PRESIDENT SPOTLIGHT | MONORAIL MANUFACTURES ASSOCIATION A vision for progress
As the Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA) enters a new chapter under the leadership of president Lee Bailey, the organisation is set to reinforce industry standards, strengthen collaboration and engage the next generation of professionals. With a focus on practical advancements and membership growth, Bailey outlines his strategic vision for the future of MMA and the material handling industry.
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ince its founding in 1933, the Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA) has been at the forefront of advancing
safety, standards and innovation in the material handling industry. With its commitment to promoting the safe application and operation of workstation cranes, underhung cranes and monorails, MMA has long been a cornerstone of the industry, ensuring that members stay ahead of evolving demands. Now, under the leadership of its new president, Lee Bailey, MMA is poised to build upon its legacy while embracing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Bailey, who brings over 40 years of experience in manufacturing and automation, has a clear and strategic vision for MMA. “One of my top priorities is to publish the newly accepted standards for Patented Track and Workstation Enclosed Track Cranes,” he explains. “In addition, we will develop companion documents that further explain these standards, providing valuable reference materials for the industry.”
Setting the standards Standardisation has always been a key pillar of MMA, ensuring safety, reliability and efficiency in monorail systems and workstation cranes. These systems are essential for industries ranging from automotive and steel to warehousing and manufacturing, playing a crucial role in moving and positioning heavy loads. By maintaining and expanding industry standards, MMA continues to serve as the leading resource for safe and effective lifting solutions.
Another critical focus for Bailey is
strengthening collaboration with other industry organisations. “I see MMA working more closely with CMAA (Crane Manufacturers Association of America) and HMI (Hoist Manufacturers Institute)
Lee Bailey
Bailey is the president of the Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA) and the manager of manufacturing integration and engineering at Schmalz, a leading manufacturer of ergonomic vacuum lifting systems, including aluminium cranes. With over 40 years of experience in manufacturing and automation, he is a seasoned industry professional. He holds a degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology and is a licensed professional engineer.
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focused on practical applications that enhance safety and efficiency without unnecessary complexity. A major priority for Bailey is ensuring continued membership growth and engagement. “We will seek out companies that meet the requirements for membership and demonstrate the value that MMA can provide to them,” he states. This includes offering members access to the latest standards, marketing materials and technical resources that strengthen their business operations.
MMA is at the forefront of advancing safety.
under the Overhead Alliance banner,” he says. This joint effort aims to streamline marketing efforts, share knowledge and reinforce industry-wide best practices, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from a unified approach to material handling solutions.
Central intelligence As industries continue to evolve with advancements in automation, the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), the question of technological integration is ever-present. However, Bailey offers a pragmatic perspective. “The crane industry is not rapidly evolving,” he notes. “That said, we will continue to evaluate how technologies like AI and IoT can be integrated into our industry in a meaningful way.” While cutting-edge innovations dominate conversations in many sectors, MMA remains
A strong pipeline The challenge of workforce development is another issue that Bailey is keen to address. Like many manufacturing sectors, the monorail industry faces the task of attracting and retaining the next generation of skilled professionals. “We will encourage younger members of our individual companies to get involved in MMA,” he emphasises. By fostering engagement among emerging professionals, the association aims to ensure a strong pipeline of expertise and leadership for years to come. Looking ahead, Bailey's tenure as president
promises a steady, focused approach to growth and industry leadership. By reinforcing standards, strengthening collaborations, expanding membership and fostering workforce engagement, MMA is well positioned to navigate the future while staying true to its mission. As industries continue to rely on efficient material handling solutions, MMA remains a trusted authority, evolving at a pace that ensures both safety and sustainability in the years to come.
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