Manufacturing Culture Podcast

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer sits down with Garret Tornquist, Senior Product Manager at Epicor, to explore the power of a team-first culture in manufacturing. Garret’s career has taken him through multiple industries, including medical devices, education technology, and manufacturing, and through it all, one thing has remained constant: success is built on culture, teamwork, and a willingness to embrace failure.Garret shares how his experiences in team sports shaped his leadership philosophy, why he believes culture is an organization’s greatest competitive advantage, and how failure is not just inevitable—it’s essential for growth. He also discusses the evolving role of AI in manufacturing, what he’s learned from building products that serve manufacturers, and why great teams create great leaders—not the other way around.TakeawaysCulture is often underrated in organizations.Team success is more important than individual accolades.Leadership should empower teams rather than micromanage.Failure is a crucial part of growth and innovation.AI will enhance jobs rather than replace them.People take pride in their work, which drives success.Building relationships and trust is key to effective leadership.The journey from intern to product manager is filled with learning opportunities.Understanding customer needs is vital for product success.A strong company culture leads to better performance.Chapters00:00 Connecting Diverse Industries Through Culture08:47 Lessons from Team Sports20:52 The Role of Manufacturing in the Economy30:21 Leadership in Manufacturing: A Team Mentality37:16 The Importance of Embracing Failure44:24 Goals for 2025: Balancing Personal and Professional Life50:45 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Rachel Marshall, co-owner of Excel Machine Manufacturing, a family-run CNC shop. Rachel shares her journey from a background in sales to embracing the challenges of running a machine shop alongside her husband, Luke. They discuss the importance of work culture, communication, and balancing family life with business responsibilities. Rachel emphasizes the value of community in manufacturing, the lessons learned in their journey, and the aspirations for the future of their business. The conversation also touches on personal passions, including fitness and Rachel's love for mac and cheese, showcasing her vibrant personality and dedication to both her family and her work.TakeawaysWork culture is essential, even in small family businesses.Communication is key in balancing work and family life.Transitioning into a new role can be challenging but rewarding.Building relationships with customers is crucial for business success.Women in manufacturing can bring valuable skills to the table.Fitness routines can enhance productivity and mental clarity.Social media has created a supportive community for women in manufacturing.It's important to instill strong values in the next generation.Finding a niche can help small businesses thrive.Embracing change and challenges can lead to personal growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rachel Marshall and Excel Machine Manufacturing02:38 The Importance of Work Culture in Family Businesses06:39 Rachel's Journey into the CNC World11:29 Transitioning a Legacy Business16:24 Challenges of Running a Family Business18:23 Niche Focus and Business Strategy21:13 Lessons Learned in the CNC Industry25:09 Teaching Values to the Next Generation26:25 Exploring Alternative Education Paths28:21 The Importance of Physical and Mental Fitness31:23 Building a Supportive Community in Manufacturing34:49 Future Aspirations for Excel Machine36:59 Personal Touch: Mac and Cheese Preferences37:59 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Arthur Field, Director for Strategic Partnerships at MTD CNC. Arthur shares his extensive journey through the manufacturing industry, discussing the importance of culture, innovation, and collaboration. He reflects on his early experiences in assembly and machining, the challenges he faced, and the leadership roles he took on. Arthur emphasizes the significance of building partnerships and the future trends in manufacturing technology, including AI and data monitoring. The conversation highlights the need for a supportive culture in manufacturing and Arthur's commitment to helping others succeed in their careers.TakeawaysCulture revolves around appreciation and collaboration.Alignment of values is crucial for organizational success.The journey into manufacturing can be driven by various motivations.Early experiences shape perspectives on industry challenges.Leadership requires understanding and supporting team members.Partnerships are essential for driving innovation in manufacturing.AI and data monitoring will shape the future of the industry.Unbiased reporting can foster trust in manufacturing solutions.Continuous improvement is key to long-term success.Personal experiences can enhance the understanding of industry dynamics.Chapters00:00Introduction to Manufacturing Innovation06:06Arthur's Journey into Manufacturing11:16Transitioning to Machining17:08Leadership Lessons Learned22:44The Path to MTD CNC30:18The Excitement of Building Partnerships35:39Memorable Partnerships and Innovative Solutions43:01Future Aspirations and New Ventures

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Sean Walters, General Manager at CapTron North America. Sean shares his insights on the importance of culture in manufacturing, his journey into the industry, and the role of mentorship in business development. He emphasizes the need for a customer-centric focus in leadership and discusses the challenges and strategies for building resilient supply chains. The conversation also touches on fostering mentorship within teams, balancing personal and professional life, and the innovations CapTron is bringing to the market. Sean highlights the significance of the Four Disciplines of Execution in driving accountability and performance, and addresses the generational differences in the workplace, advocating for a supportive environment for younger employees. The episode concludes with Sean discussing current job opportunities at CapTron and his passion for automation.takeawaysCulture will make or break an organization.Creating a healthy culture requires constant effort.Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth.Customer satisfaction should always be the priority.Resilient supply chains are essential for business success.Investing in inventory is key to customer service.Transparency fosters a healthy work environment.Accountability drives performance and team cohesion.Automation creates better jobs and enhances skills.Finding the right cultural fit is vital for organizational success.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Culture in Manufacturing02:47 Defining Culture in Manufacturing05:29 Sean Walters' Journey into Manufacturing08:24 The Role of Mentorship in Business Development11:23 Customer-Centric Focus in Business Development14:14 Building Resilient Supply Chains17:32 Fostering a Customer-Centric Culture20:10 The Importance of Transparency in Leadership23:13 Mentorship and Coaching in Leadership25:12 Navigating Startup Challenges27:18 Balancing Work and Personal Life29:31 Finding the Right Company Culture33:24 Innovations at Captron35:23 The Four Disciplines of Execution42:44 Understanding Generational Differences in the Workplace

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer speaks with Mark Hedstrom, the executive director of the Skilled Careers Coalition. They discuss the importance of reshaping perceptions around skilled careers, the role of culture in organizations, and the challenges faced in building a talent pipeline for the skilled trades. Mark shares his journey from anthropology to leadership roles in various sectors, emphasizing the need for collaboration among educators, businesses, and government to inspire the next generation of skilled workers. The conversation also touches on generational trauma, the significance of leadership, and the importance of finding passion in one's career.TakeawaysCulture is crucial for organizational success.Intellectual curiosity drives personal and professional growth.Destigmatizing skilled trades is essential for attracting talent.Collaboration among stakeholders is key to solving workforce issues.Generational trauma affects perceptions of skilled careers.The skilled trades offer viable career paths with good pay and opportunities.Leadership should focus on creating a culture of learning and acceptance of failure.Engaging youth through authentic content can inspire interest in skilled careers.The coalition aims to increase the number of students in skilled trades education.Philanthropy should focus on significance over mere fundraising success.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Culture Podcast01:49 Mark Hedstrom's Journey and Background04:39 The Importance of Culture in Organizations11:59 Overview of the Skilled Careers Coalition16:33 Challenges and Rewards in Skilled Careers21:51 De-stigmatizing Skilled Careers28:08 Addressing Generational Trauma in Skilled Careers30:45 Understanding the Skilled Trades Gap33:02 The Future of Skilled Careers35:16 Building Coalitions for Change37:29 Lessons in Leadership40:53 The Human Experience in Career Choices44:58 Significance Over Success48:45 Advice for Career Seekers

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Tom Ricciardelli, founder of Select Tech, about his journey from studying chemical engineering at MIT to creating innovative flooring solutions from recycled materials. Tom shares insights on sustainability, company culture, and the importance of mentorship in entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the need for resilience and adaptability in business and discusses the future of Select Tech in the static control flooring market.TakeawaysTom's journey began with a passion for the environment and hands-on work.Select Tech focuses on creating products from recycled materials.Innovation in flooring includes adhesive-free interlocking systems.Company culture is about fostering a positive, problem-solving environment.Mentorship plays a crucial role in entrepreneurship.Resilience and adaptability are key to overcoming business challenges.Tom believes in trying new ideas, even if they fail.Sustainability is at the core of Select Tech's mission.The future of Select Tech includes expanding into healthcare static control solutions.Tom's proudest accomplishments are his family and their joint business ventures.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Culture Podcast02:52 Tom Ricciardelli: Journey from MIT to Select Tech10:40 Innovating with Sustainability in Flooring Solutions18:01 Company Culture and Leadership Philosophy21:09 Balancing Work and Personal Life25:43 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs29:25 Proudest Accomplishments and Future Aspirations

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Bryan DeBois, the director of industrial AI at Rova-Sys. They discuss Bryan's journey from a young programmer to a leader in AI, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving role of AI in manufacturing. Bryan shares insights on generational differences in the workforce, the challenges of implementing AI, and the significance of building a positive company culture. The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the face of technological advancements. Takeaways Discovering a passion for programming at a young age can shape a career. Transitioning from technical roles to leadership requires preparation and willingness. AI has the potential to solve real operational problems in manufacturing. Generational differences impact how employees are motivated and managed. Building a positive company culture is essential for innovation and engagement. High expectations should be paired with coaching and support. Empowering employees to solve problems fosters a proactive work environment.Capturing expertise before it is lost is crucial for organizational knowledge. AI should enhance human capabilities, not replace them. Continuous learning and preparation are key to seizing opportunities.

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Vince Sassano, CEO of Strategic Performance Company, Inc., about his extensive experience in the manufacturing industry. They discuss the evolution of manufacturing culture, the importance of data-driven management, and the need for effective communication on the plant floor. Vince shares insights on empowering frontline workers, the challenges of integrating technology, and the significance of understanding operational problems. The conversation emphasizes the importance of culture in manufacturing and offers valuable advice for newcomers in the industry.TakeawaysVince Sassano has over 30 years of experience in manufacturing.The culture of manufacturing has evolved from old management styles to data-driven approaches.Empowering frontline workers is crucial for success in manufacturing.Technology has become more affordable, making it accessible for manufacturers.Effective communication is key to solving operational problems.Data trustworthiness is a significant challenge in manufacturing.Understanding the needs of the plant floor is essential for technology integration.Culture in manufacturing means every employee matters and has a role to play.Newcomers should not be afraid to identify and propose solutions to problems.Leadership should focus on helping employees help themselves.

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Demi Knight Clark, a trailblazer in the construction industry, about her journey from the trades to leadership roles. They discuss the importance of empowering women in trades, the legacy of female pioneers, and the need for more skilled workers. Demi emphasizes the significance of third spaces for community building and the evolution of trade tech, highlighting how these changes can inspire the next generation to pursue careers in skilled trades.TakeawaysDemi Knight Clark is a trailblazer in the construction industry.Empowering women in trades is crucial for diversity.The legacy of female pioneers in trades inspires future generations.Welding is a viable and lucrative career path.We need to inspire the next generation to consider skilled trades.Third spaces are essential for community building and connection.Trade tech is evolving and offers new opportunities for women.The narrative around trades needs to change to attract more talent.Career transitioners can find fulfillment in skilled trades.Exploring hands-on classes can lead to new career paths.

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Ashleigh Walters, former president and current chairwoman of Onex, about her transformative leadership journey. Ashleigh shares her experiences redefining Onex's culture, transitioning to employee ownership, and the importance of storytelling in manufacturing. She emphasizes the need for a people-first approach, the significance of community impact, and the challenges of developing future leaders in the industry. Ashleigh also discusses her book, 'Leading with Grit and Grace,' and her commitment to empowering others in their leadership journeys.TakeawaysAshleigh transformed Onex into a people-first organization.Cultural change is essential before any other improvements can be made.Storytelling is crucial for attracting new talent to manufacturing.Employee ownership can ensure the longevity of a company in its community.Leaders should empower their teams to solve problems.Hiring for cultural fit is as important as skills.Leadership styles can evolve through experience and necessity.Succession planning should start early and involve trusted advisors.Training and development are fundamental for future leaders.Creating thriving communities is the responsibility of manufacturers.