73 episodes

Over the years, a lot has changed in manufacturing, but one topic that has stayed consistent is the need for people. For years, I have heard industry leaders talk about workforce development efforts. Still, nobody was asking leaders in manufacturing to look in the mirror and ask the tough question, "Have I created a place where people WANT to work?"
I hope you will join us each week as we talk with leaders in different manufacturing facilities, OEMs that can support a healthier culture, and workforce development leaders.

Manufacturing Culture Podcast Jim Mayer

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 21 Ratings

Over the years, a lot has changed in manufacturing, but one topic that has stayed consistent is the need for people. For years, I have heard industry leaders talk about workforce development efforts. Still, nobody was asking leaders in manufacturing to look in the mirror and ask the tough question, "Have I created a place where people WANT to work?"
I hope you will join us each week as we talk with leaders in different manufacturing facilities, OEMs that can support a healthier culture, and workforce development leaders.

    Empowering Employees through Effective Communication: Jeff Fiala of Transmission

    Empowering Employees through Effective Communication: Jeff Fiala of Transmission

    In the Manufacturing Culture Podcast episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Jeff Fiala, the co-founder and CEO of Transmission, a software platform that revolutionizes manufacturing communication. Fiala shares his entrepreneurial journey and how he transitioned from working on Wall Street to founding Transmission. He discusses communication challenges in the manufacturing industry and the need for real-time, data-driven communication solutions. Fiala also explains how Transmission's platform helps drive data-driven decisions and empowers employees by providing them with important information and improving communication on the factory floor. The conversation highlights the importance of effective communication in the manufacturing industry and how technology can facilitate this. Using digital signage and kiosks in the workplace allows for the dissemination of information, training videos, and two-way communication between employees and management. This technology not only improves productivity but also enhances safety and engagement. It is crucial for companies to link engagement metrics with productivity metrics and create a culture of recognition and celebration of small wins. Additionally, the conversation touches on the future of manufacturing in America and the need to invest in the workforce and build a robust manufacturing base.
    Takeaways
    Transmission is a software platform that revolutionizes communication in the manufacturing industry.Effective communication is crucial in the manufacturing industry, especially with the evolving workforce and the need for real-time information.Transmission's platform helps drive data-driven decisions by providing real-time communication and ensuring that important information reaches all employees.The platform empowers employees by giving them access to important information and allowing them to contribute to improving processes and safety.Transmission's platform accommodates different communication preferences, including digital signage, employee kiosks, and mobile devices. Effective communication is crucial in the manufacturing industry and can be facilitated through the use of technology such as digital signage and kiosks.Digital signage and kiosks improve productivity, safety, and engagement in the workplace.Companies should link engagement metrics with productivity metrics and create a culture of recognition and celebrating small wins.Investing in the workforce and building a robust manufacturing base is essential for the future of manufacturing in America.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Overview11:05 The Challenges of Workforce Innovation in Manufacturing25:33 The Challenges of Information Overload32:14 The Impact of Little Things on Job Satisfaction38:17 Capturing Employee Feedback
    Connect with Jeff on Linkedin
    Visit the Transmission at their website

    Is your company culture aligned with your business goals? At The Manufacturing Connector, we offer the Foundations Assessment, a comprehensive two-day employee engagement and cultural assessment designed to transform your organization from the inside out. Our process includes leadership team meetings, employee interviews, facility tours, and engagement surveys to provide actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Ready to enhance your organizational dynamics? Visit themfgconnector.com to learn more about our Assessment and start your journey toward a more engaged and productive workplace.
    Imagine a workplace where every team member feels recognized and valued. That’s the promise of Secchi, the leading Employee Relationship Management solution. Secchi empowers frontline leaders to effectively inspire, recognize, and coach their teams. With Secchi's system, you can enhance performance through strategic decision-making, impactful recognition, and real-time process control. Ready to transform your organizational culture? Visit Secchi now and see how it can affect your team’s dynamics.

    • 48 min
    Transforming Organizational Culture with Amper Technologies

    Transforming Organizational Culture with Amper Technologies

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Akshat Thirani, CEO and founder of Amper Technologies, and Katrina Keys, a visionary in transforming organizational culture. They discuss the role of Amper in revolutionizing how manufacturers track and improve their operations and how it helps transform the culture within their customers. The culture at Amper is characterized by values such as embracing reality, obsessing over customer success, and being lean. They share stories of customers who have implemented Amper and experienced a shift in their culture, such as valuing operators as key contributors and improving resource allocation. The conversation covered various manufacturing, culture, and employee engagement topics. The guests discussed the importance of trust and teamwork in manufacturing, as well as the role of technology in customers' learning journey. They also discussed the future of manufacturing, emphasizing the need for efficiency, automation, and connectivity. The guests highlighted the significance of employee engagement and company culture, as well as how Amper's platform facilitates feedback and communication between the shop floor and management. They concluded by encouraging listeners to focus on improving systems and creating a winning culture in manufacturing.
    Takeaways
    Amper Technologies helps manufacturers track and improve their operations by providing real-time data and enabling teams to make better decisions.Implementing Amper can lead to a shift in culture within manufacturing companies, such as valuing operators as key contributors and improving resource allocation.The culture at Amper is characterized by values such as embracing reality, obsessing over customer success, and being lean.Amper's dispersed workforce focuses on autonomy, collaboration, and communication to maintain a healthy culture.Customers have experienced aha moments when implementing Amper, such as realizing the importance of operators and gaining visibility into machine utilization. Trust and teamwork are crucial in manufacturing, where efficiency and safety are paramount.Technology plays a significant role in the learning journey of manufacturing customers.The future of manufacturing will involve increased efficiency, automation, and connectivity.Employee engagement and company culture are intertwined concepts that contribute to a successful manufacturing environment.Amper's platform facilitates feedback and communication between the shop floor and management.Improving systems is essential for creating a winning culture in manufacturing.
    Connect with Akshat on Linkedin
    Connect with Katrina on Linkedin
    Visit the Amper on their website
    Partners
    Need to make your manufacturing business stand out? Discover Marketing Metal, the specialized marketing agency for the manufacturing industry. Whether you operate a machine shop, fab shop, or a custom manufacturing firm, Marketing Metal has the expertise to build your brand and craft marketing strategies that cut through the noise. Ready to elevate your business? Visit themfgconnector.com today and learn how Marketing Metal can help you succeed.
    Are your tools organized and protected? Discover Kaiser Manufacturing, the ultimate solution in tool management. Their Kaizen Shadow Foam® allows you to create custom foam inserts tailored exactly for your needs, and their Tool Caddy offers a safe, compact storage option for all your tool holders. Improve your efficiency and protect your investments with Kaiser Manufacturing. Visit themfgconnector.com today and start organizing like a pro!

    • 56 min
    Changing "That's The Way It's Always Been Done": Michael Corrales of 1Factory

    Changing "That's The Way It's Always Been Done": Michael Corrales of 1Factory

    In this episode, Jim Mayer interviews Michael Corrales of 1Factory, a software company that focuses on quality control in the manufacturing industry. They discuss how software can drive cultural change in manufacturing, the challenges in the industry, and how 1Factory's tools can help overcome them. They also discuss the importance of continuous improvement and how 1Factory facilitates it. Some key features of 1Factory's software include automated drawing revision comparison, tracking changes, and streamlining information flow. 1Factory is revolutionizing quality control in manufacturing by providing software that automates data collection, analysis, and collaboration. The software helps manufacturers streamline processes, improve product quality, and reduce costs. It enables real-time monitoring of production lines, automatic generation of inspection reports, and proactive notifications of potential issues. The goal is to shift the focus from data collection to data utilization and continuous improvement. The software also addresses cybersecurity concerns by maintaining high-security standards and encryption protocols. Collaboration is facilitated by sharing inspection data between suppliers and customers, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Overall, 1Factory aims to create a culture of accountability, responsibility, and success in the manufacturing industry.
    Takeaways
    Software can drive cultural change in the manufacturing industry by providing the right tools for the job.1Factory's software helps manufacturers overcome challenges in quality control by streamlining processes and automating tasks.Cultural hurdles in manufacturing can be overcome by listening to employees, educating them about new technologies, and involving them in decision-making.1Factory's tools encourage and facilitate continuous improvement by providing a platform for feedback and implementing customer suggestions.Critical features of 1Factory's software include automated drawing revision comparison, tracking changes, and streamlining information flow. 1Factory's software automates data collection, analysis, and collaboration in manufacturing, streamlining processes and improving product quality.The software enables real-time monitoring of production lines, automatic generation of inspection reports, and proactive notifications of potential issues.The focus shifts from data collection to data utilization and continuous improvement, fostering a culture of accountability and success.1Factory addresses cybersecurity concerns through high-security standards and encryption protocols, ensuring the protection of sensitive data.Collaboration is facilitated by sharing inspection data between suppliers and customers, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Overview08:08 Challenges of Implementing New Technology14:33 Streamlining Information Flow28:26 Driving Cultural Change through Collaboration
    Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
    Unlock your leaders' potential with Duxinaroe's innovative BTFA program, where neuroscience meets leadership development. The Believe, Think, Feel, Act framework is designed to enhance leadership skills and improve organizational performance through cutting-edge neuroscience principles. Transform your leadership approach and achieve remarkable business outcomes with Duxinaroe. Interested in elevating your leadership team? Visit themfgconnector.com and discover how Duxinaroe can lead your organization to new heights.
    Using Speroni's advanced tool management solutions, you can take control of your tooling with precision and efficiency. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, Speroni offers the INTELLIGO Tool Management Software and the UBI Location Manager, designed to optimize your tool organization and maximize operational efficiency. Don't let tool management slow you down. Visit themfgconnector.com today to learn more about Speroni's industry-leading solutions and start enhancing your pro

    • 43 min
    Amplifying the Voice of Frontline Workers: Vivek Kumar

    Amplifying the Voice of Frontline Workers: Vivek Kumar

    In this Manufacturing Culture Podcast episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Vivek Kumar, CEO and co-founder of TeamForce AI, an employee intelligence platform. They discuss how software is driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry and the importance of amplifying the voices of frontline workers. Vivek shares his journey from working in the corporate world to starting his own tech company. TeamForce AI uses tablets or kiosks placed in manufacturing facilities to collect employee feedback in the natural flow of work. The platform helps organizations improve employee engagement, reduce turnover, and increase productivity. The conversation explores the role of software in driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry. It emphasizes the importance of giving voice to employees and valuing their feedback. The TeamForce platform is highlighted as a tool enabling effective communication and workforce engagement. The challenges faced in implementing such technology in the manufacturing sector are discussed, including the need for cultural readiness and the importance of targeting organizations that value their people. The future of manufacturing is considered, focusing on the coexistence of humans and technology. The potential impact of AI and robotics is examined, emphasizing their role as enablers and helpers rather than replacements for human workers.

    Takeaways

    Software is driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry, not just in operations but in the very culture of workplaces.TeamForce AI is an employee intelligence platform that amplifies the voice of frontline workers and ties their feedback to measurable business outcomes.The platform uses tablets or kiosks in manufacturing facilities to collect employee feedback in the natural workflow.Organizations can reduce turnover, improve safety, and increase productivity by engaging employees and valuing their opinions. Giving employees a voice and valuing feedback is crucial for driving cultural change in the manufacturing industry.Software platforms like TeamForce enable effective communication and engagement with the workforce.Cultural readiness and targeting organizations that value their people are important factors in implementing technology in the manufacturing sector.The future of manufacturing involves the coexistence of humans and technology, with AI and robotics serving as enablers and helpers rather than replacements for human workers.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction00:57 Introduction of Guest: Vivek Kumar09:01 TeamForce AI and the Kiosk Solution11:54 Content on the Tablets27:29 The Importance of the Voice of Humans28:28 Utilizing Technology to Drive Cultural Change31:01 Challenges of Implementing TeamForce in Manufacturing35:46 The Future of Manufacturing and the Role of Technology37:19 The Workforce Automation Paradox42:03 Cultural Readiness for Robotics and Automation43:05 What's Next for TeamForce and Vivek43:34 The Power of Collective Problem Solving49:12 Outro

    Connect with Vivek on LinkedIn

    Check out Teamforce AI

    Need to make your manufacturing business stand out? Discover Marketing Metal, the specialized marketing agency for the manufacturing industry. Whether you operate a machine shop, fab shop, or a custom manufacturing firm, Marketing Metal has the expertise to build your brand and craft marketing strategies that cut through the noise. Ready to elevate your business? Visit themfgconnector.com today and learn how Marketing Metal can help you succeed.

    Is your company aligned with your business goals? At The Manufacturing Connector, we offer a comprehensive two-day employee engagement and cultural assessment designed to transform your organization from the inside out. Our process includes leadership team meetings, employee interviews, facility tours, and engagement surveys, all aimed at providing you with actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Ready to enhance your organizational dynamics? Visit themfgconnector.com to learn

    • 50 min
    From Broadway to Technology Innovation: Michael Lynch's Journey

    From Broadway to Technology Innovation: Michael Lynch's Journey

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Michael Lynch, the founder of Praxi, a company pioneering the future of digital transformation in manufacturing. Michael's journey from Broadway to technology innovation is a testament to creativity and transformation. Praxi aims to solve the problem of ad hoc processes and excessive use of Excel in manufacturing companies by providing a digital transformation platform that allows for the creation of customized software solutions at a low cost. The culture at Praxi emphasizes respect, collaboration, and a focus on solving customer problems. The platform helps improve internal culture at manufacturing facilities by digitizing lean processes, promoting continuous improvement, and providing real-time visibility into performance. In this conversation, Michael Lynch shares advice for manufacturers going through digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of starting simple and focusing on critical metrics and lean methodologies. He highlights the flexibility of the Praxi platform in digitizing processes and utilizing AI to optimize workflows. Lynch also discusses the need for companies to embrace digital transformation to stay competitive and take advantage of productivity gains. He encourages individuals to embrace lifelong learning and leverage the knowledge available through technology. Finally, he provides insights on improving company culture, including conducting anonymous interviews, flattening the organization, and clarifying cultural norms.

    Takeaways


    Praxi is pioneering the future of digital transformation in manufacturing by providing a low-cost, customizable software platform.
    The culture at Praxi emphasizes respect, collaboration, and a focus on solving customer problems.
    The platform helps improve culture at manufacturing facilities by digitizing lean processes, promoting continuous improvement, and providing real-time visibility into performance.
    Digital transformation is a joint effort between the human aspects and technology, and Praxi offers coaching support throughout the journey. Start simple and focus on key metrics and lean methodologies when undergoing digital transformation.
    The Praxi platform offers flexibility in digitizing processes and utilizing AI to optimize workflows.
    Embrace digital transformation to stay competitive and take advantage of productivity gains.
    Lifelong learning is essential in acquiring new skills and knowledge.Company culture can be improved through anonymous interviews, flattening the organization, and clarifying cultural norms.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction00:54 Michael Lynch's Journey05:13 Praxi and Digital Transformation in Manufacturing08:31 Culture at Praxi10:57 Praxi's Impact on Manufacturing Culture17:35 Advice for Manufacturers on Digital Transformation20:35 Staying Ahead of the Curve in Manufacturing and Tech31:45 Attracting People to Manufacturing34:04 Improving Company Culture34:46 Flattening the Organization35:10 Clarifying Cultural Norms35:44 Contact Information36:22 Closing Remarks

    Connect with Michael on Linkedin

    Watch Michael on this amazing clip from the TV show, General Hospital on YouTube

    Looking to boost engagement in your workplace? Meet Teamforce.ai, your partner in transforming employee experiences. Their innovative kiosk-based solution is designed especially for deskless workforces in manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare. Teamforce.ai measures and enhances engagement, ensuring every team member is heard and valued. Ready to see the difference? Visit themfgconnector.com and learn more about how Teamforce.ai can elevate your organization.

    Are your tools organized and protected? Discover Kaiser Manufacturing, the ultimate solution in tool management. Their Kaizen Shadow Foam® allows you to create custom foam inserts tailored exactly for your needs, and their Tool Caddy offers a safe, compact storage option for all your tool holders. Improve your efficiency an

    • 39 min
    Beyond the Skills Gap: Ann Wyatt on Talent, Technology, and Transition

    Beyond the Skills Gap: Ann Wyatt on Talent, Technology, and Transition

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Ann Wyatt, the founder of Ann Wyatt Recruiting and the host of the Workforce 4.0 show. Ann shares her journey from working in the government to starting her own recruiting business. She specializes in recruiting for the manufacturing industry, particularly metals, pulp, and paper. Ann discusses the skills gap in manufacturing and how she helps companies bridge that gap by advocating for workforce development and implementing new technologies. Ann Wyatt discusses training challenges in the manufacturing industry and the need to advocate for short-term training and transferable skill sets in this conversation. They also explore the automation culture paradox and the importance of data in measuring workforce performance. Ann shares her insights on the future of talent acquisition and company culture in manufacturing, emphasizing the value of people over capital investments. They conclude by discussing the need to focus on employee experience and the importance of not singling out employees.

    Takeaways


    Ann Wyatt is a pioneer in talent acquisition for the manufacturing industry, focusing on metals, pulp, and paper.
    She is passionate about workforce development and bridging the skills gap in manufacturing.
    Ann helps companies by advocating for workforce development programs and implementing new technologies.
    She uses Boolean search strings to find qualified candidates and enjoys the screening process. Advocate for short-term training and identify transferable skill sets to address training challenges in the manufacturing industry.
    Recognize the automation culture paradox and the need for cultural readiness to embrace automation in manufacturing facilities.
    Utilize data to measure workforce performance and make informed talent acquisition and retention decisions.
    Value people as a capital investment in manufacturing and prioritize their well-being and development.
    To create a positive and engaging work culture, focus on the entire employee experience, from recruitment to exit interviews.

    Connect with Ann on Linkedin

    Watch Workforce 4.0 on YouTube

    Are you ready to elevate your team's skills to the next level? Check out Baltu Technologies! They specialize in advancing workforce development through intuitive micro-learning platforms. Whether in manufacturing or education, Baltu provides tailored upskilling programs and software solutions designed to boost efficiency and expertise. Empower your organization with the tools it needs for tomorrow's challenges. Visit Baltu Technologies today and start your journey towards a smarter workforce.

    Imagine a workplace where every team member feels recognized and valued. That's the promise of Secchi, the leading Employee Relationship Management solution. Secchi empowers frontline leaders to effectively inspire, recognize, and coach their teams. With Secchi's system, you can enhance performance through strategic decision-making, impactful recognition, and real-time process control. Ready to transform your organizational culture? Visit Secchi now and see how it can affect your team's dynamics.

    • 49 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
21 Ratings

21 Ratings

rainbowpancakes3 ,

Heartfelt Intros, Networking Advice, Amazing Stories - What more could you ask for?

Whenever this man Jim opens his mouth to introduce a guest, my body erupts into goosebumps because of the way he articulates his words. Jim has an amazing way that he conveys his messages that bring literal tears to my eyes, and it’s just the intro. He got me over here setting up a machine and wiping my tears.

Through this podcast (and several others in the manufacturing/machining/metalworking community) I have met countless mentors in the field which have been giving me a leg up at work. Thank you for producing the amazing content that you do Jim!

Jrflem ,

Inspirational and refreshing

Great insights on ways to change the perspective of what Manufacturing used to be and what we are trying to build today!

jeffdaniels187 ,

Love the show

This is a must listen. Keep it up guys.

Top Podcasts In Business

REAL AF with Andy Frisella
Andy Frisella #100to0
Prof G Markets
Vox Media Podcast Network
Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin
Money News Network
Habits and Hustle
Jen Cohen and Habit Nest
The Ramsey Show
Ramsey Network
In Search Of Excellence
Randall Kaplan