Michigan Business Beat | Gina Skibo, Wipfli, Manufacturing Strategy, AI, Automation & Growth

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Gina Skibo, CPA. Partner, the manufacturing, retail and distribution industry leader, Wipfli Advisory LLC, Milwaukee, WI. There were several questions he wanted to find out from her in this interview. Welcome Gina, for our Michigan business community please introduce yourself and Wipfli Advisory LLC? You were in Michigan a couple of months ago to celebrate the anniversary of Wipfli’s presence there (which includes its MRD operations), briefly describe that? Many Michigan manufacturers might describe the current moment as a “transitional stage”, considering slowing demand, low visibility, and a lot of uncertainty. What challenges are you hearing most from mid-market companies right now? Despite margin pressure, companies are holding onto skilled workers because they know how hard they are to replace. How is that hesitation to reduce labor shaping conversations around efficiency, AI, and automation? You’ve noted that a surprising amount of equipment is underutilized. Why are so many manufacturers not getting full value out of the equipment they already own, and what steps help improve utilization? Many firms are overwhelmed by too many siloed software tools and disconnected data. How should manufacturers think about simplifying their tech stack or modernizing ERP systems so technology creates clarity rather than complexity? With growth slowing, some manufacturers are realizing they’ve never had a true sales strategy. Where are you seeing companies become more intentional about finding new customers and driving the top line? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/