly adopt data-driven processes, the initiative highlights how modern toolrooms are evolving into highly efficient and connected hubs that directly impact overall production performance. Participants will be evaluated by a panel of industry experts based on

Technology award seals hat-trick of titles in just three months for Aurrigo International

A global provider of autonomy software, fully autonomous vehicles and mobile robotic platforms has sealed a hat-trick of award wins in the first three months of 2026. Aurrigo International plc, which recently secured its largest-ever manufacturing contract with Ultra Global, added another trophy to its expanding cabinet last week when its CEO claimed the Technology Leader title at the West Midlands Leadership Awards. Professor David Keene MBE overcame the strong challenge of Mandeep Athwal (School of Coding & AI), Rachel Curtis (Inicio AI), Ben Harwood (Naismiths), Himanshu Sharma (Go Diverse) and Melissa Snover of Rem3dy Health. He impressed judges, including

Dugard Expands with ZOPO Intelligent Machining Centres

Dugard, a prominent supplier in the machining industry, has announced the availability of a new range of machining centres from ZOPO Intelligent Equipment Co., Ltd. These machines are designed to offer high precision, speed, and reliability for demanding production environments. The ZOPO Intelligent machining centres are known for their rigidity and accuracy, ensuring high-speed performance and excellent value for money. They are particularly suitable for both subcontracting and production work, accommodating the needs of various manufacturing sectors. Dugard provides comprehensive UK support for these machines, including installation, training, and servicing, catering to the local manufacturing industry’s needs. Machines are available

Sheetmetal software with AI assistant

Machining to mirror finish in one setup?!

“A very rigid machine… with a unique soft-handling parts catcher.” Turning, milling, polishing and even measurement – all completed on a single Biglia from Whitehouse Machine Tools. Paul Jones of MTDCNC and Harry Wincott of Whitehouse Machine Tools dive into how a medical femoral component goes from raw material to near-perfect surface finish – without leaving the machine. If you want to unlock capabilities you wouldn’t normally expect from a fixed-head lathe – this is one you don’t want to miss!

Vericut software helps apprentices become industry ready

Recent investment in Vericut verification, simulation and optimisation software is helping apprentices at Gloucestershire Engineering Training (GET) raise their CNC machining skills to new levels. The introduction of Vericut has proved so successful that the first cohort of learners shared positive feedback directly with the organisation’s CEO, requesting the software remain part of the curriculum and undergo further integration. GET, which has been designing and delivering engineering training for large and small employers since 1977, operates from its headquarters and main facility in Gloucester, supported by a satellite site at nearby Cinderford. Jake Weatherley, training and maintenance manager at GET, said: “Our apprenticeship programmes