Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering

Razorleaf Corp.
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Welcome to 'Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering,' the ultimate podcast for all things digital in the manufacturing industry by Razorleaf. Join us as we take a deep dive into the multifaceted world of digital transformation, exploring topics such as the digital thread, digital twins, IDEs, model-based strategies and delving into the frontiers of cutting-edge technologies like PLM, MES, Integration, and more. Our expert hosts, Jonathan Scott, Jen Ferello, Juliann Grant, and Eric Doubell, will be your guides, providing valuable insights, captivating interviews, and the latest industry updates to ensure you remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving digital landscape. Whether you're a technology enthusiast, a business leader, or simply curious about the digital realm in manufacturing, this podcast is your essential resource for staying sharp and well-informed.

  1. 6D AGO

    #105: Revolutionizing Manufacturing: Redefining the Digital Footprint

    In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Devin Patel, Head of Solutions at First Resonance, to explore how manufacturing companies—startups and established players alike—can rethink the way they build and scale their operations. Devin shares insights on moving away from traditional monolithic systems like ERP and MES toward a more modular, data-driven approach that prioritizes flexibility, scalability, and real-world results. Together, they dive into: ●      Why a strong data footprint matters more than rigid systems. ●      How cloud computing, open APIs, and AI are enabling faster, more nimble manufacturing strategies. ●      Real-world examples from aerospace, energy, and medical device companies that are embracing modular approaches. ●      The unique challenges (and advantages) startups face compared to large, established manufacturers. ●      The role of digital thread and digital twins in creating visibility, traceability, and agility across teams.   From building satellites and space thrusters to streamlining complex assembly, Devin explains how manufacturers can transform operations by solving one problem at a time—without years-long IT projects. If you’ve ever wondered how to build a future-proof digital backbone for manufacturing, this episode offers a blueprint for rethinking the status quo. 🔗 Resources & Links ●      Learn more about First Resonance ●      Connect with Devin Patel on LinkedIn ●      Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering for more conversations on digital transformation in manufacturing     Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    39 min

  2. OCT 7

    #104: GPDIS Wrap Up

    🔍 Episode Overview In this episode, the Razorleaf team unpacks insights from the Global Product Data Interoperability Summit (GPDIS) in Phoenix — one of the industry’s most collaborative events where aerospace and manufacturing leaders come together to solve shared challenges around data, digital engineering, and interoperability. From AI skepticism to digital thread strategy, Juliann, Jonathan, Tony, and François discuss what’s changing fast, what’s still a struggle, and why cooperation between competitors like Boeing, Airbus, and Lockheed Martin is key to advancing the industry. 💡 Key Topics Discussed • Event Overview & Collaboration GPDIS brings together major OEMs, suppliers, and vendors from across aerospace, defense, and manufacturing to discuss digital transformation challenges. Despite being competitors, attendees openly shared lessons and standards to advance interoperability across systems and companies. • AI in Aerospace Artificial intelligence dominated conversations—but with healthy skepticism. Attendees debated AI’s limits, data accuracy, and the future role of AI in engineering workflows. • Digital Thread Maturity The “digital thread” remained the central theme. While most companies are still building point-to-point integrations, speakers emphasized the need for hub-and-spoke models and long-term data strategies to achieve true interoperability. • MBSE on the Factory Floor A strong focus on model-based systems engineering (MBSE) emerged, highlighting how manufacturing itself should be viewed as a system that benefits from model-based practices. • Emerging Standards: DDP, TDP & CASCADE Jonathan shared updates on evolving data standards like Digital Data Packages (DDP) and Technical Data Packages (TDP)—and how new frameworks such as CASCADE aim to improve how organizations link and share digital data. • Legacy Systems & Integration Challenges Many manufacturers are still running decade-old PLM and ERP systems, which complicates integration and modernization efforts. François noted that upgrading legacy systems is often the biggest barrier to achieving a seamless digital thread. • Governance & Co-Creation Tony and François emphasized that successful digital transformation requires joint ownership between engineering and IT—not siloed efforts. Strong governance and “co-creation” across teams are critical to managing PLM evolution and integration projects. 🧭 Key Takeaways Collaboration > Competition: True interoperability demands industry-wide cooperation and shared standards. AI Is Not a Silver Bullet: It’s a powerful tool, but human oversight remains essential—especially in safety-critical industries. Legacy Systems Hold Back Progress: Companies must modernize infrastructure before pursuing advanced digital thread initiatives. Governance Matters: Structured decision frameworks and cross-functional collaboration are essential for scaling PLM and MBSE efforts. Digital Thread Is a Journey: Most organizations are still early in building connected, intelligent ecosystems across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chains. 🗣️ Memorable Quote “Everybody raise your hand—who wants to fly in a plane built entirely by AI?” 🔗 Connect with Razorleaf Visit Razorleaf.com for insights, solutions, and resources on PLM, digital thread, and systems integration. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    35 min

  3. SEP 30

    #103 Supporting Government Programs with Digital Engineering

    In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott welcome back Steve Nichols, head of Razorleaf Government Solutions, to explore how digital engineering is transforming government contracts and supply chains. From DOD digital engineering requirements to data rights and risk management, they unpack what contractors—especially small businesses—need to know to stay competitive.  The conversation covers: How digital engineering requirements impact primes, subcontractors, and suppliers.Why awareness is as important as readiness when pursuing federal contracts.The role of digital twin, digital thread, and model-based systems engineering (MBSE) in government programs.Strategies for small business teaming and winning set-aside work.Navigating data rights, intellectual property protection, and information sharing.Factoring the cost of digital deliverables—from CAD models to lifecycle data—into bids.Building strong government–industry relationships through collaboration, industry days, and broad agency announcements (BAAs). Whether you’re a prime contractor, a subcontractor, or a supplier in the defense and aerospace sector, this episode offers practical insights into meeting digital engineering compliance and shaping better outcomes for government customers. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to integrate digital engineering best practices into your government program strategy. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    40 min

  4. SEP 23

    #102: The Hidden Challenges when Retiring Systems

    In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Mark Borcher from Razorleaf Government Solutions to tackle a rarely discussed but critical topic: retiring legacy business systems. Mark brings nearly two decades of experience in engineering, system integration, and enterprise transformation, and he shares what really goes into shutting down old PLM, ERP, CRM, and supply chain systems—and moving organizations onto modern platforms. From outdated DOS-based tools to massive migrations involving hundreds of systems, Mark explains the technical, organizational, and people-related obstacles that can derail a system retirement—and how to overcome them. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: When it’s time to retire a system — from end-of-life support to functionality gaps and security risks.How to plan a smooth transition — data archiving, cleaning up “junk” data, and mapping functionality to modern tools.The biggest roadblocks organizations face — user resistance, licensing challenges, security concerns, and integration hurdles.Why people are the hardest (and most important) part — strategies for training, managing change, and turning skeptics into champions.Mark’s best advice — focus on data cleanliness, open communication, and embracing change as an opportunity, not a burden.Whether you’re sunsetting a small PDM tool or migrating hundreds of interconnected legacy systems, this conversation will help you understand the hidden challenges—and how to get ahead of them. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    46 min

  5. SEP 17

    #101 - Digital Product Software Series: CONTACT Software Elements

    In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we sit down with Frank Patz-Brockmann, Chief Product & Technology Officer at CONTACT Software, to explore one of the most mature yet under-the-radar platforms in the PLM space. Frank shares how CONTACT Software—best known in Germany but lesser-known in North America—has evolved from its early days as "CIM Database" into the highly modular and extensible platform now known as CONTACT Elements. We cover: The origins and evolution of the CONTACT Elements platformWhat makes their modular “elements” approach unique—like a periodic table for PLM, MES, and IoTThe powerful integration between PLM, MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and IIoTUse cases where customers seamlessly connect engineering and shop floor dataWhy many global clients are choosing CONTACT’s cloud deployment options (SaaS, PaaS, and hybrid)How CONTACT's long-standing use of Python and open APIs empowers extensibilityThe rise of energy-aware manufacturing and AI-enabled analytics Key takeaway:  CONTACT Software might just be one of the most powerful, composable digital engineering platforms you’ve never heard of—until now. 🔗 Learn more: contact-software.com 📩 Questions or feedback? Email us at podcast@raiseleaf.com or leave a comment wherever you listen. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—every click helps spread the word. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    48 min

  6. SEP 9

    #100: Celebrating 100 Episodes: Acronym Smackdown

    In this special 100th episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, the team celebrates with a twist—turning the show into a game of acronym bingo! Host Juliann welcomes back Jennifer Ferello, alongside Jonathan Scott and Eric Doubell, for a fast-paced contest to identify 100 acronyms from the world of digital engineering, PLM, and beyond. Expect laughter, a few stumpers, plenty of partial credit, and who will be ultimately crowned the “King/Queen of PLM.” The crew reflects on the fun (and occasional frustration) of decoding acronyms while celebrating the milestone with listeners who made it all possible. 👑 Acronyms, banter, and bingo—what better way to mark 100 episodes? Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    46 min

  7. SEP 2

    #99: The AI Revolution in Digital Engineering

    In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with AI expert Alex Bruskin to cut through the hype and explore the real impact of artificial intelligence on the world of digital engineering. From the history of AI and its convergence of compute power, algorithms, and data — to practical, high-value use cases in PLM, CAD, MBSE, and manufacturing — Alex explains where AI truly adds value, where human oversight is essential, and how organizations can prepare their data for successful adoption. Whether you’re curious about AI-driven data enrichment, smarter migration projects, or bridging the gap between engineering documentation and manufacturing, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable examples. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why AI’s current capabilities are less about “intelligence” and more about prediction How the “language of engineering” can benefit from large language models Why training data quality is critical — and how to keep a human in the loop Real-world AI use cases in digital engineering: Data enrichment for cleaner, more searchable part databases Accelerating and improving PLM/CAD data migrations Automating PDF-to-digital conversions for technical publications The difference between generative AI and specialized solvers — and how they work together Links & Resources: Follow Alex Bruskin on LinkedIn Contact Razorleaf: podcast@razorleaf.com Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering for more conversations on digital transformation, PLM, and manufacturing innovation Enjoyed this episode? Follow Razorleaf’s Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, rate the show in your favorite podcast app, and share it with a colleague who’s exploring AI in engineering. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    42 min

  8. AUG 26

    #98: Digital Product Series – Who is CONTACT Software

    In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we kick off our Digital Product Series with a deep dive into CONTACT Software—a company that has been shaping the digital engineering space for over 30 years but remains relatively unknown in North America. Our guest, Dimitri Baumtrok, Head of International Sales at CONTACT Software, joins Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott to share the company’s story, its global expansion, and its unique definition of digital engineering. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What is “Top Floor to Shop Floor”? How CONTACT Software connects innovation at the design stage with execution in manufacturing and beyond. Who They Serve: Why mid-sized and upper mid-sized companies are their sweet spot, and how industries from automotive to industrial machinery—and even fashion—benefit from their platform. The Secret’s Out: How a “best-kept secret” in Europe is expanding globally through partnerships, OEM collaborations, and customer-driven innovation. Company Culture & History: From its founding in the 1990s to today’s family-owned, privately held structure focused on “energizing great minds.” The Future of Digital Engineering: CONTACT’s vision for AI-driven product lifecycle management, mobile-first solutions, and international growth. Dimitri also shares how CONTACT works closely with customers to co-develop solutions, ensuring their platform evolves alongside real-world needs. If you’ve been curious about lesser-known players in the digital engineering space—or want to understand how CONTACT Elements stacks up against big-name PLM and MES providers—this is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in to discover why CONTACT Software might just be digital engineering’s best-kept secret. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co. © 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

    42 min
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About

Welcome to 'Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering,' the ultimate podcast for all things digital in the manufacturing industry by Razorleaf. Join us as we take a deep dive into the multifaceted world of digital transformation, exploring topics such as the digital thread, digital twins, IDEs, model-based strategies and delving into the frontiers of cutting-edge technologies like PLM, MES, Integration, and more. Our expert hosts, Jonathan Scott, Jen Ferello, Juliann Grant, and Eric Doubell, will be your guides, providing valuable insights, captivating interviews, and the latest industry updates to ensure you remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving digital landscape. Whether you're a technology enthusiast, a business leader, or simply curious about the digital realm in manufacturing, this podcast is your essential resource for staying sharp and well-informed.

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