Industry Iowa CIRAS

Industry Insights with Mike Ralston of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry: Shaping the Future of Iowa Manufacturing



In the latest episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast, we engage in an enlightening conversation with Mike Ralston, Executive Director of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI). Mike provides an in-depth look at ABI’s primary goals and the critical issues currently facing Iowa manufacturers. He highlights the economic impact of the manufacturing sector, sharing compelling success stories of growth and innovation driven by ABI's involvement. Discover the initiatives supporting workforce development and how ABI collaborates with educational institutions to equip the future workforce with essential skills. Mike also discusses the adaptation of Iowa manufacturers to Industry 4.0 technologies and ABI’s role in fostering innovation.



Listeners will gain insights into ABI’s legislative priorities, advocacy efforts, and strategies for addressing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Mike delves into ABI's community partnerships aimed at boosting economic development and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Looking ahead, he shares trends anticipated in the manufacturing industry over the next decade and how ABI prepares its members to navigate these future challenges and opportunities. Learn about the specific services ABI offers, the benefits of membership, and how success is measured through impactful metrics. Don’t miss this episode for a comprehensive overview of how ABI shapes the future of Iowa’s manufacturing sector.


Find your best connection to CIRAS: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/staff-directory/

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Nick Turner, the dynamic force behind TWI Leadership Solutions, to delve into the world of Training Within Industry (TWI). Whether you're familiar with TWI or hearing about it for the first time, this conversation will give you a comprehensive understanding of its profound impact on workforce development.



Episode Highlights:

What is TWI? Nick breaks down the core components of TWI, explaining its foundational principles and how it differs from other training methodologies.

A Rich History: Discover the origins of TWI during World War II and how it has evolved over the decades to become a cornerstone in various industries worldwide.

Tangible Benefits: Learn about the significant advantages TWI offers organizations, from boosting productivity and quality to enhancing employee engagement and reducing turnover.

Implementation Strategies: Nick shares practical tips and strategies for successfully implementing TWI in your organization, regardless of its size or industry.



Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that will equip you with valuable insights and actionable strategies to leverage TWI for your organization’s success. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, this episode is packed with information and inspiration.



Tune in and get ready to revolutionize your approach to workforce training with the expert guidance of Nick Turner!

Dive deep into the ever-changing landscape of Iowa workforce policy and legal updates with Pam Lane, Human Capital and Workforce Strategy project manager from CIRAS! Uncover the latest trends, including the evolution of leave policies, such as the rise of unlimited leave and coverage for domestic violence situations. Learn about federal regulations affecting child labor laws and dissect a recent Supreme Court decision on individual liability for the Civil Rights Act. Plus, explores the critical importance of pay transparency in fostering diversity and ensuring fair compensation practices. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and navigate these changes effectively. Tune in now for a glimpse into the future of work!



Find your best introduction to CIRAS: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/staff-directory/

Ready to revolutionize your manufacturing process? Join us for an electrifying episode where Steve Wilson from CIRAS takes the helm in a dynamic conversation with Eric D. Higgins of CIRAS and George Brancato of Fanuc America. Together, they peel back the layers of automation, exploring the latest trends and tackling the challenges manufacturers face.



Dive deep into understanding client needs, streamlining automation integration, and conquering ROI concerns. Discover invaluable resources, from technical training to integrator support, and uncover the secrets to optimizing manufacturing efficiency.



Don't miss this action-packed episode filled with expert insights and actionable advice! Tune in now and embark on your journey to manufacturing excellence. Let's unlock the future together!



Find your best connection to CIRAS: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/staff-directory/

Get ready for an exhilarating ride into the heart of business innovation and operational excellence! In this explosive episode of Industry Iowa, our host Steve Wilson sits down with the dynamic Joseph Paris.



In a rollercoaster of revelations, Paris breaks down operational excellence, from its definition as an organization's state of readiness to its evolution from a tools-focused approach to a soft skills-driven strategy. Dive deep into process improvement and design thinking, where Paris unravels the intuitive and fascinating use of game boards to solve complex problems. Imagine standing in front of a game board instead of a conference table – a game-changing perspective that eliminates miscommunication and fosters collective decision-making.



But the excitement doesn't stop there! Join us as we explore the practical application of design thinking to improve organizations, involving frontline workers and compressing time for a competitive advantage. Paris spills the beans on successful workshops, creating vendor scorecards, and the evolution of due diligence in M&A deals – all red teaming and operational excellence!



Ready to elevate your understanding of operational excellence? Tune in now and discover the power of design thinking in creating a safe space for open and honest communication, building trust, and fostering shared ownership. Don't miss out on this episode – your journey to operational excellence starts here!

Join us on the Industry Iowa Podcast for an enlightening conversation with Tom Lawless, a distinguished leader with over 40 years of operations and change management experience. Currently serving as the President of Lean Training and Consulting, Tom is also an Adjunct Professor at Nebraska Methodist College and a Certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. In this episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of continuous improvement, exploring the industry's current state, emerging trends, and the critical role of leadership in deploying successful initiatives.

Tom Lawless brings a wealth of knowledge gained from consulting within various industries, offering unique perspectives on the intricacies of driving operational excellence. Our discussion delves into the essence of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, shedding light on their application and impact. We also focus on the vital aspect of leadership, as Tom shares invaluable insights into how effective leadership is paramount in ensuring the success of continuous improvement initiatives.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting to explore the world of continuous improvement, this episode provides a deep dive into the strategies, challenges, and transformative power of Lean Six Sigma. Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain insights from Tom Lawless's extensive experience and learn how leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping the continuous improvement landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that promises to inspire and inform.