Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders (MakingChips LLC)
Explore every episode of Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders
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| 07 Dec 2016 | MC092: Trump, Seiri, Shitsuke and 3 Other "S" Words | 00:40:23 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation, we are excited to be back in our MakingChips Studio! On this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the 5S Methodology and how it’s implementation can help your business improve it’s productivity. The five key steps, just like its name suggests, all start with letter S.5S is the name of a workplace organization method that uses a list of five Japanese words: seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu, and shitsuke. It is a systematic and methodical approach allowing teams to organize their workplace in the safest and most efficient manner. In Manufacturing News, we discuss President-Elect Trump’s success in saving at least 1,000 manufacturing jobs from moving to Mexico.
Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 17 Dec 2014 | MC003: 7 Points To Consider BEFORE The Dreaded Recession | 00:19:02 | |
This episode is about tactics for manufacturing companies WHEN the recession hits. That’s right, I said WHEN, not IF. If there is one thing that nobody understands, it’s our economy. There is little evidence of a recession proof economy, so we need to spend some time discussing how to better prepare. Are you ready for a recession? 1. Do you have a diversified customer base? 2. Maintain proper overhead (building ego). 3. Review your debt – did those decisions result in a return? 4. Strategic purchase of capital equipment a. Measure your ROI b. Invest in technology to stay productive and ahead of the competition c. Don’t spend money just for a write off…have a strategic reason d. Should you pay cash or get a loan? 5. Does your company provide a critical part or service that is recession proof? 6. Is your customer base recession proof or vulnerable?
7. Is your product or process difficult to replicate or will your customers be looking to lower their costs? | |||
| 02 Aug 2017 | MC115: Shifting Gears at HM Manufacturing - When Crisis Strikes On The Shop Floor (Part 1) | 00:39:37 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation and greetings from our studio at the DMDII in Goose Island, Chicago. On this two part episode of MakingChips, we welcome back Nicole Wolter, President of HM Manufacturing Company. Nicole shares the captivating story of HM Manufacturing, a company that began with her father's passion for F1 racing. The downturn of the economy in 2008 proved to be the perfect time for Nicole to enter the family business, but as she would come to find out, things weren't quite what they seemed. Nicole's questioning of all aspects of the family business led her to a startling discovery that would turn an already dire situation into a full blown crisis. In manufacturing news, we talk about how Summer camps could be the start for the next generation's interest in the manufacturing industry. Episode Structure: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 04 Oct 2021 | Will the Supply Chain Woes Get Better Anytime Soon? | 00:33:57 | |
According to a recent article in Reuters, “The ISM said its index of national factory activity inched up to 59.9 last month from a reading of 59.5 in July. A reading above 50 indicates expansion in manufacturing, which accounts for 11.9% of the U.S. economy.” Manufacturing is on the rise, yet every industry is struggling with an impaired supply chain. Will things get better anytime soon? How can manufacturing businesses manage shortages in the meantime? We share some thoughts in this episode of Making Chips! Segments
The Great Supply Chain DisruptionManufacturing is becoming increasingly busy but supply chain woes linger. It’s the #1 thing on our minds right now. Most machine shops are at or near capacity. But we’re having trouble getting aluminum, brass, steel, and finished goods. Even getting containers to ship the goods is a struggle. This phenomenon is being dubbed “The Great Supply Chain Disruption.” Whenever you’re making a systemic change, it’s going to cause disruption. No matter how much planning you put into something, disruption happens. This should have been expected. The disruption that comes with reshoringReshoring is more relevant than ever. And this isn’t a new topic to our show. What is driving the reshoring initiative? COVID. Everything that was coming from overseas halted or decreased. Ships weren’t coming through the Panama Canal. Ships weren’t being unloaded because the workforce was at home. When China started rethinking its business environment and they started to incorporate more free-market tendencies, they wanted to become an export economy. They didn’t have the technology to export high-end goods so they started on the low end. But now they’re catching up. Now, China is focused on export as well as making branded goods for their economy. People spent their time in quarantine buying low-cost things that are sourced from Amazon—from exercise equipment to kitchen mixers. They’re buying computers, TVs, headphones, etc. Many things that are sourced from China. Will the supply chain get better anytime soon?Lead time and prices are going to increase. Everyone is dealing with it right now. We can’t be the link that absorbs all the cost increases. The federal government knew that the influx of money into the economy plus the supply chain issues were going to lead to increased prices. This is going to lead to inflation. Inflation does slow growth. But everyone is saying that interest rates will be holding steady ingo 2022. We think the supply chain issues will continue into 2022 but it’s currently a game of wait and see. So what can manufacturers do in the meantime to mitigate the problems that come with supply chain issues? We share a few tips in this episode you don’t want to miss. Check it out! BAM! – Jim Resources mentioned on this episodeGet The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe!
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| 14 Sep 2016 | MC081: MakingChips and Making Melodies: Jason Harrelson and His Trumpet Business | 00:25:12 | |
This week: We are coming to you live from IMTS 2016! On this special episode of MakingChips, we welcome Jason Harrelson, founder of Harrelson Trumpets to our IMTS TV studio. Harrelson Trumpets is a leading manufacturer of world class trumpets and accessories. Jason talks about how he got started building custom made trumpets, the process and machining behind it, his experience with Kickstarter, and what excites him about IMTS. Episode Structure:
Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 10 Oct 2017 | MC125: Economic Expectations for Manufacturing Leaders in 2018 and Beyond | 00:53:49 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are pleased to welcome back by popular demand, Bill Strauss - Senior Economist and Economic Advisor at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. On today's episode Bill shares his professional insight on several different topics relating to manufacturing and the global economy. We'll hear about manufacturing's economic performance in the U.S., the potential economic impact of new trade agreements, the current outlook of the stock market, and the lasting impact of the recent hurricanes. We also talk about the consequences of recession, and how to better position your manufacturing company to prepare for it. In manufacturing news, we discuss 3 ways to lower your manufacturing costs. Episode Outline: Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 25 Oct 2021 | Why Titan and His Team Moved from California to Texas | 00:31:52 | |
In round three with Titan Gilroy, we talk about why Titan decided to move his entire business from California to Texas. Was it a smooth transition? Was he able to retain his entire team? Titan also shares more of the “why” behind his business and his passion for serving his audience. Titan continues to go above and beyond the expected as he grows his academy. Listen to learn more. BAM! Segments
Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 10 Oct 2023 | SZN1: Diligently Doing "Due Diligence" in Your Next Manufacturing Acquisition, 377 | 00:21:35 | |
You’ve found your acquisition target. They’ve committed to selling you the business. Now the real work begins. It’s time for due diligence. Where does due diligence start? What factors should you consider? How do you build a checklist? Jason, Nick, Adam Schmitt, and I tackle due diligence in this episode of MakingChips. Because if you’re not doing due diligence, you may miss important factors that will impact your ability to make chips. And if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM! – Matthew Nix Segments
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| 13 Jul 2018 | Inspiring Manufacturing’s Next-Generation Leaders with Greg Jones | 00:39:03 | |
The growth and impact of manufacturing tomorrow depends on the next-generation leaders you are investing in today. During this episode of MakingChips, Greg Jones, Vice President of Smartforce Development at AMT, discusses how he is trying to help reduce the skills gap that exists in manufacturing. He also gives some practical ways that manufacturing leaders can join in the cause of raising up next generation leaders. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact What is the cause of the skills gap?While previous generations grew up in manufacturing and joined the family business, the future of the manufacturing workforce will not come about in the same way. Many high school graduates only consider traditional college as a post-secondary option. There are approximately 400,000 manufacturing jobs that are currently unfilled because of a lack of skilled workers. In order to reduce this gap, an educational shift must happen. Greg Jones shares how apprenticeships can help create this shift while helping students secure a solid career in manufacturing. Bridging the skills gap by investing in educationThe Smartforce Student Summit started at IMTS in 1988 with the goal of giving students an in-depth look at the opportunities the manufacturing industry offers. It also helped to educate teachers and administrators about the importance of investing in this workforce. 30 years later, the Smartforce Student Summit is continuing to build that legacy. Greg Jones is leading Smartforce Development at AMT to help meet this significant need by exposing alternative opportunities to these students. During this episode, he shares how he is investing in education in order to help build tomorrows manufacturing workforce. Unlocking the potential of next-generation leadersWhile there is change happening on a national level thanks to new legislation and an increased focus on manufacturing, real change occurs on the local level. Greg Jones shares several ways that manufacturing leaders can make an impact. He encourages advocating for STEM programs. He also suggests partnering with local school systems and volunteering in technology programs. This face-to-face interaction can help change the trajectory of a child’s life and could unlock the potential of a next generation leader in manufacturing. Greg also encourages manufacturers to bring a student to IMTS to enjoy the Smartforce student summit. How to share the opportunities that exist in manufacturingThere have been many news stories suggesting that new technology and robots could reduce the number of job opportunities in the manufacturing industry. Greg Jones says instead that automation is actually creating jobs. IMTS and the Smartforce Student Summit are designed to share those opportunities with next-generation leaders. Students from over 40 states will be exposed to apprentice competitions where high school and college students will show in a tangible way what a career in manufacturing could look like. Listen to MakingChips to hear the entire conversation with Greg Jones. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & TakeawaysThis Week’s Superstar GuestConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 27 Sep 2018 | What's on the Manufacturing Horizon with Lonnie Love, Jay Rogers, and Adrian Allen | 00:54:05 | |
MakingChips is back with another live podcast from IMTS 2018. On this episode, Jim and Jason discuss what’s on the manufacturing horizon with guests Lonnie Love, Jay Rogers, and Adrian Allen. During times of rapid growth, long-term thinking can easily take a back seat to the next urgent task. Many manufacturing leaders lack the ability to see beyond the immediate future to think more clearly about manufacturing a decade from now. On this episode, hear the prophets of manufacturing share what they envision our industry will look like in 10 years. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact How automation is transforming the future of manufacturingAutomation and digitization isn’t the future. It is the present. However, automation will greatly impact the future of manufacturing. Panelist Jay Rogers says, “Digital manufacturing is all about being able to improve the speed of design and delivery of a part.” The impact will be most obvious in the automotive industry. It is a huge segment of manufacturing, drawing two and three-tier companies to develop and manufacture parts that are used in the industry. Hear the panelists discuss how autonomy is driving innovation in manufacturing. What does the machine shop of the future look like?A shop floor has a reputation for being dark and dirty. That’s not the reality in the present and it certainly isn’t true for the future machine shop. So what will the future shop floor look like? Lonnie Love says he envisions the future machine shop to be microfactory that can make anything. The flexibility that technology is opening up for companies is allowing them to diversify the products they can make. Adrian Allen adds that he sees a future where the whole factory floor is that actual machine tool bed, where the machines come to the part rather than the part going to the machine. Changes manufacturers need to make today to be a part of the futureIn order to prepare for the future of your company, you have to consider the customer of the future. The desire for on-demand solutions is the norm. Manufacturers must start building machines that can meet their futures customers needs. Leaders also have to begin considering their workforce. Adrian Allen says that recruiting talent is a key. Having machines that can do amazing work but lacking the talent of engineers will make those great machines irrelevant. The workforce is critical and there is a skills gap that must be addressed. Listen as the panel discusses ways to address the skills gap with practical ways to recruit and develop talent. Future challenges and opportunities for the manufacturing industryThe future is both scary and exciting. Innovation and technology have increased the pace to such a degree that manufacturing leaders can’t afford to resist change. The time to consider the future and make preparations to adapt is now. Prepare to take some risk so that you don’t get left behind. Listen as the panelists give some final tips for how to do just that. They discuss the impact of future recessions, how to integrate sustainable and environmentally friendly, energy efficient processes, and how to help change the perception of manufacturing to attract the next generation of talent. Be inspired as you listen to this episode of MakingChips. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & TakeawaysThis Week’s Superstar GuestConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 12 Jan 2015 | MC005: Presidency by Death in the Family with Stacey Bales | 00:20:57 | |
Is there a plan in place at your company if a top employee, such as the president or owner dies? Episode five is the first in a new interview format on MakingChips. In this fifth episode, we talk to Stacey Bales about her story of taking over as President of Bales Mold Service (recently rebranded as Bales Metal Surface Solutions). The first reaction from the bank is “How are we going to liquidate?” Who takes over when multiple family members are involved and no succession plan has been setup? Major issues arise, such as trust among family members - when there is no succession plan, family members will fight out their new roles instead of moving into the proper roles right away. The family needs to establish that they are all on the same team and not out for themselves. “Be very transparent with the person that you believe is coming up.” The owner of every manufacturing company should be transparent about how they want to handle the succession of their company and have a vision about where they want the company to go. Stacey Bales is the 2nd generation owner and President of Bales Metal Surface Solutions. Bales provides engineered coating and finishes to mold makers and OEMs. They have locations in Illinois and Texas. In addition, Stacey is on the Board of Directors of the TMA (Technology and Manufacturing Association) and President of AESF (American Electro & Surface Finishers). In our Manufacturing News segment, we discuss a news article about the City of Atlanta. They are short on manufacturing skilled labor resulting in six figure incomes for certain positions. In our Metalworking Tools segment, we discuss Southwestern Industries (CNC Technology for Small Lot Machining). Southwestern machines are intended to produce small lots of parts, so you can go from programming to producing parts much quicker than traditional CNC lathes and mills with easy to use ProtoTRAK programming.
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| 08 Oct 2024 | How the Mexican Manufacturing Industry Can help you Grow Your American Business, 430 | 00:42:49 | |
Why would an American company want to consider expanding operations to Mexico? With more experienced engineers retiring and a decreasing number of new blood entering the manufacturing workforce, Mexico has become a viable option for operations. But is the process worth the potential hassle? Today’s guest is the Senior Director of Latin America for AMT and he's been an invaluable part of helping AME and Hennig rework their growth strategy and commercial structure in Mexico: Carlos Mortera. He shares why American manufacturers should consider leveraging the Mexican market in this episode of MakingChips. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
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| 15 Aug 2017 | MC117: Visionary and Integrator Relationships - One Model For Manufacturing Leaders | 00:48:25 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are excited to bring back a former guest who’s incredible journey over the last few years has seen her go from an industry “newbie” to a manufacturing “rockstar". Two years ago we introduced you to Patricia Miller of Matrix 4, who had recently left her career in marketing to take over her grandfather’s failing manufacturing business. With a complete overhaul of the business, and the help of her partner Will Scott, Matrix 4 solidified a strong company culture that has turned a once dying company into a thriving success. Episode Outline: Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 12 Aug 2019 | Utilizing Artificial Intelligence for Efficient Data Collection with Akshat Thirani | 00:40:02 | |
Data collection has taken many forms in the history of manufacturing, and now is the time to embrace the most efficient form yet - artificial intelligence. Guest speaker, Akshat Thirani, shares how he solved the software disparity between computer engineers and manufacturers and created a tool to enable manufacturing leaders to meet their goals as efficiently as possible. AI isn’t something to fear. Without change - nothing will happen in your business! Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact From India to Chicago: Akshat’s manufacturing journeyGrowing up in India, Akshat’s childhood was saturated in the manufacturing industry. All of his family and friends had some part in the local manufacturing and production business, and his father raised his children with a manufacturer's mindset. With manufacturing in his blood, Akshat set off for college at the age of 17, studying design engineering and computer software. It was at school that he first noticed the gaping disparity between what computer software engineers were utilizing and what leading manufacturing engineers were using - even though the manufacturers were handling some of the most complex and technical work in the world. Akshat knew he needed to create a tool that would enable manufacturers to work and live to their full potential - a tool that would help them track production time, maintenance, and the data produced by their machines. Why manufacturers need to embrace AI and more efficient data collectionAkshat understood that it was no trivial thing to join an AI tool to a machine and start collecting data. Many shops utilize both old and new machinery - making the job of AI more difficult. Akshat knew that the tool he was creating needed to be simple and able to read the “heartbeat” of each machine and distinguish what job was being completed. The “heartbeat” of a machine is the signature electrical current that it produces. During his senior year in college, Akshat and some of his colleagues created the prototype AI tool he had dreamed of. It eventually became the answer to the machinist’s problems with efficient data collection. Instead of jotting down on pieces of paper or having to manually insert data about a machine or job into an Excel spreadsheet, AI can be hooked up to a machine and learn the heartbeat of specific jobs and functions. AI then transmits that data to a centralized, online platform through cellular data - allowing the manufacturing team to quickly read the pulse on their machinery and work. Meeting the needs of the Metal Working Nation through artificial intelligenceEvery individual on a manufacturing team has expertise that is wasted when they are required to spend time collecting, recording, and analyzing data from each machine. Instead of having the professionals do the busywork, AI can read, transmit, organize, and analyze the data outsourced by the machinery. Providing real-time data to team members, Akshat’s AI tools can record the speed of each machine being used, which machines need maintenance, the estimated timetable for a piece or job, and the reasons why a machine is not running at optimum capacity. Meeting the core manufacturing goals of simplicity and practicality, AI is something that the leaders of the Metal Working Nation need to be taking seriously and educating themselves on. Ensuring that your technology fits your company goalsEvery manufacturing business will have different long-term goals and immediate needs. Akshat encourages listeners to walk through their shops and talk with their team members to identify what needs to be accomplished through an AI tool such as Akshat’s. Calculating the cost of integrating AI into the system may be surprisingly less than what is being spent on manual data collection. Identify what you need to accomplish work more efficiently - and then make it happen. Because if you’re not making chips, you’re not making money! Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & Takeaways
This Week’s Superstar Guest: Akshat ThiraniConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 29 Oct 2024 | How Can We Champion Manufacturing? with Terry Iverson (Part 1), 435 | 00:32:57 | |
On this episode of MakingChips, Jason dives into a conversation with Terry Iverson about his book, “Finding America's Greatest Champion: Building Prosperity Through Manufacturing, Mentoring and the Awesome Responsibility of Parenting.” Through initiatives like CHAMPION Now!®, Iverson strives to change public perceptions about manufacturing. He advocates for seeing the industry through a broader lens—one that recognizes manufacturing as a space for entrepreneurship, leadership, and community building. He firmly believes that “There is nothing more important than the young people of this country. The manufacturing industry relies on the next generation of skilled workers, managers, and entrepreneurs to lead this country into a prosperous future.” So how do we CHAMPION manufacturing and “Change How American Manufacturing Is Perceived In Our Nation?” Listen to find out. BAM! SegmentsBONUS: Hear a "Sneak peek" about Jason's idea(s) for a book!
Resources mentioned on this episode
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| 06 Sep 2018 | Last Minute Preparations for IMTS 2018 with Peter Eelman | 00:39:09 | |
On this episode of MakingChips, Peter Eelman returns to talk about the last minute preparations for IMTS 2018. Peter is the Vice President of Exhibitions & Business Development at AMT. He is also the Senior Executive in charge of the International Manufacturing Technology Show, one of the top three trade shows in the United States. Listen to this interview to hear Peter talk about what you can expect at IMTS 2018 and how you can make the most out of this incredible event. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact The scope and scale of IMTS 2018IMTS is just around the corner, running September 10-15, 2018. Peter Eelman and the other organizers of the event are already starting to get McCormick Place in downtown Chicago ready for the show. By the time the event opens, about 5,000 transfer trucks worth of equipment will have been unloaded onto the 1,370,256 square foot exhibit floor. Having done so many of these shows has helped the IMTS crew get more efficient at setting up a seamless show. You don’t want to miss all there is to see at IMTS 2018. The top technology trends to look for at IMTS 2018When asked what the top technology trend you should look for at IMTS 2018, Peter Eelman has a one-word answer - connected. He says that there is a different approach to manufacturing on the horizon through connect factories and digital transformation. In the interview, Peter mentions a surprising new technology partnership that will be on display at this year’s show. At IMTS, you will not only learn about the cutting edge of manufacturing technology, you’ll also learn tips and tricks on how to apply that technology in your company. How this year’s show will be different from IMTS in years pastBecause of how the IMTS organizers have developed the show through the years, and because of the fast rate of technological change, IMTS 2018 promises to be a show unlike any other. Manufacturing is flourishing, so there will be opportunities to purchase machinery right from the exhibit floor. Peter Eelman says “There’s not a lot of machinery that leaves IMTS back to the source that it came from. It goes to customers.” However, even with all of the changes, IMTS is staying true to its original roots as a machine tool science fair. Expect to have some fun at IMTSWhile IMTS is about learning and getting better for the sake of your company, there is also ample opportunity to have fun. In years past, there have been 3D printed cars and houses. This year you will have the opportunity to utilize and experience what was recently considered future technology. One of the most fun things you can do is join Jason and Jim every day at Noon on the main stage at the Grand Concourse. Listen to help make your last minute preparations for IMTS 2018. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & Takeaways
This Week’s Superstar GuestConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify
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| 06 Jul 2015 | MC029: Job costing: What are the recommended ways to cost out a job? [PODCAST] | 00:35:19 | |
Today’s episode of Making Chips features a listener question. You can leave your question for Jim and Jason to answer by going to www.MakingChips.com to leave your question. They just might answer it on an upcoming podcast episode. Today’s question has to do with costing out a job. Is there a standard formula or way to price out jobs in light of workers who are manning more than one machine, etc.? Jim has years of experience in costing out jobs so he’s got a lot to share in this episode. But first, some thoughts about the Making Chips growth curveThe Podcast has been going gangbusters. Jim and Jason are both amazed that there have been 13,00o downloads of the show that have happened since they first began. They're eager to put that influence to even more work for you as the show continues. So the guys first of all want to "thank you" for supporting the show and their work to inform, educate, and expand the manufacturing industry. The guys also want to let you in on a materials sourcing company they've been working with. It's www.OnlineMetals.com. 24 hours a day you can go on this amazing website, receive materials quotes, and even order the products you need to fulfill your manufacturing orders. And if you use the promo code CHIPS and receive a 15% discount! Job costingDo you know how to cost out a machining job? Do you understand how to figure in the wear on the machine, the cost of your overhead and operator wages, the type of material you’ll be using for the job, weight of the part you’re producing, and other variables? If you don’t, you need to listen carefully to this episode of Making Chips. Jim explains how he goes about costing out a job, including how he uses an excel spreadsheet to figure out the cost. When you’re costing out a job, Jim has a powerfully practical tip to help you do the costing properly: take into consideration the size of the part you’re going to be working with on the job. A very large part is going to cost you more in terms of manpower and time. Jim sets a part of similar size on his desk to put the job into perspective. He’ll take it out to the machine and hold it up beside it to see how manageable it’s going to be. Don’t overlook this important consideration as you’re costing out a job in your shop. Listen in to find out more about how Jim goes about costing out jobs. Costing out a job can also be a bit tricky when it comes to the type of material being used. Manufacturers need to keep in mind that material costs may differ widely when creating parts from various materials. That’s a variable that has to be kept in mind so you don’t under-cost a job and cost yourself the profit margin you should have. Jim shares his tips on how to go about doing that in this episode of Making Chips. All this and more on this episode of Making Chips! Here’s the outline this episode
Links mentioned on this episodewww.OnlineMetals.com - get your 15% discount by using the code "MAKINGCHIPS" Or call us at 312-725-0245 | |||
| 10 Jul 2023 | SZN1: #ThankAMachinist, 367 | 00:17:19 | |
I created a campaign to build awareness for machinists. Why? Because, sadly, the general public knows very little about manufacturing. They don’t look around them and see what we see: That almost everything is machined. So in this episode of MakingChips, I’ll share a few ways you can highlight manufacturing in your communities. It’s not just to build awareness but to also grow interest in manufacturing in the next generation. Because what would happen if no one was MakingChips? – Paul Van Metre Segments
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| 14 Nov 2017 | MC127: LinkedIn 2.0 | 00:30:22 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are thrilled to be back in the MakingChips studio! On today's episode we answer a listener's questions about the social media platform, LinkedIn. Jim and Jason both share their individual strategies for using the business platform -- notably for creating a conversation, strengthening their personal brand, and connecting with like minded individuals. They'll share their LinkedIn do's and don'ts, as well as their goals for optimizing the platform's full potential. In manufacturing news, we talk about how Boeing is seeking thousands of applicants for open manufacturing jobs.
Episode Outline: Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 28 Feb 2023 | Growth Roadmaps: Planning the Work and Working the Plan, 348 | 00:24:57 | |
Where have we been? Where are we now? Where are we going? These three questions are a simple way to structure how we communicate the vision for our company. But to reach the goals we’ve outlined in our vision, we need a plan. And then we need to work the plan. During our upcoming annual sales summit, I’ve asked my sales teams to create growth roadmaps for their goals and objectives. In this episode of MakingChips, I’ll share how we’re going to structure our roadmaps and how you can make the process work for you. Because if you don’t plan the work, you’re not MakingChips, and if you don’t work the plan, you’re not making money. BAM! – Nick Segments
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| 29 Jun 2021 | 10 Steps To Simplify Your AS9100 Credentialing | 00:30:41 | |
In this episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim Carr and Jason Zenger meet with Paul Van Metre of ProShop ERP to discuss 10 things to consider when going through the process of getting AS9100 certified. Segments:
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| 22 Aug 2024 | The Past, Present, and Future of IMTS with the "Show Boss" Peter Eelman, 422 | 00:52:52 | |
“Inspiring the extraordinary” is the theme for this year’s IMTS and that’s exactly what they’re doing. The Emerging Technology Center will showcase extraordinary advances in technology (including an exhibit by BlueForge Alliance and Apptronik's AI-Powered General Purpose Humanoid Robot). They’re offering specific ELEVATE programs for job shops, women in manufacturing, and the first-ever ELEVATE LATAM: A half-day conference for the Spanish-speaking manufacturing technology community. For the first time, Microsoft, AWS, and Google Cloud will be at the show in the automation sector. This year’s IMTS is a can’t-miss event. Show Boss Peter Eelman shares all of the amazing details in this episode of MakingChips. Segments
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| 22 Nov 2023 | Why Manufacturing Leaders Should Invest in Video to Tell their Story and Build Their Brand, 383 | 00:33:05 | |
Why do you need to create video content, both for recruiting team members and bringing in new business? How do you get started when you don’t have the budget to hire a production company? Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix share what you can do to kickstart video marketing for your shop—and why it’s incredibly important—in this episode of MakingChips! Because if you aren’t Making videos, you’re losing out on money. BAM! – Nick Segments
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| 26 Apr 2018 | IMTS 2018 Preview with Peter Eelman | 00:45:44 | |
Whether you are a veteran attendee of IMTS, or you are planning your first experience, this week’s episode of Making Chips is for you. For 90 years, the International Manufacturing Technology Show has been the premiere manufacturing show in North America. It takes place in Chicago on even-numbered years. Peter Eelman has been involved with IMTS for 40 years. He is the Vice President of Exhibition and Business Development for The Association of Manufacturing Technology (AMT). On this episode, Peter joins Jason and Jim to give an in-depth preview of IMTS 2018. Connect with us: www.MakingChips.com/contact What makes IMTS 2018 a must-attend eventBeyond just a machine tool show, IMTS encompasses all of manufacturing technology. It is the place to learn about and experience cutting-edge manufacturing technology and innovation. The show continues to get bigger and better, featuring over a million square feet of exhibition space with 1599 exhibitors. This year's show is September 10-15 in Chicago and will further the tradition of being the number one place to discover the newest technology that is revolutionizing the industry. During his conversation with Jim and Jason, Peter Eelman reveals how IMTS 2018 is gearing up to be the best yet. It’s all about the experience at IMTSThroughout four buildings, there will be an exciting array of companies showing off the latest and greatest in manufacturing technology. Peter Eelman says that the exhibition space is expanding to include more CAD/CAM software and digital factory automation companies. IMTS gives you the opportunity to get to know these companies and see the products and services they offer. You can also expect to see million dollar pieces of equipment on display. Hear much more about what you can experience during Jim and Jason’s conversation with Peter Eeman. The exciting Emerging Technologies Center at IMTS 2018IMTS has always been about emerging technologies. During the 2014 show, IMTS featured the world’s first 3D printed car. Peter Eelman explains how IMTS will give attendees an opportunity to explore the digital transformation of industry. You will be able to explore virtual and augmented reality and learn about the impact those technologies are having in manufacturing. Peter Eelman says that because digital manufacturing is now a reality, manufacturers should be learning as much as they can so they can begin applying it in their businesses. The Emerging Technologies Center at IMTS 2018 can give you the jump start you need. How to maximize your IMTS 2018 experiencePeter Eelman explains that in order to have the best experience at IMTS, you have to make a plan. There is so much to see and so much ground to cover that failing to plan will leave you overwhelmed and exhausted. Prioritizing your time will help you get the most out of the show. IMTS.com has an invaluable tool called “My Show Planner” which was developed specifically for IMTS attendees. Plan to stay for a couple of days so that you can see all of the new and exciting technology available. Hear more about how you can maximize your IMTS 2018 experience as you listen to this episode of Making Chips. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & TakeawaysVIPs From The Metal Working Nation
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| 18 Nov 2020 | A digital destination for a connected manufacturing community | 00:48:14 | |
In this week's podcast, hosts Jason Zenger, Jim Carr, and Nick Goellner invite guest Peter Eelman, Vice President & CXO at AMT to discuss how IMTS pivoted into an online digital destination for Manufacturers. Segments:
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| 05 Apr 2016 | MC063: Manage & Mitigate - Developing a Crisis Plan for your Manufacturing Company with Scott McPherson | 00:46:15 | |
There is an old saying: “Expect the best, prepare for the worst.” It’s not something we want to think about, and it can be a difficult topic to discuss. Crises don’t happen very often, but when they do occur, they tend to have significant consequences. Without a well-thought out, strategic plan, your business is at risk of being completely caught off guard should a disaster happen.
On this extended episode of MakingChips, we talk Public Relations with Scott McPherson, Principal at McPherson Public Affairs Group. Scott also shares some important tips on crisis preparation, including steps you should take to properly manage a crisis in your manufacturing shop. In Manufacturing News, we discuss the resurgence of vinyl records and it’s impact on record manufacturers. We also speak on the phone with Peter Eelman, Vice President - Exhibitions and Communications, AMT, about this year’s upcoming International Manufacturing Technology Show. Episode Structure:
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| 13 Sep 2017 | MC121: The Spitfire Takes Control w/ Stacia Hobson | 00:36:50 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! Today on MakingChips we welcome back Stacia Hobson for the second half of our two part interview. On this episode we'll hear about how her father reacted to their confrontation. Stacia also shares with us how she was able to take control of the business, what she would do differently in hindsight, how Image Industries addresses the skilled labor shortage, and we'll hear a bit about her award winning Toastmaster's speech. Later on, we'll hear from Charlie Chesbrough, Senior Economist at Cox Automotive Inc., as he gives us a preview of what he'll be speaking about at this year's GFMC Conference in Atlanta, GA. Episode Outline: Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 07 Dec 2020 | Is Imposter Syndrome Limiting Your Growth as a Manufacturing Leader? | 00:40:50 | |
In this week's episode, we share our experiences with imposter syndrome and discuss what it means. We talk about how it affects different generations and how to rise above the feeling that you aren't qualified or don't know what you're doing. 5:01 | Nick covers general manufacturing news - and improving market trends 8:55 | Nick defines imposter syndrome 10:05 | Jason brings up a bible verse that illustrates that everyone is a little bit of an imposter 13:32 | Jason asks how you'll learn anything if you never ask 22:26 | Jason and Nick discuss what imposter syndrome means for a manufacturing leader 25:42 | Nick shares a story about feeling like you can't ask questions or make mistakes 30:32 | Jason mentions how important it is to get your self-worth from multiple places, and Nick talks about how ego plays into imposter syndrome | |||
| 09 Aug 2016 | MC076: Agile Automation - The Compass Way with Bill Angsten | 00:30:43 | |
On this episode of MakingChips, we welcome to the show Bill Angsten, co-founder of Compass Automation. Compass Automation designs and builds custom equipment to automate manufacturing processes. Bill talks with us about how he started the company, what Compass Automation does differently, maintaining a strong company culture, and marketing yourself differently. In manufacturing news, we talk about Facebook's recent venture into hardware research and we share more information about our highly anticipated Leadership Series. Episode Structure:
Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 25 Jul 2017 | MC114: Identifying Your Marketing Technology Stack | 00:37:39 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are happy to bring you another episode of our #MarketingForMakers Series with Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology. Today we welcome back back Julie Poulos as she introduces Red Caffeine's Founder & CEO -- Kathy Steele. On this episode of MakingChips, we focus on integrating technology into your business. Kathy and Julie walk us through some starting points that will equip and inspire you to identify gaps in your business technology stack.Today's discussion features an array of topics including: integrating platforms, examining financial insights, systemizing talent management, and getting your operations in order. Episode Structure: [04:08] - Record Download Month Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 22 Jun 2021 | IMTS 2022 - What's New For You? | 00:40:07 | |
In this episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim Carr and Jason Zenger talk with Peter Eelman, Vice President and Chief Experience Officer of AMT, about IMTS 2022, the return of their in-person trade show, and what’s in store for the future of IMTS events. Segments: 1:27 | Jim and Jason introduce the episode and their past experiences with IMTS events 8:00 | Jason shares manufacturing news regarding Xometry’s move to the public market 10:16 | Jim introduces their guest Peter Eelman from AMT to discuss the history and return of IMTS 16:54 | Peter talks about the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on IMTS, and how they were able to adapt to the situation 20:33 | Jim asks Peter about the future of IMTS, as both physical and virtual events 23:21 | Peter explains the scale of IMTS, and its effect on the industry and the Chicago area 26:57 | Peter describes what’s next for IMTS, with the return of the physical event in 2022 30:20 | Jim asks about the future of automation in manufacturing, and how IMTS 2022 will feature it 34:52 | Peter explains how IMTS participants can prepare for the 2022 event and connect with other manufacturers through their website 38:30 | Jim talks about the upcoming Fanuc & Mitutoyo demonstration from CNC Machine Services Inc, and how you can register for the free event | |||
| 22 Jun 2022 | AS9100 Credentialing in 4 months? One Man's Success Story, 316 | 00:39:38 | |
AS9100 is a standardized quality management system for the aerospace industry. If a manufacturer wants to work in this field, they have to be AS9100 certified. The credentialing process is difficult to achieve quickly. Integrating it into your quality management system (QMS) can be even more time-consuming. In this episode of MakingChips, special guest John Jones shares how he used ProShop to speed up and complete the implementation in just 4 months. Listen to this episode for his strategies! Segments
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| 20 Dec 2021 | What the Great Resignation Means for Manufacturing, 295 | 00:35:31 | |
The “Great Resignation” as it’s been called, has created a wide variety of circumstances that have impacted the American workforce. 55% of workers making under $30K/year say they will be looking for a new job soon. Has this impacted manufacturing? If so, what can we do as manufacturing leaders to mitigate the impact? This episode focuses on what leaders can and should be doing to build the kind of loyalty that will sustain their companies and provide a culture and experience for team members that is “sticky,” keeping them around for years to come. BAM! Segments
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| 05 Oct 2016 | MC084: Software with Integrity: Leading the Way in Manufacturing CAM Software | 00:32:14 | |
On this episode of MakingChips, we welcome two very special guests to the show. Meghan West and Ben Mund of CNC Software Inc., the developers of Mastercam CAM software. Meghan serves as President of the company, and Ben is the Senior Marketing Analyst. Both Ben and Meghan talk to us about their respective positions with CNC Software Inc., their takeaways from IMTS, exciting new technology in manufacturing, and we get a preview of Mastercam’s latest user interface. In Manufacturing News, we recap Penny Pritzker's Keynote address at IMTS 2016. Episode Structure:
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| 05 Jul 2022 | Levers to Pull to Double the Value of Your Manufacturing Company | 00:42:11 | |
What can you do to double the value of your manufacturing company and increase your likelihood of selling it exponentially? In this episode of MakingChips, Michael Watkins and David Capkovitz from EBITDA Growth Systems (EGS) share how they can help you increase your profitability and Paul Van Metre from ProShop ERP shares how he partners with EGS to bring value to his clients. They are all passionate about improving business performance in manufacturing companies and impacting lives. Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable insight. Segments
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| 07 Jul 2021 | Behind the Scenes with the Product Manager of Methods Machine Tools | 00:41:00 | |
In this week’s episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim Carr and Nick Goellner talk with Nick St.Cyr, a Product Manager at Methods Machine Tools, about his history in the manufacturing industry, the role of a product manager, and the importance of establishing a vision of the future for your company. Segments:
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| 05 Dec 2023 | How Can the Golden Rule be Applied in Business? with Mike Ruge, 385 | 00:42:13 | |
What separates successful shops from unsuccessful ones? The people. As a leader, taking care of your people is paramount. So how do you manage and lead your people better? By following the Golden Rule. How do you apply the “Golden Rule” in business? Mike Ruge—the Integrator and Experience Director at ZENGERS—shares what that looks like and it can transform your business in this episode of MakingChips. Because if you aren’t taking care of your people, they won’t be MakingChips and if they’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM! Segments
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| 27 Sep 2021 | Are Your Data Requirements Driving Your Employees Away? | 00:38:43 | |
Do your employees feel like they’re a means to an end? I think a lot of team members don’t realize—or believe—that we care about them. Some feel that when you hold them accountable to hit their numbers that data is all you care about. But that isn’t always the case. At the end of the day, we’re all business leaders who need an efficient working environment. So where do we find a balance between data, accountability, and caring for our team members? How do we drive profitability without driving our employees away? Listen to this episode of Making Chips for the full discussion! Segments
Hold your employees to metrics they can controlI’ve seen a trend where everything is about data. Everyone wants to harvest data. But can you take it a step too far? Can there be an imbalance in the data? On a recent episode of Russell Brand’s podcast, he talked about how Amazon’s delivery people have an app they have to use. The app tracks every move they make and everything they do when they deliver packages. But it appears that Amazon is tracking metrics that are outside of the control of the employee and using those metrics to evaluate them. We believe when you hold people accountable with metrics it should be something that’s within their control. But Amazon has taken it so far that people are being fired when they don’t meet the metrics of the algorithm Amazon has in place for delivery drivers. When Russell Brand described this, he pointed out that Amazon was treating their employees like zombies living in an algorithm—disposable cattle. The data doesn’t always show the full pictureNick had a conversation with leaders at AME and Hennig about compensation for their salespeople. Commissions are results-based compensation and the result is why you work. But there are other activities salespeople do that add value. They do activities to achieve an objective to create a result. So his company talked about activity-based objectives they could compensate their salespeople for. They decided compensation should be a mix. Salespeople are driven by increasing their compensation. So they tend to focus on what would compensate them the most. But if your company wants them to focus on other activities not directly tied to making a sale, you might have to compensate them. You have to match the compensation with the desired behavior. Situations when data-tracking is necessaryI just took off the month of August and ZENGERS had a record month of sales while I was gone. I’m not trying to micromanage my team. They have an overall objective—sales and profitability. My goal is to train them on the right things to do to achieve that goal. I’m not saying they need to make a certain amount of calls a day or track every detail. I give them an overall mission to achieve but I don’t track their every movement. I feel like asking your team to track everything they do is the kiss of death. But is that true for every business? For Jim, due to Carr Machine & Tools AS9100 certification, they are mandated to document all of the results from their machining process. He runs a data-driven and oriented business where he has to measure, record, validate, time-track against jobs, and more. And of course, each individual on my team has those types of quality measurements that they have to hit. We record data that contributes to useful management of your team. But I don’t want my team to record data that’s pointless. Nick’s brother always says that any data that you record and isn’t used to make an improvement is wasted money. Wasted information is wasted action. The bottom line is that everyone needs to take a step back and think about this. Are the right activities being tracked? Are you gathering useful data, or just wasting time? You need to collect the right data that helps you drive profitability for your company. Listen to the whole episode for the full conversation. BAM! – Jason Resources mentioned on this episodeGet The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 24 Feb 2025 | How Mike Nager is Closing the Awareness Gap with Kid’s Books on Manufacturing, 452 | 00:30:12 | |
We’re always looking for ways to build greater awareness of manufacturing, and we believe the conversation needs to start at an earlier age. That’s why we’re excited to speak with people like Michael (Mike) Nager, who shares our passion for bridging the gap. Mike is a passionate advocate for raising awareness about manufacturing through children’s literature. As a long-time industry professional, Mike saw a gap in how manufacturing is presented to younger generations. In response, he created engaging, educational books that introduce kids to the exciting world of manufacturing, from automation to smart technologies. Mike discusses how his books are designed to spark curiosity and inspire future manufacturers by making complex topics accessible, colorful, and fun. He shares why it’s essential for kids, parents, and educators to see manufacturing as an exciting and vital part of our daily lives. We also dive into the challenges of simplifying manufacturing concepts, the positive feedback Mike has received from parents and educators, and how he’s partnering with organizations to expand the reach of his books. Mike’s mission is to close the "awareness gap" and encourage kids to consider careers in manufacturing. After all, we need the next generation of makers, thinkers, and innovators to keep MakingChips. Segments
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| 06 Mar 2023 | MakingChips Seasons: Small Shop Owners Can Thrive with a PEO, 349 | 00:33:26 | |
I’m Mike Payne, the President and Owner of Hill Manufacturing & Fabrication and the first guest host for MakingChips Seasons. When I first bought my company, I had to take on many of the HR functions. Enter Thrive PEO: Jon Scoggins came into the picture and took a lot off my plate. So in this episode of MakingChips, Jon joins us to share what a PEO is and how it can not only benefit manufacturing leaders, but help them remain competitive in the workforce. Because if you can’t attract and retain machinists, you’re not MakingChips. And if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM! Segments
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| 16 Jun 2020 | Leading through Fear | 00:31:32 | |
Co-hosts Jim Carr, Nick Goellner and Jason Zenger talk about their past experiences with fear in business, including navigating recession, unemployment, and the current pandemic, then offer seven steps for leading through fear, along with personal applications and examples.
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Mentioned on the show: Killing Marketing: How Innovative Businesses Are Turning Marketing Cost Into Profit, by Richard Rose
Related links: https://sports.yahoo.com/apple-looking-diversify-manufacturing-headphones-072853788.html | |||
| 19 Jul 2022 | Will You Find Your Next Manufacturing Customer, or Will Your Next Customer Find You? | 00:43:46 | |
Whether you rely on inbound marketing, outbound marketing, or a combination of both, sourcing new customers can be a hassle. But it’s how you grow your business, so you can’t give up. Thomas™, a Xometry company, is America’s #1 industrial sourcing platform and marketing powerhouse. It could also be your #1 driver of new customers. Thomas™ President Shawn Fitzgerald shares how in this episode of MakingChips. Because if you’re not gaining new customers, you’re not making chips, and if you’re not making chips—you’re not making money! BAM! – Nick Segments
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| 24 Oct 2017 | MC126: Where to Begin with Making the List | 00:35:01 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are pleased to bring you another episode in our #MarketingForMakers series with Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology. On today's episode we welcome back Red Caffeine's Julie Poulos along with Dan Mantilla and Natalie Dubs as they help you answer the question -- "Who Do I Market To?" Where do you start? It starts with a list! Julie and her team cover the four challenges that most mid market manufacturers face when figuring out who to market themselves to. We'll share some strategies that you can use right now to begin building up your brand and targeting leads.
Episode Outline: Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 10 Mar 2025 | Unpacking Real-World Applications of AI in Manufacturing with Bryce Barnes, 454 | 00:52:43 | |
In this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry. Special guest Bryce Barnes, a manufacturing AI consultant, shares his expertise and insights on how AI is transforming both the shop floor and business operations. As a former mechanical engineer turned AI specialist, Bryce explains how manufacturers can leverage technology, such as machine learning and AI-driven CAM solutions, to increase efficiency and reduce costs. The conversation uncovers practical, real-world applications of AI, from CNC programming assistance to streamlining back-office tasks like quoting and project management. Bryce also brings his unique perspective as someone who grew up in manufacturing, now guiding companies through the complexities of implementing AI in a practical way. This episode offers valuable insights into how AI can help manufacturers, especially smaller shops, optimize their processes. Bryce discusses the potential of AI to assist in CNC programming, improve quality control, and enhance customer relationship management. This is a must-listen for any manufacturing leader who is looking to understand how AI can be applied practically to save time and increase profitability. Segments
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| 13 Apr 2021 | When to Say No to an Opportunity | 00:20:13 | |
In this week’s episode of MakingChips, Jason Zenger discusses 4 reasons to say no to an opportunity. Manufacturing leaders may need to say no more often to opportunities especially as the economy heats back up.
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| 22 Nov 2021 | Have You Defined Your Hiring Process? | 00:36:30 | |
What does your hiring process look like? Do you even have a hiring process in place? In this episode of Making Chips, we walk through what each of our processes look like and share some useful strategies that anyone can implement. A streamlined process leads to better hires which leads to Making Chips! BAM! – Jason! What are your tips and tricks for the hiring process? Let us know! Send an email to info@MakingChips.com! Segments
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| 22 Mar 2024 | Lights Out: How to Prioritize Flexibility when You Invest in Automation, 400 | 00:36:09 | |
POV: You’ve decided to start the process of implementing automation in your machine shop—but it isn’t as easy as flipping a switch. It’s a process that consists of failing forward and learning from every mistake. Tom Schroeder—the Executive Vice President at PBC Linear—joins us in this episode of Lights Out to share how to prioritize flexibility when you invest in and begin to implement automation in your shop. Because if you’re not making the right chips, you’re not making money. – Nick Segments
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| 19 Nov 2024 | How Will a Trump Presidency Impact Manufacturing? 438 | 00:43:19 | |
Election years cause a lot of upheaval in the world of manufacturing. Industry spending can often see a sharp decrease, which can negatively impact many shops. The general indecision leading up to an election impacts almost every sub-genre in manufacturing, from medical devices to aerospace, oil & gas to firearms. The election is over and Trump has officially been elected back into office. Will a Trump presidency negatively or positively impact manufacturing? Nick, Paul, and Mike tackle tough topics like regulations, trade policy, tariffs, taxes, and more in this episode of MakingChips. Will America keep MakingChips and keep making money? Segments
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| 03 May 2024 | MakingSparks: Oklahoma Meets Indiana - A Manufacturing Chat with Mike Payne Part 1, 406 | 00:37:41 | |
Mike Payne has spent the last 20+ years deeply entrenched in the M&A process with dozens of companies throughout Oklahoma. Early in his career, he realized he loved the world of manufacturing. He also learned that he enjoyed operating a business. He was just waiting for the right opportunity to unfold. Then it happened: Six years ago, Mike was able to purchase Hill Manufacturing. In this episode of MakingSparks, we chat with Mike about his work in the M&A space, why he made acquisitions close to home, and what led to his passion for manufacturing. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| 09 Mar 2016 | MC060: An Industry of Makers - 2016 Crain's Manufacturers Summit with Special Guests | 00:26:59 | |
On this special episode of MakingChips, we recap the 2016 Crain's Manufacturers Summit with interviews from several VIP guests. First, we speak with John Sapiente of Elgin Die Mold and Trident Manufacturing about the challenges of running two businesses. Second, we have Jason Scher of Vosges Chocolate who speaks to us about working with your spouse, and the evolution of Vosges Chocolate. We also have a conversation with Tom Pellette of Caterpillar, where we discuss Caterpillar's supply chain relationships with machining companies, as well as the economic future of manufacturing. Lastly, we talk with Sagar Patel of Woodward about their recent expansion, and promoting manufacturing to future generations. At the end of this episode, we recap what we took away from the event. VIP Guests:
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| 17 Feb 2021 | Tom Brady and Manufacturing on the Moon with DARPA | 00:48:57 | |
In this episode, the MakingChips hosts discuss the career of NFL star Tom Brady, and how his personal keys to success are also applicable to the manufacturing leader. Segments: 0:00 | Jim and Jason talk about the different technologies featured on IMTS Spark 7:24 | Jason reads a press release from DARPA about off-Earth manufacturing of lunar structures 12:45 | Jason shares his points on how manufacturing leaders can take cues from Tom Brady's success 13:13 | The hosts discuss how manufacturing leaders might be retiring too early 24:49 | Jim and Jason talk about IMTS Spark Demo Days with Stephen LaMarco from AMT 31:53 | Jason explains Tom Brady's daily schedule and how having a routine helps with success 37:10 | Like Tom Brady, having a healthy diet and lifestyle can contribute to the success of a manufacturing leader 39:30 | Having core objectives can get you on the path to succeeding, as opposed to unrelated pursuits 43:40 | The hosts offer final thoughts on how Tom Brady's successes can be contributed to his strict regimen and practices
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| 28 Dec 2018 | Machining Vibration with Dr. Tony Schmitz | 00:40:22 | |
The MakingChips podcast welcomes guest Tony Schmitz, professor at UNC Charlotte and assistant director, energy production and infrastructure center to talk about machining vibration. Tony teaches mechanical design, helping students design and build useful technology like robots. He also teaches mechanical vibrations, structural dynamics, and advanced manufacturing. He says, “At the end of the day, when you’ve made something, you never feel like you didn’t accomplish something that day.” During this episode, Tony gives helpful information about how to measure and mitigate machining vibration in manufacturing. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact The 3 pieces of the machining dynamics puzzleWhy are machining dynamics important for manufacturing leaders? Knowing the variables within a tooling machine and being able to adjust them appropriately can increase the longevity of the tool and increase productivity. Tony Schmitz explains that there are three pieces of the machining dynamics puzzle. Listen as he explains why considering these three factors are essential for manufacturers. Feel the machining vibrationWhenever a force is being applied to a nonrigid structure, there will be vibration. The problem, according to Tony, is that CAD/CAM software encourages you to ignore vibration and the variables within the machining tool. CAD/CAM always drafts the cutting process perfectly. However, it doesn’t take into account the reality of a machining tool that vibrates. Vibration means displacement of your cutter that changes over time. However, Tony says that the math equations you learned in school can actually be applied to the shop floor. Hear how differential equations can actually be used in CAD/CAM software to help get higher axial depths of cut without chatter. Good vibrations v. bad vibrations“Just like we all have fingerprints, every cut has a fingerprint as well and it’s the frequency content of that sound signal,” says Tony Schmitz. Bad vibration, also called chatter, are unmistakable when you hear it in a shop. Tony talks about how he can analyze frequencies that a machine puts out and identify bad vibrations and problems in the chip making process. He also explains how viewing wave patterns produced by a machine can tell you how to adjust your spindle speed. Tony says, “The most powerful knob on your controller is not the feed override, it is the spindle speed override.” How to increase productivity in your shopIn order to mitigate bad vibration and increase your productivity, Tony encourages collecting a minimum set of data. He describes how to select the 8-10 standard tools that you use the most and collect data on those tools, using an impact, or tap test. Results from a tap test can help you bid jobs more accurately. They can also help you make adjustments to your machines so that you can avoid chatter and be more efficient. Learn about that and much more on this episode of MakingChips. Here’s The Good Stuff!
This Week’s Superstar GuestConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 02 Dec 2015 | MC048 - Growing a Machining Business While Living 1,400 Miles Away | 00:41:36 | |
The thought of leaving your machine shop for even a few hours can be enough to cause anxiety for many manufacturing leaders, so it may seem impossible to imagine running your business from halfway across the country.
In this extended episode of MakingChips, we sit down with brother and sister Eric Schmid and Heidi Schaefer of Schmid Tool and Engineering. Eric and Heidi share their story of how and why they made the decision to work remotely, while still maintaining their respective roles in the company. There were many important decisions that they needed to make along the way in order to ensure a seamless transition. This episode covers a range of topics that can help manufacturing leaders decide if working remotely is the right move for them. Topics include Letting Go of Control, Planning the Transition, Bumps in the Road, Being Accessible, Holding Accountability, and Mastering Fear. Episode Outline:
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| 05 Mar 2024 | MakingSparks: Staying Connected through Your Front Line Leaders Part 2, 398 | 00:29:56 | |
How can leadership remain connected to what’s happening on the shop floor? At Nix, we’ve found a creative way to bridge a gap that many businesses experience. We’ve implemented a program that allows our front line to address problems and propose solutions so that their everyday real-world problems are being fixed. Dakota Hunt and Jack Henry Hagan return to share how this program has positively impacted them and the business. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| 16 Aug 2022 | Tips for Scheduling Production in Your Machine Shop | 00:45:02 | |
Scheduling is the art of planning your activities so that you can achieve your goals and priorities in the time that you have available. When it’s done effectively, it helps you understand what you can realistically achieve with your time. Why is it a big deal on the shop floor? As technology and automation are being implemented, it forces you to be faster. So you have to be efficient. Paul Van Metre joins us in this episode of MakingChips to share how ProShop can help your shop become more efficient. Because if you aren’t being efficient, you aren’t making enough chips. BAM! Segments
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| 10 Jun 2015 | MC027: Marketing tactics you should STOP right now! [PODCAST] | 00:27:28 | |
Marketing is an important part of any business. It’s got to be because it’s how you let people know who you are and what you do. That’s something that can never change. But the WAY you marketing has GOT to change. Why? Because the world we live in changes. People are repulsed or attracted by different things today than they were even a few years ago. Marketing has got to flex with the times.
In this episode of Making Chips, Jim Carr and Jason Zenger walk you through their personal mindset about marketing for the manufacturing industry, focusing on the top old-school marketing tactics that don’t work in the modern era. Some of them are seen as “staples” of good marketing but simply don’t yield results and wind up wasting money. Listen in to find out what they are.
A peek into this episode: Interruption marketing. Do you know what that is? Do you know why it’s probably the WORST way to get attention for your manufacturing business? And do you know if you’re doing it or not? If you didn’t know what it was in the first place, chances are you are still doing it. Listen in to this episode to learn how to modify your marketing tactics so you can be more effective in generating interest in your services and products.
Do you use the Yellow Pages to market your business? Jim and Jason beleive the good old YP are a thing of the past as well. The ways people search for information have gone increasingly online and less toward print. The advent of smartphone technology is making that more true every day. The money you spend for those expensive yellow pages ads could be money wasted. Jim and Jason will explain it in the episode.
In manufacturing news, there’s a growing need for skilled, quality people in the manufacturing industry. Opportunities are abundant and more are popping up every day. There’s plenty of room for advancement and good salaries. Listen to this episode of Making Chips to find out more details about this great opportunity.
All this and more on this episode of Making Chips! . Here’s the outline of the conversation
Links mentioned on this episode
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| 17 Aug 2016 | MC078: Do's and Don'ts of a Machinist Resume | 00:35:04 | |
On this episode of MakingChips, we welcome back Karla Dobbeck to the show. Karla is a certified professional in Human Resource Management with over 20 years experience in many aspects of human resource management and employment law compliance issues. Karla shares some tips and tricks to help machinists elevate their resume to the next level. In manufacturing news, we talk about Tesla Motor's decision to manufacture in the United States. We speak to Brian Papke of Mazak about their booth at the upcoming IMTS 2016, and Jason lists 6 reasons why you should sign up now for our highly anticipated Make and Elevate event. Episode Structure:
Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 09 Jun 2021 | 3 Easy Data Points to Learn From Your Machine | 00:38:02 | |
MakingChips hosts Jim Carr and Jason Zenger sit down with Akshat Thirani, the CEO and Co-founder of Amper Technologies, Inc., and Charles Morley, the President of Schleifring Medical Systems, to talk about how Charles implemented Amper technology in his shop, and the benefits it has had on his business. Segments:
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| 13 Feb 2024 | MakingSparks: How Technology Drives Innovation on the Other Side of Metalworking Nation, 395 | 00:44:01 | |
What are the pros and cons of plasma cutters vs. water jets vs. lasers? How does cutting with nitrogen differ from cutting with oxygen? How is technology driving innovation in fabrication? R.J. Reed and Brendon DiVincenzo join us in this episode of MakingSparks to cover all things lasers and fabrication. Because if you’re not MakingSparks with the right tool, you’re not making money. BAM! – Nick Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 17 Dec 2019 | Tips to Recession-Proof Your Manufacturing Business | 00:29:40 | |
Is it possible to recession-proof a business? With all the chatter in the economic world about the potential of a recession, how do you mitigate your losses? Are their things that you can do up-front that would help you survive a recession? Jim and Jason discuss the ‘dirty word’ in the industry and some steps you can consider implementing before—or when—a recession hits. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact Why are so many NOT worried about a recession?Many young people in the industry who dove into the workforce after 2008 don’t understand what it means to be in a recession. They haven’t lived through one. Those who remember what it felt like hate to talk or think about it. Jim points out that despite the emotion surrounding the word, it needs to be brought back into the vocabulary. Just because you avoid something doesn’t mean it won’t still happen. Jason and Jim emphasize that if you are educated and prepared a recession won’t impact you as much as it could. So what do you do? If a recession IS coming, what do you do?Jim notes that every recession he’s lived through “looks and feels a little bit different than the one before.'' The unfortunate reality is that we don’t know when a recession will come, how bad it will be, or how long it will last. When Jason’s Dad, Steve, led his business through a recession—he stopped taking a paycheck for a chunk of time. If you’re a business owner, you will have to take some hits. It’s inevitable. Jason’s dad knew he had to protect his business and employees, so he stopped paying himself to get them through the economic downturn. One way to mitigate the harshness of this reality in your own life is to build up a nest-egg. Create a savings account in case of a recession that can see you, your family, and your business through to the other side. Labor is the #1 biggest cost in the manufacturing industryIf cutting your pay isn’t enough to mitigate the financial losses, you have to address the elephant in the room: you might have to let someone go. It’s not easy to do, but sometimes it has to be done. It comes with the territory of being a business owner. It may come down to, “Who can we afford to lose?”. Sometimes, there is a clear path. Steve Zenger had to ‘trim the fat’ in the last recession and fire a few people who were under-performing or unwilling to help them make it through the recession. If you’re not at the point where you need to make some layoffs, a tip to save some money is to reduce overtime. If you can’t afford to pay your team, you certainly can’t afford to pay time-and-a-half. Reduce your overhead costs and develop sales skillsJason currently pays rent on three different locations for his business. He questions if a recession hits, could he consolidate locations to reduce overhead? Another option the guys point out is relocating the business somewhere with lower rent. During the last recession, Jason’s Dad took him out for lunch, and point-blank asked: “What are you going to do about this?”. Jason wasn’t going to sit back and cry. Instead, he developed a passion for sales. If business wasn’t finding him, he was going to do everything possible to bring it in. A recession is difficult to talk about, but Jim and Jason agree it’s stuff you need to know. A business owner must do everything they can to prepare. To hear the rest of their suggestions regarding surviving a recession, listen to the whole episode of MakingChips! Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & Takeaways
Connect With MakingChips
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| 17 Jul 2024 | Is Work-Life Balance a Fallacy? Part 2, 417 | 00:25:34 | |
What if your life has little distinction between work and play? What if you’re so passionate about what you do that the time you spend on it is inconsequential? We began to explore the idea of work-life integration in part 1 of this series. In part 2, we dive into the creative ways we integrate our work and personal lives so that we can be fully present whenever possible. Because when we take a break from MakingChips, our business must still be MakingChips to make money! – Nick Goellner Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 30 Jan 2024 | MakingSparks: Expanding and Transitioning a Family Business in Manufacturing with Joe Patterson, 393 | 00:44:50 | |
Every family business that’s growing and expanding runs into some challenges. From navigating tough conversations with family to determining a centralized versus decentralized model, there are numerous things to consider. Joe Patterson’s family business overcame the challenges that came their way and expanded globally. However, they had lofty goals for the business and ultimately needed more capital to realize those goals. Joe shares how they expanded their family business and why they sold the majority of their shares to private equity in this episode of MakingSparks. Listen to learn how you can help your family business make sparks, grow, and make money. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 12 Jul 2019 | Implementing Cobots for Cutting-Edge Automation with Elias Serruya | 00:44:01 | |
Are cobots the future of your manufacturing business? Collaborative robots can share the same space with your employees and help you automate the processes and systems that keep tying up your team’s time and energy. Guest speaker, Elias Serruya shares his passion for innovative thinking and why a future of cobots may just be your manufacturing dream-come-true. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact Pursuing a passion for innovation while learning the tricks of the tradeElias shares his story of pursuing the future in innovation and automation while climbing the ladder at his father-in-law’s manufacturing company, EJ Basler. Beginning as an engineering intern, he quickly learned the ins and outs of the trade and made note of where processes could be made more efficient. Always asking the question, “How could this be made better?” Elias found his passion realized in building and implementing cobots and robots. Elias explains that the automation offered by robotics and cobotics is mechatronics - the combination of mechanical and electronic systems. Mechatronic automation covers all the bases for a machine shop by combining software, mechanics, mathematics, chemistry, the cloud, and electronics for a truly all-encompassing automated system. As manufacturing leaders understand, time is money - and the more time their employees can spend on the tasks that require their expertise and less on the menial busywork - the better. Saving time, money, and space with cobot automationElias unpacks the differences between robots and cobots and why cobots are a financially savvy investment for your manufacturing business. Unlike robots, cobots don’t need their own designated space with safety lines and regulations. Cobots (collaborative robots) share the same workspace as your employees and interact directly in your employees’ environment. Because they don’t need their own floor or taped-off space, and because they can’t hurt humans in their operations, there is no need to spend money and resources on building a separate and safety-ensured space on your shop floor. Cobots are slower in their movements and don’t have the huge amount of velocity behind them that regular, mechanical robots possess. If you touch a cobot outside of the designated process, they turn off. They are built to work with you - not overpower you. Applying cobots to both low and high production manufacturing businessesAre cobots for everybody? Elias explains that while the role of the cobots might change, they are useful in both low and high-production manufacturing businesses. A good strategy for both types would be to locate where you need to automate within the business. Where is time being wasted or being used inefficiently? What jobs - if freed up - could make room for greater growth and progress? Inspection and processing parts could be done by a cobot instead of your employees, allowing them to focus on work that requires their skill and expertise. Elias shares the processes he uses to know where to implement automation within EJ Basler. Watching company costs is an extremely helpful way to see where your manufacturing team could benefit from the help of cobots. Taking a walk through your shop floor can also provide insight into identifying where processes could be made more efficient. If you are struggling with finding good hires, then using a cobot to make up the difference will save your team countless hours and headaches. Training your cobot to serve you so that you can serve your client-baseCobots are trained by recording points in space - through logging specific conditions that build the logic of a certain job. Once all the steps have been taught to the cobot, it can carry out its task. For jobs that require unique grippers or handling parts, new grippers and tools can be 3D printed or made for the cobot. Even though cobots are serving in the role of automation, their workflow is in the hands of you and your team. Not comfortable with just one master controller? Use several for each part of the process so that you can have the flexibility of updating and controlling just one aspect of the job at hand. Elias explains that automation is not only useful to your team - it’s attractive to your clients. When customers see that you are trying to keep up with the times, be progressive, and constantly improve, they will be more trusting and impressed by your diligence to keep on the cutting edge of manufacturing technology. The robotics industry is only growing, and those that want to keep up in the Metal Working Nation need to be thinking about how they can be progressive. Be sure to listen to the entire episode for examples of how Elias has used cobotics at EJ Basler and why cobots might need to be the next big step for your business. Have questions about automation and cobots? Reach out to Jason and Jim at Jim@makingchips.com and Jason@makingchips.com Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & Takeaways
This Week’s Superstar Guest: Elias SerruyaConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 16 Mar 2015 | MC014: Taking Advantage of Federal and State Grant Money | 00:20:32 | |
In this episode, Jim and I discuss how you can receive grant money to expand your manufacturing business. We specifically discuss the Federal TAAF Grant that Jim was awarded, the process that he went through, the reimbursed expenses and how he coupled two programs together. Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms MakingChips.com/TAAF In our Manufacturing News segment, we discuss an article in the LA Times that states manufacturing is slower to grow in California than any other state in the USA. The main factor for slow growth in California is the cost of doing business in the state. We have 2 questions for you: 1. Have you been successful receiving grant money? If so, please share your story in the comments for this episode. 2. Would you like us to share more information associated with grant money, so you can take advantage of this under-utilized resource? | |||
| 30 Aug 2024 | At the Boring Bar 1-1 (Jason Zenger, Nick Goellner, Mike Payne, Paul Van Metre, Peter Eelman, Nicole Wolter, Chris Luecke, and Manny Pasillas) | 00:44:19 | |
Some of the greatest ideas in manufacturing don’t happen in boardrooms but over a drink with peers. In At the Boring Bar, Jason aims to cut deeper into the conversations that matter most to manufacturing leaders. So pull up a chair, grab a drink, and join Jason as he uncovers the insights that drive the manufacturing industry forward. In this inaugural episode of At the Boring Bar, join Jason, Nick Goellner, Mike Payne, Paul Van Metre, Peter Eelman, Nicole Wolter, Chris Luecke, and Manny Pasillas At the Boring Bar. They cover everything from the exciting new exhibits at IMTS to one of the biggest problems the manufacturing industry faces: a mass exodus of Baby Boomers. You’ll laugh, you may cry, and you’ll undoubtedly hear something that will provoke you to think about the future of the industry and your impact on it. Don’t miss it. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episodeConnect With MakingChips | |||
| 10 Feb 2016 | MC057: Creating a Future Workforce - How a Council of Manufacturing Leaders Takes a High School Metals Program to the Next Level - with Rob Stuebing | 00:25:16 | |
Last week, we talked with Frank Holthouse about East Leyden High School’s Metals Program, and how they are providing an environment for students to learn modern manufacturing practices. This week, we continue that discussion. What can we do to spark interest in manufacturing to the younger generation? How can you replicate the success of Leyden’s Metals Program in your own community?
On this episode of MakingChips, we speak with Rob Stuebing. Rob is the Vice-President of Qualiseal Technology and Current Chair of the Leyden Technology Council. Rob talks with us about the inception of the council, the success of the metals program, current objectives for the organization, and enhancing your high school’s metalworking program. We also discuss manufacturing news in the current political climate. Episode Outline:
Mentioned in this Episode:
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| 12 May 2020 | Quick Response in Crisis Your Community As Your Customer with Noah Goellner | 00:42:09 | |
It’s tempting, in rapid response, to abandon procedures or suspend protocols in order to solve immediate crisis situations. This week’s guest, Noah Goellner, lean manufacturing expert and COO of Hennig Inc., provides practical methods for incorporating your company’s core values and internal processes to produce successful solutions, no matter the timeline or challenge. | |||
| 07 Jan 2020 | Be a Manufacturing Leader Who Leads with Team Health | 00:33:10 | |
A team of leaders who are not united will never reach their potential. On today’s episode of MakingChips, the guys discuss the importance of team health after Jason Zenger shares an exercise he does with his leadership team at ZENGERS. This exercise brings healthy conflict to the forefront of their end-of-year planning meetings. The process improves company culture and brings teams closer together by affirming what each member admires about each other and what they would like to see improved. Connect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 14 Jan 2025 | A MakingChips Farewell to the OG: Jason Zenger, #446 | 00:37:19 | |
After nearly a decade of shaping MakingChips—spending close to 25% of his life on this journey—Jason Zenger is saying goodbye to the podcast that transformed the manufacturing space. As one of the original trailblazers, Jason helped create a platform that built community, sparked essential conversations, and made manufacturing more approachable as a career. His vision and dedication inspired others to start their own podcasts, like Paul’s “Machine Shop Mastery.” Jason’s legacy isn’t just MakingChips. It’s the relationships, the #MetalworkingNation community, and the countless leaders who’ve been equipped and inspired along the way. As Jason transitions to his next adventure—launching his podcast “Workmen of the Word” and writing his book, “Lead Like It’s Your Last Day”—he reflects on the power of community, education, and learning to prioritize what truly matters. Join us as we celebrate Jason’s contributions, reflect on the journey, and look ahead to the next chapter for him and MakingChips. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 04 Jun 2015 | MC026: Moving an old-school manufacturing business into the modern age with Patricia Miller of Matrix IV [PODCAST] | 00:32:07 | |
That’s what Patricia Miller’s professional associates told her when she started investigating the possibility of taking over her family business after she’d already pursued and been successful at a career that included marketing, corporate leadership, and politics. Put yourself in her shoes and you’ll probably understand why they said what they did. She’d already experienced many perks that manufacturing leaders seldom do. Travel, posh offices, important connections - yet, she says her heart and her home pulled her back to take over her grandfather’s failing manufacturing business.
Welcome to Making Chips - THE podcast for manufacturing leaders and those involved in the manufacturing industry. Jim Carr and Jason Zenger bring you these shows week after week to help you keep on top of what’s happening in the manufacturing industry and to equip you to be the leader of your company as you desire to be.
Today the guys are talking with Patricia Miller in what is likely part one of a two part conversation. Patricia’s story is anything but typical. Though she was surrounded by the world of manufacturing as a child, spending time around her grandparent’s very successful machine shop, she never felt a draw to be “in” the family business. Her parents encouraged her to pursue her dreams and she did exactly that. But when her grandfather retired and his health failed, Patricia was at a juncture in her own life where she was choosing her next step. Suddenly, the option of taking over her grandparent’s business was a very real possibility that she’d not considered before.
In this episode of Making Chips you’re going to hear Patricia’s story of moving out of the corporate world to take over a manufacturing business that she admits was “stuck in the 70s” and on its last leg. It’s a story that testifies to the value and importance of long-time manufacturing operations and the leadership abilities of one amazing lady.
Grab your coffee, turn up the volume, and join Jim, Jason, and their guest Patricia Miller, CEO of Matrix IV as they discuss the process of moving a old-school manufacturing business into the modern era. On this episode of Making Chips.
. Here’s the outline of the conversation with Patricia
Links mentioned on this episode
Patricia’s company - Matrix IV - http://www.matrixiv.com/
An article from “Plastics News” describing what Patricia has done with Matrix IV - http://www.plasticsnews.com/article/20141212/NEWS/141219962/new-leader-gives-molder-a-spark
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Old-school manufacturing has to move into the modern age. It’s a new day http://www.MakingChips.com/?p=490
My family encouraged me not to come back and take over the family business http://www.MakingChips.com/?p=490
I had done the things I wanted to do and decided to consider taking over the family business http://www.MakingChips.com/?p=490
90% of the business had gone offshore before I took over the leadership http://www.MakingChips.com/?p=490
I decided to take over this family business that was 6 months from having no cash http://www.MakingChips.com/?p=490 | |||
| 18 Jan 2019 | Streamlining Your Hiring Process with Jessica Giudici | 00:50:10 | |
Streamlining and optimizing your company’s hiring and onboarding processes can be difficult and sometimes daunting. Hosts Jim Carr and Jason Zenger bring helpful and common questions to the table with guest speaker Jessica Giudici - manager of organizational development at Smalley. Jess gives practical and engaging advice on how to approach your hiring process and create efficient, job-unique procedures for finding the best individuals for your company’s needs. Learn how staying true to your company’s vision and values can help save you time in the hiring process on this episode of the MakingChips podcast! Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact The hiring process: taking it back to the rootsWhere should manufacturing leaders start when assessing their company’s hiring process? Jess emphasizes that understanding who you are as a company is key. Branding isn’t just something that you talk about with the marketing team; who you are should permeate everything you do, including hiring and onboarding. Identify and establish who you are as an employer. What is your commitment to your employees and team members? Jess explains that when you understand who you are as a company and employer, it helps narrow down who you want to join your team and who will make a good fit. Create an optimized process centered around your company’s valuesRecognizing your identity is just the first step. The next is understanding who your audience is when marketing an open position. A cookie cutter approach to hiring won’t attract the unique candidates that you want to see applying for your specific job opportunities. From there, you can hone down which platform you will use to market the job. After you have identified who it is you need - and for what job - you need to walk through what the first conversation will look like. Put yourself in the candidate’s shoes and think about what they will find and feel when they walk through the door at the first meeting. Are your processes outdated? Is it all paper and work? Is it boring? Think again about who you are as a company and create an atmosphere that highlights your strengths, values, and vision. Interviewing: a process of identificationJess discusses why speed to hire must be executed within the framework of quality over quantity. You don’t need 10 or 20 candidates; you need one excellent candidate. Create an interview process for your company that focuses on finding the right fit. Jim and Jason agree, saying that making sure the candidate is aligned with your core values is essential. Jess recommends training your hiring managers to effectively engage the candidate and to listen to the entire team’s perceptions. She discourages the 2 on 1 interview, explaining that it is needlessly intimidating to the candidate, and it is easy for the emphasis of the interview to shift from the candidate to the communication between interviewers. To learn more about the best practices for interviewing and whether or not money should be discussed in the process, listen to the full episode! Breathing life into your onboarding processHaving an optimized onboarding process is just as important as having solid hiring procedures. Jess recommends walking through the goals and desired impressions of the onboarding experience. She reveals that it only takes about 45 days for a new employee to decide whether or not they wish to stay with a company long-term or begin looking for new opportunities. The first few months are vital! Training your leadership on how to engage effectively with new recruits will quicken learning and make for a positive experience for all participants. The focus should be on creating an environment in which the new employee can thrive as a learner. For more excellent tips on how to streamline your manufacturing company’s hiring and onboarding processes, listen to the entire episode! Jim and Jason encourage you to not become overwhelmed but to take things one step at a time, leading to effective success. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & TakeawaysThis Week’s Superstar Guest: Jess GiudiciConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 06 Jul 2017 | MC112 - 7 Ways To Lead Like An Airline Executive (Satire) | 00:31:58 | |
In business, we all know things don’t always go the way they’re supposed to. Shipments become delayed, orders aren’t finished on time, and plans can change in an instant. Sometimes you can’t keep up with your end of the transaction. So what is the appropriate way to respond to these unfortunate occasions, even if they’re out of your hands? Maybe we can all learn something from the major airlines on how (not) to handle these instances. On this satirical episode of MakingChips, we list 7 Ways To Lead Like An Airline Executive. Jason highlights his experience dealing with a major airline company after an abrupt cancellation forces him to change his vacation plans. In manufacturing news, we talk about how 'Made in China' could soon be made in the US. Episode Structure Links - Mentioned in this Episode We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation | |||
| 16 Jul 2019 | Leading the Charge for Change in Manufacturing with Drura Parrish | 00:45:51 | |
Change in manufacturing is an inevitable and exciting necessity that Jim and Jason are ready for the Metal Working Nation to embrace and experience. Even though the industry has a history of sticking with what has worked for generations, it is now time to invest in the future by equipping and inspiring manufacturing leaders and teams to educate themselves on the progress of technology and process. Guest speaker, Drura Parrish, the president of Xometry Supplies, shares his manufacturing story and how leaders can take small steps towards big change for their businesses. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact “We’ve always done it this way” is no longer a valid mantraGrowing up in the manufacturing world, Drura noticed that his grandfather’s business philosophy was built more upon hope in the future than on making that future himself with the manufacturing tools he owned. The machines that spent their lives unused - waiting for the “big deal,” caused Drura to question the processes in place. However, when he came back after college, he went to work for his grandfather and learned the important lesson of knowing when to ask why you are doing something before you set out to do it. Accepting a process because it has “always” been used isn’t a good enough reason to keep on using it. Be sure to listen to the episode for Drura’s personal experience in learning to ask “Why?” Change in manufacturing begins with leadershipIt’s all about leadership. Drura explains that in many machine shops, the leader is often the one with the most expertise and experience in a specific field. But is that the way it should be? In today’s modern manufacturing world, everyone is an expert at something. People need leaders, but they don’t necessarily need a leader who is well-versed in every aspect of the manufacturing business. Instead, the leader needs to be the one asking questions - asking, “Why are we doing it this way?” Drura believes that it is the responsibility of the 21st-century manufacturing leader to instill in their team the mindset that the customer is always right and to provide the training their team needs to accomplish serving their customers well. Outdated software? Toss it out. Equip your people; instill in them a positive, service-minded attitude, and trust your people to produce a quality outcome. Commit to the technological education of your peopleDo your people know how to identify good technology? Drura explains that in a world that is saturated in options and new technology, it is vital that your team understand what makes good technology and what makes a good process. Jason and Jim both agree that while it is difficult to begin setting aside time in your business’s schedule for training and education of the team, it is essential to your company’s future success. Technology must be taken seriously in today’s manufacturing world. What educating a manufacturing team looks like will depend on the individual business, the people, and the goals of the company. For smaller shops, it may be investing in one individual at a time instead of collectively training in new technology. For very large businesses, it could mean taking another, smaller shop under their wing and helping guide them in good business acumen. The idea is to promote in the Metal Working Nation an attitude of growth and effective change. When progressive change is made, take the time to celebrate! Change is made one step at a timeJim, Jason, and Drura all know that change in manufacturing can be a slow process. But small progress is better than no progress! Drura suggests setting aside 1% of your time as a leader and business to invest in education. As your team explores the latest innovations in their area of expertise, they will grow in their own skills - making your business more efficient. Spending time training actually saves you time as a business in the long run. Equip your people. Inspire them to always be asking “Why?” Start with 1%, and grow from there. Change is the pathway to future success. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & Takeaways
This Week’s Superstar Guest: Drura Parrish
Connect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 23 Aug 2021 | Getting Dirty on the Factory Floor: What Does it Mean and Why Does it Matter? | 00:32:19 | |
| 07 Feb 2023 | Recruiting Manufacturing Leaders is a Lot Like Selling, 345 | 00:25:48 | |
As a manufacturing leader, one of the most important things you can do is hire the right people. As I’ve been working through the recruiting process, I started to realize that it closely parallels the sales process. And if you excel as a salesperson, you’ll find it easier to recruit than you think. In this episode of MakingChips, we talk about recruitment in manufacturing. Because if you can't build the right team, you’re not MakingChips, and if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM! Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 24 Feb 2016 | MC059: Women in Manufacturing - Stamping Out a New Vision with Erica Wiegel | 00:29:10 | |
Women are the future of manufacturing industry leaders and essential to the success of the industry. However, many women in manufacturing have experienced a gender bias which has excluded them from core managerial roles such as production supervisors and operations managers. Compounding the issue, many people think of manufacturing jobs as dirty, unskilled, back-breaking labor. That’s not the case anymore...
On this episode of MakingChips, we have a great conversation with Erica Wiegel, President and Owner of Aro Metal Stamping. Erica shares with us her inspiring story of accomplishing her goals through acquiring a new business. She details the acquisition process, challenges she faced along the way, and lessons she has learned from her experience. We also discuss manufacturing news, WBE certification, associations, and the future of manufacturing. Episode Outline:
Mentioned in this Episode:
We Want to Hear From You:
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| 12 Apr 2023 | Lights Out: Training Machinists with an Automation Mindset with Titan Gilroy, 354 | 00:39:39 | |
Lights out manufacturing isn’t only a large topic of conversation but it’s also the way of the future. Shops around the world are embracing automation. Are you? If you haven’t become part of the automation conversation, don’t miss our first lights-out-focused episode with Special guest Titan Gilroy. He shares how automation has progressed, the mindset you need to embrace to be successful, and how to mitigate the risks. Because if you’re not automating, you’re not MakingChips. And if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM! – Jason Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 15 Sep 2020 | How to Use Lean Manufacturing Concepts to Connect Marketing Strategy with Execution | 00:43:07 | |
This week on the MakingChips podcast, Host Nick Goellner, Jim Carr, and Jason Zenger discuss the Agile Marketing Process and how to have a marketing program in place that allows you to pivot when the time comes!
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| 24 Mar 2025 | Machine Shop MBA: How to Become a Top Shop with Brent Donaldson, 456 | 00:47:20 | |
What if you could measure your shop's success against the industry’s best—and discover exactly where you can improve? In this episode, we’re launching a groundbreaking new series with Modern Machine Shop to help you do just that. We’re joined by Brent Donaldson, who walks us through the powerful Top Shops program—a game-changing benchmarking tool that reveals everything from machine utilization to employee engagement. The Top Shops survey isn’t just another tool; it’s a blueprint for success. By comparing your shop to the industry’s top performers, you’ll uncover where you’re excelling and, just as importantly, where you can level up. The data is real, actionable, and tailored to your shop’s unique performance. This series will equip you with the insights and strategies needed to push your shop to the top. We dive deep into the key performance indicators (KPIs) that distinguish high-performing shops from the rest. Whether it’s tracking financial metrics like profit margins and revenue per employee, or operational benchmarks such as first-pass quality yield and machine uptime, the Top Shops program provides a comprehensive look at what it really takes to run a successful, high-performing shop. We’ve seen firsthand how filling out the survey has led to tangible improvements in our own businesses. Now, we’re sharing those lessons with you. In each episode, we’ll break down KPIs, share practical strategies, and provide expert advice that you can apply to your own shop right away. If you’re ready to optimize your operations, build a winning team, and increase your profitability, this series is for you. Don’t miss out—tune in and start applying these proven strategies today. The road to becoming a top shop starts here! Segments
Resources mentioned on this episodeConnect With MakingChips | |||
| 06 Sep 2024 | At the Boring Bar 1-2 (Jason Zenger, Nick Goellner, Mike Payne, Paul Van Metre, Peter Eelman, Nicole Wolter, Chris Luecke, and Manny Pasillas) | 00:40:50 | |
How do you grow a machine shop through acquisitions? What is it like working in a legacy family business? How do you find and hire talented engineers? Where does AI fit into the daily grind? These are all questions that this team of industry experts and friends seek to answer over a glass of bourbon At the Boring Bar. Jason Zenger, Nick Goellner, Mike Payne, Paul Van Metre, Peter Eelman, Nicole Wolter, Chris Luecke, and Manny Pasillas share their unique perspectives on the manufacturing industry—and how it must adapt—in part II. Check it out! Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 08 Sep 2016 | MC080: ASK MAKINGCHIPS: Promoting a Positive Culture in your Work Environment | 00:27:32 | |
Today on MakingChips, we answer a question from a listener and aspiring manufacturing leader named Doug. Doug asks the question: "Not being a manager yet, what can I do to promote a positive culture/work environment at work?" Jim and Jason share their respective opinions on the matter. In Manufacturing News, we talk about concerns over rising wages in the metal industry. Later on, we share some details on our Make & Elevate series, and we preview IMTS' "Miles for Manufacturing" 5K event. Episode Structure:
Mentioned in this Episode:
We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 09 Sep 2020 | Prototypes to Production/ Tips on How CARR Made the Move | 00:42:26 | |
This week on the MakingChips Podcast, Jim Carr shares 6 tips on what CARR Machine & Tool has done to pivot from prototypes to becoming a full production machine shop.
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| 02 Jan 2024 | SZN1: Manufacturing Fuels Grit with Drew Crowe and Andy Mueller Part 1, 389 | 00:49:59 | |
Andy Mueller is a seasoned vet in manufacturing, one of the real OGs. I’ve leaned on him for advice and support throughout the years because he’s been through the seasons and weathered the storms. Andy was able to step in and teach my students things that I couldn’t with my limited resources. That’s why, in this episode of MakingChips, we have a conversation with Andy about inspiring the next generation and teaching them what they can’t learn in classes. Because if they aren’t MakingChips, they aren't making money. BAM! – Drew Crowe Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
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| 06 May 2015 | MC022: Taking your corporate snapshot | 00:25:15 | |
A corporate snapshot that has nothing to do with a camera!
Shop owners know what they do because they do it every day. But how do you communicate your areas of specialty and expertise in a concise, powerful way so that your prospective clients are able to get it right off? That’s what a corporate snapshot is for.
In this episode of Making Chips, Jim and Jason invite 3 guests into the study who specialize in helping businesses create their very own corporate snapshot. Their guests are Jule Poulos (a previous guest from episode 19 of Making Chips), Ray Ziganto (another previous guest - episode 18 of Making Chips), and Jon Baklund (yet another previous guest - Making Chips episode 21).
Here’s a brief summary of 4 important questions that a corporate snapshot should answer:
When you’re able to clearly and accurately define and express those 4 key issues about your company you unlock the power to do a couple of very powerful things…
This episode of Making Chips is full of practical, powerful advice about why you need your own corporate snapshot and how you can develop one. Listen in to the conversation to get started on your own corporate snapshot! Here’s the outline of the conversation about corporate snapshots
Links mentioned on this episode
www.MakingChips.com - sign up for the Making Chips newsletter
Tweets you can use to tell others about the benefits of vending systems
The number one tool in your toolbox is a corporate snapshot. Find out more on this episode.
A corporate snapshot empowers your employees to serve the customer.
Do you know the 4 crucial components of a corporate snapshot?
What is a corporate snapshot and why do you need one? On this episode of Making Chips
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| 18 Oct 2024 | Automation Begins Before Machining with Toolpath Part II, 433 | 00:22:44 | |
In this episode of MakingChips, Al Whatmough explores how AI and automation are transforming the manufacturing industry—not by replacing people, but by empowering them to focus on higher-value work. Al shares insights from IMTS and introduces the concept of Human-Aided Manufacturing (HAM), where AI handles routine tasks, freeing machinists to make smarter decisions. They also discuss shifting compensation models toward productivity-based metrics and how automation unlocks new growth opportunities. Tune in to learn how embracing AI can set your team free to innovate and thrive. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 07 Jul 2016 | MC074: How Digitization Will Affect Manufacturing with Jeff Rizzie | 00:43:30 | |
On this episode of MakingChips, we are joined by Jeff Rizzie, Senior Manager of Business Development at Sandvik Coromant. Jeff talks with us about the next phase of digital manufacturing and what changes we can expect to see in the future in terms of process improvement and efficiency. He also shares some key steps to help you start digitizing in your manufacturing shop. In manufacturing news, we talk about open-book management and what one firm is doing to help implement that system. Also discussed is the highly anticipated Mastermind Series and Workshop, as well as the upcoming IMTS 2016. Episode Structure:
Mentioned in this Episode:
We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 23 Aug 2022 | Employee Benefits: Are You Really Benefiting? | 00:31:25 | |
Does your team know what they’re really getting when you offer employee benefits, such as health insurance and a 401k? In this episode of MakingChips, Jason and I dissect the employee benefits we offer at Carr Machine & Tool. When we calculate what we’re investing in our employees, the number is shocking. Learn just how valuable offering employee benefits can be in this episode! After all, you have to incentivize your employees to make chips, so you’re making money! BAM! – Jim Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips
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| 17 Mar 2016 | MC061: Riches in the Niches | 00:32:38 | |
We come to you from two separate locations (Dallas & Chicago) on this remote episode of MakingChips. Today we talk about establishing and exploring your manufacturing company’s niche. Jim and Jason share their idea of what niche means to them in their respective companies. In Manufacturing News we discuss Five Vital Steps to Set Up a Successful Manufacturing Business. We also recap the TMA’s 90th annual meeting, and introduce a new MakingChips partnership. Episode Outline:
Mentioned in Episode: We Want to Hear From You:
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| 22 Dec 2018 | Lean Process Improvement with Noah Goellner | 00:39:50 | |
On this week’s episode of MakingChips, guest Noah Goellner talks about lean process improvement for manufacturers. Noah is the Vice President of Continuous Improvement for Hennig Inc. He is also a lean expert with who presents lean practices in his role at Hennig and as a member of the board of directors of QRM. During this conversation with Jim and Jason, Noah shares why focusing on lean process improvement is important for manufacturers and how it can help transform their companies. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact Why do manufacturers need to focus on lean process improvementManufactures should devote time to integrating lean into their companies for many reasons. There are cost saving benefits, improvement of throughput, better problem-solving skills and employee development and much more. Failure to have a lean process can put you behind the competition Noah says, “You can’t improve without changing and you can’t change without improving unless you are going the wrong way.” Listen as Noah explains the benefits of lean process improvement during this podcast. How lean flows value to the customerSuccess doesn’t begin on the shop floor. Most of what determines success happens upstream before the work ever reaches a machine. Quality engineering, supply chain, and employee development all determine whether or not your company can serve your customers well. Lean process improvement is all about flowing value to the customer by eliminating waste or white space, increasing efficiency and consistently improving in all areas of the business. Listen as Noah Goellner shares more ways that lean flows value to the customer. How can you start implementing lean into your company?As with any new process implementation, the key is to take the first step. You don’t have to wait until you have everything figured out. And you don’t have to do everything at once. Consider your pain points and areas of inefficiency and start with one challenge. Noah Goellner talks about taking a cata approach to solving problems. He encourages manufacturing leaders to avoid the shotgun approach and instead take a focused approach to implement lean. Lean process improvement over the natural approachManufacturing leaders can fall into the habit of operating their companies under natural or organic processes and expectations. However, growth and improvement must be intentional. Noah explains that taking the natural approach allows you to work in your areas of strength while your weaknesses remain unaddressed. Lean process improvement can be an effective agent of change, especially in the areas of weakness. As you identify the challenges within the business, you can then start to implement strategies to change for the benefit of the company and the customers you serve. Hear all about that and more on this episode of MakingChips. Here’s The Good Stuff!
Tools & TakeawaysThis Week’s Superstar GuestConnect With MakingChipsSubscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify | |||
| 02 Sep 2015 | MC037: Innovation in the Manufacturing Industry - Part 2, with Sarah Calidcott | 00:35:12 | |
In this great part-two episode, Jason and Jim continue their conversation with Sarah Caldicott. Besides being an extremely intelligent student of business and innovation, Sarah is an author and the great grandniece of Thomas Edison. Her study and writing is largely based on her own interest in her famous relative who was not only an amazing inventor, but also a manufacturer in his own right. Listen in to hear tales of Edison’s life and systems and why his contributions to the manufacturing industry continue to impact us today.
Thomas Edison’s “systematic innovation”
Edison had a process that he followed to not only innovate in his own thinking and processes, but to encourage innovation in his employees. It was a different way of thinking which included many aspects, including collaboration, product creation, and looking at issues from a variety of angles. He demonstrated that true innovation comes about by truly getting outside the conventions that exist to approach situations and problems in different ways that provide new solutions to the problem. Listen in as Jim and Jason chat with Edison’s great grandniece, Sarah Caldicott.
“Charismatic optimism” is how Sarah Caldicott (Thomas Edison’s great grandniece) describes his attitude
It’s more than a “rah-rah” mindset that is filled with unrealistic fluff. It’s a “can do” mindset that sees opportunities where others see obstacles. Edison was legendary for that kind of optimism even in the face of incredible difficulty or tragedy. In this episode Sarah shares quite a few instances of how Edison pushed through difficulties to accomplish incredible breakthroughs and turns a corner to help you see how that kind of attitude can become infections in your company, enabling you to accomplish more, innovate to a greater degree, and become more profitable. That’s on this episode, so listen in.
Better educated employees make for a more productive and innovative company
Thomas Edison had a library IN his manufacturing facility that contained over 50,000 volumes. He encouraged his employees to borrow books from the library to read, learn, and grow at all times. His belief was that employees who were growing in their knowledge and in their ability to see and recognize patterns. He believed that individual growth in his employees would make them better employees and enable his company to thrive and innovate even more. Hear the entire story by listening to this episode of Making Chips.
When you assess things, how are you at “engaging other senses?”
Thomas Edison had a summer home in Florida, at which he had a manufacturing facility, garden, and many other atypical things. He loved to get out into the gardens and feel, smell, and experience natural things. He believed natural things could be used as inspiration and even elements of the design itself. As an example, the first filament Edison used in the light bulb was made of bamboo. Listen in to hear Sarah Caldicott’s take on how manufacturing leaders can engage all of their senses in the manufacturing realm, all on this episode. Outline of this episode
Links mentioned in this episode
www.OnlineMetals.com - Thyssen Krupp’s website - our sponsor.
Midnight Lunch - Sarah’s book
Innovate Like Edison - Sarah’s other book
Sarah’s website - www.SarahCaldicott.com
Or call us at 312-725-0245
Tweets you can use to tell others about the episode
Learn the #1 way to boot up your mind and become an innovator
What was in Thomas Edison’s notebooks, and how it can help you innovate
Why Thomas Edison encouraged his employees to learn and grow… in this episode
What is charismatic optimism & how can leaders employ it to be better leaders & business owners.
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| 22 Oct 2024 | How the Skilled Careers Coalition is Bridging the Manufacturing Skills Gap, 434 | 00:50:32 | |
“How do we connect today’s youth with the skilled careers of tomorrow?” This is the challenge the Skilled Careers Coalition is determined to solve. Manufacturing is at a crossroads. Long-time business owners are retiring without successors, shutting down operations entirely. Skilled operators are stepping away, leaving a void without replacements. Shops are struggling to keep up as talent drains at an alarming pace. Mark Hedstrom, Executive Director of the Skilled Careers Coalition, explains their mission: to close the skills gap by inspiring the next generation and linking them to fulfilling careers. It’s more than just promoting jobs—it's about helping young people find purpose through skilled work. Learn how the Coalition is driving change—and how manufacturing leaders like you can play a role—in this episode of MakingChips. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 08 Nov 2023 | MakingSparks: Part 2: Tactics and Strategies to Use for Recruiting in Manufacturing, 381 | 00:40:46 | |
Recruiting in manufacturing can be difficult. Many students are taught the traditional “Graduate high school and go to college for four years” mentality. While there’s nothing wrong with taking that route, how do we capture the attention of young talent? How do we make them see the career trajectory available in welding or fabrication? Lindsey Nix and Angela Kirlin share some actionable tactics and strategies in this episode of MakingSparks! – Matthew Nix Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 10 Jan 2018 | MC131: A Driven Process for Manufacturing Sales | 00:35:54 | |
Hello Metalworking Nation! On today’s episode, we welcome two very special guests from Orbitform to the MakingChips Podcast. We are pleased to welcome Phil Sponsler (President of Orbitform) and David Shirkey (Manager of Strategic Initiatives). Orbitform (Jackson, Michigan) manufacturers custom assembly machines and assembly systems to customers and industries around the world. Phil and David tell us the story of how Orbitform was started and how they got involved with the company. We'll hear some insights on Orbitform's remarkable success following the great recession and how they developed an internal CRM software system that created unprecedented efficiency in their business. In Manufacturing News, we continue to talk about the industry's growing optimism as U.S. Manufacturing accelerates to it's best year in over a decade. Episode Outline: Links Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: | |||
| 23 Mar 2017 | MC100: Navigating a Challenging Workforce: An Exclusive 100th Episode MakingChips Roundtable Discussion | 01:10:25 | |
Hello, Metalworking Nation! Today is an exciting day in the history of MakingChips as we release the highly anticipated Episode 100! We are coming to you live from the Technology & Manufacturing Association in Chicago, IL where we have assembled a panel of some of the most progressive manufacturing leaders in the Chicagoland area. With us today we have return VIP guest, Brian Panek -- Vice President of Panek Precision, Jess Giudici -- Talent and Culture Manager at Smalley Steel Ring Company, Bill Downey -- President at Hi-Grade Welding & Manufacturing, and Tom Simeone -- President of Manor Tool. On today's episode, we will be discussing one of the most challenging topics that people are talking about right now -- workforce development, training, and hiring. Our panel offers their insight into the issue as they discuss solutions they are implementing in their own business. Episode Outline: Mentioned in this Episode: We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation:
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| 28 Jun 2024 | MakingSparks: What’s Keeping You Up at Night? An Update from Matthew and Casey, 414 | 00:23:55 | |
What’s keeping you up at night? What are you excited about? It’s important to reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly. Why? First and foremost, to learn from our mistakes. But secondly, to embrace gratitude. Even despite challenges and setbacks, there’s always room for gratefulness and thankfulness. So in this episode of MakingSparks, Casey and I sit down to discuss the challenges we’re facing and exciting changes happening in our businesses. We also share why we don’t let worry consume us and instead, practice gratitude. – Matthew Nix Segments
Have questions? Want to be a guest? Reach out to us on LinkedIn! We’d love to hear from you. Resources mentioned on this episodeConnect With MakingChips | |||
| 05 Nov 2024 | How Can We Champion Manufacturing? with Terry Iverson (Part 2), 436 | 00:32:29 | |
In this MakingChips episode, Terry discusses the transformative power of mentoring in manufacturing, especially the importance of reverse mentoring. He shares how younger, tech-savvy workers can help Baby Boomers adapt to new technologies, creating a reciprocal learning relationship. This approach combines the strengths of both generations, enhancing collaboration and knowledge transfer within organizations. Terry also introduces Camp CHAMP, a hands-on program for middle and high school students that teaches manufacturing principles through activities like CNC milling and laser engraving. High school mentors guide younger participants, who gain practical skills and complete projects to take home. Terry hopes to expand Camp CHAMP nationwide with easy-to-implement kits that make it accessible for communities across the U.S. Learn how you as a manufacturing leader can play a role in bridging the gap between generations in this episode of MakingChips! Because if future generations aren’t MakingChips, no one is making money…BAM! Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 24 Oct 2023 | MakingSparks: The Launch of MakingSparks with Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix, 379 | 00:18:13 | |
MakingSparks has officially arrived! Matthew Nix and I, Casey Voelker, are here to speak to the welding and fabrication industry. And just like MakingChips, we want to equip and inspire while attracting the next generation. Everyone will have some takeaways from MakingSparks. In this episode, Matthew shares more about Nix Companies and their explosive growth over the last 20 years. We’ll also cover what you can expect from MakingSparks, who should listen, and give you a sneak peek at our next episode. – Casey Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect With MakingChips | |||
| 07 Apr 2021 | 6 Communications Tools for the Manufacturing Leader | 00:34:51 | |
In this week’s episode of MakingChips, hosts Nick Goellner and Jason Zenger discuss 6 Communications Tools for the Manufacturing Leader. Segments:
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| 02 Dec 2024 | No-Drama Leadership: Marlene Chism’s Guide to Transforming Workplace Conflict (Part 1), 440 | 00:39:17 | |
How do you break free from dysfunctional workplace dynamics and create real transformation? Marlene Chism, a former factory worker turned HR consultant and coach, shares her journey from the shop floor to becoming an expert in conflict management. After 21 years at Kraft Foods, Marlene realized she wanted more. When she started taking college classes, she discovered the Karpman Drama Triangle—a tool for understanding the roles of victim, persecutor, and rescuer—and it changed how she approached relationships and leadership. In this episode, Marlene shares powerful insights and memorable stories, including a surprising lesson about boundaries and assumptions from a coworker. Whether you're leading a team or navigating workplace challenges, Marlene’s practical wisdom will inspire you to see conflict—and yourself—in a new way. Join us to learn how shifting your mindset can transform your relationships and workplace. Segments
Resources mentioned on this episode
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| 07 Oct 2015 | The benefit of associations and chambers for your manufacturing company | 00:20:05 | |
Chambers of commerce have been around for a very long time. The very first recorded mention of a chamber of commerce was in Marseille, .France in 1599. Trade associations have an equally long history with Associations finding their roots in organizations such as the church, medieval craft guilds, and merchant trading groups. Both groups still exist today and could be an important avenue through which your manufacturing business receives support, stays engaged with your community or industry, or becomes known for what you do and the quality with which you do it. On this episode of Making Chips, Jim and Jason chat a bit about the differences between chambers and associations and give their input about the value of each.
What is a chamber of commerce and how should you decide if being a member would be beneficial to your company?
When you think of a chamber of commerce the first thing that comes to mind should be the word “local.” A chamber of commerce is always tied to a local community, whether it be a township, city, or other local area. The focus of a chamber is to consider and discuss the interests of all businesses in its local area, moving beyond individual interests to that of a collective group. The establishment of chambers provides merchants, traders, craftsmen and business owners a public forum to discuss issues facing them as a business community. This representation of common interests became, and remains, the foundation of chambers of commerce worldwide. Should YOUR business become a member of your local chamber? Jim and Jason have some things for you to think about as you consider that decision. Take a few minutes to listen to this episode to hear what they advise.
What is a trade association and would it benefit your business to join one?
A trade association, also known as an industry trade group, is an organization founded and funded by businesses that operate in a specific industry or a specific niche of an industry. An industry trade association participates in public relations activities such as advertising, education, political donations, lobbying and publishing, but its main focus is collaboration between the companies that make up its membership. Associations may offer other services, such as producing conferences, providing networking or charitable events, or offering classes or educational materials to its members. In the manufacturing industry there are a number of associations, many specialized to serve its particular membership. Should your company be a member of a specific trade association? Only you can answer that question but Jason and Jim have some thoughts about what you should consider before deciding. You can hear their advice on this episode of Making Chips.
Why would I want to join my local chamber of commerce?
Given your company’s role and profile in the community, membership in your local chamber may not be a good fit. But there are many good reasons TO join your local chamber: Membership could bring credibility to your business in the community. Membership could increase your visibility in the community. Becoming a member could provide networking opportunities for your business. Being a chamber member could also give you an amplified voice in governmental issues. As part of your local chamber you’ll also make local business contacts. With a chamber membership, you can also reach potential clients through member exclusive advertising and opportunities for business-to-business advertising and publicity.
What are the benefits to joining a trade association?
Trade associations provide a valuable resource to those who take advantage of their resources. Some of the reasons you might want to be a part of a specific association are: 1. You can receive specialized knowledge. Odds are that someone, somewhere, in the industry has already discovered the solution to a vexing problem in your particular niche. 2. You can enhance your company’s reputation. 3. You can make personal and industry-related connections. 4. You could increase your company’s purchasing power. Trade associations often arrange for members to receive discounts on certain products and services. 5. Your company could gain political clout and expertise. Trade associations bring competitors together, turning each small voice into a persuasive, collective shout that gets the attention of lawmakers and officials. Listen in as Jim and Jason discuss the benefits of their membership in various associations.
Outline of this episode
Links mentioned in this episode
Mazak’s upcoming event - https://www.mazakusa.com/discover2015/
Or call us at 312-725-0245 | |||