The Manufacturing Executive

In this conversation, Founder and CEO of Vention, Etienne Lacroix, points to two fast-moving trends that are impacting manufacturing: the growth of “physical AI,” which brings autonomy to machines on the factory floor, and the real-world impact of software-defined automation. In this episode, you’ll hear what’s actually working with these technologies, and what still falls short. We’ll get into the specific tasks AI handles well, the practicalities of implementation and ROI and what manufacturing leaders should expect in the near future as AI adoption accelerates across production environments.

In today’s conversation, we dive into what it takes for digital adoption to take root in the manufacturing sector. More specifically, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations and Strategy Officer at Conexus Indiana, Bryce Carpenter, will tell you how state-level organizations like Conexus are stepping up to support manufacturers of all sizes, why simply chasing the latest technology rarely works and how we need to focus first on solving real business problems and aligning workforce for change.

President & CEO of Vista Metals, Kelly Thomas leads her manufacturing organization with a different mindset – thinking in decades rather than quarters. In this episode, she'll tell you how building for the long term impacts company culture, strengthens resilience and prepares teams for industry shocks. She’ll share real-world lessons in leading through uncertainty, from adapting to global market changes to investing in people – even in tough times.

We hear a lot about reshoring these days. But bringing manufacturing operations back to the U.S. isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. In today's conversation, CEO at Parsec Automation, Eddy Azad, will talk about the real-world complexities and strategic decisions manufacturers face when considering reshoring. He'll offer his perspective on where reshoring actually makes sense, why manufacturing leaders need to think beyond cost alone and how innovation and technology can play a crucial role.

In today's conversation, Founder and CEO of Axion, Daniel First, will share his observations about how data-rich manufacturing environments are transforming the roles of quality and innovation. He'll tell you how manufacturing leaders are starting to leverage AI to turn overwhelming streams of customer, device and service data into opportunities for faster product development and smarter collaboration. And he'll explain how quality teams are moving beyond the plant floor to become strategic partners across engineering, marketing and supply chain.

In today's conversation, Co-Founder & CEO at Seurat Technologies, James DeMuth, will share how a different approach metal additive manufacturing can radically increase throughput, disrupt industry economics and reshape supply chains. He’ll offer his perspective on where additive manufacturing stands today, discus applications and share his perspective on what’s needed for U.S. manufacturing to stay competitive.

So many manufacturers find themselves stuck in break-fix mode, constantly reacting to machine maintenance problems instead of staying ahead of them. If this sounds familiar, what's it costing your business, your team and your ability to plan for the future? In this episode, CMO of Limble, Paul Ross, shares insights not only from his own experiences, but also from an extensive survey of manufacturing maintenance teams, revealing eye-opening gaps between data collection and how it influences decision making. We’ll dig into why manufacturers struggle to trust their maintenance data, what that means for capital expenditures and how to break free from reactive habits. Find a link the the survey referenced in this episode, The Data Discipline Gap: Inside Limble’s 2026 Maintenance Benchmark Report, here: https://limble.com/blog/cmms-data-quality-2026-benchmark-report/

Imagine robots moving freely alongside your team, navigating unpredictable spaces and handling tasks once reserved only for people. In this conversation, Shari Brown and Krystal Mattich of Brain Corp pull back the curtain on the role autonomous mobile robots, or AMRs, can play in manufacturing environments. More specifically, they'll talk about safety considerations, data security and earning the trust of your human workforce.

Manufacturers everywhere are doubling down on data centers and AI infrastructure, fueling a surge in investment that has many asking: are we living in a bubble, or is this the start of long-term, transformative growth? In today’s conversation, CFO and Co-Founder of viaPhoton, Wasif Khan, will share his perspective about what's really driving this wave of capital, where the risks (and opportunities) truly lie and how manufacturing leaders can navigate the inevitable swings of the market.

Why do so many manufacturers still rely on paper, spreadsheets and disconnected systems to run complex operations? And what unfolds when they step into fully integrated, data-driven environments? In this episode, President at Applied Control Engineering, Inc, Ian Burns, will answer these questions. He'll also explain how digital twins are impacting everything from operator training to faster, safer process improvements. And he'll share candid insights on the unique cybersecurity challenges facing modern manufacturers as their systems become increasingly interconnected.

Manufacturing automation isn’t what it used to be. Today, robots can be controlled from an iPad, set up with zero training and be up and running almost immediately – even in high-mix, high-variability manufacturing environments that once seemed impossible to automate. In this episode, CEO and Founder of Workr Labs, Kevin Macken, will tell you how they're eliminating traditional automation barriers – shifting the focus from complicated tech to practical workforce transformation. Ken will explain how they're empowering operators – allowing teams to adapt faster, increase capacity and focus on more valuable tasks.

Justin Baucum of Isembard brings a unique perspective shaped both by years of military service and a passion for the resurgence of American manufacturing. In this conversation, he’ll tell you why veterans are uniquely equipped for careers in manufacturing, how teamwork and mission-driven execution are more critical than ever and why our national security depends on revitalizing domestic supply chains. He’ll also give us a look into an unconventional model for systematizing and scaling machine shops in a way that supports defense readiness.

At this point, we've all seen our share of entertaining videos where humanoid robots are doing backflips or taking on opponents in the boxing ring. But what about production-ready humanoid robots operating alongside people, driving measurable results and transforming daily operations inside of real businesses? In this conversation, Founder/CEO of Avatar Robotics, Colin Webb, and CFO of Productiv 3PL, Paul Baker, will tell your how they've left the humanoid robotics pre-party and are putting this technology to use in real-world environments today. We’ll explore what sets humanoid robots apart from traditional automation, how they’re changing roles for people and what their presence means for the future of work in manufacturing.

What does it take for a third-generation manufacturer to thrive for a full century in a market where so many competitors have packed up and left? In today’s conversation, cousins and Co-Presidents of Yula Corporation, Matthew and Michael Feldman, dig into the strategies and mindset shifts that have fueled growth, modernization and resilience for their family manufacturing business. You’ll hear about making the pivot from commodity products to high-spec engineering, the impact of digitizing legacy workflows and how culture, leadership and family values drive employee retention, and ultimately business success.

In today’s episode, CEO of TREW Marketing, Wendy Covey, and host, Joe Sullivan use their upcoming event, The Industrial Marketing Summit, as an example to talk about the benefits of designing a niche event for your specific audience. Specifically, they dive into how hosting an in-person gathering can create a sense of community, spark meaningful conversations and build valuable relationships. Learn more about the event and register the marketer from your organization here: https://industrialmarketingsummit.com/

Author and consultant Dean Svarc rebuilt himself after his multimillion-dollar business collapsed, rising to develop a framework that’s now rescued multiple struggling companies. From overlooked basics to culture missteps, he'll share how hidden threats often lurk within a business – undermining growth from the inside out. And one at a time, he'll take you through his six-step blueprint for turning chaos into clarity.

Natalie Kaddas, CEO of Kaddas Enterprises, believes investing in employees means empowering them with lifelong skills. After discovering financial literacy gaps were holding her team back, she launched a transformative program focused on helping them understand money, set goals, and build financial stability. In this episode, she shares how teaching essentials like budgeting and credit scores led to dramatic improvements in retention, morale, and even business performance. She’ll explain the impact of removing financial anxiety and why supporting employee financial health can be a powerful catalyst for success

Founder and CEO of Poe Wolf Partners, Renita Wolf, will tell you that exit planning isn’t just a final step before selling your business. It’s something smart owners build toward from the very beginning. She’ll explain why building transferable value and reducing owner dependency are crucial from the start, setting the stage for higher valuations and a smoother sale when the time comes. You’ll hear her insights on the most common gaps, deal killers and the practical actions business owners can take now to strengthen their companies. She’ll also discuss why the hardest part of exiting is often personal, and how to prepare yourself for both the financial and emotional sides of what comes next. Free resource: 7 Essentials Every Business Owner Must Have Before Exiting (preparing for a high-value, low-regret business transition): https://www.poewolfpartners.com/seller/

With supply chain disruptions, shifting geopolitical risks and increasing pressure for efficiency, today’s manufacturing leaders face operational challenges that go far beyond simply making parts. In today's conversation, President and CFO of Associated Metal Forming Technologies (AMFT), Todd Smith, explores the opportunities and complexities of weaving multiple specialized legacy brands into a unified platform to help address those challenges, without losing the trust and expertise that made those brands successful.

Why do so many continuous improvement and lean initiatives start with excitement, only to stall out or disappear entirely months later? What distinguishes organizations that truly embed these principles into their culture from those that just go through the motions? In today’s episode, COO of Bespoke, Steve Riley, will share his firsthand perspective from decades in manufacturing leadership. Specifically, he'll tell you why visual systems matter, where most lean rollouts go off track and what it really takes to make progress stick.

In this conversation with Gorilla 76 Marketing Director, Peyton Warren, we'll dive deep into five things we believe b2b manufacturers should consider doing to move the needle through marketing in the new year. They are: 1. Events and in-person opportunities 2. Building an audience you own through community development 3. Distribution and reach 4. Streamlined content creation (repurposing and AI efficiency) 5. Clear vision of what success looks Like

What if every skilled worker in manufacturing suddenly became searchable? In today's episode, Founder and CEO of Laborup, Simba Jonga, shares his perspective on how the manufacturing labor gap might be less about a lack of people, and more about a lack of access to those individuals. He'll talk about why millions of machinists, welders, and technicians remain hidden from traditional job boards, and how his team is working to make them visible and accessible for the first time.

How do you scale a family-owned manufacturing business to $100M in sales without losing the family feel? From building a culture where employees feel seen and valued, to transforming the customer experience, to raising the bar for operational excellence, in this episode, President of Falcon Plastics, Jenn Barlund, shares what it means to focus on both people and profitability. You’ll hear why choosing the right partners and sometimes saying no are critical, how transparency shapes trust and why innovation matters in an otherwise stale industry.

What happens when engineers have the space and freedom to actually solve problems their way? And what does that mean for innovation on the factory floor? In today's conversation, Chairman and Chief Innovator of Bravo Team, Josh Tarbutton, will get into the real challenges and rewards of giving engineering teams more agency, why trust matters and how even small changes can have a big impact on your culture.

Manufacturers often see government as a nuisance. Or, at best, a rescuer in times of trouble. But my guest today, Founder and Principal of TGS Advisory, Terry Szmagala, will argue that we need to instead think about government as a key stakeholder. Specifically, he'll share his perspective on three ways government can play a role in your business: 1) as a regulator 2) as a funder and 3) as a customer. He'll offer actionable tips for making government work for you, not against you, and explain why your voice matters more than you might realize. Let’s jump into it.

COO of Frontline.io, Gilad Tzori, has spent years inside of manufacturing organizations, witnessing firsthand how complexity, workforce shifts and rapid technological change have upended traditional service and training models. In today’s conversation, he’ll explain why step-by-step PDFs and classroom lectures are no longer sufficient, and what a new era of immersive training looks like for the manufacturing sector. He'll also share real-world examples of virtual and extended reality tools in action and discuss how AI and digital twins can transform the way teams learn, collaborate and solve problems on the shop floor.

As the manufacturing sector faces both a generational workforce shift and rapid advancements in AI and automation, today’s conversation reveals the “dirty little secret” behind digital manufacturing, and why human-centered thinking remains the heart of successful change. My guest today, CEO of Fathom Digital Manufacturing, Rush LaSelle, will discuss the realities of labor shortages, explain what digital enablement really means and share what a future with humanoid robots on the factory floor might look like.

The workforce crisis in US manufacturing isn’t just a challenge – it’s a national security risk. This is particularly true in casting and forging, where today's guest Mike Kubacki has spent two decades. In our conversation, he explores the urgent need to rebuild America’s industrial base, the reality behind modern manufacturing environments and how innovative programs are connecting hands-on learning with next-generation careers. We’ll learn why engaging students early, supporting employee growth and linking frontline work to real-world impact are key to the future of US manufacturing.

Any business owner, CEO or President wants to feel confident that the dollars they spend will produce a positive return. But sometimes focusing on ROI too soon forces you to abandon your long-term business strategy in favor of short-term wins. In this conversation, we'll look at how to measure marketing impact in two different business scenarios: 1) for a manufacturer that needs a short-term sales lift 2) for a manufacturer that's trying to build a sustainable plan for growth. We'll not only explain about how to choose the right KPIs in each scenario, but also, how to know whether you've been successful at achieving them.

As artificial intelligence creeps into so many facets of our personal and professional lives, it's easy to lose sight of when it's actually working in our favor. In this conversation, Co-Founder and President of SCOPE Recruiting, Friddy Hoegener, discusses the use of AI specifically in the context of recruiting for supply chain and manufacturing roles. He'll share insights about where and how AI can help, but also where it dangerously dilutes employer-to-candidate touch, and why human judgment is irreplaceable for culture-fit identification and talent selection.

How do you take a boring product in a declining industry and build a powerhouse business around it, all while refusing outside funding? In this conversation, Chairman and CEO of TerraSlate, Kyle Ewing talks through the gritty and sometimes unconventional principles behind his business model – from demanding prepayments, to mastering cold calls, to holding cash reserves. The result? A playbook for profitability and growth when everyone else says it can’t be done.

Relocating manufacturing operations from Asia to Mexico isn’t just about a change in location. It’s a bold strategy shift for manufacturers seeking greater control and speed. In this conversation, CEO of Tinker Tin, Matt Hannula, will explore everything from cultural differences to quality control to legal hurdles. And he'll share actionable insights for any manufacturing leaders considering the move.

Imagine assembling a complex product with only scattered notes and fading tribal knowledge to guide you. In this conversation, we're talking about manufacturing work instructions. Despite their importance in passing expertise from veterans to new hires, most work instructions are outdated, manual, and hard to keep current – often putting entire production lines at risk. My guest, Founder and President of Dirac, Fil Aronshtein, will explain why modernizing work instructions matters, and how new tools are helping manufacturers improve how they build.

A widening gap exists between industrial robot deployment in the US and China, even as American manufacturers grapple with rising labor costs and persistent worker shortages. So why does the adoption of domestic manufacturing automation adoption lag behind – especially among small and medium-sized businesses? And what are the real barriers holding them back? In this conversation, Co-Founder and CEO of Peer Robotics, Rishabh Agarwal, will discuss practical, brownfield automation solutions that don’t require massive facility overhauls. And he'll spotlight resources and new pricing models designed to lower the barriers to entry.

Today's guest, entrepreneur, speaker, and product leader Radhika Dutt, will challenge a core business belief that many of us have probably held for years – that traditional goal-setting frameworks like OKRs, KPIs, or SMART goals, are the surest path to performance and progress. In fact, she'll argue that focusing so intently on numbers and targets can actually backfire. So what instead then? In this episode, you'll learn about an alternative approach rooted in curiosity, problem-solving, and genuine learning over performance theater. This approach introduces practical ways to encourage creativity, foster real collaboration, and drive change – whether you’re leading a factory floor or reimagining what effective leadership looks like.

Imagine a factory floor where specialized AI agents tackle real manufacturing roles – from inventory planning to quality inspection, each with their own set of tasks and responsibilities. Today, CEO and Co-Founder of First Resonance, Karan Talati, will dig into the practical side of agentic AI: how these intelligent systems are moving beyond theory to fill very specific job functions inside modern factories. You’ll hear concrete examples of how AI agents can streamline workflows, reduce costly errors, and even help human teams focus on higher value work. We’ll also look ahead at what it means to build, deploy, and organize a factory workforce increasingly made up of both people and purpose-built artificial intelligence.

In today’s conversation, you'll hear from CEO of the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Pete Connolly. Pete has spent over 40 years navigating the manufacturing landscape – from running divisions at a global defense company to leading a statewide organization dedicated to empowering small and midsize manufacturers. He’ll break down what the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) network actually does, and why it’s so critical – especially in the face of workforce shortages, shifting supply chains and the ongoing challenge of keeping manufacturing jobs close to home. You’ll also hear how creative workforce programs, hands-on training tours, and targeted support are shaping the next generation of industry talent.

What separates high-performing engineering teams from the rest? In this conversation, founder of Pipeline Design & Engineering, Aaron Moncur, will talk about the often overlooked drivers of engineering success, from the power of clear communication to the role of psychological safety and trust within teams. He'll explain why technical expertise alone isn’t enough to thrive, and how practical things – like choosing a phone call over an email or empowering engineers to act independently – can make all the difference. We’ll also discuss how engineering education is evolving beyond traditional degrees, with innovative ways for professionals to learn, connect, and grow.

In today's conversation, Vice President, Asset Lifecycle Management Products and Engineering at IBM, Kendra DeKeyrel, shares how AI is already making a difference on factory floors – from visual inspections that spot defects in real time to smart software that optimizes field service and work orders. But what happens when AI can act autonomously, as an agent, linking workflows and amplifying productivity? Kendra will share practical steps manufacturers can take to break through data and tool barriers, and offer a glimpse at a future where agentic AI and asset lifecycle management work seamlessly together.

In today’s conversation, Vice President of Economic Development for the North Carolina Community College System, John Loyack, will use the success of his home state to illustrate what it takes to become a thriving manufacturing hub today. You’ll hear why the workforce itself must be treated as critical infrastructure – every bit as important as roads or utilities. We'll dig into what’s driving major companies to choose certain locations over others, and how customized training solutions and leadership development programs arecontributing to those decisions. And for those unsure of where to start, you’ll get practical advice for tapping into state-level support you might not even know exists.

From a global pandemic to kick off this decade to the tariff rollercoaster of 2025, recent history has created plenty of reasons for American manufacturers to assemble a base of credible, responsive suppliers right here in North America. In today's conversation, Vice President at Advanced Purchasing Dynamics, Mike Wynn, will discuss why purchasing teams – often accustomed to low-cost overseas sourcing – find themselves navigating this unfamiliar territory in today's manufacturing environment. He'll share details about his organization's process for rapidly identifying and vetting potential suppliers, explain why understanding stakeholder needs up front is critical, and spell out some of the characteristics that makes a supplier truly stand out (or get quickly weeded out).

In today's episode, senior coach at Lean Enterprise Institute, Mark Reich, dives into a Japanese strategic planning methodology that was born out of Toyota. Known as Hoshin Kanri, this system is focused on building alignment from the executive suite down to the shop floor, and driving meaningful action at every level. In our conversation, we'll discuss the pitfalls that manufacturing organizations can face when strategy becomes detached from reality, and why company visions often remain stuck as slogans rather than sparking genuine change. We'll also talk about why transforming company culture, building accountability, and developing leaders are all part of a holistic process that starts at the top of the organization.

How can you transform a website visit from a qualified prospect into a real, human conversation? This is the question my guest, President of ManufacturingChats.com, Nelson Bruton, will be answering in today's episode. Specifically, he'll explain how a human-powered website chat function can drive that engagement. In this conversation, we'll explore the misconceptions around live chat, the impact of changing buyer behaviors and what it means to eliminate friction from your customers’ journey.

George Pesansky has spent more than 30 years driving operational excellence and performance improvement in the manufacturing sector. And his perspective turns some conventional wisdom on its head. In this episode, he’ll reveal why focusing on the root causes of SUCCESS (rather than failure), leads to breakthrough results on the shop floor and beyond. He’ll challenge the notion that copying industry giants is the surest path to operational improvement. And he'll share his approach to maximizing the value already there inside of your workforce.

Imagine a future where homes are built faster, more affordably, and with the flexibility to meet the needs of any community—all while tackling the immense challenge of climate change. Today’s conversation is centered on rethinking one of the world’s oldest industries: construction. Co-Founder and CEO of Reframe Systems, Vikas Enti, will explore why building more homes, more sustainably, isn’t just about introducing new materials or labor-saving technology, but about revolutionizing the entire manufacturing process itself. From software-defined microfactories to mass customization, we’ll uncover how radical new approaches are reshaping the landscape of housing and workforce development. Get ready to hear what the future of manufacturing in the construction industry could look like – with a blueprint for real change.

In this conversation, Chief Technology Officer of HighByte, Aron Semle, dives into the concept of Industrial DataOps. He talks about some of the unique challenges with collecting and managing data in manufacturing environments and the importance of contextualizing it all to drive action. Aron also touches on the the rise of AI agents. He explains how agents can automate complex tasks, capture tribal knowledge, and empower operators with real-time insights, helping manufacturers of all sizes improve efficiency and decision-making.

In today's conversation, CEO of JBM Packaging, Marcus Sheanshang, will share how his company's Fair Chance Hiring program – focused on recruiting, hiring and training previously incarcerated individuals – has not only filled critical staffing gaps but created transformational second chances in their lives. From setting up training equipment inside prisons to providing comprehensive support services, this second-chance program is making a meaningful difference – both for his employees and the company.

In this episode, founder and CEO of NORAMARK, Michael Kornuta, shares how his experiences in design and fabrication have led him to observe a lack of connectivity among U.S. manufacturers – particularly when compared to the Chinese manufacturing ecosystem. And he'll offer a perspective on why stronger networks that are rooted in trust will be key to the future of American manufacturing.

Is American manufacturing falling behind? In this episode, Drew Allen, CEO of Grace Technologies, warns that the rise of advanced manufacturing in China is creating urgency. From extensive investments in solar and nuclear power to the expansive rise of dark factories, China’s manufacturing facilities are running faster and smarter. We'll talk about why upgrading our energy infrastructure, embracing relentless factory iteration, and building anti-fragile, highly adaptable teams are vital for keeping pace with China, and for future-proofing the US manufacturing economy.

Alex Webster, Founder and CEO of SDMS Robotics, shares his unconventional journey from film school graduate to CNC machinist and ultimately to robotics entrepreneur. In this conversation, Alex pulls back the curtain on the real-world challenges facing machine shops today, from labor shortages to high operational costs of floor space. He also illustrates how success in modern machine shops isn’t just about adding robots to existing processes. It’s about rethinking and reshaping those processes to find a balance between traditional lean principles and the forward-looking opportunities automation creates.