The Industrial Movement: Recent Episodes
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Today on The Industrial Movement podcast, we are joined by Chad Harmon. Chad is the director of manufacturing at Second Nature. Tune in to hear how Chad became involved in the company, what they do, and what their plans are for the future. You will also learn about what Chad has learned from his experience in manufacturing, resources and people that have helped him along the way, the challenges he faces, the manufacturing process at the company, and the safety protocols they adhere to. We also discuss how the company maintains efficiency and stays on schedule before looking at how they focus on energy efficiency. Chad also goes into myths we can debunk about manufacturing, where he sees the future of the industry in the next 10 years, and advice he would give to manufacturing leaders listening today. Thank you for listening!
Our guest today is someone who has seamlessly transitioned from engineering to operations in one of the most successful companies in the world right now! Todd Hammel is the Operations Manager at Amazon in Nashville, Tennessee, and today, he joins us to share his insights into the workings of the well-oiled machine that is Amazon. Todd fills us in on how he prepared himself for his leadership position, who inspired him along the way, and the greatest lessons he’s learned thus far as a leader. We get an inside peek into the day-to-day operations over at Amazon, their mind-blowingly thorough KPI monitoring system, and the creative freedom the company’s “two-way door” approach allows its employees. Tune in to hear Todd’s golden nuggets of wisdom about all things operations and leadership!
In today’s show, we speak to Paul Banks, Plant Manager at Logan Aluminum. In this episode, we learn about Paul’s professional background, his unconventional journey to Plant Manager, and about Logan Aluminum. We also talk about the role of continuous improvement, the biggest challenges facing the industry, who the people are that influenced Paul’s career, insights into what makes a good leader, and advice that Paul has for listeners. For this and much more, tune in for another informative and inspiring episode with guest Paul Banks!
Tony Gilleland is the plant manager at Packaging Specialties and today he shares his 22-year progression with the company and what he has learned along the way. In this episode of The Industrial Movement, you will hear a brief history of the company, what Packaging Specialties does, and the biggest challenge their industry is facing today. Tony also gives some advice to manufacturing leaders, tells us about the resources that have helped him, and discusses some of the most influential people in his life. Next, Tony describes the biggest lesson he learned and what he took away from it before giving us some insight into the methods Packaging Specialties uses to maintain efficiency and productivity. Finally, Tony looks into his crystal ball and tells us where he sees US manufacturing in 10 years. To hear all this, and more, tune in now!
Today on the show we are joined by Scott Martin, a manufacturing project engineer, most recently with XOS Trucks, an electric vehicle manufacturer based out of Los Angeles, California. In our conversation, we discuss Scott’s somewhat unconventional career path, what he’s learned from the different companies he’s worked at, and some of the most exciting innovations he’s seen in his field. We hear from Scott about how attending a technical college while working part-time benefited both his studies and his career, and why he believes he wouldn’t be where he is today if he’d taken a more traditional career path. Scott also shares what he’s learned from the companies he’s worked at and gives a breakdown of the range of electric vehicles that XOS Trucks have produced and how they are providing a last-mile solution. To learn more about leadership, electric vehicles, industrial engineering, and much more, make sure you tune in today!
In today’s show, we speak to special guest Robert Lillquist, the F-Series Manufacturing Engineer at Ford Motor Company, who has worked his way up in the company after starting there seven years ago. Robert is known by his peers as a motivated and disciplined individual who has a passion for engineering, sustainability, and renewable energy. His broad range of expertise allows him to be involved in almost all manufacturing processes and is able to provide a unique perspective on solving problems. We learn about Roberts's professional background, his current role at Ford, some of the biggest challenges that Robert has experienced, what is essential to becoming successful, the importance of thinking out of the box, the management style at Ford, what the best selling vehicle of all time was, and much more. Tune in today to get advice and tips from a respected figure and leader in manufacturing, Robert Lillquist!
Welcome back to another episode of The Industrial Movement, a show focused on the processes and the equipment that drives American manufacturing. We usually have conversations with other professionals in the industry, but today is a special solo-cast, held by hosts Morty Hodge and Greg Smith. In this episode, listeners will hear about our recent 2022 Best Workplaces in America award and advice for how to help your company win it in the future. We delve into some details about the award, what it takes to become eligible, and the benefits of winning. We explain the importance of creating a company culture and vision, cost-effective ways of maintaining company culture, core values and goals which should form part of any company, how to recruit and work with top talent, the benefits of paying your employees well, and more! Don't miss out on this special episode of The Industrial Movement where you can learn tips and tricks to help your company win the 2023 Best Workplaces in America award.
Our guest today has been in manufacturing for 30 years, predominantly in the food industry, and has a passion for stepping in and turning businesses around by improving their efficiency and productivity. Mark Potter joins us today to talk about his impressively dense career and his new consulting company, Patronus. In this episode, we cover everything from overcoming supply chain issues and setting expectations and incremental targets, to what Mark views at the first port of call when evaluating a company’s efficiency. He fills us in on why he thinks manufacturing is simple and the basic principles he employs to ensure success. Tune in to hear some tips on attracting and retaining talent, what to keep in mind when considering automation, and why COVID can no longer be used as an excuse for poor productivity!
Today we're honored to have the esteemed Harry Moser join us to talk about his worthy mission to balance America's goods trade deficit! Harry is the founder of Reshoring Initiative, after being the president of a machine tool maker GF Machining Solutions for about 22 years. His awards include Industrial Week and AME Manufacturing Halls of Fame, SPE’s Mold Designer of the Year, and Fab Shop Directors Manufacture of the Year. He's participated actively in President Obama's 2012 Insourcing Forum at the White House and is also a member of the Department of Commerce Investment Advisory Council. He's spoken at numerous conferences and events and has frequently been quoted in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, New York Times and seen on national TV and radio programs. In this episode, we dive into the societal problems and lack of industrial policy that has gotten us here, before taking a look at the impact of Trump and Biden's rule so far and what we've learned. The conversation then turns to two important ways Reshoring Initiative helps manufacturers buy smarter and sell smarter, as well as some great ways to help the consumer access and prioritize Made in America products! Harry also brings the data and tools to push a much-needed facelift from the 'dirty' stigma of manufacturing to the 5 S's: shiny, safe, spotless, surging, steady, and outlines the part that colleges (and social media) should play in this reinvigoration drive. We hope you can join us to hear his valuable insight on what leadership can do today inside their companies to push these crucial initiatives!
Engaging the Younger Generation with Adam Fulbright from North Georgia Technical College
Episode 21: Show Notes
In addition to the supply chain issues facing the USA, another challenge is attracting the younger generation to the manufacturing industry. Talking to us today is one of the leaders in technical education, Adam Fulbright. From rough beginnings, Adam worked his way up from one industry to the next, until he was inspired to give something back as a teacher. As Program Director of the North Georgia Technical College, he is certainly doing that, and we find out how in this episode. Tune in to learn what manufacturing leaders can do to make their workplaces more attractive to the youth, and why a jack of all trades program is so beneficial to prospective students. We hear the skills and areas that Adam’s program covers, and how he keeps it up to date with the latest technological innovations. From why he needs more time in the day to the mentors he learned the most from and the two books he would recommend, we get to know Adam personally. We also find out what students graduating from the North Georgia Technical College can expect in terms of pay, and how partnerships between manufacturing companies and the College are mutually beneficial. For all this and so much more, press play now.
Key Points From This Episode:
- An introduction to Adam Fulbright, Program Director at North Georgia Technical College, and how he got to where he is.
- The biggest challenges in getting younger generations involved in the manufacturing industry.
- Why Adam’s program sells itself as the jack of all trades program, and the areas it covers.
- Adam’s biggest day-to-day challenge: time!
- The advice Adam would give to manufacturing leaders out there, and the unique phase of life we’re in.
- Keeping the program up to date with technological developments.
- The mentors who helped Adam along his journey, and what he learned from each of them.
- Why hands-on training is a key focus for the North Georgia Technical College.
- How partnering with industry is mutually beneficial for the College and the company involved.
- Two books that changed Adam’s life, and why!
- What students graduating from the College can expect in terms of pay.
- Why Adam advises students to learn from each other, and the diversity of those who enroll.
- The drawbacks of online learning and how Adam has worked around these.
- Adam’s favorite student success story.
- Where you can contact Adam.
Tweetables:
“[I] worked my way up through that company in various roles before I decided to make the move to come teach. I was the operations manager for a couple of years, at the peak of my career, but I always had that desire to give back and to teach others.” —Adam Fulbright [0:03:18]
“We want to make sure we’re providing the skills that are in demand for the field. We’re ever evolving, shifting classes around, bringing in new content and trying to keep pace. That’s a big thing for us.” — Adam Fulbright [0:15:09]
“You’ve got to enjoy your work and what you’re doing. If you enjoy it, you still got to have a livable wage. Let’s keep it real. We all work at the end of the day to make a living.” — Adam Fulbright [0:24:34]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Adam Fulbright on LinkedIn
Email Adam Fulbright
North Georgia Technical College
Paul McClellan: Eddie Kane Steel Products
Episode 20: Show Notes
The manufacturing leader that guides and supervises their workforce has influence over productivity, morale, and even job satisfaction. Today’s guest believes that, to be a truly skilled leader, you need to become aware of the needs of your workforce and adapt your leadership style to serve them, rather than simply expecting them to serve you! In today’s episode, you’ll hear from Eddie Kane Steel Plant Manager, Paul McClellan, as he shares some of the greatest challenges he has faced in his role, the lessons he has learned along the way, and his advice for the manufacturing leaders of tomorrow. We also touch on his strategies for staying afloat during COVID and the processes he has put in place to maintain efficiency and productivity, as well as some of the myths he hopes to debunk about steelworkers and how he believes technology like AI will impact the steel industry going forward. For all this and more, make sure not to miss today’s conversation with exceptional plant manager, engineer, and leader, Paul McClellan!
Key Points From This Episode:
- Paul shares some insight into his 35-year career path in manufacturing.
- Learn more about the history and philosophy of family-owned corporation, Eddie Kane Steel.
- The biggest challenges Paul sees the steel industry facing, both now and in the future.
- What Eddie Kane Steel did to stay afloat during COVID, including reducing their workforce.
- Paul’s advice for manufacturing leaders: adapt your leadership style to your workforce.
- The resources and mentors that have helped Paul become the leader he is today.
- What the pandemic has taught him about the power of positive thinking.
- Why Paul believes you are not born an innate leader; you have to rise to the occasion.
- Day-to-day challenges he faces in his position, including what he calls ‘mental retooling’.
- Processes in place to maintain efficiency and productivity at the plant that Paul manages.
- KPIs that are important to him as a plant manager, including time and distance.
- Some of the safety protocols in place at his facility.
- Paul’s vision for the future of US manufacturing and the role that passion plays.
- Debunking the myth that steelworkers are uncouth and dispassionate.
- The impact that he believes technology like AI will have on the steel industry in future.
- Tips for becoming a better leader, including seeking out constructive feedback.
Tweetables:
“The biggest challenges that we’re seeing in our industry right now is being able to understand the politics that are involved, the global situation, and then being smart enough to keep good relationships with our vendors and with our customers.” — Paul McClellan [0:04:54]
“[As a leader], remember that it’s up to you to adapt your workforce and to be working for them, not them working for you.” — Paul McClellan [0:08:38]
“Change is the norm right now and if you're going to stay rigid and you can’t flex, you’re going to get passed by.” — Paul McClellan [0:16:02]
“Seeking constructive feedback from people you respect is a very open and honest way of trying to make yourself better.” — Paul McClellan [0:33:49]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Paul McClellan on LinkedIn
Eddie Kane Steel
The Power of Positive Thinking
Lean Thin
Custom Deco with Nathan Ruetz
Episode 19: Show Notes
Working in manufacturing requires a lot of problem-solving. This is especially true with the new challenges that industries have been facing globally when it comes to supply chain issues, and the more local obstacles to attracting and hiring new talent. Today on the show we get together with Nathan Ruetz, Director of Manufacturing Operations at Custom Deco, a leading decorator of glassware and ceramic products sold throughout the United States. Tuning you’ll learn all about Nathan’s journey in manufacturing, how he came to work for Custom Deco, and some of the biggest lessons he’s uncovered along the way. He gives a breakdown of their daily operations, from how they mix their inks on-site, to how they deliver the final product at scale to their clients. Next, Nathan shares some of the details on how they are looking to innovate their current processes and the role that regulations and logistics play in these decisions. You’ll also hear Nathan describe the leadership philosophy at Custom Deco, called Servant Leadership, and why he finds it so significant and inspiring. To learn more about this fascinating industry, and some of the ways they are expanding and innovating, make sure you tune in today!
Key Points From This Episode:
- Introducing today’s guest Nathan Ruetz, Director of Manufacturing Operations at Custom Deco.
- How Nathan came to work for Custom Deco and his previous experience in the automotive industry.
- Nathan’s role at Custom Deco and the work they do custom decorating glassware.
- Some of the biggest challenges Nathan’s industry is currently facing, from hiring shortages to supply chain issues.
- Nathan’s advice to new and established members of the manufacturing industry: it’s all about people and finding opportunities to learn.
- The books and resources that have helped Nathan in his manufacturing career, and why keeping your team motivated and inspired is so important.
- The servant leadership philosophy and how it is practiced at Custom Deco.
- The leaders that inspired Nathan in his career and how he aspires to emulate them.
- Why being successful as a leader in manufacturing is all about your team.
- Why aligning expectations is one of Nathan’s biggest daily challenges.
- A breakdown of Custom Deco’s facilities and processes, from the design the customer wants to how they produce the final product at scale.
- How Custom Deco mixes their inks on-site and why they’re currently looking to innovate on their current methods of application.
- Some of the ways Custom Deco is looking to educate their sales teams and customers on the front end.
- The concept of the 2 Second Solution and how it encourages Nathan’s team to be part of the solution.
- How Custom Deco is expanding into other types of printing, like ceramics.
- Why Nathan wants to debunk the myth that there’s a disconnect between the sales and manufacturing teams.
- Nathan’s advice on how to listen to your team and not micromanage too much.
- How and where to connect with Nathan online!
Tweetables:
“I feel like one of my probably unwritten roles in my current position is trying to be the conduit between the execution on the plant floor, all the way to the sales team in how they're communicating with the customer.” — Nathan Ruetz [0:16:02]
“The philosophy is if you can save two seconds every day over the course of the year it adds up, right? We encourage our team to be part of the solution, that's part of our servant leadership approach” — Nathan Ruetz [0:23:23]
“When your team comes to you with a problem, they may not necessarily be looking for you to solve it, so much as looking for a sounding board. A l
Baking In The 21st Century with Shawn Wooleyhand from Gold Crust Baking Company
Episode 18: Show Notes
When asked about the baking industry, most people imagine large men in white hats kneading dough to be transferred to an oven. The reality is very different! Join us today to find out how, as we talk to Shawn Wooleyhand, COO of Gold Crust Baking Company, a fully green, family-owned bakery that’s been going for over a decade. We dive into the discussion with a breakdown of the products that Gold Crust Baking Company produces, and the biggest challenges facing the baking industry at the moment. Shawn gives some great advice for anyone wanting to become a leader in manufacturing, and shares a helpful reminder that while learning from books is good, talking to old-timers may be better! We also hear how the Russia-Ukraine conflict has negatively affected the baking industry, and the supply-chain challenges Shawn is dealing with. Shawn breaks down how Gold Crust Baking Company has managed to go green, and where the future of baking and bread is headed. Find out what the average day in the life of a Gold Crust Baking Company employee consists of, the processes, software, and equipment they use, how Shawn has managed to retain his employees, and so much more, in this engaging episode.
Key Points From This Episode:
- Welcome to Shawn Wooleyhand, COO of Gold Crust Baking Company.
- Who Gold Crust Baking Company is, their pride in being green, and what they produce.
- The biggest challenge baking companies, in general, are facing: bringing in the youth.
- Shawn’s advice to people wanting to become leaders in manufacturing.
- Why books aren’t the only helpful resource.
- Coping with supply chain issues and how the situation between Russia and Ukraine is affecting the baking industry.
- The lessons Shawn has learned over his career.
- A typical day in the life of a Gold Crust Baking Company employee.
- The processes, software, and equipment that Gold Crust Baking Company uses.
- Where Shawn sees the future of bread going: up!
- The size of Gold Crust Baking Company’s ovens!
- Why the chewy crust that Gold Crust Baking Company produces is different from other companies.
- The biggest challenge Shawn faces regarding machinery, and the baking myth he wants to debunk.
- How Gold Crust Baking Company maintains a 100% green facility.
- The impact of technology and AI on the baking process.
- Why Shawn believes managing people is the most important skill, and where you can contact him.
- Other supply chain issues that Gold Crust Baking Company is facing: packaging materials.
- How to retain employees by valuing them.
Tweetables:
“One of the biggest myths is that in baking, we’re just a bunch of big guys with big hats, and smiling and kneading dough on the bench. But it’s a manufacturing facility, it’s an assembly line and it’s not meant for everybody.” —Shawn Wooleyhand [0:03:45]
“One of the best resources are the old-timers that I discussed, people that went through this before I did and before the people that are coming in did. They've done it. You don't have to reinvent the wheel. It's flour, water, salt, yeast and then you add in the extras.” — Shawn Wooleyhand [0:04:56]
“One thing about bread is that it's almost recession-proof. People need their bread, they want to make their sandwiches, they want to grill the hotdogs and hamburgers.” — Shawn Wooleyhand [0:08:59]
"I think everybody needs to treat their employees correctly. Value them every day. Throwing money at them is a temporary solution." — Shawn Wooleyhand [0:17:35]
Balancing Automation and Wisdom with Kenneth Scruggs from BMW Manufacturing
Episode 17: Show Notes
As more automation makes its way into manufacturing, there is an increasing need for experience and expertise to guide these systems. Joining us on the show today to talk about his history in the automotive industry at BMW Manufacturing, is Kenneth Scruggs, who has worked at the company since the early 1990s! Kenneth gives us some context of his initial employment at the company and then goes on to explain how he rose in the ranks over the years. He also talks about the history of the company in South Carolina and beyond. Throughout our chat, Kenneth shares great nuggets of wisdom about leadership and management, and practical advice that any professional can apply to their work to get ahead. We discuss some of the challenges to the automotive industry and the manufacturing sector at large before diving into some of the daily work that happens in Kenneth's wheelhouse. Our guest also shares some great resources and ideas that have had an impact on his trajectory, and we wrap up with his thoughts on safe and healthy automation in the future. So, to hear it all and join in our fascinating chat, be sure to press play!
Key Points From This Episode:
- The events that led to Kenneth joining BMW and his long career at the company since!
- A deeper look at BMW's manufacturing history in Greenville, South Carolina.
- Kenneth shares some of the older BMW history, from the post-WWII years.
- The biggest challenges facing the company at present: why manpower is a big problem.
- Advice from Kenneth about leveling up in leadership in the manufacturing world.
- Some of the resources and books that have had the biggest influence on Kenneth's path.
- The mentors and leaders that Kenneth has learned from in his career.
- Kenneth delves into his most memorable lessons about patience and allowing space for others.
- Finding synergy between the different departments at the company; Kenneth explains this particular challenge at BMW.
- A walk-through of Kenneth's day-to-day work in his position.
- An exploration of systems and processes; how BMW approaches efficiency in manufacturing.
- Kenneth's thoughts on the future of the manufacturing sector in the US, and the importance of automation.
- The specifics of the machinery at the company right now.
- Myths around automation: Kenneth talks about the amount of manual work that is still done in the automotive sector.
- Parting advice from Kenneth about listening to grow as a leader.
- How and where to connect with Kenneth online!
Tweetables:
“My first job at BMW was sanding cars. Cars came in, you feel the car for defects, and sanded them.” — Kenneth Scruggs [0:02:01]
“When it comes to management, the one thing that I found associates appreciate the most is consistency.” — Kenneth Scruggs [0:07:38]
“I think that a lot of managers, we want to put out the fires. We want to jump in and fix things. Sometimes we need to let the associate fix their own problem, so they can learn from it.” — Kenneth Scruggs [0:15:12]
"It has gotten more automated, but there are still a lot of manual processes in the automotive industry." — Kenneth Scruggs [0:33:06]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Kenneth Scruggs on LinkedIn
BMW
The Power of 1
Morty Hodge&
Automation For the Future, with Kallin Kurtz.
Episode 16: Show Notes
Today, we have the Vice President of Manufacturing Technology at TechnipFMC, Kallin Kurtz, here to talk to us about automation for the now (and the future!), the biggest challenges facing the oil and gas industry, and stopping to smell the roses! This episode dives into his role at TechnipFMC and the services that they offer, before we get down to brass tacks on things like the labor shortage, the challenge of interacting with people from all over the world, and his top KPIs: delivery, cost, and safety. You'll hear how safety protocols have improved in the industry over time, and the biggest challenges TechnipFMC faces in keeping production flowing consistently and successfully. We also touch on the future of the industry, and Kallin shares some insight into renewable energy technology and the specific energy initiatives that they are implementing at their plants to work with their respective locations. Finally, you'll hear the top advice that he has regarding how you can grow yourself as a leader, and how his open-door policy is key to the success of him and his team!
Key Points From This Episode:
- Meet Kallin Kurtz and hear about his career trajectory and expertise in automation.
- Hear about TechnipFMC and the services that they offer.
- What he thinks is the biggest challenge in the oil and tech industry today: materials.
- The impact of current government policy on his business, both in and outside the US.
- Some advice for any person hoping to follow in his footsteps!
- Discussing the shortages of programmers for robots.
- Overcoming the current labor shortage through automation, and some problems that will arise.
- Hear why Kallin recommends Extreme Ownership – and why we love it too.
- The three people that have played a crucial part in his success story.
- The challenges of interacting with people all over the world.
- Talking about safety protocols specific to the oil and gas industry and how it's improved.
- His most important KPIs: delivery, cost, and safety.
- Discussing the future of the industry and a tentative prediction for the next few years.
- The huge parts and types of equipment they use, and a little about additive technology.
- The biggest challenge they face in keeping production going.
- Hear about the location-dependent energy initiatives that they are implementing at their plants.
- Kallin debunks that myth that his industry is boring.
- His top advice for leadership: empathy and the importance of slowing down!
- How he lets employees establish the agenda of one-on-one meetings.
- The importance of transparency and authentic communication in creating successful teams.
Tweetables:
“Automation is the path forward. There's no question about that.” — Kallin Kurtz [0:06:55]
“If your aspirations are in upper management and such like that, probably a business degree is going to help. If your aspirations are to stay in the technical world, a four-year degree is not necessary anymore.” — Kallin Kurtz [0:07:54]
“Take the time to listen. Take the time to interact with your employees and learn what's important to them. Listen to the ideas, and don't accept mediocrity from anybody.” — Kallin Kurtz [0:13:04]
“I think one of the things that is going to be really critical as we move forward with automation is, who's going to do all this automation? It's becoming a problem that people just aren't there.” — Kallin Kurtz [0:25:35]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Kallin Kurtz on Linked
Today’s guest is Brian Zamore, an Associate Manager of the engineering team at L3 Harris Technologies, a Defense Contractor. Brian joins us to speak about his journey in engineering, the processes and challenges at L3, and the lessons he has learned about being a good leader. We hear about how Brian cut his teeth in the industry, going from earning an electrical engineering degree to building servers, working on chipsets, manufacturing in aerospace, and much more before ending up as a test engineer and then working his way up at L3. You'll learn about the range of subject matter experts at L3 who come up with quick and unique solutions to the problems that the firm is tasked with solving. When it comes to challenges, Brian speaks to the issues we are facing with supply chains as well as a general lack of test engineers due to the field being so niched. From there, we get into the nuts and bolts of Brian’s typical day, the processes he has in place to maintain efficiency and productivity, equipment and safety protocols at L3, and more. Finally, we talk to our guest about leadership, where he emphasizes the importance of empathy and shares the resources he is using to become a better manager every day.
“I think that we are building a good team, and most importantly we’re trying to learn from people that have been doing it for a lot of years to show some of the tricks to the newer generations.” — Hector Ibarra
Today on The Industrial Movement we are joined by the inspiring Hector Ibarra, who is the Corporate Director of Operations at Cleveland Hardware and Forging. We have a fascinating chat with Hector, packed with insight and the useful lessons that he has learned during his long career in the manufacturing sector. We talk about his personal story and how this has informed his professional journey, some of the biggest hurdles he has overcome, and his thoughts on those that he encounters in his current work. Hector makes a point to underline the importance of culture; both in the social dimension, as well as in the professional environment, and how this can define the outcomes of your efforts. We also get into the subject of leadership and our guest's opinion on what makes a good leader at any type of organization. From there, we move into some more technical territory, exploring how Cleveland Hardware and Forging approach their work. Hector shares their strategies around productivity, safety, machinery, and the actual process of forging. To hear all this and a whole lot more from Hector Ibarra, listen in today!
“As a manager, the people that work under you are the ones that decide whether you're doing your job, right or not. And so, if you can help them do their job and better themselves, they, in turn, better you and make you look like you're doing a good thing.” — Jeremy Barber Jeremy Barber is the maintenance manager at Buhler Quality Yarns Corporation in Jefferson, Georgia, and he's here today to share his leadership style of authentically focusing on developing those under you. Our conversation begins with a brief introduction to Jeremy and the company before we get into the development path that led him to his position and the biggest obstacles facing the textile industry right now. We then dive into the importance of good mentorship and his top advice to anyone wishing to follow a similar path, as well as the specific growth-orientated characteristics he looks for in a potential hire! You'll hear all about the typical daily processes, machines, and safety protocols in place, as well as the challenge of having to get creative with maintenance because production can’t stop. From memes about 10-millimeter bolts to how the face of technology has changed the industry, tune in now to hear another rich conversation on The Industrial Movement podcast!
Having taken over Hi Tec Machining, a company founded by his father 30 years ago, Carey Strickland has seen a lot of developments in the machining industry. Today he joins us to share his story, discuss the business, and talk about the challenges of marrying the old with the new in the world of machining. Tuning in you’ll hear some background into Carey’s company and career, what a typical day at Hi Tec Machining’s facility is like, and some of the challenges that they face. You’ll hear about the struggles of hiring new people, why Carey believes the youth are reluctant to get involved in manufacturing, and what Hi Tec Machining does to improve employee retention. We also discuss the development of robots, how Carey uses them in his facility, and how he foresees their role in the future of the industry in general. To hear Carey’s advice to anyone pursuing a career in manufacturing, his tips on where to find helpful resources, why he believes in the value of being honest, and his thoughts on how to be a better leader, tune in today!
The biggest problem facing manufacturers today, apart from supply chain issues, is the labor shortage. In light of the Great Resignation and a number of other factors, manufacturing leaders are increasingly struggling to fully staff their facilities. Today’s guest, Dan Ralphs, is an expert in improving employee retention. He believes that people quit leaders, not companies, and the best way to keep your employees, and to keep them productive, is to be a dream manager. Dan joins us to explain that the best way to create and generate loyalty and commitment from employees without having to break the bank, is simply by asking them what their personal dreams are and then helping them to achieve them. Tuning in you’ll hear how Dan became a dream manager, the benefits you can gain just from asking people what their dreams are, and what to do once someone has told you their dream. To find out how manufacturing leaders can implement this practice to generate loyalty, how to make your company stand out and be attractive to potential employees, and where to find other helpful resources on this topic, tune in today!
Thanks for tuning in to another episode of the Industrial Movement. Joining us in conversation today is Johnny Smith Jr, plant manager of PackIQ, who believes, above all else, that manufacturing is where it’s at! Tune in to hear why Johnny believes that manufacturing makes a country great and strong, and why he is proud to be a manufacturer. We discuss what manufacturing environments look today in comparison to the past, and what some of the biggest challenges are in the industry. Johnny believes in the power of building a strong team and shares his thoughts on leading not from the back, or the front, but the middle. Listeners will learn the story of the biggest professional challenge Johnny has faced and how it shapes his work today. We talk about what a typical day looks like at his facility, what the packaging
design process involves, and much more! We hope you take the time to learn from this inspiring leader today.
Today on the show we sit down with Cash Carter, a musician who has been in the industry for years, to talk about how he became a part of the vinyl pressing company Kindercore Vinyl, and what it’s been like seeing the demand for vinyl skyrocket in the past few years. We discuss the history of vinyl pressing, how the world stopped producing new press machines after 1982, why vinyl’s newfound popularity triggered the design of new machines, and how that development has changed the industry. Cash shares fascinating insights about the vinyl production process and expands on how supply chain issues and the smallness of the industry have affected their business. To learn more about this fascinating industry and the worldwide vinyl phenomenon, make sure you tune in today!
This week on the show we welcome Jason Moss, CEO of Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA). We talk with Jason about how he was able to gather a group of competitive manufacturers in Georgia and create a collaborative and supportive community that helped folks weather the storm of COVID, and take on massive projects that they would never have been able to do on their own! GMA was designed to help support and grow Georgia’s manufacturing community, and they have been doing just that since 2008 through a series of plant tours, networking events, and educational sessions. Their success over such a short period has been hugely transformative and has been recognized by governors Brian Kemp and Nathan Deal through multiple awards! We discuss the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on production in Georgia, and how they were able to step up during a particularly stressful period. To learn more about how Jason has built community and the great strides GMA has made towards elevating manufacturing in the US, be sure to tune in today!
In this episode, we are joined by our first sales rep on the show, Michael Adcock from Hill Manufacturing, to talk about the sales side of manufacturing! Hill is an American-made chemical manufacturing company that's been around for 90 years and does everything from soap and sanitizer to specialized lubricants and degreasers. Basically, “If you have a maintenance problem, we deal with it!” Michael oversees more than 153 of their accounts and today he shares what he does on a day-to-day basis at Hill and some of the challenges they face, as well as insights into the future of the company and the industry. Tuning in, you’ll hear some examples of their products and how they are applied at a multitude of public works they provide for, the coolest thing he's ever seen at a manufacturing facility using a Hill product, and the top advice he would give other manufacturing leaders. Michael also shares some sales gold on how he balances his attention between attending to his existing customers and bringing in new business, before diving into the impact of COVID and how it changed his way of operating with clients. Lastly, we talk about safety protocols, KPIs, and the sale that Michael is the proudest of! Tune in now to hear this conversation, jam-packed with learnable information from a respected industry professional.
In this episode, we speak to Scott Bargerstock, the Director of Manufacturing Productivity and Global Energy at Mohawk Industries which is the world's largest manufacturer of flooring. Scott oversees more than 100 plants and has been highly successful in reducing energy consumption. Tuning in, you’ll hear what Scott does on a day-to-day basis at Mohawk and how he finds and addresses opportunities across the KPIs of energy savings, waste management, and production processes. Scott talks about some of the biggest lessons he has learned in his career, debunks some of the common myths associated with energy efficiency, and reflects on the most impactful initiative he’s been involved in. Scott shares insight into how some states offer rebates for plants that meet certain criteria and explains how he stays up to date with changing federal laws. To find out the first thing Scott would recommend to anyone wanting to improve production efficiencies, as well as many helpful resources, tune in today!
Welcome to our first-ever solocast! And who better to focus on for our first installment, than the legendary manufacturing innovator, Henry Ford. Henry Ford’s impact on manufacturing is well documented, from mastering the moving assembly line to perfecting vertical integration in America, and his legacy is visible all around us. In today’s episode, we discuss not only his
achievements in manufacturing but also how his empathy and social conscience informed his
decision-making. Tuning in you’ll learn about his early life in Dearborn Michigan, his move to
Detroit at the tender age of sixteen, and the eventual founding of the Ford Motor Company.
Hear how Ford’s obsession with efficiency led to incredible innovations that would take the
production time of a Ford Model T from a standard twelve hours to a staggering ninety-three
minutes per car! We also discuss Ford’s immense investment in a massive historical outdoor
village in Dearborn Michigan, where he used his wealth to acquire historically significant items from around the country. Ford had a huge impact on American and global manufacturing, but he also ushered in crucial changes in working conditions for thousands of Americans, the results of which we can still see today. We appreciate everything that Ford contributed to our society and it’s a pleasure to feature him on our very first solocast!
Rodney Davenport is the Vice President of CH3 Solutions. CH3 manufacturers custom outdoor basketball courts and other plastic recreational products. Rodney shares his passion for educating young people about manufacturing as a career and insights into what a day-to-day looks like at CH3.
Adam Mashburn is the Maintenance Supervisor at Makita Tools manufacturing plant in Buford, GA. Adam discuss his career path to Makita, including his time at Levi's and Snap-On Tools. Adam also shares some cool historical facts about his family.
Nathan Brooks is a Controls Engineer at Mercedes-Benz plant in Vance, AL. Nathan describes his unique professional journey and the industry leading technology that Mercedes-Benz utilizes to maximize efficiency and productivity.
Al Adkins talks about being an Operations Manager at a tag manufacturing company in northeast Georgia.
Show Notes
Transcript
The Industrial Movement Podcast
Episode 00: Introduction
Show Notes
Recognizing the lack of a community where manufacturing leaders can share ideas and engage with each other, Morty Hodge and Greg Smith decided to start this podcast. In this introductory episode, they explain how they realized the need amongst leaders in manufacturing for a podcast like this, and the revelation that many of the challenges that they face are consistent from company to company. To find out more about our hosts and their experience in manufacturing, as well as what you can expect from future episodes, tune in today!
Key Points From This Episode:
- The reason Morty and Greg started this podcast: the lack of a community where manufacturing leaders can share ideas and engage with each other.
- The realization that many of the challenges that manufacturing leaders face are consistent from company to company.
- The types of interviews and solo-casts that you can expect from the podcast in the future.
- An introduction to Greg and his background in manufacturing.
- An introduction to Morty and how he started Hodge Compressor.
- Some of the big companies that will be represented by guests in future episodes.
Tweetables:
“What we found out working with our customer base who is 80% manufacturers, is that there’s no community, or not very many communities, for manufacturing leaders to share ideas, engage with each other, just bounce ideas off of.” — @mortyhodge [0:00:27]
“Manufacturing is so critical in this country to keep our economy going.” — Greg Smith [0:03:34]
“Manufacturing in America is what built this country, made this country strong, and as we continue into the next few decades and century, we really need to bolster manufacturing in America to continue our place in the world.” — @mortyhodge [0:06:52]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Morty Hodge
Morty Hodge on Twitter
Greg Smith
Hodge Compressor
The Industrial Movement
The Industrial Movement on Facebook
The Industrial Movement on LinkedIn