CNC Underground: Afterhours

Jessica Bird
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Technology

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. Oct 14

    31. From NC to CNC to AI-NC: The Next Evolution of Manufacturing with Tanmay Aggarwal

    CNC Underground Afterhours pushes past the marketing buzz to take a hard look at AI’s real impact on the machine shop floor. Industry veteran Tanmay, founder and CEO of Lambda Function, joins to discuss AI, automation vs. autonomy, and the relationship between technology and the artistry of CNC machining.  Learn why trust is harder to build with AI in manufacturing, what matters most to shop owners, and which tasks AI can and can’t handle today. Understand the future potential for AI-driven CNC, what’s holding back wider adoption, and how knowledge capture is changing the industry. Plus, the conversation takes a thoughtful look at psychology, learning from children, and finding inspiration outside manufacturing. ——— Connect with CNC Underground on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cnc-underground  Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Tanmay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanmayaggarwal/  Connect with Lambda Function on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lambda-function/  ———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 Brand new part: Would you let AI run it?00:33 AI in manufacturing: Buzzwords vs. reality02:10 Path to Lambda Function and CNC programming04:48 The problem Lambda Function is solving05:55 Does Lambda’s AI actually learn from customer data?07:24 Why static G-code doesn’t work for a dynamic world09:54 Opinionated programmers and the art of CNC11:00 How little the general public understands CNC12:49 The difference between automation and autonomy13:33 Why true autonomy is so hard in CNC15:32 Will CNC become AINC? (AI numerical control)16:41 Change on the shop floor: What actually matters18:03 Knowledge capture, institutional memory, and scaling expertise19:41 Why trust matters more than the tech itself22:11 AI trust at work vs. in consumer life23:17 Risks, tolerance, and the role of human oversight24:05 Machinists as technologists and technology adoption in manufacturing25:49 Technology adoption speed and production risk26:46 AI or Absolutely Not? Game: What will you actually let AI do?29:39 Where AI can (and can’t) replace tribal knowledge32:48 AI isn’t here to replace people33:14 The skills gap and getting kids interested in manufacturing35:17 How technology can make CNC more accessible for the next generation37:47 The impact of 3D printing’s accessibility39:47 Why CNC isn’t as plug-and-play as people expect42:22 The value of problem-solving and engineering with kids45:14 The future: Iterating quickly, pragmatic solutions, and shop owner impact46:21 Market curiosity to active discovery for AI in CNC48:34 Predicting the machine shop of 203553:52 What will feel normal in 5 years?55:08 Examples of near-term AI applications on the shop floor57:12 Psychology, running, golf, and learning outside CNC58:05 How psychology affects business and leadership01:02:21 Lessons kids teach that business school can’t01:03:56 The biggest surprises about bringing AI to manufacturing01:07:22 Stay connected and closing thoughts

    31. From NC to CNC to AI-NC: The Next Evolution of Manufacturing with Tanmay Aggarwal

  2. Sep 30

    30. The Most Valuable Thing at IMTS Wasn't for Sale with The Sisterhood of Trades

    From unexpected acts of support at IMTS to the power of community in the trades, this episode dives into firsthand stories of women forging connections, gaining confidence, and challenging stereotypes in manufacturing. Listeners will hear about standout moments on the showroom floor, the impact of supportive networks like the Sisterhood of Trades, and how leadership and process can make or break a shop’s culture. Key themes include fostering inclusion, overcoming old technology with sheer determination, and championing second chances for those reentering the workforce.  Whether it’s stories from the shop floor or insights on building meaningful relationships in the industry, the conversation promises both inspiration and practical perspectives for anyone curious about what truly matters in modern manufacturing. ——— Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Nush on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nushrata/  Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-m-368802328/  Connect with Kathryn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-bomyea-04b906351/  ———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 Can Great People Overcome Bad Technology?00:31 The CNC Underground After Hours Crew at IMTS02:18 Stories and Connections: Badass Workbench & Racing03:47 Friendship, Support, and Workbench Quality04:23 Historic Machines: The Original Bridgeport at IMTS05:12 First-Time IMTS Reactions and the Power of Community06:25 How the Group Experience Came Together07:03 Gratitude for Supportive Companies and Donors08:09 Confidence and Growth After IMTS09:07 How Community Empowers Individuals10:11 Learning Leadership at IMTS11:09 Networking with Industry Leaders and Allies12:15 Outreach in Manufacturing: Drew Crowe’s Story13:53 Second Chances, Skills Training, and Returning Citizens15:21 Community, Trades, and Finding Purpose16:02 Changing Perceptions of Manufacturing Work17:20 Shop Floor Insights from a Working Machinist18:29 Perspectives on Precision Grinding20:22 Grinding: Skills, Details, and Misconceptions21:31 New Tech, Smarter Work, and Shop Solutions22:57 What’s Real vs. The IMTS “Show”23:49 Walking the Show Floor with Content Creators and Allies24:42 Attitude, Self-Teaching, and Industry Influencers26:13 Shutdown Millwright: Seeing the Industry from the Field27:36 Understanding How Parts Are Made28:50 IMTS as an Industry Showcase and Stigma Breaker29:21 Shop Floor Debate: What Drives Change—Leadership, Process, People, or Tech?30:25 Real Talk: Leadership and Process on the Shop Floor32:14 Can Great People Beat Bad Technology?33:22 The Power of Crew Support, Team Loyalty, and Culture34:44 Workplace Cultures That Make the Difference36:22 Why Attending as a Group Matters37:20 Connecting with Students and the Next Generation38:06 Women Who Paved the Way in Trades39:57 Teachers and Mentors: The Impact on Career Paths40:19 Sisterhood of Trades: Mission and How to Join44:05 Finding the Sisterhood: Personal Stories45:44 The Power of Support and Friendship in Trades47:27 IMTS: Never Thought I’d Go—Now Life-Changing48:03 Feeling Seen, Supported, and Celebrated48:03 Slightly Dangerous IMTS Questions: Overrated or Underrated?49:53 Expectations vs. Reality at IMTS50:17 Lightning Round: IMTS Impressions & What Matters Most52:33 Where to Connect with the Sisterhood of Trades and Guests

    30. The Most Valuable Thing at IMTS Wasn't for Sale with The Sisterhood of Trades

  3. Sep 16

    29. Around the World with Machinist Tony Gunn: Dirty Shops, $20 Wages, and Million-Dollar Anchors

    Tony Gunn shares a unique perspective shaped by decades on the shop floor and years spent visiting hundreds of manufacturing facilities worldwide. This episode covers the real difference between successful and struggling shops, what cleanliness and organization reveal about operations, and how global trends in automation and technology are impacting manufacturing everywhere. The conversation addresses the myths and realities of American manufacturing, including what the U.S. does well, where other countries lead, and how lessons from international shops can inform better practices closer to home. Topics include workforce challenges, how compensation compares to other industries, the critical role of trust in vendor relationships, and practical ways automation can help bridge skills gaps. With stories from visits to shops in Brazil, Germany, Japan, India, Switzerland, and beyond, the episode highlights what each manufacturing culture excels at—from education and automation to precision, respect for the trade, and the willingness to invest in new tech. Listeners also get advice for making the most of trade shows like IMTS and insight into what manufacturing professionals really complain about (and how some of those issues could actually be easier to address than expected). Whether you're a machinist, shop owner, or industry newcomer, this conversation brings honest perspective on where manufacturing stands today and where it's headed. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with CNC Underground on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cnc-underground  Connect with CNC Underground on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@midwestcamsolutions  Connect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theworldwidemachinist/  Connect with Tony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealworldwidemachinist  Connect with Tony on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWorldWideMachinist  The Machinists Club: https://www.themachinistsclub.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 —————————————————————————————————

    29. Around the World with Machinist Tony Gunn: Dirty Shops, $20 Wages, and Million-Dollar Anchors

  4. Sep 2

    28. The 90-Day Problem with Andrew Brown: Why Your New Hires Are Already Halfway Out the Door

    Across the skilled trades, the hiring crisis has taken center stage but is it really only a shortage of applicants, or are businesses struggling just as much with retention? This episode breaks down why the trades are facing not just a hiring gap, but a “90-day problem,” where new hires often leave within weeks or months. The discussion confronts common misconceptions, the power and pitfalls of mentorship, generational divides, and evolving workplace expectations. Listeners get both practical perspectives and real-world advice on making the trades an “option A,” not just an option B. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/  Andrew Brown’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/andrewbrowntrades  ——— 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 The Skilled Trades Labor Crisis: By the Numbers00:37 Redefining the Problem: Retention vs. Hiring01:51 The “90-Day Problem” and Mismatched Expectations03:54 Realities of Working in the Trades05:35 Onboarding and Setting Expectations06:16 The Role and Impact of Mentorship08:03 Team Mentality, Knowledge-Sharing, and Obstacles09:29 Identifying True Mentors: Skills vs. Disposition11:38 Culture, Leadership, and Who Should Lead12:46 “Ghosting,” Work Ethic, and Generational Differences14:22 Can the Next Generation Fill the Gap?15:55 Skill vs. Will: What Makes a Retainable Employee16:53 Toxic Cultures and the Importance of Fit17:51 Building the "Perfect Apprentice": What Matters Most21:47 Experience vs. Culture: Rethinking the Hiring Process23:12 Gen Z in the Trades: Stereotypes and Reality24:32 Adapting to Generational Learning Styles26:13 The Impact of Technology and Industry Change27:00 Patience, Feedback, and Development in the Modern Workforce28:29 What Young Workers Are Really Asking For30:38 Pitching the Trades: Scenarios for Youth and Parents33:59 Are the Trades a Step Backwards? Considering Options35:57 Looking Ahead: The Cost of Inaction37:39 Industry Leadership and the Backbone of the Economy38:41 Guest Resources and Where to Learn More39:13 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

    28. The 90-Day Problem with Andrew Brown: Why Your New Hires Are Already Halfway Out the Door

  5. Aug 19

    27. Do the Math: Harry Moser on Offshoring, Risk, and Why There's Still Hope

    America’s manufacturing sector faces critical decisions on reshoring, workforce development, and automation. In this episode, Harry Moser, founder of the Reshoring Initiative, shares more than 50 years of industry experience and a practical look at what it will take to strengthen US manufacturing. Harry breaks down why short-term thinking hurts manufacturers, how Total Cost of Ownership changes sourcing decisions, where reshoring opportunities exist, and why workforce development, automation, and smarter purchasing decisions all matter. If you run a machine shop, manage supply chains, or care about the future of American manufacturing, this conversation is packed with real examples, useful tools, and actionable ideas. Connect with Jess:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina:https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Harry:https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-moser-58a8024/ Reshoring Initiative:https://reshorenow.org/ Total Cost of Ownership Calculator:https://reshorenow.org/tco-estimator/ Import Substitution Program:https://reshorenow.org/isp/ Join CNC Underground:https://swiy.co/cncunderground CNC Underground is the weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ machinists and programmers for practical CAM tips, tooling strategies, shop-floor insight, and manufacturing news. About Midwest CAM Solutions:The world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers improve productivity through CAM software, training, and support.www.midwestcamsolutions.com CHAPTERS 00:00 Short-Term Mentality in US Manufacturing00:57 Harry Moser’s Background and Motivation03:14 Family Legacy and Industry Changes04:17 Founding the Reshoring Initiative06:00 Early Resistance and the Role of TCO06:43 What Surprises Manufacturers about TCO07:57 Geopolitical Risks and Supply Chains09:10 Partnerships vs. Vendors10:26 Long-Term Workforce Investment11:01 US vs. Europe Investment Patterns12:04 Why the Workforce Shortage Isn’t a Surprise13:15 Attracting Young Workers15:27 Visibility and Exposure in Manufacturing16:59 Manufacturing’s Image Problem19:42 Stories of Factories Closing21:02 Societal Costs of Manufacturing Decline21:46 Lowest Price vs. Total Cost22:18 How Many Manufacturers Use TCO23:34 TCO Examples That Changed Decisions25:05 Inventory Reduction and Hidden Benefits25:58 Other Overlooked TCO Factors27:58 Engineering and Manufacturing Proximity28:58 Bringing Programming Back In-House29:02 Advice for Shops Losing Bids30:02 Pricing, Freight, and Tariffs31:06 Competing with Overseas Providers32:21 Automation for Competitiveness33:02 Speed of Delivery as an Advantage34:03 Consumer Buying Habits35:07 Quality vs. Price36:06 Buying Decisions and US Jobs37:13 Apprenticeship Programs38:38 Building the Workforce Pipeline41:07 Can AI Make US Manufacturing Competitive?42:21 China vs. US Productivity43:11 Congressional Testimony and Tariffs44:31 Capital Equipment Tariffs45:32 US Steel Decline47:43 Industry Structure, Unions, and Change49:13 Generational Workforce Shifts51:56 Wage Pressure and the Dollar52:23 TCO and True Cost Differences54:06 Lightning Round55:19 Reshoring Success Stories58:08 Sourcing Decisions and US Jobs59:21 “Made in China” on American Symbols1:00:07 Reshoring Initiative Resources1:01:34 How Job Shops Can Find Opportunities1:04:01 Optimism and Next Steps1:04:41 IMTS and Where to Connect

    27. Do the Math: Harry Moser on Offshoring, Risk, and Why There's Still Hope

  6. Aug 5

    26. Leaving Your Mark: Stop Searching for Machinists, Start Building Them with Mark Christopher

    This episode tackles the root of what’s really behind the so-called “talent shortage” in manufacturing, pulling apart the difference between a lack of skilled workers and mismatched expectations in the industry. Hear stories of hands-on learners who sidestep traditional training, companies willing, or unwilling, to invest in people, and how producers can build their own pipeline of machinists rather than waiting for the perfect candidate to walk in. Discussions highlight the value of attitude over experience, practical perspectives on automation, and what it really takes to foster loyalty and growth within a shop. The episode also features tangible examples, from a 19-year-old YouTube-taught entrepreneur to programs supporting military veterans, challenging what it means to “find good people” and offering real talk on leadership, culture, and building a sustainable workforce, plus, some fishing tales along the way. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-christopher-5a4b839a/  ———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 Setting Expectations: Talent Shortage or Expectation Gap?00:34 Mark Christopher’s Background and Industry Involvement01:28 The Hiring Challenge: Who Are Shops Really Looking For?02:29 Skills Shopping vs. Talent Development03:01 Investment, Risk, and Fear of “Losing” Trained Workers04:34 Building the Industry by Investing in People05:35 Are Companies Consumers or Producers of Talent?07:16 Word of Mouth, Reputation, and the Teaching of Attitude07:49 Military Veterans: Untapped Talent Pool08:24 Education Pathways and Employability Traits11:43 Shop Floor Stories: Self-Taught Success with CNC Lathes16:11 Self-Made Machinists and Lessons Beyond the Classroom18:20 Where Professionalism and Accountability Start22:52 The Role of Parents and Mentors in Shaping Work Ethic25:05 Lightbulb Moments: Connecting Tech to Real-World Manufacturing26:50 “Keep It or Kill It:” Shop Management Decisions29:25 Equipment Strategy: Buying for Growth and Opportunity31:16 5-Axis Machines and Expanding Capabilities32:38 Attitude vs. Experience: Hiring the Right Mindset33:34 Flexibility for Top Performers35:29 Where Automation Truly Adds Value (and Its Limits)37:55 Automation, Job Loss Fears, and the Human Element40:03 Shop Floor Draft: Building a Realistic Team44:43 Leading Teams and Managing Personalities45:48 Work-Life Balance and Tournament Bass Fishing46:53 Most Memorable Catches—and What They Teach49:12 Fishing and Stress Relief for Machinists50:25 Why Manufacturing Careers Offer So Much Potential53:40 Connect with Mark Christopher: Career Advice and Networking

    26. Leaving Your Mark: Stop Searching for Machinists, Start Building Them with Mark Christopher

  7. Jul 22

    25. Getting Phil-osophical About Building a CNC Shop From Scratch With Phil Miller

    An unexpected path from Amish roots to CNC shop ownership sets the stage for a conversation about forging a career in manufacturing without a clear roadmap. This episode highlights how a hands-on upbringing built a foundation for curiosity and innovation, leading to a passion for machining and the drive to launch a successful business. Key topics include pinpointing ideal customers, addressing the challenges of training and mentoring new talent, and cultivating a workplace culture grounded in honesty and psychological safety. Listeners will hear thoughtful reflections on technology, problem-solving, and the nuances of work ethic across generations, along with real stories about overcoming setbacks and tough leadership decisions. Perfect for anyone considering their own leap into business or seeking fresh insights on building a thriving, people-centered shop. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-miller-979158288/  ———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 Cold Open & Show Intro00:45 Phil Miller’s Early Background02:08 Childhood in the Shop02:14 First Jobs and Entry into Manufacturing02:41 Getting into CNC and the “Wow” Factor03:56 Transitioning from Manual to CNC04:12 Biggest Challenges in Learning CNC05:06 Deciding to Start a Machine Shop05:53 Realities of Business and Growing Reach06:53 Lessons from Customers and Business Upsets07:52 Advice for Identifying Ideal Customers09:08 Learning to Say “No” as a Business Owner10:00 Building Relationships with Customers10:25 “Then vs. Now”: Technology, Problem Solving, and Learning13:18 Generational Differences & Problem Solving Skills15:46 Work Ethic: Past vs. Present18:48 The Influence of Amish Community Values21:19 Changing Traditions and Mutual Aid23:29 Speed vs. Quality: What Matters Most24:28 Shop Culture and Psychological Safety26:14 Leadership & Supporting Employees27:55 Forgivable or Fireable: Real-Life Scenarios32:31 Parallels Between Parenting and Leadership33:21 Hiring for Work Ethic and Organization36:58 Training the Next Generation: Challenges and Solutions39:39 Communication, Clarity, and Employee Support42:32 Training the Next Generation: Why Is It So Hard to Find Good People?43:50 The Training Gap vs. Skills Gap44:55 Sharing Knowledge and Leadership Philosophy45:36 Approaches to Training New Hires46:47 Connecting with Phil Miller and Star Machine47:15 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs48:44 Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect

    25. Getting Phil-osophical About Building a CNC Shop From Scratch With Phil Miller

  8. Jul 8

    24. Running a Machine Shop Shouldn't Be This Hard with Paul Van Metre

    Running a machine shop is often called the hardest business in the world, and this episode covers the realities behind that statement. The conversation focused on why manufacturing and machining are so essential yet underappreciated, and what actually goes on when chaos is normalized in daily shop life. Addressing issues from tribal knowledge to retiring skilled employees, the discussion tackled workforce shortages, the impact of trades education, and how systems and structure, or lack thereof, can make or break a shop. A key theme that emerged was the risk that comes with relying on a single employee who knows "everything," as well as the pain points that occur when chaos becomes the norm rather than the exception. The discussion explored practical solutions for reducing risk and improving morale, featuring the origins, development, and everyday impact of ProShop ERP, a system designed by machinists, for machinists. Several points were raised, including mindset shifts needed to go from simply surviving to building a sustainable and enjoyable business. Listeners will find practical advice, relatable anecdotes, and strategies for fostering a positive culture and business success in an industry where every second, and every setup, matters. ——— Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/ Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/ Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulvanmetre/ ProShop: www.proshoperp.com and www.loveyourerp.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 Introduction: Why Machine Shops Are So Challenging01:05 The Broader Impact of Manufacturing02:06 The Normalization of Chaos in Shops04:49 What Chaos Looks Like on the Shop Floor06:24 Knowing When Chaos Becomes a Real Problem07:28 The Risks of Relying on a Single Expert08:56 Retirement Wave and Labor Shortages10:03 Trades Education and the Stigma Around Manufacturing11:19 The Importance of Local Apprenticeships13:23 How Shops Can Attract and Retain Talent14:12 Gen CNC and Workforce Development Initiatives15:01 Why Some Shops Prefer Chaos to Structure16:16 Business Mindset Shifts for Shop Owners18:26 Recognizing Breaking Points in Business20:28 The Plateau: When "Good Enough" Isn't Enough22:38 Ego, Humility, and Shop Culture23:56 Reducing Key Person Risk and Knowledge Silos25:36 The Origins of ProShop ERP: Solving Chaos26:54 Building Systems That Work for Real Shops29:14 Turning Shop Solutions Into a Software Business32:04 What ProShop ERP Actually Does33:19 Going Beyond Traditional ERP Functions35:10 ProShop ERP as the Digital Backbone36:13 Reducing Tribal Knowledge Risk with Digital Tools37:30 The "Jimmy Casting": Documenting Processes38:41 Shop Game: Fix It or Live With It39:02 When to Fix Setup Sheets, Programming, and Paper Chaos41:31 Coping with Workarounds and Normalized Chaos44:08 How Small Fixes Add Up—Or Pile Up45:24 The Impact of Culture and Tools on Team Morale47:17 Practical Steps for Shop Leaders to Identify Problems49:57 Where to Learn More About ProShop ERP50:27 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways —————————————————————————————————

    24. Running a Machine Shop Shouldn't Be This Hard with Paul Van Metre
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 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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