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Is your shop floor as secure as you think it is? Innovation in the manufacturing world has made IT-OT convergence much more commonplace today, but is the industry taking the potential risks seriously enough?
In this episode, we hear from Fortinet’s Director of Marketing for OT Solutions, Rich Springer, about the real threats facing manufacturers within OT networks, and why effective OT security is a non-negotiable today...
Rich brings bags of experience to the table, from his early days in furniture and glass factories to his time as a Navy submarine officer and later as the global head of SCADA operations for a major wind turbine company. He shares how these experiences shaped his understanding of the unique cybersecurity challenges facing the manufacturing sector.
Painting a picture of how an OT threat can bring production to a standstill, Rich recommends that manufacturers use tabletop exercises to assess risk points and their impact on the whole production line. Rich also explains that part of protecting your OT network is about getting IT and OT teams to work together, and he gives practical advice on how to bridge the gap.
In this episode, find out:
Rich explains Fortinet’s position on OT network security We hear about Rich’s diverse career background and how his previous roles prepared him for his role at Fortinet The current state of OT convergence and why companies are yet to take actionRich breaks the misconception that air gaps will protect manufacturers from digital threats Advice for better collaboration between IT and OT teams Rich explains why he’s optimistic that manufacturers are paying attention to the right things in securityWhat the report says about manufacturers and their approach to OT systems todayWhat it takes for cybersecurity experts to get executives to pay attention to the threats facing OTHow to run a tabletop exercise to assess threat and impact on production What surprises Rich most about cybersecurity in manufacturing todayEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“The separation of duties should be decided on the tabletop exercise, not when the fire is burning.”“The technology has evolved. So therefore, it has made this air gap strategy a little less realistic over the years. And this is a common challenge.”“When the systems go down, they go to paper. So if the line hasn't stopped, what happens with our suppliers if we have to go paper? Take your tabletop exercise to that level.”Links & mentions:
Advancing Digital Transformation in a Time of Unprecedented Cybersecurity Risk, a report on how digital transformation in manufacturing has driven a widespread need for cybersecurity awareness2024 State of Operational Technology and Cybersecurity Report, Fortinet’s report on OT cybersecurityMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.
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Is the industry ready for humanoids? And perhaps more importantly, does the industry really need them? It’s a debate that’s been going on for some time, and back in episode 200, we even had an audience member call humanoids out as a gimmick! But are there real benefits to using humanoids?
We welcomed back Melonee Wise, the Chief Product Officer at Agility Robotics, the pros at manufacturing mobile manipulation robots and automation solutions. Melonee explains that there are definitely practical uses for humanoids and explains some ways they may outperform regular robotics in certain scenarios, such as containerized movement.
We hear a little backstory about Melonee’s career and why she founded Fetch Robotics, sold it, and took her current role at Agility Robotics. While running her company, she learned a lot about finding product-market fit and ensuring that the designs of robots are viable, in demand, and safe. Safety is a key theme in this episode, and Melonee reveals some of the specific scenarios we need to prepare for if we ever hope to get a robot from the design stage to implementation.
In this episode, find out:
Are humanoids overhyped or is there a real use for them? The practical applications for humanoids in manufacturing and supply chain management The realities of managing robots on a production line and why instructions need to be programmed clearly Weighing up the speed of human workers vs. automated vehicles and robots, plus the other factors affecting human workers How AI plays into robotics development and why robotics would be advanced enough to progress without AI How we could manage data from robots to optimize supply chain management Why safety is always the biggest challenge with robotics and machinery and the different scenarios we need to account for before deploying a new piece of roboticsThe dangers of not thinking proactively about safety – both to the industry as a whole and to robotics developments What led Melonee to launch Fetch Robotics and how she found product-market fit with a new solution to a common problemWhy Melonee stepped away from entrepreneurship to take a role at Agility RoboticsEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“Humanoids would be having their moment right now, whether or not AI was also having its moment. I think that the technology is sufficiently advanced enough that we can do the work without leveraging AI if we needed to. Now, will AI help? Yes."“There are two factors that make containerized movement great for humanoids. One, it's very standard work and robotics always loves standard processes. And two, it's highly scalable. So it's worth the investment of the development.”“Humanoids are becoming the new best friends of AMRs. So that's where we're seeing a lot of success, especially because they’re highly repeatable and there are a lot of use cases for them.”Links & mentions:
Agility Robotics, the world’s leading manufacturer of mobile manipulation robots and automation solutions, working with the humanoid robot, DigitFetch Robotics (now Zebra), Melonee’s original company, acquired by Zebra, is a robotics automation products manufacturer that helps robots work alongside humansMake sure to visit
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U.S. manufacturing is on a roll right now. And organizations like MxD – The Digital Manufacturing and Cybersecurity Institute are on a mission to help manufacturers build the things they need to build in the modern digital world.
In this episode, we sit down with Berardino Baratta, CEO of MxD, to explore the evolution of digital transformation in manufacturing and its impact on the industry. First, Berardino shares his career story, which takes us from healthcare AI to operating a café during a sabbatical to now helping manufacturers thrive in a digital world.
As MxD celebrates its 10th anniversary, Berardino shares insights on how the organization has evolved over the years as new technology progresses. We dig into the challenges faced by small businesses, the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age, and how MxD is shaping the future of American manufacturing. Berardino shares his perspective on how manufacturing is changing for the better, including a more collaborative approach to improving supply chains and the democratization of data and insights.
In this episode, find out:
Berardino explains what MxD does to help manufacturers and how its scope has evolved as new technology advances Some backstory on Berardino’s varied career from being the CEO of an AI healthcare company to now working as the CEO of the U.S.’s leading digital manufacturing innovation center What Berardino learned during his long sabbatical about modernizing operations at a café and how he applied that to his work in manufacturing Berardino takes us through MxD’s project history, including working with the Department of Defense and Manufacturing USA How modern manufacturing companies feel about creating something that will be democratized vs. maintaining competitive advantagesWhy the industry has become more collaborative over making supply chain improvements How manufacturing has changed in the past ten years in line with technological innovations What’s working when it comes to fortifying the strength of U.S. manufacturing Improvements the industry needs to make when it comes to adopting digital assetsEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“We quickly realized cybersecurity is critical. We went from being the Digital Manufacturing Institute to the Digital Manufacturing and Cybersecurity Institute. Two sides of the same coin, right? If you're going to adopt digital, it better be secure.”“98% of U.S. manufacturing companies are small and medium. 75% have less than 20 employees. What's starting to work is that those small and medium businesses are starting to adopt digital to improve their operations.”“With the café, we modernized their entire operations. Right from production in the back house through building their front of the house. We modernized it with technology, not that dissimilar to a digital transformation of a manufacturer.”Links & mentions:
MxD, the digital manufacturing and cybersecurity institute; MxD advances economic prosperity and national security by strengthening U.S. manufacturing competitiveness through technology innovation, workforce development, and cybersecurity preparedness; in partnership with the Department of DefenseManufacturing... -
In 1989, Kansas City's beer scene was revitalized with the founding of Boulevard Brewing Company, filling a void left by the closure of hundreds of local breweries during Prohibition and the subsequent decades.
Our guest, Adam Hall from Boulevard Brewing Company, takes us on a fascinating journey into the brewery's evolution from humble beginnings to its present-day status as a staple on Kansas City's beer scene. In this episode, learn about the evolution of Boulevard's beer lineup, the pivotal role of Kansas City’s rich beer heritage, and how innovation keeps the brewery ahead of trends without chasing them.
Adam also shares unique insights into Boulevard's community involvement, sustainability efforts, and the collaborative spirit among Kansas City brewers. Plus, don't miss out on their creative beer and food pairings, including a new Chamoy and peach ring-infused sour ale!
Plus, make sure to follow the MADE HERE series with the Industrial Solutions Network by going to industrialsolutionsnetwork.com/madehere.
In this episode, find out:
How Boulevard Brewing started out in 1989 as a small brewery with a few taps in an old gift shopThe history of Kansas City’s breweries before Prohibition and what happened afterwardHow founder John McDonald was inspired to brew a variety of beers while on a trip to EuropeAbout Boulevard’s first successful beer, which was an American wheat beer, and how it remains their bestseller todayHow hiring an innovative brewer with a robust list of recipes helps keep Boulevard Brewing on the forefront of what’s happening in the industryHow they collaborate with other craft breweries to share techniques and improve production efficiencyBoulevard’s position as a mid-sized brewery, larger than typical craft breweries but smaller than macro breweries, allows for quality-focused growthThe future for the brewery is to increase its presence in markets outside Kansas City while maintaining a tight and high-quality beer profileHow Boulevard's commitment to innovation includes adopting new manufacturing techniques to enhance efficiency and product qualityEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“While Kansas City didn't experience Prohibition in the same way that other cities did, we never really stopped serving beer, manufacturing shut down almost completely.”“We want to grow. We want more people to try our beer. We think that if you try our beer, you'll like our beer. We try to make something for everybody.”“In the early 2000s, we were doing over a hundred thousand barrels on our original brew house, which kicks out 35 barrels at a time. If you do anything a hundred thousand times in increments of 35, it'll tell you that brew house was running 24 hours a day.”Links & mentions:
Boulevard Brewing Company, a brewery in Kansas City, Missouri that combines traditional brewing techniques with modern methods Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, the best barbeque in Kansas City, the barbeque capital of the worldMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in...
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If you are one of the 100,000 people that’s going to IMTS 2024 – North America's largest manufacturing trade show – there's a lot in this episode for you. We’re joined by 7 other manufacturing leaders as we enjoy a glass of bourbon and chat about what we’re expecting to see at IMTS this year, September 9 through 14, 2024 in Chicago, IL.
This episode was recorded live from MakingChips HQ at their “Boring Bar” in Rockford, IL where we were joined by a number of past guests of Manufacturing Happy Hour. The crew discusses everything from IMTS to artificial intelligence to our thoughts on the future of manufacturing and what it will take to continue to enhance the vibrancy of this industry.
Make sure to visit ManufacturingHappyHour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.
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Let’s raise a glass to 200 episodes down and counting! It’s been an incredible journey so far and to mark this milestone, we’re bringing you a special live episode – this time with host Chris Luecke in the hot seat.
So what’s it been like running the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast? Chris tells us in his own words how much he’s learned as the podcast has grown in the amazing manufacturing community.
Live from Broken Bat Brewery in Milwaukee, we’re joined by Manufacturing Happy Hour alumni, including Meaghan Ziemba, the perfect host for this episode, plus lots of manufacturers, creators, and tech leaders.
Chris shares some of the best advice he’s heard from guests on the show, including how to be a self-advocate, the importance of connecting with the next generation of talent, and the power of networking events in fostering a community. We hear some behind-the-scenes details of handling feedback, producing those early episodes, and why Chris decided to start the podcast in the first place.
Huge thanks to anyone who’s listened to and supported the podcast over the years. Here’s to another 200 episodes!
In this episode, find out:
Introduction to our host this episode, Meaghan Ziemba of Mavens of ManufacturingChris explains how he feels about it being the 200th episode and reflects on his first guest on the showWhy Manufacturing Happy Hour began as a way to connect with younger manufacturersWhy community and networking have always been such a big feature of the Manufacturing Happy Hour mission Chris reflects on the most memorable moments from his podcastThe top challenges Chris faced when creating the podcast and the game-changing advice he receivedHow listener feedback has impacted Chris’ approach to podcasting and helped him grow Why manufacturers need to be an “aggressive self-advocate” How podcasts like this help to attract more young people into the industry and why Chris believes we need to listen rather than assume we know what younger people are looking for in this industry How podcasting and attending events is making a tangible impact on companies in the industryChris shares his predictions for next year and beyond and his plan for the next 200 episodes Rapid fire questions on Chris’ favorite tech, events, guests, podcasts, and some behind-the-scenes stories The top things Chris has learned about leadership since starting the podcastIntroduction to the companies who made this event possibleEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“When I say Manufacturing Happy Hour is listened to by leaders in manufacturing, I don't always mean the C-suite. I define leader as anyone who cares about their career, the industry, or their business. People that are driven in their careers.”“How do I attract the next generation? I need to listen to the next generation in terms of hearing what they want, rather than just assuming that me, as someone who’s been doing this for five plus years, knows all the answers.”“I'm trying to pick the best stories to tell, but I think it's just consistency. It's doing these things on a regular basis that gets folks out there, gets folks talking to people that they might not have met before."Links & mentions:
Broken Bat Brewery, baseball themed craft brewery and tap room in Milwaukee Mavens of Manufacturing, live video... -
Not every new manufacturing project needs to reinvent the wheel. In fact, by using the resources manufacturers already have, companies can save both time and money. The key? Using historical data.
In this episode, we sit down with Yushiro Kato, Founder and CEO of CADDi, a company that helps manufacturers unlock the potential of their historical data. Yushiro gives us his backstory before he built CADDi and shares the unique learnings he picked up along the way.
We hear how CADDi’s innovative solutions can streamline operations and reduce costs in procurement and engineering processes. Throughout the episode, Yushiro champions centralized data systems that allow engineers to easily access and reuse past drawings, simplifying supply chains.
Yushiro also highlights the unique challenges of managing a company that spans multiple countries and continents. We hear about some of the key differences in job and skill specialization between the U.S. and Japan, while we sip sake and talk ramen.
In this episode, find out:
Yushiro explains his entrepreneurial backstory and early experience at McKinsey & Company Why seeing the global pain points facing manufacturing inspired Yushiro to build CADDi Why so many entrepreneurs come from McKinseyHow CADDi was founded on the idea of finding solutions in historical records Why we don’t see many manufacturing leaders using data to be more competitiveHow democratization of data can be used to empower people at all levels of seniority What frontline empowerment in manufacturing looks likeYushiro explains the first big issue that needs to be solved in manufacturing What it’s like being a CEO for a company that spans five countriesEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“Engineers tend to create new drawings over and over again. But why don't you leverage past data if they're mostly identical drawings in the past?”“There are a lot of data-related systems in place... but the systems do not really talk to each other. If you want to leverage the data in the past, you need to search across multiple systems, which is super time-consuming.”“Jobs are more specialized in the U.S. than Japan. So for example, in marketing, there are a lot of marketers - digital marketers, offline marketers, content marketers. In Japan, they're more generalists because they tend to be in the same company for longer."Links & mentions:
CADDi Drawer, a company that helps manufacturers unlock the potential of their historical dataRAMEN-SAN, a neighborhood noodle joint that slings hot broth, ice-cold beer, and the best '90s hip-hop in Chicago, with multiple locations including River NorthMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.
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The Rust Belt cities are welcoming in a new renaissance – and it’s thanks to the rise and return of great American manufacturing!
In this special live episode of Manufacturing Happy Hour, we dive deep into the heart of the new American manufacturing renaissance with a stellar lineup of guests, including Drew Crowe, Michael Eaton, Mary Cecile “MC” Neville, Brad Jones, Jeff Hawkins, and Cynthia Chapple. Recorded at the 4 Hands Brewery in St. Louis, this episode brings together inspiring industry leaders to discuss the transformative power of manufacturing.
Drew Crowe, the Founder of the New American Manufacturing Renaissance, and his inspiring career journey take center stage as he shares how manufacturing changed his life. Today, he’s a public speaker and passionate advocate for the industry with a mission to reconnect communities with manufacturing.
We hear how manufacturing is revitalizing cities like St. Louis, Detroit, and Philadelphia, where the industry is not only great for job prospects but also economic growth for the Rust Belt states as a whole. Drew also gives his take on the skills gap, a challenge many manufacturers still face, and how his work is helping to spread awareness of the career opportunities the industry offers.
To hear more from manufacturing leaders, be sure to register for IMTS, taking place September 9-14 in Chicago.
In this episode, find out:
Drew describes the New American Manufacturing Renaissance and its mission to connect communities with manufacturing Drew takes us through his inspiring career journey and how he prioritized learning Why the Rust Belt cities are seeing a resurgence thanks to the help of manufacturing Why better job opportunities and upskilling help not just individuals but also the city and state achieve longer-term growth How manufacturing is helping the cities of St. Louis, Detroit, and Philadelphia and what they’re getting right How the Delmar Maker District in St. Louis contributes to communities getting involved in manufacturing Drew’s answer to the skills gap and why we need to spread awareness and give potential talent a helping hand The importance of relatable and diverse role models How events like this and online content help the industry get the attention it needsIntroduction to the Association of Manufacturing Technology (AMT)How manufacturing contributes to the resurgence of citiesWhat to expect from IMTSWhy industry leaders need to meet people where they’re at and know their audience when talking about manufacturingEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“I want to bring back the opportunity where no matter what people look like, no matter where they're from, their sex, gender, political standing, race, whatever it is, we've got a lot of jobs that can change people's lives, and we just got to connect them to it.” - Drew Crowe“The world does not go around if we do not create.” - Cynthia Chapple“Manufacturers are the backbone of America. They built this country. We didn't need a pandemic to label manufacturers as essential workers. You have always been essential workers, period." - Drew CroweLinks & mentions:
Drew The MFG Crowe, often referred to as the leader of The New American Manufacturing Renaissance, Andrew Crowe is one of the most influential people in manufacturing today. Andrew, or Drew as he... -
Grab a bite to eat while you listen to this episode, preferably something fresh off the grill. We look behind the curtain of the food and beverage manufacturing world with Doug Wilson, the Director of Engineering at Marlen International.
Doug takes us on a journey through his career evolution from welding to food and beverage manufacturing, sharing pivotal moments that shaped his career. He emphasizes the importance of organization and workflow efficiency, revealing how his first plant startup taught him that failure can be the best teacher.
Doug breaks apart misconceptions about manufacturing in the food and beverage space and highlights that sanitary practices are make or break in this industry. He also sheds light on the artisanal side of food production, where meticulous recipe testing and quality assurance are key. We hear how Doug has helped smaller companies scale and the lessons they learn along the way when adopting new food processing equipment that makes it all possible.
Sustainability is a topic that’s near and dear to Doug’s heart, and he lets us in on Marlen’s tactic for reusing energy in the grilling process, which comes with an added flavorful bonus. Our conversation naturally comes to barbeque talk, specifically the world-famous Kansas City Barbeque Society which hosts events and competitions to celebrate a key part of KC’s culture.
In this episode, find out:
How Doug first became a passionate Kansas City barbeque fan Doug’s early career in welding and high-speed printing and packaging Important lessons that Doug learned from an early startup that failed around workflow How Doug moved into the food processing business at Marlen Common misconceptions around food and beverage manufacturing What goes on behind the scenes of mass food production around testing and quality controlDoug shares how he’s helped a number of smaller producers to industrialize and scale (including a truck stand)The key to ensuring quality when automation is a huge part of large-scale operations How the food manufacturing industry is changing, with a lean toward prepared meals How Marlen recycles exhaust fumes to boost energy efficiency Doug explains some of his barbeque tools, the Kansas City Barbeque Society, and his time as a judgeWhat makes Kansas City a hub of food and beverage manufacturing The future of manufacturing in the food sector, Doug’s predictionsEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“We take the exhaust gases from the grill and pump it into the oven, so you get more of that smoked flavor. Another nice thing from the environmental side is all that exhaust gas is at 300 degrees, that's just energy you're losing. We can scale way back and reuse all that energy a second time.”“If you have nothing but success until you have a failure, how do you know what you need to improve on?”“The industry is massive, and I think a lot of people just don't realize how many people touch it along the way."Links & mentions:
Marlen International, Kansas City-based manufacturer of batch ovens, smokehouses, chillers, and more. They enable customer success through trusted and robust food processing solutions, application know-how, process expertise and engineering customization.The Kansas City Barbeque Society, a... -
What does it really take to excel as a CNC machinist? A hunger to learn, a touch of aggressive self-advocacy, and a knack for problem-solving are the major take-home messages in this episode.
We speak to Christopher Zappettini, Nushrat Ahmed, and Danny Hill Jr., three CNC machinists who all took different paths into the field, skipping the traditional trade school route. They explore the top skills needed in the industry, how to be a great frontline leader, and their top tips that you won’t get from a trade school.
Chris explains what he thinks is sometimes missing from the trade school route, why problem-solving was the number one skill he took from his engineering background, and why you need to be an “aggressive self-advocate.”
Nushrat takes us through her transition from automotive engineering to becoming a CNC Swiss operator and shares one underrated skill you need to work in CNC machining. Like Chris, she believes it’s so important to advocate for yourself and learn to market your own skills.
Danny talks about the value of determination and continuous upskilling, pointing out the underrated importance of manual machine skills today, and taking charge of your own skill development.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the manufacturing industry and CNC machining looking to advance their career and become a top CNC machinist.
In this episode, find out:
Why having an inspiring teacher was key to Chris’ education at ASU What Chris learned from his engineering program and early jobs about CNC machining Two reasons why people coming out of trade schools don’t hit the ground running – the importance of a good teacher and realizing that you get out what you put inWhy engineering is about problem-solving at its coreWhy you need to be an “aggressive self-advocate” and take responsibility for your own learning and development through your career What does a great frontline leader look like? Why solving problems while parts are running is the ideal approachChris’ advice on communication and why overcommunicating is almost never a bad thingWhat Chris believes is the most underrated skill to make it as a CNC machinistWhy Nush became a CNC machinist after pivoting from an automotive career path What Nush believes it means to be a great frontline leader and why you should advocate for and market yourselfCleanliness as an underrated skill to be a CNC machinist The top characteristics of a frontline leader, according to DannyWhen Danny realized continuous learning was essential for his career Danny’s picks for the top practical and underrated skills in CNC machineryEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“The most ideal situation is to get parts running and while they're running, solve the problems while it's still in the shop. You start solving the problems while the parts are being produced.” - Christopher Zappettini“You don't need to know numbers. Your handwriting doesn't have to be nice. You don't have to be good at reading. But you need to be neat. There are so many moving parts, you're going to be grabbing so many things, you're going to be moving so much, it'll make your life easier if everything has its place.” - Nushrat Ahmed“I want to learn all of it. Let me master this one thing, then I'm going to the next, and the next, and the next. The more and more I make myself more marketable. In this trade, there's nowhere else to go but up. I want to just learn the new and latest technology to come." - Danny Hill Jr.Links &...
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Ever wonder why some machine shops are thriving while others are shutting their doors?
In this episode, we welcome back Manufacturing Happy Hour alumnus Paul Van Metre, Co-Founder of ProShop, to crack open a virtual beer at GRUFF Brewing in Bellingham, Washington.
Paul serves up top notch insights on why some machine shops are thriving while others are closing their doors. He explains that some industries are driving the most success right now, including defense, commercial spaces, aerospace, and medical devices. But it's not only about being in the right industry – Paul emphasizes the need for sales-driven strategies, industry-specific certifications, and the adoption of automation and technology as keys to staying competitive.
We hear how ProShop has tripled its value since Paul was last on the show in 2020, and he shares the secret sauce for ProShop’s amazing growth. He also touches on the culture and mindset necessary for successful technology adoption in machine shops, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement, leadership, and humility.
In this episode, find out:
Why are some machine shops thriving while others are shutting down in 2024? The industries that are booming are in aerospace, medical devices, defense, commercial space and why other industries are struggling in comparison Paul explains how a shop can still succeed even if they’re not focused on the top industries by being sales-driven Why shops that have optimized their processes with automation tech are doing so well Paul outlines detailed advice for a shop that might want to pivot industries The moment Paul realized he’d found the secret sauce to growing ProShopWhy Paul believes in giving back to customers, not just to drive sales but to boost value The all-important culture and mindset that a shop that adopts tech has and why “we’ve always done it this way” is such a dangerous statement Highly regulated industries are more likely to adopt tech to manage compliance and the greater complexity of the business, but what can those in less regulated industries do to adopt a similar approach? Paul explains how he’s been busy since his last guest appearance on the show – tripling the value of ProShop thanks to changing the company’s goals Why transparency and customer care are the key things that Paul believes are responsible for ProShop’s success Paul explains why he finally began a funding round after seven years of bootstrapping the business The benefits of bootstrapping your business like Paul and his advice for those who want to go a similar route Paul shares some backstory on his 2 podcasts and why he keeps one entirely separate from his businessThe biggest benefit of running podcasts for PaulEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“The shops that are thriving the most right now are the ones that are specifically targeting and are really sales-driven into industries that are hot."“This whole concept of transparency and focusing on client success and sharing their stories and celebrating their wins and, what I like to say, the heroes of the economy as they are, I think is a really important part of our growth story.”“You can have the best product in the world and no one's going to buy it if they don't really believe in it and see it and ask if that can be a part of their success as well.”Links & mentions:
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Places like Kansas City’s West Bottoms district make up the foundations of American manufacturing and industry. And in this episode, we head straight to The Ship, a unique bar in the heart of the historic West Bottoms district to meet with Scott Brown of the Historic West Bottoms Association and General Counsel at Faultless Starch.
We take a look back into the history of the area and why West Bottoms was put on the map thanks to its proximity to the Kansas and Missouri Rivers and the early railroads in the 1860s. Scott talks about why the region became such an agricultural hub and played an important role in the livestock industry of Kansas City. Today, the district is undergoing a period of revitalization, with investments in infrastructure being key to attracting new businesses and residents.
Scott highlights some of the area's top businesses, including Faultless Brands, which has been manufacturing starch products in West Bottoms since 1887. We also talk about the legendary American Royal BBQ events and why Kansas City BBQs may give Texas a run for its money…
Check out our Made Here City Series in collaboration with the Industrial Solutions Network.
In this episode, find out:
How West Bottoms’ industrial history was shaped by the river and railways connecting Kansas City How the industrial background and area made Kansas City and the surrounding areas rich in agricultural historyHow Kansas City’s bridges connected different parts of the region, leading to expansion of the industry The impact of the stockyards coming to the region in the late 1800sThe role of West Bottoms neighborhood in Kansas City cattle exchange historyWhere we see remnants of the old industry in Kansas City What is the American Royal today?The ultimate question: is Kansas City BBQ the best in the world?Why West Bottoms became a go-to district for haunted houses in Kansas CityWhy West Bottoms is thriving now and what you can find in the district todayWhy West Bottoms’ development is a model for other cities revitalizing areasEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
"You don't give up on an area because it goes into blight, it goes into neglect, some decay. It's again, location, location and if you have the people there and it's cool, it will come about.""Before Kansas City came about, this area where we're in now was known as the French Bottoms. And located at the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri River, it was a natural place of trade and people were using the river at that time."Links & mentions:
West Bottoms, official site of the West Bottoms Business District Association, the organization dedicated to continued revival of our most historical area in downtown in Kansas CityVisit KC, guide to the West Bottoms with most of this episode’s restaurant recommendations (and more) includedThe Ship, a simple exterior gives way to this cool speakeasy offering classic cocktails & live entertainmentMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this...
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A recruiter, a manufacturing leader, and a technology leader all walk into a bar… and tackle the skills gap problem head-on over some beers!
The skills gap has been a hot topic in manufacturing. So, in true Manufacturing Happy Hour style, we sit down with a beer and discuss. Recorded live from Founders Brewery, MI while on tour with SwipeGuide, we sit down with Ann Wyatt of Ann Wyatt Recruiting, Ryan Lillibridge, VP of Mission Design & Automation, and CEO and Founder of SwipeGuide, Willemijn Schneyder.
First up, we talk about how the stigma of heading into the trades is thankfully on the decrease. We swap insights on how the idea of "hireability" is changing, and what companies can do to lower the barriers to entry. A common theme throughout is that manufacturing leaders need to be more flexible when it comes to hiring. Do all candidates need a Master’s in mechanical engineering? Probably not. For the future of manufacturers, attitude and aptitude are the golden tickets.
We rounded out the conversation talking about upskilling and reskilling your workforce. Part of the skills gap problem isn’t just about attracting people to manufacturing. It’s also about missing a trick with your existing workforce. Sometimes, you need to tap into their knowledge and interests and reskill them for an increasingly tech-heavy future.
In this episode, find out:
Ann, Ryan, and WIllemijn introduce themselves and their unique perspectives on addressing the skills gapHow the stigma around trade jobs has evolved How the term “hireability” has evolved in today’s market from a recruiter’s perspective What companies can do to lower the barriers to entry into manufacturing and why recruiters should look at attitude and aptitude, not just experience and formal educationAnn, Ryan, and Willemijn share which job requirements they think are outdated in today’s market and the top skills that manufacturing recruiters should look for Why technology is not the solution but a catalyst to empower the workforceHow upskilling and reskilling existing staff could help to ease the burden of the skills gapWhy people are the most valuable asset of a business that leaders should invest more inEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“Technology can put a value to frontline knowledge.”“We do automation. We put automation systems into factories, but if they haven't spent time on their people, their manufacturing equipment does not run well because they haven't upskilled their team.”“We have to prioritize attitude and aptitude over ten plus years’ experience.”Links & mentions:
SwipeGuide, a hassle-free how-to platform for frontline training, made simpleMission Design & Automation, a leading intelligent automation integrator in MichiganAnn Wyatt Recruiting, specialist recruitment company for manufacturing companiesFounders Brewery, brewery in Grand Rapids, MIMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay...
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Improve productivity or work on sustainability? Why not both?
In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Dunford, CEO of Guidewheel and a member of the Executive Committee for the US Center for Advanced Manufacturing within the World Economic Forum, for a fascinating chat about productivity, sustainability, and innovation in manufacturing. Lauren shares how Guidewheel evolved from an energy management system to a full-fledged factory ops platform.
We kick things off with Lauren's path to manufacturing, including her experience at Stanford's MBA program and how it's proven invaluable as Guidewheel scales globally. She offers a refreshing perspective on the value of education and practical experience in the startup world.
Lauren reveals the pivotal moment that reshaped Guidewheel's approach. It's a classic tale of listening to your customers – in this case, two power users who unlocked a 20% productivity boost using Guidewheel in ways the team hadn't anticipated.
We dive deep into the connection between productivity and sustainability, exploring how data-driven decisions and operational effectiveness naturally lead to more sustainable practices. The role of AI in manufacturing naturally comes up and we discuss how it's simplifying complex processes and enabling real-time decision-making on the factory floor.
In this episode, find out:
Lauren shares how she became involved with the World Economic Forum and her experience so far We hear about Lauren’s early career, starting with Stanford What led to Lauren starting Guidewheel and where she saw a gap in the market How the MBA and five years of work experience paved the way for Lauren to build her career Lauren’s mission for sustainable solutions and how she came up with the idea behind Guidewheel The moment Lauren realized she needed Guidewheel to pivotThe most important aspects of measuring sustainability and the tangible impact on business The benefits of using data-driven decisions on the factory floor and why it should be brought into existing routines The investor perspective on using data to drive decision-making How AI can help technology solutions provide insights and predictive analyses How manufacturers think about productivity and sustainability today How has Guidewheel has evolved as technology advances What a “factory ops champion” is and Guidewheel’s approach to tapping into those championsWhy manufacturing is probably the coolest industry to work in todayEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“Once you start bringing data into those decisions, sustainability is the natural direction because “do more with less” results in more productive and efficient operations.”“Being able to use data to pinpoint the areas where you can grow in addition to the areas where you can be more efficient, from an investor standpoint, is just absolute gold.”“AI-powered is one of the new things we've really leaned in to, getting more and more predictive and ahead of breakdowns or problems.”Links & mentions:
Guidewheel, the plug-and-play FactoryOps platformMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.
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Think about a world where robots are ubiquitous. Where robots are a part of our lives like The Jetsons promised us. Like having WALL-E or R2-D2 as a buddy. The Robotics Summit & Expo is a precursor to that…
The Robotics Summit & Expo – hosted by WTWH Media – is an event focused on the commercialization of robots. The work that needs to be done to get robots out into the world. To make them more adoptable by industrial companies. This is where engineers and developers get educated on where robotics are today, and what work still needs to done - the technology, the business models, etc. - to deliver on the promises of robotics - the positive promises of robotics - that many of us probably grew up envisioning.
This episode is a recap of the event with various interviews mixed in. Guests and co-hosts include:
Jonathan Hurst, Chief Robotics Officer at Agility RoboticsJoyce Sidopoulos, Co-Founder and Chief of Operations at MassRoboticsScott Sizemore, Director of Commercial Marketing at ElectrocraftMeaghan Ziemba, Host of Mavens of ManufacturingJake Hall, The Manufacturing MillennialMike Oitzman, Co-Host of The Robot Report Podcast
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How can simulation revolutionize manufacturing? Graham Wloch, the Director of Business Development at Visual Components, joins the show this week to fill us in on the power of simulation.
We hear about Graham’s early career and what made him pivot into the world of simulation, automation, and robotics. Graham shares what he believes are the top challenges facing manufacturers and why now is the time to start thinking ahead and embracing new technology.
He breaks down the three main elements of simulations and explores how they can transform manufacturing processes all the way from ideation to production. Getting buy-in from leadership is always a challenge, but as Graham tells us in this episode, simulation can make that all-important buy-in easier and faster to achieve.
Tune in to the episode to hear Graham explain real-world examples of how simulation enables companies to become forward-thinking and why a simulation-first culture is key in manufacturing today.
In this episode, find out:
Graham takes us through his early career and high school drafting experienceWhy Graham moved into mechanical design and the top things he learnedHow Graham made a pivot to working in simulation and how his previous experience helpedWhy Graham stands by his quote: the big no longer eat the small, the fast eat the slowThe evolution and importance of simulation in manufacturingReal-world examples of companies using simulations and why simulation is not industry-specificWhy manufacturers need to create a simulation-first cultureHow offline programming for robots helps to speed processes upEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“If you take simulation and you get everybody on that same page from concept and design to process, to robot programming, to controls validation, and everybody has that same information, everybody's able to share that vision.”“With the right simulation tools, you can do shipping and receiving, you can do product and part delivery. You can really turn the level of detail up as high as it'll go and understand how this living, breathing factory is going to get you to where you need to be.”“We always look for companies that are forward-thinking, that are excited to incorporate technology to not only improve the bottom line but even make employees’ lives better.”Links & mentions:
Visual Components, a world-leading 3D simulation and visualization specialist offering total process solutions for manufacturers, system integrators, and machine buildersThe Oxford Tap, offering a fresh take on classic pub fare in Oxford, MI, including ghost pepper wingsMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.
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The barrier to entry when it comes to robotics is breaking down fast. More and more companies and industries are realizing that robotics is a realistic solution to all sorts of problems. And companies like HowToRobot are paving the way forward.
In this episode, we sit down with Søren Peters, CEO and Founder of HowToRobot.com, a platform that provides information and advice on robot suppliers and industrial automation. We hear how Søren stepped away from the world of IT and found his feet in the world of robotics.
He shares his take on the evolution of robots, the challenges in adoption, the disconnect between suppliers and buyers, and more. We talk about why manufacturers tend to focus on automating complex tasks over easier, more immediately impactful ones.
We round off the episode with some fun talk about Danish expressions and favorite beer spots in the U.S. and Copenhagen in true Manufacturing Happy Hour style!
In this episode, find out:
How companies can get started with robotics in manufacturingWhy manufacturing companies have gone beyond the “why should we use robots stage?” A common mistake when using robots for the first timeWhy people get overwhelmed when purchasing robotics equipmentWhy custom solutions aren’t always the best option and how it can hurt your chances of getting financingHow the industry can make robots more accessibleThe common challenges in financing robot equipmentWhy more people are seeing the value of what HowToRobot has to offerWhy Søren made his career pivot from IT to robots Søren’s predictions on robotics in the next few years Danish phrases and beer talk!Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“I think a lot of people in the manufacturing world are past the “why robots,” if that makes sense. The “how,” on the other hand, I think it's a big one, you know, where do you get started?”“We see sadly often that they start by replicating a human. They think of it as an addition, or an add-on, or a replacement of that specific person's task, which is often a terrible place to start.”“The platform game is still too immature. You need to help the buyer much, much more and sometimes the seller. So, there’s an advisory management part to this that if we don't do that, these deals are just going to fall through.”Links & mentions:
HowToRobot.com, the go-to platform to find industrial automation, robotics suppliers, and expert advice on robotsMikkeller Brewing, a world-renowned Danish craft brewerySøernes Ølbar, Chris’ favorite beer bar in CopenhagenCows on Ice and Owls in the Bog: The Weird and Wonderful World of Scandinavian Sayings, by Katarina MontnémeryMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.
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How do you adopt a cybersecurity strategy that fits your manufacturing business?
In this episode of Manufacturing Happy Hour, host Chris Lueke is speaking to Mollie Breen, CEO & Founder of Perygee, an automation platform for IT and security teams, built to eliminate the visibility challenges of the digital-first world.
They kick off by exploring significant developments in cybersecurity over the past few years. Mollie highlights the dual role AI plays, assisting both hackers in identifying vulnerabilities and defenders in fortifying network security. She underscores the importance of reverting to cybersecurity fundamentals amid tech evolutions, noting that a shift back to basics is essential for adapting to new threats effectively.
Mollie provides background on her time at the NSA, revealing the surprising routine nature of tackling seemingly insurmountable tasks due to robust capabilities and top-tier expertise available. Her time at the NSA played a crucial role in her entrepreneurial journey with Perygee, where she navigated the intricate processes within governmental organizations to introduce innovative security measures.
Mollie and Chris also discuss practical advice for implementing cybersecurity strategies within organizations of varying sizes. Mollie touches on the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by medical device companies due to heavy regulations and the criticality of their operations. The conversation then moves to the timing and evolution of cybersecurity roles within growing businesses.
To wrap up, they discuss the potential for leadership in cybersecurity across all levels of an organization. This episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders across the manufacturing sector looking to enhance their cybersecurity strategies and foster a more secure operational environment.
In this episode, find out:
What’s new in cybersecurity, AI, and going back to basics Mollie’s journey with the NSA and how that lead to her founding PerygeeMollie offers practical cybersecurity advice for companies of all sizesHow training can go a long way in the context of cyber security Mollie expounds on the right approach to cybersecurity in public vs. private companiesUnpacking cybersecurity strategies for small to medium-sized businessesUnderstanding the unique cybersecurity challenges in medical devicesThe benefits of learning from different cybersecurity approaches across industriesMollie talks about the future of cybersecurity leadership in manufacturingEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“You have to remember cyber is an offensive and a defensive game.”“Inevitably every time you have to secure a new thing, there's an ushering in of going back to the basics and asking yourself, ‘what do we do?’”“I'm glad we're moving into a position where people are more informed. Doing something just out of fear of the headlines isn't necessarily the best decision for the organization.”Links & mentions:
Perygee, an automation platform for IT and security teams purpose-built to eliminate the visibility challenges of the digital-first worldNIST Framework, excellent guidelines for getting started with cybersecurity -
It’s been a hot minute since we covered eCommerce on the show, but since COVID, it’s become a growing part of manufacturing and distribution. COVID lockdowns essentially shut off the traditional methods for buying and selling manufactured supplies, and companies were forced to adopt a new way of doing things or get left behind. It’s meant great things for the industry, so we thought we’d get the eCommerce perspective in this episode from Znode's Chief Commercial Officer, Tom Flierl.
Tom joins the podcast to explore the link between eCommerce and manufacturing, how Znode presents a seamless solution, and the reasons why there’s been a spike in eCommerce system adoption. We look at how distribution and manufacturing have adapted, and Tom shares some examples of companies that have embraced new solutions and seen the benefits of integrating everything into a one-stop shop solution.
Tom also chats about AI as the next big thing for manufacturers to lean into, why salespeople are still vital for the industry, and some tips on how to assess the effectiveness of an eCommerce solution.
In this episode, find out:
Where eCommerce and manufacturing meet Tom explains what Znode doesWe hear about Tom’s early experiences in print media and being an “early internet guy”How Tom’s background in sales and marketing helped his career during the dot-com bust How Tom’s family history helped to prepare him for a career in eCommerce and manufacturing The possible causes for the spike in eCommerce system adoptionHow future-ready are distributors and manufacturers today?How COVID impacted eCommerce system adoptionWhat eCommerce looks like in manufacturing (with examples)Why the role of salespeople in eCommerce is still just as importantDealers and distributors’ approaches to working with eCommerceHow people can assess the effectiveness of an eCommerce solutionEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“I think COVID forced a lot of shifts in everybody's lives. And I think it forced a lot of shifts in even how businesses go to market and the importance of digital.”“The big win that we're seeing is a lot of ERPs are moving to offer APIs now. Our platform and some others can take those APIs, talk to each other, and present the right data to the right customer when they log in and give them the right experience by exchanging data with lots of other systems.”"It's all about adoption. If adoption isn't there, whether it's the end customer or the distributor or channel, it’s probably not working. I would argue that that applies for distributors and manufacturers.”Links & mentions:
Znode, an all-in-one, headless, B2B eCommerce platform developed to enable growth through a rich set of built-in featuresRequest a Demo of Znode’s B2B eCommerce platformFoxtown Brewing, large brewery located inside of a classic building in Mequon, WIMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in
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As new technologies emerge, so do new solutions and new possibilities. The electronics manufacturing world is going through a digital revolution right now, and companies like Arch Systems are at the pinnacle of it.
We welcomed Andrew Scheuermann, Co-Founder and CEO of Arch Systems, to the show to hear about the brilliant backstory behind the company. Before Arch Systems became a thing, Andrew and his Co-Founder were on a mission to solve the problem of broken wells in a number of African countries. Funding new wells is one thing, but without maintenance, they often fail. Using new technology and data insights, this project spiraled into a larger solution that became what Arch Systems is today.
We hear Andrew’s story and his thoughts on balancing non-profit and for-profit ventures to help each other, what the early days of the startup were like, and how technology is paving the way for faster and more effective solutions in electronics manufacturing.
In this episode, find out:
What Arch Systems does and how it started with a clear missionWhy Andrew decided to start working with water wells in some African countriesAndrew explains what the problem was with the wells and how it all came down to maintenanceHow Andrew and his co-founder came up with a solutionThe challenges of using a solution across so many sitesHow Andrew balanced the for-profit and non-profit aspects of his projectHow electronics manufacturing became a focus The early days of finding product-market fit and struggling as an early startupHow leveraging data in Arch Systems could benefit manufacturing companiesThe challenges of handling so much data How the right data can help you make predictive maintenance decisionsHow automation can help to fill the gaps in a workforceEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!
Tweetable Quotes:
“If you can solve somebody's problem, it doesn't matter how different or similar you think you are, you can be the best team in the world.”“All machines break. It's not a question of if, it's just when. And the more you use it, the more it's going to break. There might have been a defect, it might break earlier, it might just be based on usage. And so they would break, but the problem was painfully simple, there was no maintenance.”“What's stuck with me is just being about the people and their problem. Not what you think it is, but what they think it is.”Links & mentions:
Arch Systems, building expert data solutions that objectively observe and optimize manufacturing processes, driving decision intelligence for electronics manufacturers WellDone International, a non-profit organization working to improve global access to clean water and other basic services essential to human health, productivity, and well-beingAmandine Lounge, serving a range of international cocktails in Los Altos, CAMake sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode....
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