Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Podcast by Jim Mayer

Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Over the years, a lot has changed in manufacturing, but one topic that has stayed consistent is the need for people. For years, I have heard industry leaders talk about workforce development efforts. Still, nobody was asking leaders in manufacturing to look in the mirror and ask the tough question, "Have I created a place where people WANT to work?" I hope you will join us each week as we talk with leaders in different manufacturing facilities, OEMs that can support a healthier culture, and workforce development leaders.

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Latest episodes

16 May 2024

Changing "That's The Way It's Always Been Done": Michael Corrales of 1Factory

In this episode, Jim Mayer interviews Michael Corrales of 1Factory, a software company that focuses on quality control in the manufacturing industry. They discuss how software can drive cultural change in manufacturing, the challenges in the industry, and how 1Factory's tools can help overcome them. They also discuss the importance of continuous improvement and how 1Factory facilitates it. Some key features of 1Factory's software include automated drawing revision comparison, tracking changes, and streamlining information flow. 1Factory is revolutionizing quality control in manufacturing by providing software that automates data collection, analysis, and collaboration. The software helps manufacturers streamline processes, improve product quality, and reduce costs. It enables real-time monitoring of production lines, automatic generation of inspection reports, and proactive notifications of potential issues. The goal is to shift the focus from data collection to data utilization and continuous improvement. The software also addresses cybersecurity concerns by maintaining high-security standards and encryption protocols. Collaboration is facilitated by sharing inspection data between suppliers and customers, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Overall, 1Factory aims to create a culture of accountability, responsibility, and success in the manufacturing industry.

Takeaways

Software can drive cultural change in the manufacturing industry by providing the right tools for the job.
1Factory's software helps manufacturers overcome challenges in quality control by streamlining processes and automating tasks.
Cultural hurdles in manufacturing can be overcome by listening to employees, educating them about new technologies, and involving them in decision-making.
1Factory's tools encourage and facilitate continuous improvement by providing a platform for feedback and implementing customer suggestions.
Critical features of 1Factory's software include automated drawing revision comparison, tracking changes, and streamlining information flow. 1Factory's software automates data collection, analysis, and collaboration in manufacturing, streamlining processes and improving product quality.
The software enables real-time monitoring of production lines, automatic generation of inspection reports, and proactive notifications of potential issues.
The focus shifts from data collection to data utilization and continuous improvement, fostering a culture of accountability and success.
1Factory addresses cybersecurity concerns through high-security standards and encryption protocols, ensuring the protection of sensitive data.
Collaboration is facilitated by sharing inspection data between suppliers and customers, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview
08:08 Challenges of Implementing New Technology
14:33 Streamlining Information Flow
28:26 Driving Cultural Change through Collaboration

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

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43:38

09 May 2024

Amplifying the Voice of Frontline Workers: Vivek Kumar

In this Manufacturing Culture Podcast episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Vivek Kumar, CEO and co-founder of TeamForce AI, an employee intelligence platform. They discuss how software is driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry and the importance of amplifying the voices of frontline workers. Vivek shares his journey from working in the corporate world to starting his own tech company. TeamForce AI uses tablets or kiosks placed in manufacturing facilities to collect employee feedback in the natural flow of work. The platform helps organizations improve employee engagement, reduce turnover, and increase productivity. The conversation explores the role of software in driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry. It emphasizes the importance of giving voice to employees and valuing their feedback. The TeamForce platform is highlighted as a tool enabling effective communication and workforce engagement. The challenges faced in implementing such technology in the manufacturing sector are discussed, including the need for cultural readiness and the importance of targeting organizations that value their people. The future of manufacturing is considered, focusing on the coexistence of humans and technology. The potential impact of AI and robotics is examined, emphasizing their role as enablers and helpers rather than replacements for human workers.

Takeaways

Software is driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry, not just in operations but in the very culture of workplaces.
TeamForce AI is an employee intelligence platform that amplifies the voice of frontline workers and ties their feedback to measurable business outcomes.
The platform uses tablets or kiosks in manufacturing facilities to collect employee feedback in the natural workflow.
Organizations can reduce turnover, improve safety, and increase productivity by engaging employees and valuing their opinions. Giving employees a voice and valuing feedback is crucial for driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry.
Software platforms like TeamForce enable effective communication and engagement with the workforce.
Cultural readiness and targeting organizations that value their people are important factors in implementing technology in the manufacturing sector.
The future of manufacturing involves the coexistence of humans and technology, with AI and robotics serving as enablers and helpers rather than replacements for human workers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:57 Introduction of Guest: Vivek Kumar
09:01 TeamForce AI and the Kiosk Solution
11:54 Content on the Tablets
27:29 The Importance of the Voice of Humans
28:28 Utilizing Technology to Drive Cultural Change
31:01 Challenges of Implementing TeamForce in Manufacturing
35:46 The Future of Manufacturing and the Role of Technology
37:19 The Workforce Automation Paradox
42:03 Cultural Readiness for Robotics and Automation
43:05 What's Next for TeamForce and Vivek
43:34 The Power of Collective Problem Solving
49:12 Outro

Connect with Vivek on LinkedIn

Check out Teamforce AI

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02 May 2024

From Broadway to Technology Innovation: Michael Lynch's Journey

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Michael Lynch, the founder of Praxi, a company pioneering the future of digital transformation in manufacturing. Michael's journey from Broadway to technology innovation is a testament to creativity and transformation. Praxi aims to solve the problem of ad hoc processes and excessive use of Excel in manufacturing companies by providing a digital transformation platform that allows for the creation of customized software solutions at a low cost. The culture at Praxi emphasizes respect, collaboration, and a focus on solving customer problems. The platform helps improve internal culture at manufacturing facilities by digitizing lean processes, promoting continuous improvement, and providing real-time visibility into performance. In this conversation, Michael Lynch shares advice for manufacturers going through digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of starting simple and focusing on critical metrics and lean methodologies. He highlights the flexibility of the Praxi platform in digitizing processes and utilizing AI to optimize workflows. Lynch also discusses the need for companies to embrace digital transformation to stay competitive and take advantage of productivity gains. He encourages individuals to embrace lifelong learning and leverage the knowledge available through technology. Finally, he provides insights on improving company culture, including conducting anonymous interviews, flattening the organization, and clarifying cultural norms.

Takeaways

Praxi is pioneering the future of digital transformation in manufacturing by providing a low-cost, customizable software platform.
The culture at Praxi emphasizes respect, collaboration, and a focus on solving customer problems.
The platform helps improve culture at manufacturing facilities by digitizing lean processes, promoting continuous improvement, and providing real-time visibility into performance.
Digital transformation is a joint effort between the human aspects and technology, and Praxi offers coaching support throughout the journey. Start simple and focus on key metrics and lean methodologies when undergoing digital transformation.
The Praxi platform offers flexibility in digitizing processes and utilizing AI to optimize workflows.
Embrace digital transformation to stay competitive and take advantage of productivity gains.
Lifelong learning is essential in acquiring new skills and knowledge.
Company culture can be improved through anonymous interviews, flattening the organization, and clarifying cultural norms.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:54 Michael Lynch's Journey
05:13 Praxi and Digital Transformation in Manufacturing
08:31 Culture at Praxi
10:57 Praxi's Impact on Manufacturing Culture
17:35 Advice for Manufacturers on Digital Transformation
20:35 Staying Ahead of the Curve in Manufacturing and Tech
31:45 Attracting People to Manufacturing
34:04 Improving Company Culture
34:46 Flattening the Organization
35:10 Clarifying Cultural Norms
35:44 Contact Information
36:22 Closing Remarks

Connect with Michael on Linkedin

Watch Michael on this amazing clip from the TV show, General Hospital on YouTube

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25 April 2024

Beyond the Skills Gap: Ann Wyatt on Talent, Technology, and Transition

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Ann Wyatt, the founder of Ann Wyatt Recruiting and the host of the Workforce 4.0 show. Ann shares her journey from working in the government to starting her own recruiting business. She specializes in recruiting for the manufacturing industry, particularly metals, pulp, and paper. Ann discusses the skills gap in manufacturing and how she helps companies bridge that gap by advocating for workforce development and implementing new technologies. Ann Wyatt discusses training challenges in the manufacturing industry and the need to advocate for short-term training and transferable skill sets in this conversation. They also explore the automation culture paradox and the importance of data in measuring workforce performance. Ann shares her insights on the future of talent acquisition and company culture in manufacturing, emphasizing the value of people over capital investments. They conclude by discussing the need to focus on employee experience and the importance of not singling out employees.

Takeaways

Ann Wyatt is a pioneer in talent acquisition for the manufacturing industry, focusing on metals, pulp, and paper.
She is passionate about workforce development and bridging the skills gap in manufacturing.
Ann helps companies by advocating for workforce development programs and implementing new technologies.
She uses Boolean search strings to find qualified candidates and enjoys the screening process. Advocate for short-term training and identify transferable skill sets to address training challenges in the manufacturing industry.
Recognize the automation culture paradox and the need for cultural readiness to embrace automation in manufacturing facilities.
Utilize data to measure workforce performance and make informed talent acquisition and retention decisions.
Value people as a capital investment in manufacturing and prioritize their well-being and development.
To create a positive and engaging work culture, focus on the entire employee experience, from recruitment to exit interviews.

Connect with Ann on Linkedin

Watch Workforce 4.0 on YouTube

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49:08

18 April 2024

How JARC and Reagan Brewer Johnson is Changing the Perception of Manufacturing on Life at a Time

Regan Brewer Johnson, the president of the Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), shares her journey and the impact of JARC on the manufacturing and construction industries. JARC is a nationally recognized workforce development organization that provides sector-based job training programs, business and workforce services, and support for working families. Regan's background and experiences drive her passion for creating economic security and opportunities for individuals and communities. JARC works to change the perception of manufacturing by offering exposure events, field trips, and hands-on training programs that showcase the exciting and rewarding aspects of advanced manufacturing. The programs at JARC range from 8 to 20 weeks, and participants receive industry certifications and develop essential soft skills before entering the workforce. JARC works with a variety of individuals, including those who have been incarcerated, people experiencing homelessness, and those in retail or fast food jobs. They provide training programs in welding and machining, financial education and work readiness workshops. JARC focuses on data-driven outcomes and tracks factors such as placement rates, retention rates, wages, and economic stability. They also vet the organizations they place employees into and have a strong industry advisory council to stay updated on industry trends. JARC plans to expand to other cities through partnerships and understanding the local market and demographics.

Takeaways

JARC is a nationally recognized workforce development organization that provides sector-based job training programs, business and workforce services, and support for working families.
Regan Brewer Johnson's background and experiences drive her passion for creating economic security and opportunities for individuals and communities.
JARC works to change the perception of manufacturing by offering exposure events, field trips, and hands-on training programs that showcase the exciting and rewarding aspects of advanced manufacturing.
The programs at JARC range from 8 to 20 weeks, and participants receive industry certifications and develop essential soft skills before entering the workforce. JARC works with a diverse range of individuals, including those who have been incarcerated, people experiencing homelessness, and those in retail or fast food jobs.
They provide training programs in welding and machining, financial education and work readiness workshops.
JARC focuses on data-driven outcomes and tracks factors such as placement rates, retention rates, wages, and financial stability.
They vet the organizations they place employees into and have a strong industry advisory council to stay updated on industry trends.
JARC plans to expand to other cities through partnerships and understanding the local market and demographics.

Connect with Regan on Linkedin

Visit the JARC at their Website

A big shoutout to Speroni, the leader in tool management systems. Their dedication to precision and innovation in the manufacturing industry is unparalleled. Speroni is not just a sponsor; they are integral to advancing manufacturing excellence. Their support allows us to bring these valuable insights and discussions to you.

We're also thrilled to welcome our new partner, ShopFloor Coffee. More than just a coffee brand, ShopFloor Coffee is a cause-driven business dedicated to supporting workforce development efforts. A portion of their proceeds goes towards apprenticeships and scholarships in Advanced Manufacturing, making every sip count towards a brighter future for the industry.

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11 April 2024

Casting a Vision: Jerrod Weaver and Matt Gilmore on Advancing Manufacturing with NFFS

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Jerrod Weaver and Matt Gilmore from the Non-Ferrous Foundry Society (NFFS). They discuss the history, mission, and impact of NFFS in supporting non-ferrous foundries. The conversation covers topics such as the challenges of workforce development, safety in foundries, and the cultural similarities between foundries and machine shops. The guests also highlight the importance of automation in the industry and the need to attract young talent to careers in foundries. The conversation explores the passion for making things, the advanced technology in foundries, the sustainability and recycling efforts in the industry, the benefits of the ICON business development platform, opportunities for young people in manufacturing, and NFFS's future plans and industry collaboration.

Takeaways

The Non-Ferrous Foundry Society (NFFS) is a trade association representing non-ferrous foundries and aims to advance the manufacturing, recycling, and use of non-ferrous castings.
NFFS provides resources, networking opportunities, industry news, advocacy work, technical and safety training, and programs with strategic partners to support its members.
The foundry industry faces challenges in workforce development, including a shortage of skilled labor and the need to attract younger generations to careers in foundries.
Automation is crucial in the foundry industry, particularly in secondary processing and finishing tasks. However, the small lot batch manufacturing nature of many foundries presents unique challenges for full automation. The foundry industry is filled with people who are passionate about making things and possess technical abilities.
Foundries utilize advanced technology, such as computer simulation modeling and real-time visual inspection, to improve their processes.
Foundries have a long history of recycling metal and scrap, making them a sustainable industry.
The ICON platform provides opportunities for business development and connects manufacturers with Department of Defense contracts.
Manufacturing offers excellent career opportunities for young people, and initiatives like foundry summer camps can help introduce them to the industry.
NFFS aims to continue growing and enhancing its benefits, fostering cross-industry collaboration and addressing industry challenges.

Connect with Jerrod on Linkedin

Connect with Matt on Linkedin

Visit the NFFS at YouTube

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