Recruiting and retaining great people is one of the biggest challenges in manufacturing today—but what if the solution isn’t just about wages or benefits, but about building a culture where people thrive? In this episode of the Machine Shop MBA series, we are joined by guest co-host Jon Franko and special guest Mike Tamasi, CEO of AccuRounds, a former Top Shops award winner for Human Resources.

Mike shares how AccuRounds has become an employer of choice by focusing on community engagement, core values, and creating opportunity for every team member. From partnering with vocational schools and launching unique workforce development programs to embracing servant leadership and lifelong learning, Mike reveals why culture is not a buzzword—it’s a competitive advantage.

You’ll hear how AccuRounds is tackling the workforce shortage by looking beyond traditional talent pools, empowering young people through co-ops and internships, and even launching initiatives like the Uniquely Abled Academy to provide CNC training for adults on the autism spectrum. The results? A highly engaged team, industry recognition, and stories of employees buying homes, building families, and creating meaningful careers.

If you’re a shop leader struggling with workforce challenges—or simply looking for fresh ideas on how to build a resilient and loyal team—this episode is packed with lessons you can implement immediately.

Segments

(1:00) Stay vigilant—don’t fall for this latest phone scam
(3:47) Mike’s shares the background of AccuRounds and their Top Shops Award
(5:18) Community involvement: Redefining manufacturing as “safe, smart, sustainable, and sexy”
(8:06) Head to the EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event
(9:13) The growing demand for trade schools vs. college enrollment
(10:02) Co-ops, internships, and the importance of lifelong learning opportunities
(14:22) Creative talent pipelines: Programs for autistic adults, refugees, and formerly incarcerated workers
(16:33) Core values in action: Gratitude, Excellence, Team First, Initiative, Trust (GET IT)
(20:06) Retention strategies: safety, flexibility, lean practices, and environment
(22:41) Layering in corporate social responsibility practices
(24:26) Apprenticeship and leadership training for employees at every level
(26:29) Why you should come see us at AMT’s MTForecast
(27:45) Invest in technology and opportunities to keep people engaged and growing
(32:45) Stories of employee success: buying homes, raising families, and long-term loyalty
(35:09) Recognition and international visitors: building a reputation through culture
(38:43) The importance of servant leadership—culture cannot be outsourced to HR
(40:12) Lessons in flexibility: “freedom with fences”
(43:16) Jason Ray: Leveraging technology as a recruiting and retention tool
(51:29) Scheduling and the shift away from second shift
(54:38) Learn more about the Manufacturing Employer podcast
(57:29) RASRAM = Reasons to check out the SMW Autoblok catalog

Resources mentioned on this episode

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Outro

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