As the odometer turns

Looking back in the rearview, pressing forward on the gas

By Jeff Baker 

There’s a particular kind of energy that comes with standing on the edge of a transition. You know the feeling—when the odometer in your vehicle is about to roll over, and you find yourself watching the numbers as if something special might happen, or when you crack open that box of holiday chocolates (produced by a Prairie manufacturer, of course!) and dive head-first into the various shapes and colours, never quite sure what’s hiding inside each sweet treat.

That’s the feeling we’ve been carrying lately: a sense that Prairie Manufacturer is approaching a new marker. Truth be told, it is—we’re nearing the proverbial roll-over of our own ‘anniversary’ odometer from single to double digits!

If there’s one thing that the last decade of Prairie Manufacturer has taught us, it’s that manufacturing on the Prairies is built on people as much as processes. It’s shaped by relationships, shared wins, tough lessons, and a resilient optimism that seems to run through everyone who builds and creates in this special part of Canada.

And it is impossible to reflect on our journey without acknowledging the many hands that have helped shape this magazine. This is a great moment to pause, look around, and appreciate the ground we have covered together.

When Prairie Manufacturer launched, we knew the stories were out there—stories of ingenuity, grit, determination, leadership, and adaptation. What we did not know was just how strongly the Prairie manufacturing community would embrace the idea of a publication dedicated to their successes and challenges. Readers didn’t just show up—they engaged, questioned, advised, and encouraged. Contributors didn’t just write—they offered expertise, insights, and perspectives that broadened our understanding of the sector.

Every issue has been an intricate mosaic of the work of writers, photographers, designers, editors, association partners, and the manufacturers themselves. We’re constantly grateful for the business owners and managers who walk us through their facilities and pull back the curtain on their operations, and the front-line workers who show us what pride in craftsmanship truly looks like. We are inspired by the innovators who push boundaries to shape what Prairie manufacturing will become. Our advertisers continue to believe in this platform and their commitment makes Prairie Manufacturer possible.

Behind the scenes, countless people make each issue possible—those who refine the words, balance the budgets, sell the ad space, co-ordinate the schedules, and bring the visuals to life. Their work rarely gets a spotlight, but it’s essential to every story we publish.

Reflecting on our journey so far also means thinking about momentum. Prairie manufacturing has never been static. The industry continues to evolve and diversify—from long-established strengths in agriculture and energy equipment to emerging growth in advanced manufacturing, clean technologies, and food processing. We’ve watched companies adapt to global pressures, invest in new capabilities, build strong cultures, and prepare the next generation of skilled workers.

This magazine has grown alongside that evolution. While we’ve never claimed to be at the centre of it, we have been fortunate to meet and learn from the people who are. That’s part of what fuels our excitement today—the sense that the story of Prairie manufacturing is far from finished, and Prairie Manufacturer still has a path ahead to forge, with all sorts of new and inspiring stories to tell.

Transitions invite us to appreciate where we’ve been while staying focused on what comes next. They ask us to pause long enough to recognize the people and moments that made the journey meaningful. And they remind us that momentum is only possible because of the effort invested along the way.

So, as we look toward the roll of the odometer here at Prairie Manufacturer, gratitude is the prevailing feeling. Gratitude for our readers, who continue to show up issue after issue. Gratitude for our advertisers and partners, who invest not just in us but in the broader mission of strengthening the manufacturing industry across the Prairies. Gratitude for the manufacturers who open their doors and trust us with their stories. And gratitude for everyone—contributors, advisors, experts, and supporters—who has offered their time, insight, or encouragement.

Prairie Manufacturer exists because so many people believed in the value of telling Prairie stories. It continues because there are more stories that need telling

The commitment moving forward remains simple: to reflect the strength, creativity, and determination of Prairie manufacturers with honesty and pride. To celebrate the people who make this sector exceptional. And to keep evolving, just as the industry does.

Transitions provide a sort of clarity. They’re about recognizing the road behind while leaning into the one ahead. And they’re about that spark of excitement—the kind you feel when the numbers on the odometer roll over or when you are making a selection from that glorious box of chocolates.

So, as Prairie Manufacturer prepares to leave the heady days of its youth behind and enter the double-digit club, we offer
you a heartfelt Thank You for being part of this journey.

Until we chat again, we hope you enjoy the read.