Makingchips | Equipping Manufacturing Leaders

We're all familiar with Murphy's Law; "Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong". We've talked about this extensively in a previous MakingChips episode on crisis management, but what can you do to make sure that your manufacturing company is covered in the event that something goes wrong? "It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when." From equipment breakdowns, to customer and employee claims of injury,  you need to be equipped with the knowledge of what kind of coverage you'll need for the challenges you face as a Manufacturing Leader. The reality is that many manufacturers have limited knowledge on the subject, and are often hesitant to reach out to their insurance agency. What can the metalworking nation learn from the insurance industry? On this episode of MakingChips, we talk about insurance and risk management with Marc Alberico and Steve Lorenzini of The Daniel and Henry Company. Marc and Steve share their extensive knowledge of risk solutions for the manufacturing industry and provide an answer to

Today on MakingChips: We are coming to you from the Sandvik Coromant Headquarters located in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. On this episode, we have a conversation with special guest Troy Stashi, Industry & Application Specialist in Automotive/Milling at Sandvik Coromant. Troy shares his expertise on several different topics including milling, efficiency, and trends in machining. In manufacturing news, we talk about HP's cutting edge 3D printer. We also discuss our upcoming MakingChips events including our live broadcast from the floor of IMTS 2016.  Episode Structure: [02:38] - Manufacturing News [05:15] - What's new with Jason? [06:15] - Mastermind and Workshop [09:22] - MakingChips at IMTS 2016 [11:05] - What's new with Jim? [12:38] - Welcome Troy Stashi of Sandvik Coromant [13:55] - Troy's History with Sandvik Coromant [16:26] - Solving The Most Common Problems [22:00] - Trends in Milling Cutters [26:15] - Programming [31:33] - Coolant vs. No Coolant [35:30] - Coating Technology [37:50] - Conclusion of Episo

There is an old adage that has been floating around the business world for ages; “you should never do business with friends". If you’ve never worked together with your friend, it can be difficult to translate their skills from a social context into a business one. That doesn’t mean that you should refuse to start a business relationship with friends and family. On this episode of MakingChips, we ask the question: can you have close relationships with vendors and clients? Jim and Jason discuss their personal experiences and lay out some hypothetical situations about doing business with friends. We also talk about the continued popularity of the retro movement and its effect on manufacturing. Also discussed is recent news with Tesla Motors, the MakingChips Mastermind & Workshop series, and IMTS 2016.  Episode Structure: [00:09] - Episode Preview [02:35] - Manufacturing News 1 [06:10] - Manufacturing News 2 [09:45] - MakingChips Mastermind and Workshop [11:10] - IMTS 2016 Registration [12:50] - Sandvik Coro

When it comes to starting up your own business, it isn’t always easy finding the the right space for exploring, creating, and developing your new ideas. What if you could assemble a community of like-minded people in a place where you can share ideas, be inspired, and collaborate with other creators. "It started with four or five people, grew to 400, and now we've built a physical home for that community." - Bill Fienup On this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Bill Fienup, co-founder of Catalyze Chicago. Catalyze is a creative and collaborative workspace, equipping its members with state-of-the-art tools, industry mentorship, manufacturing support, and investment networks. With a focus towards business start-ups, Catalyze has become Chicago’s premier center for product development and commercialization. Bill shares his brush with internet fame, his inspiration for building Catalyze, and why he believes a maker space like Catalyze should be in every community. We also preview IMTS 2016 and share some

There are several options when it comes to selling one of your old machines. Some are more convenient than others, but might offer you less money than what you expected. With a little bit of added effort, you can get the most money out of your old machine. On this episode of MakingChips, Jim shares his steps for creating a successful eBay campaign. We also talk about the upcoming IMTS 2016, Chicago restaurants, and the problems the U.S. faces in manufacturing. Episode Outline: [00:07] - Episode Preview [03:15] - Manufacturing News [08:40] - IMTS 2016 [10:55] - Sandvik Coromant [13:05] - Selling Your Machine Using eBay [14:50] - Getting a Good Picture [17:30] - Fees [18:20] - Auction [19:40] - Buy it Now [23:15] - eBay vs Machine/Tool Dealer [25:15] - Skill Scout [26:20] - Episode Conclusion Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News Article Our FAVORITE Restaurants in Chicago IMTS 2016 Sandvik Coromant Registration Metal Cutting Knowledge JIm's Office Manager Ad Ryan's Patreon Account We Want to Hear F

The Manufacturing Industry of today looks a lot different than it did 20 or 30 years ago. Modern machine shops are safe, clean working environments; equipped with high-tech machinery. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma associated with manufacturing as a "dirty" and "dark" profession. So how do we change this perception amongst our youth?  Or perhaps more importantly, their parents, whose misperceptions of the industry might lead them to believe that a four-year college degree is the only sure route to a rewarding career. "To change people's minds and to change the perception [of manufacturing], it's the youth that we need to be educating." -Kelly Burr   On this episode of MakingChips, we welcome our guest Kelly Burr, Executive Director of the Shop Rat Foundation. The Shop Rat Foundation is a non-profit organization with a mission to ignite interest in manufacturing careers among our nation’s youth, through development of innovative educational tools, curriculum and outreach programs and in partnerships

There is an old saying: “Expect the best, prepare for the worst.” It’s not something we want to think about, and it can be a difficult topic to discuss. Crises don’t happen very often, but when they do occur, they tend to have significant consequences. Without a well-thought out, strategic plan, your business is at risk of being completely caught off guard should a disaster happen. "Know that a crisis will happen at some point. It's just a question of how big it is or how small it is. The trick is being prepared." - Scott McPherson On this extended episode of MakingChips, we talk Public Relations with Scott McPherson, Principal at McPherson Public Affairs Group. Scott also shares some important tips on crisis preparation, including steps you should take to properly manage a crisis in your manufacturing shop. In Manufacturing News, we discuss the resurgence of vinyl records and it’s impact on record manufacturers. We also speak on the phone with Peter Eelman, Vice President - Exhibitions and Communications,

Throughout history, successful individuals such as Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, and Thomas Edison all met with groups of like-minded people on a regular basis, to help one another achieve common goals and grow. Today, this concept is called a “mastermind”, and is very well known amongst successful business owners.  In fact, many consider some concept of a mastermind group as a critical part to maintaining a healthy network. "Whether it's a problem that you need to solve, whether it's creating and implementing goals, and just supporting each other through hard times. I think its necessary for every manufacturing leader to be a part of some kind of group like that. I'm going to say it... It's necessary." - Jason Zenger On this episode of MakingChips, we talk about what a mastermind group is, how it can benefit you and your manufacturing business, and what steps you can take to form one. We also talk manufacturing news and preview the upcoming IMTS 2016. Episode Structure: [00:07] - Episode Preview [01:35] -

We come to you from two separate locations (Dallas & Chicago) on this remote episode of MakingChips. Today we talk about establishing and exploring your manufacturing company’s niche. Jim and Jason share their idea of what niche means to them in their respective companies. In Manufacturing News we discuss Five Vital Steps to Set Up a Successful Manufacturing Business. We also recap the TMA’s 90th annual meeting, and introduce a new MakingChips partnership. Episode Outline: [00:07] - Episode Preview [01:45] - Dallas Airport [02:40] - Affiliated Distributors [03:40] - Manufacturing News [06:40] - Finding the Right Factory [07:30] - A Great Team [08:55] - Business Model [09:55] - TMA Board [12:20] - Riches in the Niches [14:00] - ZENGERS Industrial Supply’s Niche [16:45] - ZENGERS Original Business Model [18:48] - CARR Machine’s Niche [22:52] - Picking the Right Jobs [25:05] - Evaluate, Experiment, Evolve [26:15] - IMTS Workshop [27:25] - Sandvik Partnership [30:12] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in Epi

On this special episode of MakingChips, we recap the 2016 Crain's Manufacturers Summit with interviews from several VIP guests. First, we speak with John Sapiente of Elgin Die Mold and Trident Manufacturing about the challenges of running two businesses. Second, we have Jason Scher of Vosges Chocolate who speaks to us about working with your spouse, and the evolution of Vosges Chocolate. We also have a conversation with Tom Pellette of Caterpillar, where we discuss Caterpillar's supply chain relationships with machining companies, as well as the economic future of manufacturing.  Lastly, we talk with Sagar Patel of Woodward about their recent expansion, and promoting manufacturing to future generations. At the end of this episode, we recap what we took away from the event. VIP Guests: John Sapiente - President at Trident Manufacturing, Inc. Jason Scher - Chief Operating Officer at Vosges Chocolate Tom Pellette - Group President of Caterpillar Inc. Sagar Patel - President, Aircraft Turbine Systems at Woodward

Women are the future of manufacturing industry leaders and essential to the success of the industry. However, many women in manufacturing have experienced a gender bias which has excluded them from core managerial roles such as production supervisors and operations managers. Compounding the issue, many people think of manufacturing jobs as dirty, unskilled, back-breaking labor. That’s not the case anymore...  "When the five years had passed and I hadn't done anything, that's when I had to re-evaluate my goals, my decisions, and what I wanted to execute." - Erica Wiegel On this episode of MakingChips, we have a great conversation with Erica Wiegel, President and Owner of Aro Metal Stamping. Erica shares with us her inspiring story of accomplishing her goals through acquiring a new business. She details the acquisition process, challenges she faced along the way, and lessons she has learned from her experience. We also discuss manufacturing news, WBE certification, associations, and the future of manufacturin

A few months ago, we met with Craig Zoberis of Fusion OEM to talk about his company's Core Values. In that episode, we covered the importance of figuring out who you are as a company and what you stand for.  More than anything, being a leader is about staying true to the values and principles that you have built your company on. Leadership also imparts the responsibility of holding your vision even as it becomes more tempting to disengage and simply enjoy the fruits of success. “You come to the point where you’ve hit a ceiling and you need to break through that ceiling. The only way to do that is to really get unified, get focused, and have a clear vision of values that the whole company is following." - Jason Zenger On this episode of MakingChips, Jim and Jason cover the basics of developing your core values. Jason shares his process of developing ZENGERS' core values with the listeners. We also talk with John Sapiente of Trident Manufacturing, who will be a panelist at the upcoming Crain's Manufacturers S

Last week, we talked with Frank Holthouse about East Leyden High School’s Metals Program, and how they are providing an environment for students to learn modern manufacturing practices. This week, we continue that discussion. What can we do to spark interest in manufacturing to the younger generation? How can you replicate the success of Leyden’s Metals Program in your own community? “We need to see more of this in high schools … Those in the industry should be pushing their local high schools (or other outlets) ... to cater to getting more people involved in the world of manufacturing.” - Rob Stuebing On this episode of MakingChips, we speak with Rob Stuebing. Rob is the Vice-President of Qualiseal Technology and Current Chair of the Leyden Technology Council. Rob talks with us about the inception of the council, the success of the metals program, current objectives for the organization, and enhancing your high school’s metalworking program. We also discuss manufacturing news in the current political clima

Just a few years ago there were stories of mass layoffs in the manufacturing industry. Now, that is no longer the case. In 2015, Forbes listed Machining as one of the top 10 hardest jobs to fill in the United States. Today, Manufacturers are increasingly looking to high schools and community colleges to fill current staffing needs. Many schools are working to meet demand by modernizing their manufacturing education programs.   “We’re very proud of where we are, and where we’ve taken our program since the 1940’s" - Frank Holthouse   On this episode of MakingChips we have a conversation with Frank Holthouse. Frank serves as the Industrial Technology Chairperson at East Leyden High School, where he has been teaching  for the last 10 years. Frank instructs East Leyden’s metalworking program, simply referred to as the Metals Program. The Metals Program provides opportunities for students to learn about modern technical practices, industrial organizations, and the role of technology in our industrial society. St

An important part of what makes a manufacturing leader successful is their ability to think outside of the box. This line of thinking should also extend to the hiring process. Successful companies are good at bringing the right people into their team, but it isn't always so easy. What if you had the ability to see candidates in action before you made a decision about who to hire? “Manufacturing has always been sexy... It just needs a generational communications facelift.” - Elena Valentine This week on MakingChips, we welcome back last week's guest Elena Valentine. Elena walks us through Skill Scout's process of screening, assessing, and recommending candidates through hands-on manufacturing activities. We also discuss the Crain's Midwest Manufacturers Summit, the consequences of declining oil prices, how Skill Scout got involved in manufacturing, the "new" old way of doing things, and steps to finding the right candidate for your business.  Episode Outline: [00:07] - Episode Preview [01:00] - Crain’s Manufa

Finding the right person for your company is crucial for building a thriving business. When recruiting for open positions, employers look for candidates with the skills, experience, and demeanor they believe will benefit their company. That said, it isn’t always easy to identify candidates who understand the needs and expectations of the job. What can an employer do to capture and relay their company's culture to a prospective candidate, while showing them exactly what the job entails? How can you more meaningfully connect a candidate to your company? "This is not just about building your employer brand, this is about getting quality talent in the door, so that you can get them on-board right away and build your business."          - Elena Valentine On this episode of MakingChips, we have a conversation with Elena Valentine, CEO and Co-Founder of Skill Scout. Skill Scout uses an innovative and fresh approach to connect potential employees to companies. Elena shares some of the methods the company uses to ma

For many manufacturing leaders, the idea of delegating tasks can cause a feeling of uneasiness. Maybe you think you’ve got everything under control, or that things always have to be done your way. In reality, doing everything yourself is simply impossible, and can cause you unnecessary stress. To be an effective leader you must be able to rely on your team by learning how to delegate strategically. "Any task that really exhausts or pulls energy from you is not something worth doing." -Jason Zenger In this episode of MakingChips, Jim and Jason share some simple strategies that can help you effectively delegate tasks. Also discussed in this episode is the upcoming IMTS trade show, task management in Evernote, learning to let go, and managing expectations. Episode Outline: [00:07] Episode Preview [02:19] Manufacturing News [05:10] Delegating [09:10] Simple Ways to Delegate Tasks [11:50] Task Management in Evernote [15:04] Delegating at MakingChips [17:40] Expectations [21:50] Conclusion of Episode Mentioned

It’s the beginning of a new year, which for many is a time to start following through with resolutions and goals. Unfortunately, many people come to find that many of those resolutions don’t always pan out the way we would like them to. If you’re serious about making a change, it’s important that you put specific, time-bound goals in place to help you achieve success. "You've got to work on the big rocks before you work on the pebbles in the sand." In this episode of MakingChips, Jim and Jason discuss their main goals for the new year, goal setting for your manufacturing business, a story of priorities and a jar, and manufacturing news. Using the purchase of a new CNC machine as an example, Jim and Jason show you different methods that will help you get one step closer to achieving your short, and long-term goals. Episode Outline: [0:07] - Intro [1:55] - Manufacturing News [06:30] - Call to Action for Listeners [07:10] - MakingChips Website [08:45] - Our Main Goals [10:20] - Rocks [14:45] - Complexity in T

Some people think additive manufacturing will radically change the face of manufacturing. Although it is still a relatively new technology, additive manufacturing (also referred to as 3D Printing) has caused quite the buzz in the manufacturing community. Will additive manufacturing eventually become the way of the future, or has it's usefulness been overhyped? “Additive can not do its adding anywhere near as fast as machining can do it’s subtracting." - Peter Zelinski In this episode of MakingChips, we welcome back Peter Zelinski of Modern Machine Shop Magazine. Peter, Jim, and Jason discuss all things Additive Manufacturing, as well as the importance of manufacturing discussion among the presidential candidates. “Manufacturing happens in small facilities.” -Peter Zelinski Episode Outline: [00:17] - Episode Preview [01:26] - Welcome Back Pete [02:00] - What Guided Pete to Manufacturing? [05:30] - Additive Manufacturing [07:50] - Is Additive Manufacturing Overhyped? [11:30] - Additive Manufacturing Under

This is MakingChips Episode 50! In this episode of MakingChips, Jim and Jason recap some of their favorite episodes and interviews from the last year. This episode highlights the story behind MakingChips, as Jim and Jason share their experiences from the beginning to where they are today. “Jason and I really want to thank each and every one of you for tuning in every week, listening to us, being with us, and taking this ride with us. We had no idea that it was going to be as popular and successful as it has been so far. We’re really working hard (very hard) to make it even better.” Episode Outline: [00:08] Episode Preview [01:52] The Story Behind MakingChips [05:15] Hiccups along the Way [06:40] Episode 1 [07:50] Episode 2 [08:20] Recession [09:20] One of our Favorite Episodes [10:00] It’s Not Your Dad’s Machine Shop [11:25] The Power of Networking [12:24] Robots in your Shop [13:00] Skip Generation [13:20] Fernando Ortiz [14:00] Most Downloaded Episodes [15:00] San Diego [15:45] Michelle Mabry [16:30] Pat