Welcome to The Wrench Factor, where we explore the technologies and innovations shaping the future of industrial asset management. In each episode, we dive into the biggest challenges facing frontline professionals, sharing real-world insights and practical strategies to help teams achieve best-in-class operations. From AI to asset reliability, we're talking about what matters most—right from the field. If you have an idea for a future topic, send your suggestion here: [email protected] ...
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Welcome to the podcast for manufacturing professionals, powered by SME. Featuring a variety of guests from leading manufacturing companies, the Advanced Manufacturing Now podcast drives the conversation about making manufacturing smarter. SME Media is a leading source for news and in-depth technical information about advanced manufacturing in North America. To learn more about SME Media, visit us at AdvancedManufacturing.org.
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How AI is Shaping the Future of Workforce Development
21:12
21:12
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21:12In this episode of Manufacturing the Workforce of Tomorrow, host Toni Neary talks with Dr. Timothy Wilson, SME’s AI strategist, about what artificial intelligence really is—and what it means for your workforce. They break down the basics of AI (Narrow, General, Agentic), how tools like ChatGPT work, and how AI is already shaping everything from hir…
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Building Tomorrow’s Workforce: Educating the Next Gen of Manufacturers
25:52
25:52
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25:52Jake Hall ("The Manufacturing Millennial") and MaintainX co-founder, Nick Haase, explore the urgent intersection of education, generational knowledge transfer, and digital transformation reshaping manufacturing's future. As the industry loses decades of irreplaceable expertise to retirement, it will reveal how forward-thinking organizations are tur…
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Digital Thread and Model-Based Definition in Manufacturing with John McCullough
24:52
24:52
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24:52In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, Editor David Muller interviews John McCullough of Kubotek Kosmos about the evolution of CAD technology, the challenges of digital communication in manufacturing, and the emerging trend of model-based definition. John shares insights on how A&D industries are driving innovation in data sharing, interope…
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Tools to Advance Your Business: Strategies for Manufacturing Success
1:09:06
1:09:06
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1:09:06Join Jason Gorey of Stifel Financial Corp. as he sits down with manufacturing experts Patrick Gaughan and Tim Osterhaus to explore critical strategies for small and medium-sized manufacturers. Hear insights on talent acquisition, innovation, continuous improvement, and the evolving landscape of American manufacturing through the experiences of thes…
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How ERP Can and Should Be a Manufacturer's Most Valuable Asset with Dusty Alexander
14:28
14:28
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14:28Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have become a critical asset for modern manufacturers. In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, Editor Lawrence Moves sits down with Dusty Alexander, President and CEO of Global Shop Solutions. Dusty shares insights into the evolution of ERP technology, discussing real-time data visibility, shop floo…
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Culture Shift: Empowering the Modern Maintenance Team
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18:44On this episode of The Wrench Factor, we explore how modern maintenance culture is moving away from reactive checklists and compliance-driven workflows toward empowerment, ownership, and collaboration. Learn how to build a culture that drives a lasting impact.By MaintainX
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Doing Better: June Smart Shop Essentials Preview
13:18
13:18
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13:18The June edition of Smart Shop Essentials is all about being better (but not necessarily best). In this episode, Editor-in-Chief Steve Plumb speaks with Lead Contributing Editor Amy Bryson and Contributing Editor Kip Hanson about the latest issue, how the word “premium” is synonymous with better—and why being frugal could end up costing big bucks d…
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Generations of Innovation at Scientific Cutting Tools with Jonathan Christopher and Brian Falk
19:23
19:23
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19:23In this episode of the Advanced Manufacturing Now podcast, Senior Editor David Mueller speaks with Jonathan Christopher and Brian Falk from Scientific Cutting Tools to discuss the company's garage beginnings and commitment to the future. Scientific Cutting Tools was founded in 1963 by Stanley Christopher, and three generations later, serve customer…
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Fitting Additive Manufacturing Into Your Toolbox With M5D’s Kevin Carr
20:12
20:12
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20:12After 75 years in business, MasterGraphics has rebranded to M5D with a focus on supporting its customers in every dimension. In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, Editor Lawrence Moebs interviews CEO Kevin Carr about the rebrand, the trough of disillusionment, and the opportunities presented by additive manufacturing today.…
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Using Technology to Bridge the Skills Gap with Mr. CNC of Siemens
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33:17
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33:17Siemens Virtual Technical Application Center is an online educational initiative launched to help companies and their employees keep their skills up-to-date to meet the rapid changes in technology as the industrial sector digitalizes. Mr. CNC Chris Pollack, manager of the center, speaks with Lead Contributing Editor Amy Bryson about the macro chall…
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The AI Trap: Chasing Tech Without the ROI
25:13
25:13
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25:13On this episode of The Wrench Factor, MaintainX co-founder Nick Haase sits down with Willem Sundblad, CEO of Oden Technologies, to discuss the state of AI inside digital transformation programs—and why the bar for ROI has shot through the roof.By MaintainX
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Optimizing Maintenance Management with Nick Haase of MaintainX
19:24
19:24
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19:24Nick Haase, co-founder of MaintainX, has spent thousands of hours on the shop floor helping manufacturing leaders transform their operations with frontline-friendly software and AI. He joins Senior Editor David Muller to discuss the origins of MaintainX and the current state of computerized maintenance management system software.…
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From Cool to Cost Effective: Additive Manufacturing in 2025
10:27
10:27
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10:27RAPID + TCT 2025, North America’s largest and most influential additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing event, once again brought together the brightest minds in AM. In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, the SME Media editorial team get together to share the most noteworthy insights they discovered on the show floor this year.…
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Using AI to Find the Right Parts with James Novak
21:47
21:47
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21:47Zoovu is an AI search and product discovery platform designed to put the right parts in the right hands. In the manufacturing industry, those parts could mean the difference between fulfilling a multimillion dollar order, or not. James Novak, CEO of Zoovu, joins Editor David Muller to discuss Zoovu with a lens on manufacturing companies.…
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How MachineMetrics Uses Maintenance Data to Drive Business Value
22:05
22:05
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22:05MachineMetrics, a leading provider of machine data collection and analysis solutions, shares how you can extract valuable insights from their maintenance data, driving improvements in sustainability, quality, productivity, and capital planning. Learn how this data-driven approach can help you achieve operational excellence and optimize manufacturin…
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The $125K Per Hour Problem: How Data Sharing Builds Resilient Manufacturing
19:21
19:21
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19:21In this episode, we explore the transformative power of real-time data sharing, including how manufacturers and OEMs can leverage data to reduce downtime, optimize inventory control, accelerate innovation, and foster collaboration.By MaintainX
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How Asset Performance and Maintenance Drive Your Bottom Line
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21:35
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21:35In this episode, we dig into the critical connection between asset performance, maintenance strategies, and cash flow. We explore how proactive maintenance and real-time data can reduce downtime, optimize asset performance, and significantly impact a company’s financial health.By MaintainX
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Optimizing Maintenance with SAP: How LeverX is Powering the Future of Operations
22:21
22:21
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22:21Learn how LeverX revolutionizes maintenance and operations through SAP-driven solutions. From predictive maintenance and real-time analytics to seamless IT/OT integration, we’ll discuss how businesses can optimize workflows, reduce downtime, and maximize asset performance.By MaintainX
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Top 10 Signs Your Maintenance Program Needs a Tune-Up
28:18
28:18
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28:18From paper-based chaos to missing parts at the worst possible time. With real stories from the field, the team brings to life the everyday challenges maintenance pros face. Whether you're leading a well-oiled machine or constantly in firefighting mode, this episode is packed with practical insights.By MaintainX
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How Cintas Leads the Way in Tech-Enabled Safety
21:06
21:06
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21:06In this episode, we look into the transformative impact of technology on workplace safety, featuring insights from Cintas’ approach to tech-enabled safety solutions. We examine how data-driven tools and innovative strategies empower teams, enhance operational efficiency, and foster a culture of safety across industries.…
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Empowering the Next Generation of Machinists: Gabe Kooyers' Revolutionary Approach to Manufacturing Education
20:16
20:16
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20:16In this episode, we talk with Gabe Kooyers, a machining instructor who’s redefining what manufacturing education looks like. Blending hands-on experience with engineering design principles and a bold focus on CNC training from day one, Kooyers is preparing students to meet the demands of modern industry with confidence. We explore how his innovativ…
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Breaking Barriers: Advancing Innovation in Maintenance & Operations
27:47
27:47
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27:47This special episode of The Wrench Factor explores excellence in leadership across industrial sectors. Our live panel discussion features Katherine Schifani and Shari Maxwell Patrick, pioneering leaders who are transforming maintenance and manufacturing through strategic innovation. This timely conversation coincides with International Women's Day …
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Pragmatic Digital Twins with Jason Hehman
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18:41
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18:41Jason Hehman, vertical leader of industry 4.0 at TXI, wants to empower manufacturing with the kind of insight only a digital twin can provide. He speaks with Editor Lawrence Moebs on developing pragmatic solutions with smart manufacturing technology.
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Testing Additive Components with Jerry Capo and Dr. Alex Kinsey
40:19
40:19
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40:19Jerry Capo, vice president of technology at Product Evaluation Systems, and Dr. Alex Kinsey, technical lead of metallurgy, failure analysis at ATS, speak with Editor Lawrence Moebs about a crucially important aspect of any manufacturing: testing. In the case of additive manufacturing, the variability and complexity of the processes involved means t…
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Protecting the Cyber World with Gabriela Ciocarlie
30:15
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30:15The Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII) wants to solve the biggest challenges facing cybersecurity in the U.S manufacturing industry. Gabriela Ciocarlie, Chief Technology Officer of CyManII, speaks with Lead Contributing Editor Amy Bryson about cybersecurity considerations for manufacturers of all sizes.…
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Building the Future of Additive Manufacturing with Materialise's Brigitte de Vet
31:43
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31:43Brigitte de Vet, CEO of Materialise, knows that additive manufacturing technology has the potential for a revolutionary impact on the manufacturing industry, even if it might be a slow revolution. Editor-in-Chief Steve Plumb speaks with Brigitte about where the AM industry has been and where it's heading.…
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Rotary Surface Grinding in Additive Manufacturing with Erik Lawson
19:21
19:21
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19:21As additive manufacturing technology advances, so does the sophistication of 3D-printed materials. Whatever you choose to use in your process, your grinder needs to handle everything you throw at it. Editor Lawrence Moebs speaks with Erik Lawson of DCM Tech about getting the most out of your rotary surface grinder in additive manufacturing.…
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Growing the Workforce Talent Pipeline with Dr. Deb Volzer
31:01
31:01
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31:01Dr. Deb Volzer wants to change the narrative around manufacturing career opportunities. She spearheaded the development of SME’s Manufacturing Imperative Workforce Pipeline Challenge (MI-WPC) with the express purpose of raising enrollment by 1,000 individuals per year, per college in STEM and manufacturing related programs. As the program finishes …
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Sparking Innovation: Transforming STEM Education and Diversity in Engineering
22:12
22:12
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22:12How can we ignite a passion for STEM in young minds and create a more diverse engineering workforce? Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of Shonali Ditz, Co-Founder and Executive Director of SparkShop. Shonali shares her personal journey, from navigating the challenges of engineering at Northwestern University to co-founding SparkShop, an …
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The Intersection of AI and Manufacturing: A Conversation with MetaOps
33:31
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33:31In this episode, host David Muller speaks with Ron Crabtree, CEO of MetaOps, about the current landscape of manufacturing, particularly for small and medium-sized manufacturers. They discuss the challenges these manufacturers face, including digital transformation, workforce shortages, and the impact of automation and AI.…
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In this latest episode, editor-in-chief Steve Plumb sits down with Smart Manufacturing lead contributing editor Amy Bryson and contributing editor Kip Hanson, to discuss the April issue of Smart Shop Essentials. They detail some of the informative stories you'll be able to read, and they also give a small preview into the upcoming June issue. To le…
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The Future of Cybersecurity: Insights from CyManII
48:57
48:57
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48:57In this episode, host Steve Plumb speaks with Howard Grimes, CEO of CyManII, about the critical importance of cybersecurity in the manufacturing sector. They discuss the evolving landscape of cyber threats, the innovative approaches CyManII is taking to address these challenges, and the importance of workforce development in enhancing cybersecurity…
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Harnessing Collective Innovation for Change: AeroDef 2025
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21:14In today's episode, editor-in-chief Steve Plumb talks with SME colleagues Stacey Eeman, Director of Industry Strategy, and Dave Morton, Group Director for the Manufacturing Technology Series, about AeroDef 2025, highlighting its significance in the aerospace and defense sectors. They also cover the importance of face-to-face interactions, the role …
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In this episode, host Steve Plumb discusses the integration of emerging technologies, particularly AI, in the manufacturing sector with guests Jon Star, Director of Marketing at Methods Machine Tools, and Mike Kaminski Jr., CEO of Multiaxis, LLC. They explore the current state of the industry, the challenges posed by workforce shortages, and the im…
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We've hit the trifecta in this latest episode! Join Smart Manufacturing contributing lead editor Amy Bryson as she previews our April issue with SME Media editor-in-chief Steve Plumb and contributing editor Kip Hanson. They discuss Smart's articles on workforce development, technological innovations, and the impact of AI on supply chain resilience.…
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Advancing the Future of Manufacturing: The SME Bright Minds Student Mentorship Program
23:18
23:18
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23:18In this episode, Steve Plumb explores the SME Bright Minds Student Mentorship Program with Robert Komljenovic, Operating Board Member for Acieta and mentor to Hailey Kressin, student at the Colorado School of Mines. They highlight the journeys of Robert and Hailey, the dynamics of the mentorship program, and the challenges faced in balancing academ…
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Transforming Manufacturing with AI and Advanced Monitoring
17:56
17:56
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17:56In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Lawrence Moebs speaks with Sundeep Ahluwalia, Chief Product Officer at TDK SensEI, about the evolution of manufacturing technologies from traditional condition-based monitoring (CBM) to advanced machine health monitoring. They discuss the role of AI in predictive maintenance, the importance of pre…
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The Future of Manufacturing: Embracing AI and Digitization
20:55
20:55
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20:55In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Lawrence Moebs speaks with Parsable CEO Matt Belkin about the critical role of digitization and AI in modern manufacturing. They discuss the challenges of traditional paper-based processes, the transformative potential of AI, and how technology can help address labor shortages.…
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Building Inclusive Workplaces – How Aspiritech is Leading the Way
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14:00In this episode of "Manufacturing the Workforce of Tomorrow," we sit down with Tara May, CEO of Aspiritech, a groundbreaking social enterprise that provides meaningful employment for autistic adults while delivering top-tier tech services. With a deep passion for neurodiversity and a personal connection to the cause, May shares how she has helped g…
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In this episode, join SME Media Editor-in-Chief Steve Plumb, Contributing Lead Editor of Smart Manufacturing Amy Bryson, and Contributing Editor Kip Hanson as they preview the latest issue of SME Media's newest publication, Smart Shop Essentials.
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Revolutionizing Manufacturing: The Role of MESC
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22:24In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb speaks with Kelly Visconti, principal deputy director of the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) at the Department of Energy. They discuss the role of MESC in strengthening U.S. manufacturing, addressing workforce shortages, and the impact of legislation like the CH…
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Empowering Service Technicians: AI, Digital Transformation, and the Future of Manufacturing
14:39
14:39
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14:39In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Lawrence Moebs speaks with Gerrit Stuchtey, Customer Experience Director at Arvato Systems. They discuss the challenges faced by service technicians in the manufacturing industry, particularly in the context of digital transformation and the integration of AI technologies. Stuchtey highlights the …
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Tackling Workforce Challenges with Automation: CLM Solutions for Modern Manufacturing
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34:01In this episode, host David Muller speaks with Daniel Joseph Barry, vice president of product marketing at Configit, about the challenges and solutions in the manufacturing industry, particularly focusing on the impact of an aging workforce and the importance of automation and configuration lifecycle management (CLM). They discuss how CLM can help …
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Precision, Partnerships, and the Future of Manufacturing: A Conversation on Metrology
27:09
27:09
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27:09In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb discusses the critical role of metrology in manufacturing with Christian Shinners and Joe Zofchak from Zeiss Industrial Quality Solutions. They explore the importance of academic partnerships in addressing the skills gap in manufacturing, the impact of modern technology and Industry 4.…
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Building the Future: How Lone Star College and NOV are Shaping Tomorrow's Manufacturing Workforce
20:43
20:43
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20:43In this episode of "Manufacturing the Workforce of Tomorrow," Toni Neary speaks with Linda Head, Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Strategic Partnerships at Lone Star College, to discuss a groundbreaking partnership with National Oilwell Varco (NOV). Created to address the skills gap in manufacturing, this innovative program offers Aldine High S…
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Unifying Advanced Manufacturing: RAPID + TCT, AeroDef, WCX and TRX Colocation
37:50
37:50
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37:50In this episode, Steve Plumb sits down with Steve Prahalis, COO for SME, Chris Ciuca, VP of Programs for SAE, and John Wilczynski, Executive Director for America Makes. They discuss the upcoming colocation of SME's AeroDef, SAE's WCX, and America Makes' TRX at RAPID + TCT 2025 in Detroit. They highlight the importance of collaboration among organiz…
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Smart Manufacturing and the Future of the Workplace
35:48
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35:48In this episode, Padma Raghunathan, Product Marketing Manager at Deltek, discusses the future of smart manufacturing, focusing on the integration of AI and automation, workforce augmentation, and the evolving roles within the manufacturing sector.
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Navigating Leadership Challenges in Manufacturing
25:22
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25:22In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb speaks with Craig Coyle, a former pilot and current leadership consultant, about the challenges new leaders face in the manufacturing industry. They discuss the importance of leadership training, the need for a supportive culture, and the concept of mentorship in developing effective l…
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Automation, Robotics, and the Future of Manufacturing
16:47
16:47
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16:47In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host David Mueller speaks with Juan Martinez from Suhner about the evolving landscape of manufacturing, particularly in relation to automation and robotics. They discuss the challenges faced by the workforce, the advantages of robotic systems in material removal, and the innovations in compliance syste…
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