From SWAT To Spindles: How Johnny Goode Led MSP Manufacturing's Lights-Out Transformation, Ep #28 Lights Out: Technology And Automation Podcast By MakingChips podcast

What do law enforcement, SWAT operations, and CNC machining have in common? More than you'd think. In this episode of Lights Out, hosts Nick Goellner, Eric Nekich, and Dave Vuyk welcome Johnny Goode, President and Co-owner of MSP Manufacturing in Bloomington, Indiana—a precision aerospace manufacturer that's rapidly transforming its operations with automation and digital processes.

Johnny's journey is anything but typical. From police officer and SWAT team member to Army National Guard sergeant, his story is packed with grit, discipline, and leadership under pressure. When he traded in his badge for a badge of a different kind—the MSP logo—he brought with him the tactical mindset and resilience that now define his company's culture and growth. Today, MSP is running 24/5, leveraging modular workholding, five-axis machining, and ProShop ERP to deliver quality aerospace parts on time, every time.

In this conversation, Johnny opens up about the leadership lessons he carried from the field to the factory floor, how he earned the trust of veteran machinists, and why he believes that culture, values, and integrity are the real foundation for successful automation. From implementing five-axis technology to reducing stress on his shop floor, Johnny proves that the human element still drives even the most automated operations.

If you've ever wondered what it takes to modernize a legacy manufacturer without losing its soul—or how to build trust and innovation into every shift—this episode is one you won't forget.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in…

(0:22) Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP
(2:13) Johnny Goode of MSP Manufacturing's origin story
(6:00) Life on the SWAT team: Lessons in pressure, discipline, and adaptability
(11:15) How law enforcement and military experiences shaped Johnny's leadership style
(14:24) Early challenges as a next-generation leader and implementing a new ERP system
(18:27) Lessons from crisis: How COVID forced diversification and sparked innovation
(20:13) Enter automation: Partnering with consultants and leveraging state grants
(23:14) Get a true partner in your corner with Verdant Commercial Capital
(25:00) Overcoming obstacles in automation and standardizing for success
(27:38) Shop floor efficiency: 5S, tool management, and the value of observation
(31:51) MSP's core values: Integrity, efficiency, resilience, precision, respect, and innovation
(36:30) Managing change and getting buy-in from the team
(38:03) Tracking progress: Using ProShop ERP for traceability, scheduling, and visibility
(42:36) The next frontier: Expanding capacity and eliminating new bottlenecks
(45:30) Balancing growth with sustainability and employee well-being
(49:02) Lessons learned and what Johnny would (and wouldn't) do differently
(53:33) Closing reflections and takeaway for manufacturers ready to evolve
(55:40) Why you need to check out Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire

Resources & People Mentioned

Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP
Get a true partner in your corner with Verdant Commercial Capital
Why you need to check out Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire

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MSP Manufacturing

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Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK