Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

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. “To make manufacturing work, to make money, you feel like you have to grab it so hard it slips through your fingers.” – Eric Schmid 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: [0:07] Intro/ Preview [1:34] Manufacturing News [5:00] Welcome Heidi and Eric [6:10] The Roots of Schmid Tool [7:40] Roles in the Business [9:30] Working Remotely [11:40] Letting Go of Control [14:00] Planning the Transition [14:50] Bumps in the Road [17:00] Being Accessible [19:00] How Do You Let Go? [22:30] Cultural Consistencies [24:00] Making the Move [27:20] Management and Leadership [29:20] Steps to Working Remotely [31:25] The Illusion of Control [33:00] Accountability [35:30] Mastering Fear [37:00] Give and Take [38:40] Helping the Owners [40:00] Conclusion

Last week on MakingChips, we sat down with Craig Zoberis of Fusion OEM for the first half of a two part interview. This week, we cover a range of topics relating to a company’s Core Values. In part two of this episode, Craig shares with us his set of Core Values that define his company while guiding his team member’s actions. Later on, Craig presents us with his insight about the difference between generic Core Values, or what he calls “The Ticket of Doing Business”, and meaningful Core Values that resonate with his employees. The Right Core Values: Strive for Simplicity Show Gratitude Be Flexible Have Fun See Possibilities Go Home Safely Episode Outline: [1:23] – The Daily Huddle [4:00] – How to Handle Sharing Bad News [6:00] – Identifying Bottlenecks [7:00] – Managing Different Schedules [9:00] – Expectations of the Huddle [11:00] – The Three “I’s” [12:15] – Jim Asks Whether Everyone Gets It [15:45] – Employee Growth and Trust [16:30] – The Wrong Core Values [18:45] – The Right Core Values [23:50] – Jason on Core Values [25:40] – Fusion OEM’s Monthly Rock Star Program [30:29] – Jason’s Call to Action for Listeners [32:00] – Outtakes (Craig and Jason Discuss Books) Mentioned in this Episode: Nuts!: Southwest Airlines’ Crazy Recipe for Business and Personal Success No, the Customer is Not Always Right « Albert’s Organics Blog Blog – Fusion OEM Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business [Book] The E-Myth Revisited [Book] Double Double – Cameron Herold Vern Harnish Exponential Organizations

In the modern business era, we consistently hear the terms “core values” and “company culture”. Among many other business terms, we have integrated these words into our everyday language. But what are company core values and why are they so important? In this two part episode of MakingChips, Jim and Jason sit down with Craig Zoberis, founder and current president ofFusion OEM. Fusion is an OEM contract manufacturer for industrial OEM’s whose offerings range from Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and Kanban system systems for machined parts and private labeling equipment. Craig founded Fusion OEM from his home in Illinois, and has grown the company exponentially since it’s inception in 2002. In 2009, Ink magazine named Fusion OEM as one of the 500 fastest growing privately held companies in the country. Craig begins by giving us a bit of information on his background, what sparked the idea for Fusion OEM, and what his business is all about. Later in the episode, he shares valuable insight on his company’s culture, customers, and core values. Outline of this Episode [0:08] – Intro (Preview) [1:26] – Veterans Day (Workshops for Warriors) [4:12] – Welcoming Craig Zoberis [7:20] – Fusion OEM [12:30] – What Sparked the Idea for Fusion OEM? [16:15] – Fusion’s “Ecosystem” [21:55] – People [24:00] – Core Values [25:30] – Wrong Core Values [30:20] – Jason’s Example of Core Values [32:26] – End of Episode Mentioned in this Episode Workshop for Warriors (http://www.workshopforwarriors.org) “Who: A Method for Hiring” by Geoff Smart and Randy Street (http://www.whothebook.com) “The Advantage” by Patrick Lencioni (http://www.tablegroup.com/oh)

In this episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim and Jason talk about millennials, the future of manufacturing, and 7 millennial traits that baby boomers need to learn. The Millennial Generation is made up of people born around the early 1980s to the early 2000s. Currently they make up nearly 1 in 3 American workers. With 3.5 million manufacturing jobs expected to be created in the future it is important for manufacturing leaders to have an understanding of what drives millennials. Jim and Jason cover 7 different traits of millennials to help older generations understand their needs and passions. 7 Millennial Traits Explained in this Episode Passion Risk-Taking Work and Life Balance  Project Based Thinking Energized Through Newly Learned Skills Spontaneity Travelers Outline of This Episode [0:07] – Intro (Preview) [1:56] – MAZAK Discover 2015 Event [6:35] – Millennials in Manufacturing [8:40] – 7 Different Traits of Millennials [22:31] – Recap and Questions [24:00] – Outro Article Mentioned in this Episode http://www.inc.com/evan-burns/7-millennial-traits-that-baby-boomer-employers-need-to-learn.html

Episode 44 of MakingChips is inspired by Matthew Feight of Miller Welding.  He writes: I should start by saying that I am a Plant Manager for contract manufacturer in central Pennsylvania. We have approximately 400 employees within our 3 locations and are a contract manufacturer of fabricated metal products with capabilities in cutting, bending, welding, machining & painting. I was just referred to your podcasts yesterday by the President of our Company. I have listened to several of your episodes, a couple of your first, and a few of the more recent. One that I took particular interest in was the one regarding Business Management Tools for Manufacturing Leaders. I believe it was Jim who stated that he uses Evernote quite extensively and I would definitely like to hear more on how. I have been using Evernote for some time but do not feel I use it to its potential and would be interested on how Jim uses it to manage his time and tasks. Any input would be greatly appreciated. I am looking forward to listening to more of your podcasts. Sincerely, Matt   From Jason: Matt, Thank you for reaching out to us.  The funny thing is that Jim did not mentioned this…it was me (Jason)…so, either we sound the same or we are always talking over each other (most likely).  I hope that you enjoy this episode. Jason   Show Notes: Everybody has a different way to manage getting things done. For some people, it can be as simple as using an “old school” paper planner. For others, they may prefer organizing their tasks into various software programs. The most important thing is to use one system, and stick to it. Using multiple systems of management can be a tough habit to break. Figuring out a way to transition to one form of task management can do wonders for increasing productivity, and simplifying your life. In this episode of MakingChips, Jason shares his knowledge of task management that stems from one of the most popular business books ever written, “Getting Things Done” by David Allen. The main premise of the book is relatively simple to grasp, “Get your tasks out of your head, and don’t touch them multiple times.” Jason shares a quote from his father that captures this concept perfectly.  “Don’t open your mail unless you are going to deal with it now and get rid of it.” Later in the episode, Jason explains (in great detail) how he uses the business application, “Evernote” to manage his to-do lists, tasks, and projects. “The Basics of Getting Things Done” “Clearing Your To-Do List” This will help you gain peace of mind and focus on what tasks are most important  (New Job, New Quote, New Hire, Increasing Productivity, etc.) “Creating an Inbox of To-Do’s and Projects “Weekly Review” It’s important to spend a short amount of time every week to review your to-do’s and projects.  Put them into context so you can tackle in a more productive manner.                     (Who, Where, and When) “8 Different Ways to Organize Tasks” Single Step Task Items Can Be Completed in Under 2 Minutes Trash  Reference Filing System Task to Create a Project Delegated List “Waiting For” Someday/Maybe List On the Calendar “Things to Manage without Evernote” Trash To put simply, trash it and never think about it again because it is of zero importance. (An event you won’t be attending) Calendar Something you are doing on a particular date or time that doesn’t need to be thought of before that time. (A meeting with a partner) 2 Minutes If it is something that can be completed in under 2 minutes, just get it done now and move on. “Setting Up Evernote” Create a notebook called “Action Pending” and another notebook called “Completed” or “Completed Tasks”.  Then drag one of those notebooks on top of the other to create a nest or stack and rename that stack “Tasks”.  Jason mentions that he uses a third notebook with Tasks called “Completed Content”, which is where he puts everything associated with this podcast once finished. Create a tag called “.When” and “.Who”. The reason for using the dot is so you can group these together with all of your tags. Begin creating your “Who’s”. (Who you are talking to) Create your “When’s” “Projects” Projects are “things” that need to be broken into smaller steps. You should never manage a project like a to-do because it can become overwhelming. Jason refers to an old adage that captures this concept perfectly. “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” Create a note with the project name in the action pending notebook. Tag is as “Project”. Break up the project into small actionable steps. Create 2-3 of those to-do’s or action steps as notes just as you would for a normal to-do. Once you create the to-do, delete that step out of the master project note. Review your projects once per week to see what new to-do’s need to be created out of it. Once the project is done, move the note to the Completed notebook. “Other Tips” All to-do’s should start with an action verb. This may sound really time consuming and complex, but is actually really easy once you get the system up and going. Brain dump everything that you need to do as soon as you think about it. Outline of This Episode [1:30] – Manufacturing News [7:45] – Matthew Feight from Miller Welding [9:20] – “Getting Things Done” [17:15] – Handling E-Mails [20:19] – 3 Things Not Used in Evernote [23:00] – Structuring Evernote [30:10] – Reviewing Evernote Structure [39:00] – New Projects Jason’s pre-show notes before Ryan rewrote them.

Get out your scuba gear, we’re taking a deep dive today! In this episode of Making Chips Jason and Jim are with a guest, John Berard who has a ton of experience in the research and implementation of ERP (Enterprise Resource Management) systems in manufacturing businesses. John’s got a lot of actionable advice for both the small and larger size manufacturing operations about how to determine your ERP needs, how to find and choose and ERP system, how much budget to set aside for the purchase, and what to expect during the implementation and transition period. This episode could help you take that bold step into a more streamlined way of managing your machine shop. What is an Enterprise Resource Planning system? (ERP) An ERP is business management software—typically a suite of integrated applications—that a company can use to collect, store, manage and interpret data from many business activities. It might and probably will include other software systems (known as MRP - Materials Resource Planning systems). Some of the things a good ERP may include are systems that track product planning and costs, manufacturing or service delivery, marketing and sales, inventory management, and shipping and payment. It sounds complex but once you have the right ERP solution chosen and implemented in your business, the long term benefit is cash savings on a daily basis. Find out more about ERP systems from our guest today, John Berard as he discusses the topic with Jim and Jason. How does an ERP system work? ERP provides an integrated view of your most essential business processes, allowing you to see a “big picture” of what’s going on in your manufacturing operation from many different levels. It also allows you to “drill down” into those broad categories to see the details you need to make better business decisions. A good ERP often does this work for you in real-time, using common databases maintained by a database management system integrated into the program. The applications that are a part of the system share information across the various departments of your operation (manufacturing, purchasing, sales, accounting, etc.). Hear the benefits your business could derive from implementing a good ERP system by listening in to this conversation. How should you start the process of finding and implementing a good ERP system? John Berard, today’s guest on Making Chips, recommends that the owner of the manufacturing company NOT try to make this decision on his own. It’s vital that everyone involved in the collection and use of data within your company be a part of the process. The combined knowledge of the particular facets of your business will enable you to make accurate and helpful decisions about what kind of functionality you’ll need from an ERP system. John’s got some very practical suggestions about how to stage and manage those conversations and how to go about finding the right company with the right solution for you. If you’re considering an upgrade to an ERP system, the basics John shares could save you tons of time and money. Be sure to listen. There are 3 main ways you can mess up the implementation of your ERP system. John Berard has seen many implementations of ERP software and has some “horror stories” about how you can mess it up. #1 - Ignore your people. You have to listen to those you’ve entrusted with the areas of your business. They will have the information and hands-on experience to help you make a good decision. #2 - You want to listen to your peers who have done an ERP implementation in the past. They will have “lessons learned” that will be of great benefit to you, so don’t let the bells and whistles of a fancy ERP system and a smooth talking salesman lead you down a path that a peer is saying may not be the best. #3 - If you have a gut feeling that the software consultant is not serving your best interests by highlighting the bells and whistles of the software that don’t really apply to your operation, listen to that feeling. You don’t want to make a huge mistake on this crucial decision. Find out more from John’s experience on this episode of Making Chips. Outline of this episode [1:05] Welcome and introduction to this episode with John Berard. [3:27] What is the direct function of a ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning tool) or MRP (Materials Resource Planning tool) system? [6:00] How do you bring all the “islands” of MRP systems together under one system? [9:05] An example: a small CNC machine shop, business is good, how do they formalize a plan to bring everything together? [12:13] Success stories of how this transition works. [14:15] Finding an ERP software solution to fit your needs. [15:51] A disaster in ERP implementation solutions and 3 ways you can mess up the transition. [17:28] Avoiding the bells and whistles the salesman might point out so you can apply the system to your typical jobs. [19:37] What should a small manufacturer budget for this type of software? [21:31] How long does it take to implement these software solutions? [21:56] John’s advice to those considering implementing an ERP solution for your company. Links mentioned in this episode John’s podcast: http://www.podcastformakers.com/ www.MakingChips.com/contact Or call us at 312-725-0245

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   [1:00] The Making Chips Youtube channel is live! [3:12] IMTS 2016 is coming up in September of 2016… and we’re putting together some ideas about the Making Chips audience coming together for collaboration. [4:06] Associations, Chambers, and both. [4:26] Local Chambers of Commerce… a local opportunity: Jim’s experience. [6:00] The kinds of things to expect at a local chamber meeting. [8:27] Costs and time investments required to be a part of a local chamber. [9:16] A success story from Jim being on the board of a local chamber of commerce. [10:32] The differences between an association and a chamber. [11:49] Clear focus characterizes associations. [13:05] For both chambers and associations, getting involved is important. [14:50] A sampling of associations that are available. [16:15] Thing you need to know about chambers and associations. [17:20] Things to do before joining an association or chamber. [18:00] Give us your feedback about chambers and associations. Links mentioned in this episode   www.MakingChips.com/10   Mazak’s upcoming event - https://www.mazakusa.com/discover2015/   www.MakingChips.com/contact   Or call us at 312-725-0245

Word of mouth advertising still works. It’s wonderful when a satisfied customer tells someone else about their experience with your company. But there are more options today than just relying on word of mouth. Technology and social media have created the opportunity to put your advertisements in front of the people who are most likely to buy your products or use your services. How is it possible? Through data that is collected through platforms like Facebook. In this episode of Making Chips, Jim and Jason will be discussing their experience with Facebook ads, including the results they’ve seen, the cost they paid, and why they thought it was a good idea. Listen in to get the whole story.   Getting in front of your ideal customer is easier than ever.   When a person first sets up their Facebook account they’re asked a series of questions about their interests, hobbies, work, likes and dislikes. The responses they give are more than just ways to connect them with other people. Those are data points used by the Facebook machine to organize ad campaigns for those who use the Facebook Ad platform. On top of that, every click, every like, every comment is recorded and logged as well, giving Facebook an immense amount of data on every user over time. That’s the data you could tap into by using Facebook Ads. Find out more about this amazing opportunity, in this episode of Making Chips.   Jim’s experience using Facebook ads for Carr Machine and Tool.   At one point Jim decided to try out Facebook ads and set up an ad campaign for his business, Carr Machine and Tool. He was able to target people who either worked in the manufacturing industry or were interested in machining, tools, etc. It was amazing how easily he could “drill down” into the very group of people he wanted to target to put his ads in front of them, and them only. The results? He actually had one person send him a bid opportunity because of his Facebook ads. Find out more about how Jim and Jason are planning to use Facebook Ads in the future by listening to the conversation today.   The Mazak event is almost here. Act now to be a part of this amazing event!   Mazak is a company that leads the way in the manufacture of advanced technology solutions including Multi-Tasking, hybrid Multi-Tasking, 5-axis, milling, turning, CNC controls and automation. Their upcoming event, Discover 2015 is one of the largest events held in the United States and is an educational, technology, and networking event manufacturing leaders won’t want to miss. How can you be there? Go to the Mazak website https://www.mazakusa.com/discover2015 and register for this event, coming up October 27-19, 2015, in Florence, Kentucky. Do you have a question or topic you’d like addressed on Making Chips? How about a guest you’d like to recommend?   Jim and Jason would love to hear from you so they can better craft the show to meet your exact needs. You can leave your question or make your guest suggestion by going to the Making Chips website - www.MakingChips.com/contact . Don’t be shy, the guys would love to hear from you! Outline of this episode   [1:06] The upcoming Mazak event - a valuable opportunity for networking and interaction. [3:05] Introduction of today’s topic: Advertising your Machine Shop on Facebook [5:31] Jim’s experience posting ads on Facebook for Carr Machine and Tool. [7:38] How Facebook ads work to target who gets to see the ad. [9:25] Who Jim targets with his Facebook ads. [10:44] The amazing ways Facebook ads can be nuanced to hit your perfect customer. [11:43] The importance of using images when creating Facebook ads. [13:48] What is the cost of Facebook ads? [14:40] Jim’s success story from using Facebook ads. [16:25] How Jason would use Facebook ads and what his goals would be. [17:56] The Making Chips experiment to test the use of Facebook ads. [20:39] How to leave your info about topics you’d like Jim and Jason to cover on Making Chips. Links mentioned in this episode   Mazak’s upcoming event - https://www.mazakusa.com/discover2015/   Making Chips episode about networking: www.MakingChips.com/10   www.MakingChips.com/contact   Or call us at 312-725-0245  

The world has changed since the days of your grandfather’s old, dusty, dingy manufacturing shop. Technology and a global economy are forcing these changes and the American manufacturing industry is changing along with it. Small manufacturers now have to compete on a global level and it’s to the advantage of all manufacturers within the United States to come together and collaborate so the U.S. manufacturing industry can remain a dominant force in the global economy. It’s to that end that a government/private sector organization, the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation was born. On this episode of Making Chips Jason and Jim do their best to explain what the NNMI is, how it came about, and why it’s an important force behind the needed changes that are coming to the U.S. manufacturing industry. Collaboration for the sake of all. That’s the idea behind the creation of the NNMI. If the government can facilitate and encourage the individual manufacturers within the United States manufacturing industry to come together, share knowledge, data, and resources, and work together to increase the manufacturing capacity and ability within the nation, everyone will win. Hear how Jim and Jason are thinking about this new effort and how you can be involved, on this episode of Making Chips. One organization, many institutes with specialized areas of focus. The NNMI is focused on helping the manufacturing industry overcome the obstacles to remaining a global force in the world-wide manufacturing community. Toward that end it has created many specialized institutes. Among them are America Makes, Digital Manufacturing and Design, Lightweight Metal Manufacturing, Power America, the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing, AIM Photonics, the Flexible Hybrid Electronics Manufacturing Institute, the Innovation Institute on  Smart Manufacturing, and the Revolutionary Fibers and Textiles Manufacturing Innovation Institute. Find out more about each of these on this episode. What do Jim and Jason think about the DMDII from their participation on a panel at their facility? Jim and Jason were both very impressed not only with the amount of time and money that obviously went into the event they were asked to participate in, but also in the genuine concern those putting on the event had with their input and concerns. As representatives of the smaller manufacturers in the U.S. the two had a unique perspective that those running the DMDII event were very interested in hearing. Jason and Jim are hopeful that is a good sign of the desire to truly cooperate and work together for the benefit of all manufacturers. Hear more of their impressions by listening to this episode. Do you have comments, questions, or resources you’d like to share with the Making Chips crew? Jason and Jim would love to receive your feedback, learn from your knowledge, and share it with the Making Chips community. You can connect with either of them through the website at www.MakingChips.com or call them at 312-725-0245. They’d love to hear from you and build a connection that will benefit the entire manufacturing community. Outline of this episode [1:06] The upcoming Mazak event October 27-30 and November 30-5. [2:21] Introduction of Ryan Scanlan, social media manager for the Making Chips crew. [4:20] Demystifying the NNMI. [6:03] Jim and Jason’s input through the DMDII (Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute), regarding smart manufacturing. [7:47] What the NNMI does: collaboration between government, private companies, and academics to improve the manufacturing industry. [8:40] What these sorts of partnerships could accomplish in the industry. [9:44] A vision for collaboration surrounding innovation within the manufacturing industry. [10:56] Issues surrounding time to market that the NNMI wants to address in light of the change toward a global market. [12:42] Why those manufacturing companies that are resistant and inflexible could be left behind. [13:20] The different NNMI institutes, what they are focused on, and where they are. [19:19] Jim and Jason’s impressions of the DMDII facility and their time there. [22:04] Your invitation to contact the Making Chips crew with your thoughts and ideas. Links mentioned in this episode Mazak’s upcoming event - https://www.mazakusa.com/discover2015/ www.Manufacturing.gov Workshops for Warriors - http://workshopsforwarriors.org/ www.MakingChips.com/contact Or call us at 312-725-0245 Tweets you can use to tell others about the episode Government - private cooperation in the manufacturing industry? Demystifying the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation #NNMI What would happen if #manufacturers across the board could collaborate and innovate? A movement to increase #TimeToMarket speed in the @manufacturing industry #ManufacturingInnovation through cooperation, on this episode of #MakingChips

MC039: A Young Woman with Manufacturing Dreams: A conversation with Michelle Mabry   Traditionally the manufacturing industry has been dominated by the presence of men. That’s not a bad thing. But it’s not necessarily a good thing either. Today’s episode of Making Chips is a conversation with one of the many young women who are stepping into the once-male-dominated manufacturing industry and making a very positive difference. When Michelle Mabry moved to Chicago she enrolled in a welding class at a local community college and was set on fire by the wonderful skills and things she could do with a welding torch in her hand. She’s confident that she has a ton to offer the manufacturing industry. Hear her story on this episode of Making Chips.   What inspires a young woman to become a welder?   The answers to that question will be is as different as the young women you’re talking about, but for Michelle Mabry it was the way that welding could be an outlet for creativity and inspiration. She discovered that the skill of welding enables her to create things that otherwise might never come to reality, and that she could transfer those skills to others through teaching and enable them to establish a solid future when there otherwise may not be any hope. Hear more of how Michelle is using her welding experience and education to inspire others to make something great of their lives, on this episode.   Is the modern machine shop an appropriate place for women to be?   Michelle Mabry thinks so… as do the hosts of  Making Chips, Jason Zenger and Jim Carr. Modern manufacturing facilities are not your grandfather’s machine shop. By and large today’s shops are clean, technical, skill-oriented environments where women and men can work alongside each other to create the parts and machinery that keep our country running. Jason, Jim, and Michelle have a very open and candid conversation about the unique perspectives that women bring to the manufacturing industry on this episode, and you get to listen in. Why are women needed in the manufacturing industry?   A unique mindset and perspective is one of the many things women bring into manufacturing, and Jason Zenger and Jim Carr believe it’s sorely needed. Men and women are different and they feel it’s about time we utilized those differences to move the manufacturing industry forward, opening up doors of possibility that until now have gone unnoticed. With the combined insights and creativity of both sexes, manufacturing companies can innovate and grow in ways we’ve not seen yet. Hear more about how this combination of the sexes in the manufacturing industry could move things forward, in this episode.   What about you? Are you willing to take a step into a new field?   When Michelle Mabry first told people that she was going to enroll in a welding class at her local college, she hit opposition almost immediately. People took exception with her choice because she was a woman, because it wasn’t “normal” for a women to don a welding helmet and apron. But Michelle says the naysayers only fuel her determination. It’s not that she wants to be like a man, she wants to be who she is, and welding is one of the channels she uses to express her creativity and make a difference in the world. Hear Michelle’s inspiring story on this episode. Maybe it will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and develop a new skill as well. Outline of this episode   [1:06] The upcoming Mazak event, “Mazak Discover 2015” - click to register for this incredible event. [3:12] Introduction to this episode: An inspiring story about following your passion! [3:45] Industry news - Jim’s participation on a panel discussing smart manufacturing, and Jason’s journey in working through some acquisitions for his company. [6:10] Introduction of today’s guest: Michelle Mabry. [7:50] Michelle’s move to Chicago as the catalyst that moved her into the field of welding. [9:00] What inspired Michelle about welding? [10:15] Michelle’s enrollment in a welding class: what she learned and the certifications she is earning. [14:00] Michelle’s aspirations to teach welding once she’s finished with her education. [16:02] Hopes for the future: Sculptures, encouraging others to consider their possibilities, and the desire to help others excel.) [17:56] How to get the younger generation or women interested in the manufacturing industry. [19:21] How a welding lab can breed confidence in people who otherwise might not have it. [20:26] The power of manufacturing skills to give people a new lease on life and dreams for their future. [22:04] What the average manufacturing employer is looking for. [22:43] Michelle’s “Ah Ha!” moment when she knew manufacturing was what she wanted to do. [23:20] How Michelle dealt with the naysayers. [24:16] The importance of women in the manufacturing industry. Links mentioned in this episode   Mazak’s upcoming event - https://www.mazakusa.com/discover2015/   Workshops for Warriors - http://workshopsforwarriors.org/   www.MakingChips.com/contact   Or call us at 312-725-0245   Tweets you can use to tell others about the episode   What motivates a young #woman to become a #welder?   A young #woman who became a #welder, and how she dealt with the #naysayers   Why women are vitally needed in the #ManufacturingIndustry   How #manufacturing skills can inspire and motivate people to a better more productive life   Using #welding to #inspire and #motivate others, in this episode of #MakingChips