Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

On this episode of MakingChips, Jim interviews his son Ryan Carr, Operations Manager at CARR Machine and Tool, Inc. along with Paul Van Metre, Co-Founder of ProShop ERP, about the risk and reward of implementing a new ERP system. During the interview, Ryan shares about the decision-making process and how they have been applying the new, full-spectrum ERP called ProShop. Listen as Ryan and Paul explain why an ERP is so important and how you can start the process of implementing one in your business. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact Taking the Plunge Into a New ERP System Prior to purchasing the new ERP system, Ryan explains that there were inefficiencies and redundancies at CARR Machine and Tool, Inc. Data entry required multiple steps with numerous papers being unnecessarily shuffled around the office. Knowing that something had to be done to move the company forward, Jim and Ryan called in Paul Van Metre to explain how ProShop could help them. Hear how implementing the new ERP system is significantly minimizing redundancy and increasing efficiency. Becoming the Metal-Working Nation’s Premier ERP System Paul Van Metre was an experienced manufacturer prior to developing ProShop. He ran his own machine shop and experienced great success. His business grew to the point that they needed a better way to manage the company's data. After searching and trying other ERPs, Paul and his team decided to build their own program. ProShop was originally intended only for internal use, but after a customer asked to purchase their proprietary software, Paul knew they had a product that the metal-working nation needed. Listen to the story of how ProShop became the premier ERP system in the manufacturing market during this episode of MakingChips. The Benefits of an ERP System in Your Company Paul Van Metre says, “The economy drives off of taking raw materials and turning them into high-precision, value-added products. You can’t run an economy just making lattes and selling insurance.” Manufacturing is important, but it’s also challenging. An ERP creates a centralized place where all files are stored and easily accessed. Implementing an ERP can help streamline your processes, keep you organized and efficient, and better position you for success in your market. Assessing the Risk and Reward for Your Company Running your own manufacturing business can be difficult. Companies need as many tools as possible to help them be successful. Big, expensive decisions aren’t easy, but if you don’t change today, you’re competition will. You have to be willing to adapt and try new things to stay relevant in the market. Jim and Jason encourage you to analyze your company to see where you can reduce redundancies and inefficiencies. Listen to this week’s episode to learn more about how an ERP system can benefit your company. Here’s The Good Stuff! Manufacturing News: The $717 Billion Dollar National Defense Authorization Act and how it impacts manufacturing How Zenger’s is working to increase efficiency and throughput utilizing a new ERP system Jim introduces his son Ryan Carr, Operations Manager at CARR Machine and Tool, Inc. Ryan shares how he approached the idea of changing ERP system after using the previous one for 20 years. Introduction of Paul Van Metre, Co-Founder of ProShop ERP Paul Van Metre shares how he launched ProShop through an organic process Ways the ProShop is helping CARR Machine and Tool, Inc. become more efficient How ProShop integrates ISO and AS9100 to organize procedures, certifications and quality systems Ryan shares his personal and company goals for utilizing ProShop Tools & Takeaways MTForecast Conference http://IMTS.com ProShop ERP MakingChips Episode 98 This Week’s Superstar Guest Paul Van Metre Ryan Carr Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

This week on MakingChips, guest Michelle Edmonson, Senior Director of Exhibitions Operations and Marketing at AMT, explains the value of IMTS for job shops. Job shops are typically smaller manufacturing companies that often handle custom orders for small or medium-sized companies. This year, IMTS will be focusing on job shops by offering opportunities tailored specifically to these companies. Listen to this episode to hear all about how job shop owners and manufacturers can reap the benefit of attending IMTS 2018. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact Why focus on job shops? Michelle Edmonson explains that in years past IMTS hasn’t had a particular focus. However, job shops as a community make up over 25% of the spend in the manufacturing world. Realizing the important role that these manufacturers play, IMTS leaders decided to survey local job shop owners to discover their needs. The results led IMTS 2018 to focus on job shops, offering specialized opportunities for smaller manufacturers to learn and grow throughout the week. The 3-step program for job shops at IMTS 2018 If you’ve been to IMTS before, then you know that there will be a lot of exhibits. In fact, there are over 2400 exhibitors, displaying the finest in manufacturing innovation and technology. These exhibits are also step one in a three-step program for addressing the unique challenges that job shop and precision machine companies face. Michelle Edmonson explains how many of the exhibits focus on the best business practices of top job shops from around the country and how attendees can see and learn from these manufacturers. There is so much you can learn at IMTS Beyond just the exhibits, IMTS is offering special learning opportunities for job shop owners as well. There are three specific sessions that attendees should consider, starting on Wednesday morning. These courses are the second step in the three-step program focusing on job shops. During the episode, Michelle Edmonson details the schedule and cost for attending the conference sessions. She also highlights the topics of discussion and the value they will bring to job shop manufacturers. A huge prize giveaway at IMTS for job shops The final step in the IMTS 2018 job shop focus is a chance to win a great prize from one of the event’s sponsors. ESAB is offering a welding and cutting garage shop package tailored specifically for precision machine companies. Michelle gives the details of this fantastic package and explains how you can be entered in the giveaway. Only attendees of one of the special conferences offered at IMTS will be eligible. Listen to the interview to hear more details about that and much more. Here’s The Good Stuff! The case for why small, precision machining companies should go to IMTS Manufacturing News: Asbestos is now being allowed back into manufacturing Jim and Jason address the concern about crime in Chicago for IMTS attendees Introduction of Michelle Edmonson, Senior Director of Exhibitions Operations and Marketing at AMT The focus of IMTS 2018 is on job shops The three step program that IMTS is offering job shop owners and manufacturers Michelle Edmonson explains the opportunities offered through learning sessions In order to be a top shop, you have to focus on culture IMTS is a great way to learn how to run your manufacturing business better Tools & Takeaways MTForecast AMT Bethel New Life http://IMTS.com IMTS.com/jobshops ESAB This Week’s Superstar Guest Michelle Edmonson Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

On this episode of MakingChips, Jim talks with Jason Lesniewicz, Director of Cultural Tourism at Choose Chicago, about the best way to experience Chicago. Jason leads Choose Chicago’s cultural tourism strategy positioning as a global, cultural destination to increase visitation and achieve the annual goal of 55 million visitors as set forth by mayor Rahm Emanuel, which they achieved in 2017. Listen to this conversation for ideas and tips on how to enjoy Chicago when you come to IMTS in September. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact The Chicago neighborhoods that set it apart Chicagoans love their city. Jason Lesniewicz grew up in Chicago and has lived there his entire life. He shares the best way to experience Chicago by describing the unique neighborhoods that set the city apart. From McCormick Place convention center you can either walk or take a short taxi or Uber ride to get to several of these neighborhoods. From Wrigleyville to the West Loop to the Gold Coast, each one provides great dining, entertainment, and cultural opportunities. 3 restaurants you should try in Chicago Chicago is known for its fantastic food. No matter what you’re craving, you can find it somewhere in Chicago. Jason Lesniewicz shares his top three favorite restaurants. He says the West Loop is the best neighborhood for the Chicago dining scene. He suggests Randolph and Fulton Streets as a great place to start. The area was part of the old warehouse district that has seen a fantastic renovation with great restaurants. The best part about grabbing a bite to eat in the West Loop is that it is only about a mile away from McCormick Place. The best way to experience the cultural opportunities Chicago offers IMTS will be in Chicago in mid-September, which is a beautiful time of year. The humidity begins to drop and the average temperature is in the mid-70s. It will be a great time to experience Chicago and the different cultural opportunities the city has to offer. Chicago is known for its signature layout around the river as well as for its incredible architecture. There are many theaters that often feature off-broadway and pre-broadway shows. During September, there are three sports teams that will be in season, including the Cubs, White Sox, and Bears. During your stay in Chicago, you will want to be sure to explore the many cultural opportunities. Listen as Jason and Jim share more about the city you don’t want to miss during this episode. 3 experiences you can’t miss during your visit to Chicago for IMTS With all that Chicago has to offer on top of the vast IMTS exhibit space, it might be difficult to decide what experiences you’re going to take in while in Chicago. Just as you should with IMTS, planning ahead is key for making the most of your time experiencing Chicago. Jason and Jim narrow down their top 3 favorite experiences. From sightseeing tours, river cruises and a ride on the Centennial Ferris Wheel, to catching a game at historic Wrigley Field, hear their 3 recommended experiences and make your plans accordingly. Here’s The Good Stuff! Manufacturing News: National Association for Manufacturers chief Jay Timmons is touring America to hear from the manufacturing nation around the country What can you expect when you come to Chicago Introduction of Jason Lesniewicz, director of Cultural Tourism at Choose Chicago The diversity and cultural richness of Chicago’s neighborhoods set it apart as a tourist destination Jason gives advice for the best neighborhoods to seek out when you come to Chicago for IMTS Three best restaurants you should check out in the west loop Chicago River North is the old manufacturing neighborhood that has a lot of entertainment Highlights of Chicago for the first time visitor Jason recommends sightseeing options to get the best views of Chicago Three things not to miss in your visit to Chicago for IMTS Tools & Takeaways http://IMTS.com NAM Choose Chicago Au Cheval Girl and the Goat Haymarket Brewing Fulton Market Kitchen Fig and Olive Maple and Ash Navy Pier This Week’s Superstar Guest Jason Lesniewicz Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

This week on MakingChips, Peter Claus talks about the whirlwind of leadership he experiences in his manufacturing job. Peter is the CNC supervisor at HFW Industries in Buffalo, New York where he has worked for over 20 years. He is also one of this year’s IMTS Rock Stars. Peter shares his passion for manufacturing, how he has grown in his company and how he deals with the challenges of being a leader. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact Finding and following your passion Peter Claus seemed destined to work in the manufacturing field. While on a track to pursue an engineering degree in college, Peter had the opportunity to operate a lathe. It was a pivotal moment that led him to change directions and pursue a manufacturing career. He started at HFW in 1994 running a lathe machine. HFW specializes in hardfacing and thermal spray coatings. Listen as Peter talks about how his passion for manufacturing and how it has led to his success during this interview. Are you hungry enough to grow? As HFW expanded and grew, more opportunities for leadership were presented to Peter. One contributing factor to Peter’s success is his constant hunger to learn and grow. He found a passion in manufacturing and he pursued it, increasing in education and company responsibility. He has always been interested in learning the different facets of manufacturing which has led to a breadth of experience. His hunger ultimately led him to where he is now as the CNC supervisor at HFW and one of this year’s IMTS Rock Stars. 2 Keys to Surviving the Whirlwind of Leadership With increased responsibility comes the inevitable whirlwind of leadership. Every leader will experience the effects of the whirlwind while juggling the daily demands of the job. Even the best plans and intentions can be derailed when unforeseen issues arise. Peter talks about the challenges of his supervisory role. Leading well requires prioritizing daily objectives while remaining flexible to handle issues as they arise. He gives 2 keys to surviving the whirlwind of leadership that he applies at HFW. Peter’s insight is encouraging and practical for any manufacturing leader. Taking advantage of all the IMTS has to offer What can a manufacturing leader do to escape the whirlwind of leadership? One great way to recharge is by attending IMTS. During this conversation, Peter shares how he plans to take advantage of IMTS this year. In addition to doing research on specific machines and spending time in the cutting pavilion, he plans to leverage the week as a vacation, bringing his wife and enjoying some of the great Chicago food. Peter encourages manufacturing leaders to experience IMTS and dream about the potential of taking your company to the next level. Here’s The Good Stuff! Emotional intelligence prevents you from overreacting or escalating issues that arise in business Manufacturing News: Being a conscious capitalist, caring for your employees and being fair Introduction of Peter Clause, CNC supervisor at HFW Industries and one of this years IMTS Rock Stars HFW does thermal coatings and hard face welding As a supervisor, Peter is required to deal with both machine and people issues How HFW is trying to overcome the workforce problem What Peter is excited about at IMTS this year and what he plans to research while he’s there The key to Peter’s success in the manufacturing industry Make your plans to be at the IMTS Grand Concourse stage each day at noon to see Jim and Jason Tools & Takeaways http://IMTS.com This Week’s Superstar Guest Peter Claus HFW Industries Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

This week on MakingChips, Jason asks Jim whether or not you really need a 5-axis machine. Every manufacturing company owner has to determine the right time to add a new piece of machinery to his or her shop. That decision isn’t always easy. More often than not, there are multiple good options that leave the leader with the daunting task of determining the best choice. Jim explains to Jason his rationale for a recent purchase making decision for Carr Tool and Machine and gives advice for making a big purchasing. Hear all that and more on this episode of MakingChips. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact 2 main factors that can help you make decisions about machinery When considering a big purchase of machinery for your shop, the decision largely depends on two factors. The first factor is what you currently make. Know your current customer demand and your ability to meet that demand. If you are having trouble with turn-around or customers are continually leaving your business because you can’t meet their demand, it might be time to upgrade to a new piece of machinery. The second factor is how will your company grow in the future. Considering what technology you need to integrate into your company to allow for growth and expansion will help you make a wise purchase. Buying a 5-axis machine should be a need-based purchase After originally planning to buy a 5-axis machine last summer, Jim recently purchased a 4-axis Mazak 500mm twin table horizontal machining center with full fourth axis machining capability. He explains that while he was unable to complete the deal on the 5-axis machine the 4-axis machine has served him well. He has been able to meet customer needs with the 4-axis horizontal machine. Jim also expressed that he hasn’t had the need for a 5-axis machine. When considering a machine tool purchase, Jim advises letting need be a key determining factor. Buying a piece of equipment that you already have a need for ensures that you get an immediate return on your investment. How to make a good purchasing decision It is difficult to balance the tendency to resist change with moving forward too quickly. The danger is that you purchase a piece of machinery that won’t give you a quick return on investment. It is wise to introduce technology incrementally. Jim encourages leaders to utilize the wisdom and experience of your team to help make educated decisions for your company. He also suggests reaching out to your customers to see if they need the kind of work that would justify purchasing a 5-axis machine. Will a 5-axis machine make or break your company? Not having a 5-axis machine will not keep Carr Machine and Tool from being competitive in the long run. While Jim chose not to buy the 5-axis machine yet, he will definitely be looking to purchase one in the near future. Knowing the plan for future growth and expansion gives Jim a head start in finding the skilled labor or training current employees so that they can run the machine effectively. Jim and Jason would love to hear from you. Have you purchased a 5-axis machine? If so why? Here’s The Good Stuff! It is better to have a well placed fan than having an oscillating fan Buying new technology requires you to balance risk and reward JIm shares his excitement about a new relationship with an aerospace customer Manufacturing News: Machine Metrics shares shocking machine utilization numbers Jim shares his reasons for deciding not to buy a 5-axis machine Though it wasn’t a 5-axis Carr Machine and Tool did add a new piece of equipment in the shop Buying a machine should be based on the production needs you currently have Jim shares the impact of 5-axis machines could have for his company Jason and Jim ask for your feedback about 5-axis machines Tools & Takeaways Machine Metrics http://IMTS.com Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

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 education The 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 leaders While 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 manufacturing There 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! Jim gives an update on what is new at Carr Machine and Tool Good employees will gravitate to companies with compelling mission and vision Manufacturing News: Inmates in at a prison received manufacturing certificates Introduction of Greg Jones, Vice President of Smartforce Development at AMT Smartforce is seeking to bridge the skills gap through education and workforce development Greg advocates for high school and college students to consider an apprenticeship program instead of traditional college The importance of the relationship between local manufacturing companies and schools How the future of manufacturing might be impacted by the current skills gap What to expect from the Smartforce Student Summit at IMTS this year Local manufacturing leaders can make an impact in their community by getting involved in local schools Tools & Takeaways http://IMTS.com AMT NIMS IMTS.com/student This Week’s Superstar Guest Greg Jones Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

If you are a manufacturing leader, then it is imperative that you learn all you can about MTConnect and the digitization of the manufacturing industry. As the internet of things continues to grow, companies should be prepared to integrate technology into their company. During this episode of MakingChips, Jim and Jason talk with Russ Waddell, Managing Director of MTConnect. With over 200 employees under his supervision, Russ is leading MTConnect to be the standard among manufacturers. Listen and be equipped with information and inspired to grow your company. Connect with us:www.MakingChips.com/contact How information is changing the manufacturing industry Over the last 20 years, the internet has changed not only the daily lives of people around the world, but also the way companies do business. Manufacturers are not exempt from the advances of the internet. Increasingly, the internet of things is becoming a common reality in businesses. The internet of things refers to how different connected devices communicate and share information with each other utilizing wireless connection. MTConnect is an important component for manufacturers considering the digitization and internet of things in their companies. The importance of standards Just as it is important to have cultural standards within your company that helps to guide business practices and employee behavior, it is equally important to have technological standards. As the digitization of the manufacturing industry continues to grow, efficiency is a necessity. How can you best use technology to your advantage without over-complicating processes and procedures? Russ Waddell says, “The IT world is getting closer and closer to the factory world, having a basic understanding of how to pick a standard or a set of standards that is going to work is essential.” Hear all about that and more on this episode of MakingChips. What is MTConnect and how can it help manufacturers MTConnect is an open-source standard that allows the manufacturing equipment in your shop to capture, store and share important data. It can help streamline communication among machines by providing a consistent vocabulary for your equipment. Being able to access the data that MTConnect collects can help in a multitude of ways and the open-source nature of the software also allows its functions and capabilities to continually be improved. During this interview, Russ explains what MTConnect is, how it is applied, and the benefits your company can experience from using it. How to adapt your company for digitization Preparing to adapt your company for digitization first requires a plan. Before using a software like MTConnect, you have to know what questions within your company you need answers to. What data do you need to be able to access and analyze? Russ Waddell points out the importance of knowing spindle time. Your plan must also consider how you will organize and analyze data collected. Manufacturing leaders should also consider how to upgrade legacy equipment so that they can also be connected. Digitization takes planning. For more information on what you should consider and how to plan, listen to this episode of MakingChips. Here’s The Good Stuff! The access of information and how it is changing the sales model at Zenger’s Manufacturing News: The Wall Street Journal’s manufacturing beat job opening Introduction of guest Russ Waddell, Managing Director of MTConnect Institute What MTConnect is and how it is used in manufacturing How can a manufacturing leader utilize the capabilities of MTConnect What data should manufacturers be collecting and analyzing The open source nature of MTConnect and the advantages it provides to the market The importance of assessing and implementing a set of standards for your business IMTS will give you an opportunity to get a close-up look at MTConnect Tools & Takeaways http://IMTS.com MTConnect mHUB This Week’s Superstar Guest All mentioned resources Russ Waddell Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

Can you see a return on investment in company culture in your business? It’s a question that every manufacturing owner or operator should consider. Much of the focus in manufacturing is on production. However, one of the biggest investments you can make in your company and brand is in the area of culture. Investing in culture not only ensures that you are aligned internally but also helps you align better with the customers you serve. During this episode of MakingChips, hear about the return on investment in company culture, how it has impacted Carr Machine and Tool and how it can benefit your company. Connect with us: www.MakingChips.com/contact Manufacturers Should Begin Creating a Compelling Culture What started out as a discussion about search engine optimization quickly turned into a conversation about the importance of culture. That’s because one of the contributing factors to Carr Machine and Tool’s success in SEO is the compelling culture Jim is developing in his business. The return on investment in company culture that Jim has seen is in several areas of his business. In this episode, Jim shares about how he began investing in culture, the steps he implemented and the results that he continues to evaluate. Great Change Can Come From One Small Step Lao Tzu famously said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” This is true when it comes to the process of developing culture. You won’t see a return on investment in company culture overnight. Small, incremental steps can have a cumulative impact that will eventually pay large dividends. Jim explains the small steps he took to start investing in his company’s culture during this conversation. He also gives helpful tips for small steps you can take to start implementing culture discussions in your company. The Return on Investment in Company Culture Is Measured in Multiple Ways Investing in culture has both internal and external benefits. Internally, culture helps guide the hiring process. It ensures that you hire the right employees who align well with your core values. It also helps employees grow and develop their skills, instilling greater accountability and pushing them to a higher level. Externally, your company’s culture also ensures that you partner with the right customer. Solidifying your mission and vision clarifies your brand to potential customers. Culture ensures a greater sense of alignment across all facets of your company. How Culture Sets Your Company Apart Because of the competitive nature of manufacturing, it is important to be able to differentiate yourself from other companies. Rather than relying on shallow gimmicks, you should focus on being authentic. Determining your core values and communicating them consistently helps your business better convey your unique ability to serve customers. Julie and Jim talk about the return on investment in culture and how it sets you apart from the competition during this episode of MakingChips. Here’s The Good Stuff! Jason and Jim discuss the importance of maintaining a positive work culture Manufacturing News: The challenge of meeting increasingly complex customer expectations Jason shares how Zenger’s exciting new partnership Jim introduces Julie Poulos, Vice President at Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology Julie takes over the interview to talk with Jim about the ROI of company culture at Carr Machine and Tool The first step to developing culture for Carr Machine and Tool How Jim implemented core values into his company Identifying the skill set of your employees and pushing them to use those skills at a higher level Communications role in helping to maintain the type of culture you want The differentiating factor that core values and culture can add to your brand Tools & Takeaways Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology VIPs From The Metal Working Nation SPONSOR: https://IMTS.com This Week’s Superstar Guest Julie Poulos - Vice President at Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

On this episode of MakingChips, Jason and Jim sit down with Doug Woods, President of AMT to discuss the digital transformation in the manufacturing industry. Doug has had a lifetime of experience in manufacturing and now shares that experience with manufacturing leaders around the globe. He has a passion for innovation and for helping others integrate new technologies into their companies. Listen as Doug Woods shares his perspective on the future of manufacturing and gives tips for how your company can benefit from the digital transformation. Connect with us: www.MakingChips.com/contact Is there a manufacturing industry image problem? Prior to 2008, it seemed like the entire manufacturing industry was suffering from an image problem. However, following the recession, there was a shift in focus on the importance and opportunity of manufacturing jobs in America. With the rising cost of college and the plethora of irrelevant degree fields, manufacturing is starting to recover its image. The excitement of the digital transformation is also helping to change the perception of manufacturing, especially among younger men and women. The innovation and technologies at the forefront of the digital transformation Every generation since Ford introduced the assembly line has considered itself to be in the era of advanced technology. However, Doug Woods explains that what makes manufacturing different now from previous generations is the speed at which technology is advancing. This rapid introduction of technology and innovation is enabling the manufacturing industry to grow and change in new and exciting ways. Doug talks about some of these specific technologies and how they are contributing to the digital transformation during this interview. Being a part of the digital transformation of manufacturing requires a strategy New technologies are being introduced at such a fast pace that it is easy to become overwhelmed. However, there is a way to assess the opportunities that the digital transformation of manufacturing can provide for your company. The best way to prepare your company for these opportunities is by developing a strategy. Doug Woods says that you don’t have to dive into new technology all at once. He encourages leaders to assess their areas of expertise. By finding a digital solution that can enhance your position in the market, you can begin the process of transformation in your company. Listen as Doug gives more tips for introducing new technologies during this interview. Tips for Cultivating a Positive Culture in Your Company You spend a lot of time at work. The people you work with can become family. If you have to spend so much time with your co-workers, you should do everything you can to enjoy it. The digital transformation can help you work better and more efficiently, but it can’t create a new work culture. It is important to invest in the type of culture you want to have in your company. Doug Woods shares the four cornerstones that he has implemented into the culture of AMT. Applying these tips could motivate your employees to be better while enjoying their work more. Here’s The Good Stuff! Introduction of Doug Woods, President of The Association of Manufacturing Technology Doug Woods background working on the tool and die shop floor How AMT serves manufacturers through industry intelligence and market access Does the manufacturing industry have an image problem? The innovation and technologies contributing to the digital transformation of manufacturing Developing a digital strategy that will help you integrate new technologies Doug Woods explains what blockchain technology is and how it is useful How to implement a digital strategy by leveraging your area of expertise Learning about future technology at IMTS Four cornerstones of business that Doug Woods has instilled at AMT Tools & Takeaways http://IMTS.com MTConnect MT360 This Week’s Superstar Guest AMT Doug Woods Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify

Few people are champions of manufacturing education like Jim's guest on this episode of MakingChips, Aneesa Muthana. Aneesa began working in her father's manufacturing shop when she was a very young girl, answering phones and making chips of her own. She has grown up with a deep understanding of what makes the manufacturing industry special and now, as President of Pioneer Service she is a true champion of educating the public about the inspirational meaning behind being a manufacturer. This is an inspiring conversation that you won't want to miss. Connect with us: www.MakingChips.com/contact As Manufacturers We Have A Responsibility to Educate The Public The belief that many parents have - that their children need to go to college in order to get a good job - is fine for as far as that goes, but as Aneesa points out in this conversation, it leaves out the very real and profitable possibilities that the manufacturing industry provides. Aneesa believes that the average person doesn't understand the true purpose and contributions that are made by the manufacturing industry and that every person who works within the industry has a responsibility to educate those around them in order to raise the level of understanding about the vital nature of what manufacturers do. Don't miss this challenging conversation. Every Day Is Manufacturing Day At Pioneer Service Manufacturing Day℠ is a celebration of modern manufacturing that is organized to educate and inspire the next generation of manufacturers. The first Friday in October is when the official celebration occurs, but because she is so passionate about manufacturing and equipping the next generation of manufacturers, Aneesa says that every day is manufacturing day at her shop. The doors of Pioneer Service are always open to community leaders, newspapers, school groups, and anyone else who desires to learn about manufacturing. Aneesa’s enthusiasm is contagious, so listen to this episode to be inspired by her story and her efforts at raising the awareness of the importance of manufacturing. The Challenge of Equipping A Trained Workforce Is Real During this conversation, Jim asks Aneesa about her biggest concerns regarding the future of the manufacturing industry. Like many of us, she believes that the challenge to equip and raise up the next generation as a trained manufacturing workforce is a formidable challenge that we must take seriously. She is doing her part in her own community and on a national stage and shares how she is encouraging education and mobilization on behalf of the manufacturing industry. Children Today Need To Be Taught The Inspiration In Being A Maker It’s interesting to note that when you ask a young child what they want to be when they grow up, they typically mention policemen, doctors, firemen, etc. Why don’t they mention being a manufacturer? Aneesa believes it is because the education that should be happening about manufacturing's vital role in our culture is lacking. She encourages every opportunity for children to be taught about the inspirational role that makers are able to play in the creation of instrumentation that launches people into outer space, or the development of inventions that help to cure cancer. Being a part of those world-changing things is a worthwhile endeavor that children need to know about. Hear Aneesa’s story and how she became so passionate about the manufacturing industry, on this episode of MakingChips. Here’s The Good Stuff! [0:45] The excitement about the future of the manufacturing industry [3:31] Aneesa Muthana - Stereotype destroyer extraordinaire: her story [7:30] From working in her father’s business to President of her Uncle’s company [10:55] Raising prices to become profitable, cold calling to gain new business [12:43] The impact of the great recession on Pioneer: Aneesa’s willingness to change [16:02] Manufacturing has a purpose greater than just the business [20:22] The purpose that fills Aneesa’s days and fuels her vision [21:50] Why Anessa is breaking boundaries and why she does it [24:20] The key things Aneesa has learned as a shop owner [27:01] The vision and goals for Pioneer at this point in its history [30:34] Aneesa’s efforts to build a skilled workforce [35:30] What Pioneer is doing to spearhead outreach in its community [37:40] Aneesa’s top 3 lessons-learned [40:39] Digging deeper into Aneesa’s insights Tools & Takeaways http://IMTS.com The Valley Industrial Association This Week’s Superstar Guest Aneesa Muthana on LinkedIn Pioneer Service Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube Subscribe to Making Chips on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or Spotify