Betts on the Future

Jennifer Betts
  • 5.0 (7)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Betts on the Future Podcast 🔩 Exploring Careers in Metals & Manufacturing ⚙️ Metals are the foundation of modern life—powering infrastructure, transportation, and technology. Yet, careers in metals remain overlooked. Betts on the Future, produced by Magnar Metals, shines a light on the dynamic opportunities within the industry. Hosted by Jennifer Betts, a 20-year metals veteran, this podcast features real stories from professionals shaping the future of steel, aluminum, copper, and beyond. Whether you’re exploring a career shift or want to learn more about the industry, these conversations highlight the women driving innovation and sustainability in metals - critical to everyday life. Looking for more industry insights? Check out the Metals & Advanced Manufacturing Podcast for expert discussions on the technologies shaping the future. 🎧 Follow for inspiring stories and career insights in metals. #Metals #Manufacturing #Careers #Sustainability #Technology Listen Notes Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

  1. Alexandra Graf | SensoTech | S02E26

    04/30/2025

    Alexandra Graf | SensoTech | S02E26

    From Vaccines to Steel: Alexandra Graf's Unconventional Journey in the Metals Industry  Welcome to another episode of Betts on the Future, hosted by metals industry veteran Jennifer Betts. This episode features Alexandra Graf, head of application and training at SensoTech. Alexandra shares her unconventional journey into the metals industry, starting from her background in biotechnology to becoming a specialist in analytical measurement technology.  She discusses her passion for supporting users globally, the significance of SensoTech's innovative analyzers, and her dedication to encouraging more women to pursue careers in engineering and technology. Join us for a fascinating conversation about industry trends, digitalization, and the importance of knowledge sharing in the steel industry. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:25 Meet Alexandra Graf: Head of Application and Training at SensoTech 00:54 Alexandra's Journey in the Metals Industry 01:58 The Importance of Knowledge Sharing in the Steel Industry 06:15 Applications of SensoTech's Analyzer Technology 07:30 Alexandra's Unconventional Path to the Steel Industry 09:53 The Role of SensoTech's Analyzer in Steel Production 15:27 Future of Analyzer Technology and Digitalization 25:44 Empowering Women in the Steel Industry 27:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Produced by Magnar Metals. https://www.magnarmetals.com/podcasts/betts-on-the-future https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershermanbetts/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-graf-63b108149/ https://www.sensotech.com/en/ https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164 https://www.magnarmetals.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    28 min
  2. Megan O'Connor, Ph.D. | Nth Cycle | S02E25

    11/04/2024

    Megan O'Connor, Ph.D. | Nth Cycle | S02E25

    Redefining Critical Metals Refining with Nth Cycle's CEO Megan O'Connor In this episode of Betts on the Future, host Jennifer welcomes Megan O'Connor, PhD, co-founder and CEO of Nth Cycle, a company revolutionizing the critical metals refining industry through innovative electro-extraction technology. Megan discusses how Nth Cycle enables sustainable domestic production of essential metals like nickel and cobalt, which are crucial for U.S. technological advancement. She shares her journey from environmental chemistry to co-founding Nth Cycle, the significance of critical minerals in various sectors including clean energy and defense, and the challenges and successes along the way. Megan also elaborates on the importance of a resilient domestic supply chain and the impact of Nth Cycle’s commercial system in Ohio. Tune in to learn more about the vital role of critical minerals and Megan's inspiring entrepreneurial journey. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:26 Meet Megan O'Connor: Pioneering Metal Refining 02:07 The Journey to Nth Cycle 05:09 Challenges and Innovations in Metal Refining 16:00 Nth Cycle's Impact on Military and National Security 19:26 Modularity and Mobility in Metal Refining 29:11 Building a Resilient Supply Chain 33:05 Transition from Academia to Entrepreneurship 36:37 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 38:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://www.nthcycle.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    40 min
  3. Nicole Sweet | RHI Magnesita | S02E24

    10/21/2024

    Nicole Sweet | RHI Magnesita | S02E24

    Exploring Career Paths in the Metals Industry: An In-Depth Conversation with Nicole Sweet In this episode, Jennifer Betts sits down with Nicole Sweet, the head of end-to-end recycling for North America at RHI Magnesita, during the AIST - Association for Iron & Steel Technology Women in Steel conference in Pittsburgh. Nicole shares her journey from starting in the steel industry at 18 to becoming a leader in refractory recycling. Learn about Nicole's career milestones, the importance of refractory in steel making, and the exciting advancements in the industry. Gain insights into the realities of working in metals, the value of non-traditional career paths, and the crucial role of recycling in the industry's future. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:22 Live from the Women in Steel Conference 00:45 Meet Nicole Sweet: A Journey in Steel 01:11 Nicole's Early Career and Growth 04:27 Understanding Refractory and Its Importance 11:11 The Future of Refractory Recycling 18:08 Advice for Current and Future Industry Professionals 24:29 The Value of Diverse Career Paths 25:19 Encouraging Hard Work and Dedication 25:40 The Importance of Trade Skills 26:19 Flexibility in Career Choices 27:09 Navigating Job Insecurity 31:18 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 36:49 Advice for Future Generations 39:29 Promoting Inclusivity in the Industry 44:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information http://www.rhimagnesita.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    46 min
  4. Rijuta Dey | Fastmarkets | S02E23

    10/17/2024

    Rijuta Dey | Fastmarkets | S02E23

    Exploring the World of Metals Journalism with Rijuta Dey Join Jennifer Betts on Betts on the Future podcast with seasoned journalist Rijuta Dey. With a background spanning three countries and extensive experience in metals reporting, Rijuta shares her unique journey from her small hometown in India to becoming a senior reporter for Fastmarkets in the U.S. Gain insights into the niche field of price reporting, understand the importance of objectivity in journalism, and discover how the metals industry is evolving with new trends like decarbonization. Don't miss this fascinating episode filled with career advice and industry knowledge. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:43 Meet Rijuta Dey: A Journey from India to the Metals Industry 08:21 The Role of a Price Reporter in the Metals Industry 14:46 The Importance of Price Reporting Agencies 19:25 Challenges and Opportunities in the Metals Industry 23:08 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts https://www.fastmarkets.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    32 min
  5. Maddie Carlson | Shapiro | S02E22

    08/19/2024

    Maddie Carlson | Shapiro | S02E22

    Exploring Sustainability in the Metals Industry with Maddie Carlson In this episode of Betts on the Future, host Jennifer Betts interviews Maddie Carlson, a sustainability consultant at Shapiro. Maddie shares insights into the world of metals recycling and sustainability, discussing her background, the importance of combining environmental studies with economics, and the challenges and opportunities in the sustainability consulting field. The conversation touches on topics from the impact of greenwashing to the fascinating processes behind metals recycling and the role of sustainability in the metals industry. Tune in to learn more about innovative approaches to recycling, the importance of sustainability in business, and the evolving demographics of the environmental sector. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:25 Meet Maddie Carlson: Sustainability Consultant 01:38 Maddie's Journey into Sustainability 04:00 The Intersection of Economics and Sustainability 06:46 Understanding the Metals Recycling Industry 11:03 Challenges and Innovations in Recycling 21:14 Greenwashing in the Environmental Sector 32:06 Women in Sustainability and Metals Industry 37:00 Advice for Aspiring Professionals 39:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts http://shapirometals.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    42 min
  6. AIST | S02E21

    08/12/2024

    AIST | S02E21

    Empowering Women in the Steel Industry Join Jennifer Betts, a seasoned veteran in the metals industry, as she hosts Stacy Varmecky, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at the Association for Iron and Steel Technology (AIST), and Kelly Dallas, Senior Director of Engineering at Cleveland Cliffs. In this Betts on the Future episode, Stacy and Kelly discuss their impressive career journeys, the evolution of AIST's Women in Steel initiative, and the growing importance of diversity and workforce development in the steel industry. They also highlight the upcoming Women in Steel conference, the role of AIST in fostering new talent, and the industry's technological advancements and safety measures. Don't miss this insightful conversation on how women are shaping the future of the metals industry. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:24 Meet Our Esteemed Guests: Stacy Varmecky and Kelly Dallas 00:45 Stacy Varmecky's Journey in the Steel Industry 02:15 Kelly Dallas' Path to Engineering Excellence 04:39 Diving into the Steel Industry: Personal Stories 09:21 Unique Office Backdrops and Industry Art 13:39 AIST: Advancing Steel Manufacturing Technology 21:32 The Future of the Steel Industry: Skills and Workforce Development 30:56 Advancing Technology and Workforce Needs 31:44 Engaging Women in Steel: The Initiative 33:15 Focus Groups and Surveys: Gathering Insights 33:56 Roundtables and Real Situations 36:37 Women's Steel Conference: Growth and Impact 37:47 Expanding Membership and Global Interest 39:32 Conference Details and Professional Development 41:16 Anticipating the 2024 Conference 57:06 Final Thoughts and Encouragement http://www.aist.org/ http://www.clevelandcliffs.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    1h 1m
  7. Kelly Fairchild | Venture Metals | S02E20

    08/05/2024

    Kelly Fairchild | Venture Metals | S02E20

    Exploring Non-Traditional Paths in the Metals Industry with Kelly Fairchild In this episode of Betts on the Future, hosted by Jennifer Betts, we dive into the fascinating world of metals and the diverse career opportunities it offers. Our guest, Kelly Fairchild, Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at Venture Metals, shares her unique journey from technology sales to the metals industry. Kelly discusses her role in driving revenue growth, building global partnerships, and her passion for sustainability. Tune in to learn about the exciting dynamics of the metals sector, the importance of recycling, and how technology is transforming the industry. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:23 Meet Kelly Fairchild: A Non-Traditional Path 00:51 Kelly's Role at Venture Metals 04:02 Transitioning from Tech to Metals 07:02 The Importance of Recycling and Sustainability 08:55 Challenges and Opportunities in the Metals Industry 23:58 The Future of Technology in Metals 31:58 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information https://venturemet.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    34 min
  8. Anna Tompkins & Jill Donahue | AWMI | S02E19

    07/22/2024

    Anna Tompkins & Jill Donahue | AWMI | S02E19

    Exploring Women's Career Paths in the Metal Industry with AWMI Leaders Welcome to Betts on the Future, hosted by Jennifer Betts, where we explore exciting career opportunities in the metals industry through the eyes of experienced professionals. In this episode, Jennifer interviews two distinguished guests from the Association of Women in the Metal Industries (AWMI): Anna Tompkins, Non-Ferrous Commercial Director at Sims Metal and AWMI International Vice President, and Jill Donahue, Senior Regional Sales Manager at Commercial Metal Forming and AWMI California Chapter Social Media and Marketing Chair. They share their career journeys, insights on the metals industry, and the important role of AWMI in supporting and advancing women within the field. Discover how AWMI's educational events, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs foster leadership and inclusivity in this traditionally male-dominated sector. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future 00:21 Meet Our Guests: Anna Tompkins and Jill Donahue 03:45 Anna Tompkins' Journey in the Metals Industry 05:59 Jill Donahue's Path to Success 08:53 The Importance of AWMI 10:11 AWMI's Growth and Mission 13:17 Benefits of Joining AWMI 16:27 AWMI Events and Networking Opportunities 35:03 Encouraging Student Memberships 35:30 Conclusion and Contact Information https://www.simsmm.com/ http://www.cmforming.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

    37 min
See All (41)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Betts on the Future Podcast 🔩 Exploring Careers in Metals & Manufacturing ⚙️ Metals are the foundation of modern life—powering infrastructure, transportation, and technology. Yet, careers in metals remain overlooked. Betts on the Future, produced by Magnar Metals, shines a light on the dynamic opportunities within the industry. Hosted by Jennifer Betts, a 20-year metals veteran, this podcast features real stories from professionals shaping the future of steel, aluminum, copper, and beyond. Whether you’re exploring a career shift or want to learn more about the industry, these conversations highlight the women driving innovation and sustainability in metals - critical to everyday life. Looking for more industry insights? Check out the Metals & Advanced Manufacturing Podcast for expert discussions on the technologies shaping the future. 🎧 Follow for inspiring stories and career insights in metals. #Metals #Manufacturing #Careers #Sustainability #Technology Listen Notes Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

Information

  • Creator
    Jennifer Betts
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Betts on the Future