CNC Underground: Afterhours

Jessica Bird

CNC Underground: Afterhours is a candid manufacturing podcast for the people behind CNC machining, CAM, and modern machine shops. Hosted by Jessica Bird, each episode brings real conversations with industry voices about shop culture, technology, tooling, leadership, business, and the future of manufacturing. It is thoughtful, practical, occasionally funny, and always rooted in the real world of making parts and keeping shops moving.

  1. 21. Single Source of Truth or Epic Myth? The Wild World of PLM with Michael Finocchiaro

    May 27

    21. Single Source of Truth or Epic Myth? The Wild World of PLM with Michael Finocchiaro

    PLM: buzzword or necessity? Jessica welcomes Michael Finocchiaro, a product lifecycle management veteran, startup advisor, and outspoken industry observer, for a no-nonsense conversation about what PLM is, what it actually solves, lingering shop floor headaches, and why “single source of truth” might be the most misleading promise in digital manufacturing. Get straight talk about the evolution of CAD data management, the realities of digital threads, the hype versus substance of buzzwords like AI and the metaverse, and how startups are shaking up a space long dominated by enterprise giants. Michael breaks down the intersection of engineering and manufacturing, the fragmentation of today’s tools, and the future shape of digital shop floors. Whether you’re on the production line, in management, or wrangling unruly BOMs, this episode brings sharp insights and practical advice. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfinocchiaro/  Michaels YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFutureOfPLM  Websites: www.demystifyingplm.com. www.threaded.live  ——— Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com ————————————————————————————————— 00:00 AI Bubble or Forest Fire?00:30 Introducing Michael Finocchiaro & PLM 10102:26 CAD Origins and Product Data Management03:11 Why PLM Grew Beyond Files05:18 Bill of Materials & Truth Myths06:31 What PLM Actually Solves08:22 What Goes Wrong with PLM Implementations10:12 Why PLM & Manufacturing Remain Disconnected11:28 The Challenge of Tribal Knowledge12:26 Startups vs. Big Companies in Knowledge Capture12:52 Buzzword Bingo: Digital Thread, Twin, AI, and More15:26 Why Integration is Still Elusive16:03 Connecting Shop Floor, ERP, and PLM17:23 Does the Demand for Integration Actually Exist?18:57 Should Companies Go Early on AI?19:53 Startups Building Faster Solutions20:19 In-House Hack Jobs vs. Scalable Solutions22:17 How Cloud & “Best in Class” Are Actually Playing Out23:26 Is Metaverse Real for the Shop Floor?25:13 Why Mining Leads in Digital Twins & Automation26:40 Buzzwords Michael Thinks Will Fade27:38 What Makes Startups Exciting Right Now28:47 The Risks of Overhype & Why Fundamentals Win31:45 AI Bubble or Forest Fire Revisited33:09 Fundamentals: Real Engineering Still Matters35:40 Red Flags in Software Pitches38:03 How Creativity from Art & Music Influences Engineering39:56 Staying Open, Avoiding Tunnel Vision41:15 Where to Find Michael Finocchiaro42:06 Best Advice for Evaluating Software Demos43:03 Episode Wrap —————————————————————————————————

    43 min
  2. 20. Make or Break Decisions: Shop Owners Reveal Hard Lessons with Tyler Stilson

    May 13

    20. Make or Break Decisions: Shop Owners Reveal Hard Lessons with Tyler Stilson

    Tyler Stillson, president and owner of Operose Manufacturing, joins host Jessica for an honest discussion about growth, risk, and technology in modern manufacturing. From walking away from engineering school to building a multi-location business, Tyler shares the decisions, challenges, and lessons behind the scenes, from automation investments and scaling through acquisition, to the realities of losing customers and starting new product lines. Also covered are the shifting demands in equipment, the impact of AI on small business operations, and the truths every shop owner should face about cash flow and growth. Whether you’re a shop owner, machinist, or simply interested in how real-world manufacturing works today, this episode brings clarity to the pressures, opportunities, and responsibilities behind every investment and expansion. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-stilson-1715416/  The OpOne Group: https://op1group.com/  ——— Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com ———————————————————————————————— Chapters:00:00 Hidden Stress & Realities of Ownership00:19 CNC Underground After Hours—Introduction01:12 Leaving Engineering School for Machining02:02 First Steps in the Machine Shop03:08 Getting Started with CNC Machines04:16 Long Commutes and the Leap to Ownership05:01 Moving to Minnesota & Changing Markets06:45 Operose: Then vs. Now08:30 Building OP1 Group and Acquisitions10:00 Different Shop Specialties & Capabilities11:16 What Capabilities Matter Most Today?12:13 The Decline of Wire EDM Demand14:16 Rapid-Fire: Good Idea or Expensive Mistake15:43 Investing in Equipment Before the Work18:06 Risks of Relying on One Big Customer19:11 Starting a Product Line Within a Shop21:22 Automation for Solving Labor Shortages22:21 Automation for High Mix, Low Volume23:49 Recovering After Losing a Major Customer24:54 Filling Gaps With Product Innovation25:54 Risk Lessons From Losing Customers28:00 Using Automation to Manage Workflows & Labor30:23 Scaling Production Without More Hires31:02 Downsides of Automation: Scrap Risks32:28 The Version You Don’t See: Buying Machines, Leadership Stress36:02 What Really Happens After Acquisitions39:05 Building Trust Post-Acquisition41:05 Does AI Move the Needle for Small Shops?42:02 Building DIY Tools with AI for Operations45:14 Measuring Productivity in Automated Shops46:14 First Steps Into Automation for CNC Shops47:40 Real Concerns and Opportunities With AI49:00 AI Lowering Barriers for Small Businesses50:51 The Growing Dependence on AI52:13 Leadership Lessons From Scaling Operations56:25 Why Standardizing Across Shops Can Fail57:26 The Hazards of “Build It and They Will Come”58:25 Cash Flow, Invoices, and Payment Struggles59:11 Where to Find More About OP1 Group1:00:32 Final Takeaways and Closing

    1h 1m
  3. 19. The American Manufacturing Comeback: What’s Working Now with Jim Vinoski

    Apr 29

    19. The American Manufacturing Comeback: What’s Working Now with Jim Vinoski

    Jim Vinoski joins CNC Underground AfterHours to share decades of experience in manufacturing, spanning engineering, leadership, writing, and advising. Mechanical engineer, former Forbes manufacturing columnist, industry podcaster, and longtime executive, Jim breaks down the evolution of factory work, the changing nature of automation, and the critical importance of both leadership and adaptable processes.  The conversation covers everything from early engineering surprises, navigating technology shifts like CNC and AI, to the need for upgrading work systems and training the next generation. If you’re interested in modern manufacturing, scaling your shop, or understanding the real stories behind American industry, this practical, candid discussion is for you. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimvinoski/  Jim’s Substack: https://manufacturingtalks.substack.com/  Jim’s Website: https://www.manufacturingtalks.com/  ———Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com ————————————————————————————————— 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:00 Bicycles and the Path to Engineering01:34 Early Surprises in Factory Work02:06 First Manufacturing Role02:22 Lessons in Leadership and Business03:32 Adapting to Modern Manufacturing04:47 Autonomy and Shop Culture Changes05:07 Major Shifts in Automation06:11 Hesitancy Around New Technology06:55 Embracing or Avoiding Change08:13 Falling Behind in Manufacturing09:44 Common Mistakes—Ignoring Work Systems10:40 Automation Beyond the Factory Floor12:14 Sparking Debate in Manufacturing Commentary13:01 Energy Prices and U.S. Competitiveness14:10 Trade, Offshoring, and Industrial Capacity15:07 Shipbuilding and National Security Gaps16:17 Regulation and Manufacturing Realities17:05 Does Automation Cost Jobs?18:42 Retaining High-Level Work in the U.S.19:49 What Divides Manufacturing Leaders20:38 Documenting vs. Working in the Business23:15 Systems That Enable Shop Growth25:28 Metrics That Matter: Cash Flow and More28:19 The Value of Community and Learning29:41 Creative Headlines—Communicating Manufacturing33:39 Engaging the Next Generation34:39 Audience and Intent in Writing36:38 Optimism for U.S. Manufacturing37:24 Advice for Industry Leaders and Learners39:07 Where to Follow Jim Vinoski

    40 min
  4. 18, How VR, AI, and Real Shop Stories Are Changing Manufacturing Careers with Darryl Gratrix

    Apr 15

    18, How VR, AI, and Real Shop Stories Are Changing Manufacturing Careers with Darryl Gratrix

    Get an inside look at the changing face of manufacturing and the skilled trades with hosts Jessica Bird and Darryl Gratrix, founder of NextGen Skilled Trades Consulting. Darryl shares his personal path from a non-technical background to a leader in Canadian manufacturing, addressing tough questions about why the industry is losing talent and what can actually be done to bring the next generation in. This conversation takes on classic myths about trade school, the realities of modern shops, and the shift from old-school “crusty” toolrooms to investing in people and technology. Learn how VR and AI are being used for training, the critical role of confidence versus skill, and what’s working to build a better future for tradespeople and manufacturers. Whether you’re a shop owner, educator, parent, or a student considering career options, this episode is packed with grounded advice, candid stories, and actionable ideas for changing perceptions and building community. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Darryl on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-gratrix-373827309/ ———Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions: Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com —————————————————————————————————

    36 min
  5. 17. Tips for Making Trades Cool for the Next Generation with Nush Ahmed

    Apr 1

    17. Tips for Making Trades Cool for the Next Generation with Nush Ahmed

    What actually happens when you mix motorsports ambitions, hands-on automotive classes, and a willingness to post real wins and mistakes online?  In this conversation, Nush Ahmed breaks stereotypes about women in manufacturing, shares the truth about getting started in trades, and pulls back the curtain on building a visible career outside the traditional corporate ladder.  With host Jessica Urbans, they call out old myths, laugh about shop-floor lingo, and challenge everyone in the industry to embrace authenticity, support newcomers, and foster genuine networks, both in the shop and across social media.  Sparked by personal stories and hard-earned advice, this episode uncovers the value of community, ongoing learning, and the courage it takes to be honest about both setbacks and successes. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Nush on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nushrata/  Sisterhood of the Trades: www.sisterhoodofthetrades.com Podcasts Nush Mentioned Next Gen MFG: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Ysum3HDA82rlHeuxoaBge  The Sisterhood Takes the Mic: https://open.spotify.com/show/33RtOsuAu2Wl5X4WiiG4zw Two Bolts Short of a Flange:https://open.spotify.com/show/6pmLbiTozQOjsh4d7fun2s  The Union Mic Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2hgMQcjfZ5grvbzudveskn  ———Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com ————————————————————————————————— 00:00 From Valves to Motorsport Fabrication 04:17 "Finding Passion Through Hot Wheels" 06:40 "Overcoming Barriers to Trade School" 12:07 Networking for Career Opportunities 14:45 "Sharing Mistakes for Growth" 17:54 LinkedIn Thrives on Questions 20:45 "Connecting, Posting, and Being Seen" 24:12 Podcast Projects by Sisterhood 29:18 "Evaluating Career Investment Motives" 32:44 "Climbing Success Isn't Easy" 35:23 Learning Programming & Underwater Welding 40:31 "Choosing School Through Robots" 41:59 "Connect with Nusha Ahmed" Hit subscribe for new episodes with honest conversations that keep the coolant clean and the culture real.

    47 min
  6. 16. Are You Sabotaging Your Success with Old-School CNC Habits? Hear Arthur Field’s Warning

    Mar 18

    16. Are You Sabotaging Your Success with Old-School CNC Habits? Hear Arthur Field’s Warning

    Arthur Field, Operations Manager for the Americas at MTDCNC, joins the conversation to break down what truly defines strong partnerships in manufacturing and why clinging to outdated methods can sabotage shop culture, profitability, and growth.  From shop floor trial-and-error to managing international operations, Arthur shares candid stories of career-defining mistakes, hard-won leadership lessons, and the surprising truth about building lasting trust between suppliers, vendors, and teams.  The discussion covers everything from mental health and innovation resistance to the impact of video content and the future of blue-collar pride. If you’ve ever weighed the value of real collaboration, questioned stubborn industry habits, or wanted a behind-the-scenes look at the human side of manufacturing, this episode will challenge assumptions and offer practical takeaways for tomorrow’s leaders. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Arthur on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetarthur/  ———Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com About MTDCNC: MTDCNC is a global manufacturing media platform covering CNC machining and precision manufacturing news, videos, podcasts, and industry insights.  Learn more at: www.mtdcnc.com  ————————————————————————————————— Time Stamps 00:00 Accidental Path to CNC Programming 06:28 "Stretching Beyond Comfort Zones" 14:55 "Fixing Longstanding Issues Quickly" 21:49 Trust and Reliable Teamwork 22:46 "Collaboration Beats Going Solo" 29:36 "Training Gap and Workforce Solutions" 37:44 "True Partnership Requires Action" 40:28 "Thoughtful Approach to Client Needs" 46:21 "Disagreements Indicate Healthy Partnerships" 53:27 "Exploring Media Partnership Choices" 54:25 "Marketing Shifts Delayed by Leadership" 01:03:30 3-Month Brand Partnership Campaign 01:05:04 "CNC Demonstrations and Education" 01:09:39 Inspiring Youth Through Creativity —————————————————————————————————

    1h 13m
  7. 15. Wild Machine Crashes and Shop Survival Tips with Jon Ely

    Mar 4

    15. Wild Machine Crashes and Shop Survival Tips with Jon Ely

    Join Jessica Urbans and Jon Ely for CNC Underground After Hours as they take a closer look at the realities of machining—from running parts on twin-turret lathes to managing a modern team and leading Industrial Tool Solutions. Hear how Jon’s career built step by step, starting as an operator, progressing through programming and production roles, moving into sales, and ultimately leading a company. Topics include hands-on learning, conversational programming, mistakes and memorable shop crashes, leadership principles drawn from the military, and thoughts on changing manufacturing culture. With practical insights, quirky game segments, and honest advice for the next generation, this episode offers a candid look at industry life. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Jon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-e-999955259/  Email Jon: Jon@itsreps.com ———Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com ————————————————————————————————— 00:00 "Unexpected Path to Machining" 05:30 Lathe vs. Mill: Simplicity Explained 09:08 "From Workflow to Production Manager" 10:46 Learning Sales in Aerospace Manufacturing 14:07 "Authentic Sales Through Understanding" 20:04 From Desk to Shop Floor 22:39 The Impact of Good Leadership 25:10 Leadership, Ownership, and Clarity 30:45 Promoting Talent in Big Companies 34:19 Engineering Mishaps and Lessons Learned 35:01 "Runaway Metal Mishap" 38:05 "Optimizing Setup for Efficiency" 43:20 "Air Blast Over Flood Coolant" 45:26 "Collaboration Improves Industry Culture" 48:02 "Shop Stories and Leadership Insights"

    49 min
  8. 14. What's Actually Stopping America's Machine Shops From Growing? Insights From Alex Huckstepp

    Feb 18

    14. What's Actually Stopping America's Machine Shops From Growing? Insights From Alex Huckstepp

    Join Jessica Urbans and guest Alex Huckstepp, co-founder and chief commercial officer at Uptool, as they talk through the realities of US manufacturing today. This episode covers the evolution of additive and subtractive technologies, the challenges and opportunities for small and medium manufacturers, and what it takes for true innovation to move beyond theory.  Hear firsthand perspectives on the launch of Uptool, AI’s role in job shops, and how shop owners and teams can respond to rapid change. For anyone in the world of machining, fabrication, or manufacturing tech, this conversation brings practical advice, candid stories, and actionable thoughts on scaling operations. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-huckstepp/ Learn more about Uptool: www.uptool.com Machine Shop Database: www.usamachineshops.com  ——— Join CNC Underground Newsletter!  https://swiy.co/cncunderground Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email. ———— About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support. Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com ————————————————————————————————

    40 min
See All (22)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

CNC Underground: Afterhours is a candid manufacturing podcast for the people behind CNC machining, CAM, and modern machine shops. Hosted by Jessica Bird, each episode brings real conversations with industry voices about shop culture, technology, tooling, leadership, business, and the future of manufacturing. It is thoughtful, practical, occasionally funny, and always rooted in the real world of making parts and keeping shops moving.

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