The Manufacturers' Network

Connect with Eknauth Persaud:Phone: 817-210 4042LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eknauth/Website: ayokasystems.com/ Welcome to the Manufacturers Network Podcast! In this episode, our host, Lisa Ryan, is joined by Eknauth Persaud, the CEO of Ioka Systems, a renowned expert in utilizing AI for manufacturing. Eknauth offers valuable insights into the potential of AI to revolutionize decision-making in the manufacturing industry, emphasizing its role in preserving best practices and guiding newer employees. He shares real-life examples of AI's impact on processes and discusses the careful considerations and potential risks of integrating AI into manufacturing operations. The episode delves into the benefits of AI in improving quality, consistency, and employee satisfaction while also addressing the need for data protection and intellectual property security. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation about the power of AI in manufacturing and the strategic use of technology to drive efficiency and innovation.Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:1. AI as a Decision-Making Tool: Eknauth highlighted the missed opportunity for manufacturers to leverage AI to fill the middle ground of decision-making, emphasizing its potential to emulate the decision-making of experienced employees and offer guidance for consistent decision-making.2. Preserving Expertise: He discussed the opportunity for manufacturers to incorporate the legacy and expertise of long-time employees into AI, guiding newer employees and preserving best practices. Eknauth shared a real-life example of using software to capture procedures and processes, guide newer employees, and evaluate performance relative to forecasts.3. Ethical Considerations: Eknauth discussed the importance of data protection and caution when utilizing AI for generating code, underscoring the importance of preserving intellectual property and safeguarding data.4. Sustainable Manufacturing: Host Lisa Ryan highlighted the importance of sustainability in manufacturing and the need to attract younger generations while raising concerns about misunderstandings of digital transformation among manufacturing leaders.5. Protecting Intellectual Property: Eknauth emphasized the need to keep AI systems within the company's network to protect data and intellectual property, contrasting publicly available AI models with internally-driven AI models used in manufacturing.The episode comprehensively explored the potential benefits and pitfalls of integrating AI into manufacturing processes. Eknauth's expert insights shed light on the transformative power of AI in guiding decision-making and optimizing processes.If you want to explore the possibilities of AI in manufacturing or have questions, feel free to reach out to Eknauth Persaud. You can connect with him at 817-210 4042. He expressed his willingness to share his thoughts and help others navigate the integration of AI within manufacturing processes.

Contact Joe Ricci: jricci@trsa.orgLInkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-ricci-trsa/TRSA.orgIn this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan sits down with Joe Ricci, President and CEO of the Textile Rental Services Association of America. Joe shares insights into North America's $50 billion textile services industry, touching on its economic impact, sustainability efforts, and future trends. From the importance of cleanliness and sustainability to the challenges and opportunities within the industry, Joe provides an in-depth look at the textile services landscape and sheds light on its vital role in everyday life. Tune in to learn more about the industry's commitment to sustainability, technological advancements, and the efforts to attract and retain a skilled workforce.Key takeaways from the episode:1. Sustainable Practices: The textile industry is focused on sustainability, from reducing water and chemical usage to embracing the circular economy and recycling textiles back into raw fabrics.2. Safety and Innovation: Embracing technology has transformed the industry, improving safety, productivity, and reduced turnover while also addressing challenges such as PFAS and microplastics.3. Workforce Development: Industry members are implementing creative strategies to attract, train, and retain talent, demonstrating a commitment to the workforce and addressing the ongoing labor shortage.Listen to the full episode for in-depth insights on the important role played by the textile services industry in healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, as well as its impact on sustainability and the economy.#ManufacturersNetwork #Podcast #TextileIndustry #Sustainability #Innovation #WorkforceDevelopment

Connect with Roger Atkins: ratkins@ntma.orgIn this episode, our guest, Roger Atkins, President of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA), shares invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of the manufacturing industry. Roger's lifelong involvement in manufacturing, shaped by his family's influence and experience in the field, has fueled his dedication to sustaining and enhancing the industry. Throughout the episode, he delves into many critical topics, ranging from the impact of government regulations on small and medium-sized manufacturers to the essential role of automation and modernization in staying competitive globally. He underscores the significance of reshoring operations and the pressing need to attract and train a skilled workforce, particularly drawing younger individuals into the manufacturing sector. By the end of this episode, you will gain a deeper understanding of the driving forces shaping the industry's future and the crucial initiatives led by NTMA. Throughout the episode, Roger Atkins, the guest, discusses key points:- How younger individuals are entering careers in manufacturing without college debt due to financing from those who need it.- The harmful impact of government regulations on small to medium-sized manufacturers, such as taxes and regulatory restrictions.- The uncertainty of elections affecting the manufacturing industry and reshoring becoming a trend due to the challenges faced during the pandemic.- Manufacturers must reduce costs and adopt automation and robotics to stay competitive globally.- The introduction of an exclusive tooling program by the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) to help members reduce costs without affecting prices, protect their profits, and help them stay in business.Throughout the discussion, Roger Atkins shares his insights and expertise based on his extensive experience as the president of NTMA. By highlighting the hardships and opportunities within the manufacturing sector, he underscores the importance of sustaining and enhancing the industry's vitality.The Importance of Mentorship in Business: "My dad went to his grave telling would tell anybody that it was his intimate friends and colleagues that taught him how to run a business."— Roger Atkins [00:04:22 → 00:04:29]The Power of Unity in Manufacturing: "When those little shops bind together, all of a sudden, we find out we're not the little guy in the game, that we play a huge role of of US manufacturing."— Roger Atkins [00:09:11 → 00:10:01]The Importance of Manufacturing in Space Exploration: "Nothing you touch, anything you touch, there was a manufacturer involved at some point in the process. Regardless of what it is."— Roger Atkins [00:12:22 → 00:12:30]The Importance of Manufacturing Careers: "But that one of the big challenges is that the other thing that really we fight against all the time are government regulations that really harms small to medium-sized factors."— Roger Atkins [00:16:27 → 00:16:36]The Impact of Regulations on Small Businesses: "And it stopped a couple of years ago, and they've used this as a political football where both sides agree it's great and small business needs it, But we're gonna use it as a political football to get something else we need."— Roger Atkins [00:17:04 → 00:17:16]The impact of presidential election years on small to medium-sized manufacturers: "Being our customers, they maybe we're going to have administration change. We don't. All that so everybody's in limbo in an election year, and I think that does affect small, medium, Small to medium-sized manufacturers until a decision's made as to what direction we're going to go as a nation politically."— Roger Atkins [00:18:06 → 00:18:22]Reshoring Opportunities in Manufacturing: "I think you're going to see a continued reshowing opportunity that comes our way. I think you, manufacturing at large, the demand will continue, and it will be up to us if we can handle it or not."— Roger Atkins [00:21:21 → 00:21:34]The Future of Manufacturing: "You're either gonna change or die."— Roger Atkins [00:22:43 → 00:23:50]"Benefits of NTMA's Exclusive Tooling Program": "It's about reducing the cost of your company, which allows you then to reduce your price, and it does, and it protects your profits Because you can't be in business without profits, and to lower your price only takes out of your profit. So our goal at NTMA is to help people reduce their costs."— Roger Atkins [00:23:50 → 00:24:47]NTMA and Manufacturing Community: "After Google, NTM is your answer."— Roger Atkins [00:30:24 → 00:30:26]

Connect with David Klotz: dklotz@pma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klotzdavid/In this episode, you'll meet David Klotz, the president of the Precision Metal Forming Association (PMA). David brings a wealth of experience in manufacturing, sales, and leadership, making him a valuable voice in the industry. Join us as we explore David's background, manufacturing journey, and impactful work with PMA. Key Themes:1. Family Background and Early Exposure to Manufacturing: David Klotz shared how his family's involvement in manufacturing, starting with his father's tool and die company, led to his early exposure to the industry. From working at the family business during high school to engaging in various roles within the company, Klotz gained invaluable experience from a young age.2. Transition to Software Sales and Role at PMA: After the family business was sold in 2006, Klotz ventured into software sales and later took on the role of President at the Precision Metal Forming Association (PMA). He discussed his journey and how his professional experiences have shaped his understanding of sales and leadership in the manufacturing sector.3. The Value of Membership Associations: Klotz emphasized the significance of being involved with industry associations and the value it brings to companies and individuals. He particularly highlighted the unique culture at PMA, where members support and learn from each other, distinguishing it from other association models.4. Developing Future Leaders in Manufacturing: Klotz talked about initiatives to strengthen the next generation of leaders in manufacturing within PMA. He discussed the success and impact of the Management Development Academy (MDA) and shared how younger members are increasingly becoming involved with PMA's districts and leadership groups.5. The Importance of Personalized Connection: Klotz emphasized the importance of personally engaging with members and its positive impact on creating a strong, supportive manufacturing community. He shared anecdotes from his plant visits, showcasing the enthusiasm and pride of members in showcasing their operations.Lessons Learned:- Early exposure to a family business can instill valuable experience and passion for an industry.- Transitioning roles within a career can bring new insights and contribute to professional growth.- Association membership can create a unique, supportive environment for industry professionals to learn and grow together.- Investing in developing future leaders and engaging with them creates a strong foundation for industry growth and continuity.Fun Facts:- Klotz's early exposure to the family business involved various tasks, from working in the tool and die area to sweeping floors and painting.- There is a "301 Club" within PMA, named after the experience of several members achieving a perfect bowling score or getting a hole-in-one in golf, showcasing the camaraderie and unique connections within the organization.

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan speaks with President and CEO of the International Sign Association, Lori Anderson. Lori shares her journey in association management and her passion for serving the sign graphics industry, emphasizing the industry's impact on communities and the unique craftsmanship involved in sign-making. They discuss the technological advancements in the sign industry, workforce challenges, and initiatives to attract younger generations. Lori also gives a sneak peek into the upcoming International Sign Expo in Orlando and highlights the association's advocacy work in local communities. Stay tuned for a deep dive into the behind-the-scenes work that shapes the sign industry and the exciting events at the upcoming trade show.Key Themes:1. Passion and Creativity: The sign industry is fueled by passionate individuals who view their work as a craft, taking pride in creating custom signs that serve businesses and communities. The industry's commitment to craftsmanship and creativity sets it apart.2. Technological Advancements: Digitalization has revolutionized the sign industry, transforming printing, electronic signage, and lighting technologies. The podcast highlights the industry's ability to adapt to digital advancements and stay at the forefront of innovation.3. Workforce and Education: Lori discusses the challenges of attracting and retaining workers in the industry, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like Sign Manufacturing Day to introduce young people to potential careers in the sign industry.4. Safety and Sustainability: Safety is a critical focus in the sign industry, especially given the complexities of installation and maintenance, while sustainability efforts are increasingly being integrated into operations.Fun Facts:- The sign industry is often referred to as the "most visible invisible industry" due to its ubiquitous presence in everyday life.- The ISA's Sign Expo, a major industry event, offers attendees the opportunity to experience the latest technological advancements, network, and engage in various educational initiatives.Lessons Learned:- The importance of showcasing industries to young people to attract future workers.- The value of creating inclusive initiatives in the industry, such as the Women Leading Industry event, to encourage diversity and provide opportunities for women and allies to learn and connect.

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan welcomes Guitze Messina, the executive director of Hardy LatAm, to discuss sales, industry trends, and the importance of understanding customer needs in the HVACR industry. The conversation explores the impact of AI on sales, the significance of sustainability practices, attracting new talent to the industry, and the emerging shift from sales as an art to a science.*Key Points and Lessons Learned:*- Understanding Current Customers: Guitze Messina emphasizes the importance of understanding current customers before seeking new ones. Salespeople should focus on what percentage of products customers buy and what they like buying from the competition. It's essential to ask open-ended questions without being defensive to gather valuable information.- Implementing Sales Systems: The discussion also delves into the implementation of systems to increase sales and provide more value to customers. Follow-up and understanding if salespeople are in control or if customers are driving the sales process are vital components.- The Impact of AI: Guitze Messina and Lisa Ryan touch on the impact of AI in the industry, highlighting its potential to analyze customer buying patterns and facilitate more personalized interactions. The use of AI in writing emails and texts to make interactions more effective and humane is also emphasized.- Industry Trends and Sustainability: The conversation expands to historical examples of technological advancements affecting job markets and the industry's focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Guitze Messina notes the importance of attracting new talent, especially women, into the industry for diverse perspectives and strength.- Understanding HVACR Business Aspects: Guitze Messina stresses the need for manufacturers to understand the financial aspects and challenges faced by distributors and contractors in the HVACR industry, highlighting the need for recurring sales strategies and dealer programs.- Guitze's Book "Money Call": The episode concludes with Guitze providing a segue to discuss his book "Money Call," which focuses on sales techniques specific to the HVACR industry.*Key Themes:*- Customer Understanding and Sales Strategies- AI Impact on Sales and Interactions- Industry Trends and Sustainability- Attracting New Talent and Diversity- Understanding HVACR Business Aspects*Fun Facts:*- Guitze Messina's expertise in the HVACR industry in Latin America and his role as the executive director of Hardy LatAm.- The shifting focus of sales from an art to a science, incorporating statistical and data-driven approaches.- The growing adoption of best practices from the US HVACR industry in Latin America.- Guitze Messina's book "Money Call," tailored to sales techniques specific to the HVACR industry.

Darrin Mitchell has spent the last 25 years owning a global manufacturing business. After the business was sold, he recognized the frustration of always searching for guidance and excellence in growing his business. This led him to create the Manufacturing Masters Platform, where listeners can find practical advice and guidance for their leadership roles in the manufacturing industry. This platform aims to provide short, concise, and meaningful content for leaders in the industry.On this episode of the Manufacturers Network podcast, Lisa Ryan welcomes back Darrin Mitchell, President of Mitchell Industries and Chief Marketing Officer of the Manufacturing Masters platform. Darrin specializes in developing learning platforms that cater to the immediate needs of manufacturing teams, providing them with essential knowledge and advice to move their businesses forward. Manufacturing Masters is a platform with battle-tested industry experts who deliver concise, actionable insights to manufacturers within 5 minutes, addressing specific challenges and sharing best practices.Darrin reflects on the data collected by the platform, showcasing the key trends in the consumption of information by manufacturers. He emphasizes the importance of meeting manufacturers where they are and providing them with the information they need when they need it. Darrin also provides insightful predictions for 2024, highlighting the expected emphasis on digital transformation and the continuing focus on continuous improvement, people skills, and business leadership.The conversation also delves into the growing significance of mental health and well-being in the manufacturing industry, emphasizing the need for meaningful employee support and resources. As the podcast ends, Darrin provides contact details for Manufacturing Masters, encouraging listeners to explore the platform for their training and development needs in 2024 and beyond.This episode offers valuable insights for manufacturers, showcasing the evolving landscape of training and development in the industry and the shifting focus on important issues such as mental health and digital transformation.

Connect with Addison Adams:In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan is joined by M&A specialist Addison Adams, who shares valuable insights into the world of mergers and acquisitions within the manufacturing industry.Addison Adams is a seasoned lawyer turned corporate deal maker specializing in mergers and acquisitions for small and mid-size businesses. After starting his career in litigation, he transitioned to .com investor financings and found his passion in bringing parties together to close deals with mutual satisfaction. With a keen eye for deal structuring and a knack for navigating complex negotiations, Addison has become a trusted advisor in the corporate world. Addison's expertise and focus on creating win-win situations have made him a valuable asset in the business world, from buying and selling businesses to forming joint ventures.Key Theme:- Addison sheds light on the intricacies of selling a manufacturing company, emphasizing the importance of preparation, expertise, and strategic decision-making to navigate the process successfully.Lessons Learned:1. The Value of Investment Bankers and Business Brokers: Addison highlights the value brought by these professionals in casting a wide net for potential buyers, aiding in negotiations, and driving up sale prices through engaging in auctions.2. Confidentiality in Sales: The significance of maintaining confidentiality during the sale process is to prevent disruptions within the company and avoid potential risks associated with employees and customers becoming aware of the potential sale.3. Compliance with Employment Law: It is important to ensure all employment laws are meticulously adhered to, minimizing risks for the buyer in the sale process.4. The Role of Attorneys in M&A Deals: The benefits of partnering with specialist attorneys experienced in closing M&A deals for a faster, smoother, and more cost-effective process with better results.Fun Facts:- Addison Adams transitioned from a career in litigation to specialization in M&A within the manufacturing industry, driven by the positive energy of successful deals.- His firm represents companies outside California, exemplified by their current deal in Wisconsin.Actionable Ideas:1. Manufacturers should get organized, understand the value of their business, and be well-versed in their business's worth before a sale.2. Prepare for a sale by considering specialized employees, customer lists, facilities, supplier relationships, and proprietary processes.3. Engage a specialist attorney experienced in closing M&A deals to navigate the sale process effectively and efficiently.4. Understand sales' legal and financial implications, including the importance of due diligence and compliance with employment and other laws.In this episode, Addison Adams provides invaluable insights that manufacturers looking to sell their businesses can leverage to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the sales process effectively.Listen to the full episode for more detailed information, including specific examples and resources.

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan interviews Lisa Sanderson, the Vice President of Marketing and Strategy at Gleicher Manufacturing. Gleicher Manufacturing provides bonding, sealing, and fastening solutions for global clients, servicing industries such as the US military, aerospace, electronics, and medical devices. Lisa Sanderson shares her journey of returning to the family-owned business and her experiences implementing changes to transition from a family business to a business run by a family.Key Themes:1. Family Business Dynamics: Lisa Sanderson recounts her early exposure to the family business and the unexpected path that led her back to the company. The complexities and challenges of employing family members in a business, particularly in succession planning, are explored.2. Change Management: The discussion delves into the intricacies of implementing organizational changes in a long-standing company. Lisa Sanderson emphasizes the importance of understanding the workforce's resistance to change and the need to balance tradition with evolution.3. Training and Development: The importance of investing in employee training and development to adapt to modern manufacturing practices is highlighted. The conversation explores strategies for training, capturing employee knowledge, and transitioning towards digital practices.Lessons Learned:- There is a need to convince individuals of the necessity for change before expecting their willingness to adapt.- Regular and inclusive communication's significance in fostering employee buy-in amidst organizational changes.- Balancing tradition with the demand for innovation in a long-established family business requires patience and strategic planning.Fun Facts:- Lisa Sanderson discusses her diverse career journey, from being a product manager for consumer packaged goods to becoming a holistic health coach and author.- The conversation reflects on the challenges and humor in introducing modern technology and practices to longtime employees, highlighting the generational diversity within the workforce.Connect with Lisa Sanderson:- Email: lisa.s@gleicher.com- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisajoysanderson/#Manufacturing #FamilyBusiness #ChangeManagement #SuccessionPlanning #TrainingAndDevelopment #Innovation #PodcastInterview #LeadershipDevelopment #OrganizationalChange

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan interviews Brent Kedzierski, a renowned leader in connected worker ecosystems at Hexagon, delving into the complexities of human-centric design in manufacturing. Kedzierski draws from his extensive background in industrial psychology, military aviation training, and global HR strategy at Shell to highlight the pressing issue of talent retention in the manufacturing industry. He details how the workforce is rapidly evolving and shares insights on how companies can adapt to meet employees' evolving needs. Key Themes:- High-quality, digitized content is needed to engage employees in the manufacturing industry and facilitate efficient learning processes.- The importance of a human-centered approach to design in manufacturing companies and the challenges and failure rates associated with digital transformation efforts.- The impact of automation and AI in manufacturing, including the necessity to automate mundane tasks and encourage employee creativity.- The evolving workforce, which seeks purpose, connection, and pride in their work, and the shift towards prioritizing the whole person in employee development.- The future of work, where cognitive thinking, creativity, and collaboration will be prioritized, necessitating the development of new intellectual and creative skills.Lessons Learned:- Companies in the manufacturing industry must prioritize personalized experiences, connect with employees on a deeper level, and invest in employee development to retain talent in a rapidly changing workforce.- Digitization and content curation are vital for efficient learning and human-centered design in manufacturing.- The workforce is evolving, emphasizing purpose, connection, and personal development, necessitating a shift in company strategies to address these changing needs.Fun Facts:- Brent Kedzierski's extensive background includes military aviation training, industrial psychology, and a 25-year stint at Shell as a global HR strategist.- Lisa Ryan and Brent Kedzierski engage in a dynamic discussion about the future of work, dispelling myths about younger generations being disinterested in work and emphasizing the importance of creativity and collaboration in the workforce.For more information and to connect with Brent Kedzierski, you can contact him on LinkedIn.