EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

ISCAR to adopt MDES

ModuleWorks reports that ISCAR, a major manufacturer of cutting tools, is adopting the Manufacturing Data Exchange Specification (MDES). Through this adoption, ISCAR plans to make its tooling data available in the open MDES format, enabling CAM software and CNC systems to integrate ISCAR tools and assemblies more efficiently. Meir Noybauer, Business Development Officer at ISCAR says: “Supplying our tooling information in the MDES format makes it easier for CAM systems to provide that data to their users, helping manufacturers reduce programming time and machine complex parts with greater confidence.”

More information www.moduleworks.com

Enginuity to partner with Babcock and BBC star

The Enginuity Skills Awards 2026, the ‘Oscars of Skills’, is partnering with Babcock, marking a significant step forward in the shared mission to tackle the skills gap across the UK’s engineering and manufacturing sector. The glittering awards night, to be hosted by BBC star Swarzy Shire and held at the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge, on 1 July, is firmly fixed as a focal point for industry and skills provision. The collaboration with Babcock brings together two organisations committed to inspiring the next generation of talent, recognising excellence and driving meaningful change across the industry.

More information www.enginuity.org/skills-awards-2026

Accounting firm supports ABB’s acquisition of IPEC

A northwest accounting and professional services group has completed its involvement in a high-profile cross-border deal, which has seen IPEC Ltd become part of ABB, a world leader in electrification and automation. DJH provided corporate finance support and complex tax structuring advice to the owners of Stockport-based IPEC during the sale. “The project shows how DJH understands the bespoke requirements of firms involved in technology and manufacturing, overcoming complex tax structures and international regulations to arrive at a transaction that works for all,” explains Natasha Millward, DJH client services director.

More information www.djh.co.uk

Chiron Group appoints new CEO

The board of directors at machine tool manufacturer Chiron Group has appointed Roman Gaida as its new CEO, effective 1 July 2026. The move sends a clear signal regarding the company’s international expansion, a stronger focus on customer needs and a consistent commitment to profitable growth.

“With Roman, the Chiron Group is gaining a CEO who combines strategic clarity, international leadership experience and deep technical expertise,” explains chairman Dr Armin Schmiedeberg. “His career path – from his roots in CNC machining through senior leadership roles to the global management of international organisations – makes him a valuable and forward-looking addition to our leadership team.”More information www.chiron-group.com

Stratasys selected for war AM programme

Stratasys’ parts-on-demand business, Stratasys Direct, has been selected to take part in the US Department of War’s (DoW) Joint Additive Manufacturing Acceptability (JAMA) IV Pilot Parts Programme, a multimillion- dollar initiative to accelerate qualification and deployment of 3D-printed parts across military platforms and systems.

“In 2025 Stratasys saw double-digit annual revenue growth from aerospace and defence, demonstrating that AM is a becoming a key capability for defence sustainment and supply chain resilience,” says Foster Ferguson, vice president – industrial business unit, Stratasys. “Stratasys Direct already ships over 100,000 parts annually to the defence industry, and programmes like JAMA will accelerate qualification of parts so organisations can deploy them faster across operational platforms.” 

More information www.stratasys.com/en/stratasysdirect