Good morning! Wouldn't it be nice to know that a power outage won't shut off the lights (and machinery) at your processing plant? Editor Ron Shinn says a microgrid could be the solution.

Wittmann has a new conveyor controller, and Robotiq's software can make palletizing smoother. Hennecke is joining several other OEMs in expanding service offerings. And our colleagues at IndustryWeek look at how manufacturers can partner with liberal arts colleges.

Time is running out to participate in our annual machinery-buying survey. Don't miss this chance to tell us what you need to know to make informed decisions about your equipment investments.

Lynne Sherwin, managing editor