Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

We've all gone into plants that smell awful because they're dealing with coolant problems. But that smell is a symptom of other, bigger problems. If you have a smelly shop, foggy and dirty windows, and gunk on your tables, you've got a coolant problem that's creating an unhealthy environment for your team. Learn how to identify coolant problems and how to solve them in this episode of MakingChips! Segments [7:45] What's happening in our lives [9:27] Manufacturing News: Peloton abandons building manufacturing plant [11:09] How coolant problems impact your team [13:35] How coolant problems impact your equipment [16:21] Solution #1: Preventative maintenance [20:54] Solution #2: Wash your hands [22:50] Solution #3: Wear nitrile gloves [23:37] Solution #4: Use mist collectors [24:30] Solution #5: Use high-quality water [24:53] Solution #6: Proper filtration systems [29:19] Solution #7: Choose the right coolant [32:49] Leave us a review on your favorite platform! Resources mentioned on this episode IMTS 2022! O'Keeffe's Working Hands Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

The key to being a good salesman is to add value wherever you can for your customers. I want to be able to talk with ZENGER's customers about integrating their tooling management with their ERP system and why it can help them. That's why, in this episode of MakingChips, Paul Van Metre comes back to share how tooling management works using ProShop ERP. Because if you're not properly managing your tools, you're losing money (and definitely not making chips). – Jason! Segments [3:24] What's happening in our lives [7:14] Manufacturing News: Amogy Powers a Tractor Using Ammonia [10:34] Why is tooling management important? [15:31] Process stability and setup reduction [20:16] Differences between high-production and project-based shops [22:22] Walking through the tooling management inventory system [26:41] A success story from Faircloth Machine Shop [37:58] Be more scientific with your tooling management system Resources mentioned on this episode ProShop ERP Tooling Management Webinar Thomas™ IMTS 2022 Amogy Demonstrates First Ammonia-Powered, Zero-Emissions Tractor Faircloth Machine Shop Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Whether you rely on inbound marketing, outbound marketing, or a combination of both, sourcing new customers can be a hassle. But it's how you grow your business, so you can't give up. Thomas™, a Xometry company, is America's #1 industrial sourcing platform and marketing powerhouse. It could also be your #1 driver of new customers. Thomas™ President Shawn Fitzgerald shares how in this episode of MakingChips. Because if you're not gaining new customers, you're not making chips, and if you're not making chips—you're not making money! BAM! – Nick Segments [2:54] The exciting things happening in ours lives [5:13] Learn all about what's happening at IMTS [6:27] Manufacturing News: Reverse Logistics Booms [9:25] Shawn Fitzgerald's origin story [14:53] Learn more about the evolution of Thomas [17:42] How Thomas works for buyers and suppliers [27:50] Inbound, outbound, and account-based marketing [?:??] A discussion about what's most-sourced [35:09] Thomas is a single-source platform to get everything you need [37:41] How Thomas and Xometry transformed someone's business [39:10] What's happening next at Thomas and Xometry? Resources mentioned on this episode Don't miss IMTS 2022! Thomas Reverse Logistics Booms as Americans Return 17% of All Retail Purchases Connect with Shawn Fitzgerald on LinkedIn Wonder Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Why is a skills gap analysis helpful? How can it make your company more efficient? What does the process look like? In this episode of MakingChips, we define a seven-step process you can use to help you run a skills gap analysis on your manufacturing business. Special guest Crystal Van Vleet shares how she's brought the process to life in her role with Advanced Machine & Engineering (and at MakingChips). The bottom line is, if you don't have skills, you're not making chips, and if you're not making chips, you're not making money! — Nick Segments [2:06] Why a skills gap analysis can help your business [4:56] Manufacturing News: Skills Gap Analysis for the Future of Work [12:43] Learn all about our guest Crystal Van Vleet [17:59] Step #1: Make a plan for the skills gap analysis [22:09] Step #2: Define your organization's future goals [24:58] Why Crystal got her CMTSE certification [26:47] Step #3: Catch up on the future of work trends [28:04] Step #4: Determine key skills needed for the future [30:18] Step #5: Measure your current skills [33:16] Crystal's experience with self-assessment tools [35:03] Step #6: Find out where the gaps are [39:23] Step #7: Put a plan into action Resources mentioned on this episode Skills Gap Analysis for the Future of Work Connect with Crystal Van Vleet on LinkedIn Don't miss IMTS 2022! ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What can you do to double the value of your manufacturing company and increase your likelihood of selling it exponentially? In this episode of MakingChips, Michael Watkins and David Capkovitz from EBITDA Growth Systems (EGS) share how they can help you increase your profitability and Paul Van Metre from ProShop ERP shares how he partners with EGS to bring value to his clients. They are all passionate about improving business performance in manufacturing companies and impacting lives. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable insight. Segments [4:38] What's happening in our businesses [6:45] Manufacturing News: Industrial manufacturing deals outlook [9:30] Learn all about EBITDA Growth Systems' mission [16:02] How Paul is connected to EBITDA Growth Systems (EGS) [19:17] How EBITDA Growth Systems (EGS) can help your business [27:29] Does EGS focus on internal systems or external marketing? [29:25] How they meet their brand promise with businesses that realize success [34:00] The #1 thing that Michael and David focus on to drive more revenue [35:09] The investment that's required to drive change in your company [38:04] The synergy between ProShop ERP and EBITDA Growth Systems Resources mentioned on this episode IMTS 2022 ProShop ERP Xometry Supplies Flex Industrial manufacturing: Deals 2022 midyear outlook The End of the World Is Just the Beginning: Mapping the Collapse of Globalization EBITDA Growth Systems The E-Myth Revisited The World is Flat Scaling to Exit by Michael Watkins Connect with David Capkovitz Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Many manufacturers are facing a common struggle: Their team members are retiring. Even worse, they're struggling to replace them. Matt Carr—the President of Storch Products Co—found an ingenious way to solve the skills gap at his company by attracting talent from a local technical college. How? He shares a strategy that any manufacturing leader can adapt in this episode of MakingChips. After all, you need talent on your team to make chips! Segments [2:45] The definitions of reshoring and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) [5:14] Reshoring Initiative® IH2021 Data Report [8:00] Learn about Matt Carr—the President of Storch Products Co [17:20] The advantages of a magnetic chip conveyor [20:20] How Matt solved the skills gap at his company [26:45] How Matt has attracted talent from a local school [29:45] Matt's experience implementing EOS at Storch [35:46] Why scaling back and niching down solves problems [40:40] What the class looks like Resources mentioned on this episode ProShop ERP Video Library Reshoring Initiative® IH2021 Data Report Don't miss IMTS 2022 Shop thousands of raw materials at Xometry Traction by Gina Wickman Entrepreneurial Operating System Connect with Matt Carr on LinkedIn Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

AS9100 is a standardized quality management system for the aerospace industry. If a manufacturer wants to work in this field, they have to be AS9100 certified. The credentialing process is difficult to achieve quickly. Integrating it into your quality management system (QMS) can be even more time-consuming. In this episode of MakingChips, special guest John Jones shares how he used ProShop to speed up and complete the implementation in just 4 months. Listen to this episode for his strategies! Segments [2:52] What is the AS9100 credential? [6:29] Manufacturing news: Solar panels [9:41] What's happening in our lives [11:11] Learn all about John Jones [17:29] Implementing AS9100 into ProShop [25:04] John's experience being audited [31:44] Learn about ProShop's Flying Start Package Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Check out the IMTS 2022 Investor Forum Biden invokes Defense Production Act to boost solar panel manufacturing Find buyers and suppliers at Thomas Become a supplier with Xometry ProShop Flying Start Package Paul Van Metre Clinkenbeard John Jones on LinkedIn Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Do you struggle with any pet peeves? We've compiled a list of three sales and marketing tactics that people utilize that drive us crazy: misusing lead capture forms, cold calls, and spammy LinkedIn connections. But instead of just complaining about these things, we're going to share what anyone in sales or marketing should do instead. There's a right way—and most definitely a wrong way—to do it. Find out which side you're landing on in this episode of MakingChips! – Nick If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone you know! If you know someone who struggles with spammy sales tactics, it might be a nice way to nudge them in the right direction. Segments [3:18] Bring a nanny on your vacation [4:15] The good things happening in our lives [5:57] Manufacturing news: Recession Unlikely in 2022 [14:30] Things that drive us crazy (other than Jason) [17:30] Pet Peeve #1: Misusing lead capture forms [21:40] Pet Peeve #2: The dreaded cold call [25:15] Pet Peeve #3: Spammy LinkedIn connections Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Don't miss IMTS 2022! ProShop ERP Recession Unlikely in 2022 The Remedy by Pascal Dennis Claim Your Company at https://www.thomasnet.com/claim Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Gino Wickman and Jim Collins popularized the term, "Right people, right seat" in reference to getting the right employees in leadership positions. But what if we take that terminology and apply it to customers? How do you decide what type of customer is the right fit for your manufacturing business? What type of customer will be the most profitable for your business? Those are the questions that we dissect in this episode of MakingChips. Don't miss it! Any great tips I can use to find THE right customers for Carr Machine & Tool? Email me at [email protected]. Segments [6:28] The definition of "right people, right seat" [7:22] What's happening in our lives right now [10:35] Business News: Dow falls for sixth straight day [15:43] How do you decide who the right customer is? [16:52] Step #1: Focus on solving problems [20:10] Step #2: Focus on sales not vanity metrics [23:15] Step #3: Get the word out about your business [26:14] Step #4: Improve your customer retention [28:14] Step #5: Track your analytics [32:14] How we filter our customers at Carr [36:07] What work is the most profitable? [39:02] Study your customer's behaviors Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Dow Falls for a Sixth Straight Day After Another Wild Session Gaining Customer Traction: 5 Steps to Customer Growth Traction by Gino Wickman Good to Great by Jim Collins Don't miss IMTS 2022! ProShop ERP Learn about Xometry's Flex program Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Do you struggle with time management? Do you find yourself overwhelmed and exhausted at the end of the week with an endless backlog of things to do? After a rough week of long workdays and back-to-back dinner meetings, I felt like a zombie. I thought it wise to dive into an episode about time management. So in this episode of MakingChips, Jason and I tackle mastering time management in three areas: your phone calls, your calendar, and your time off. Because if you're not managing your time efficiently, you aren't making chips efficiently, which means you aren't making money, are you? — Nick Do you have a great system for time management? Let us know! Email us at [email protected] Segments [2:23] What's happening in our lives [8:57] Manufacturing News: China Opposes Semiconductor Bill [15:15] Tip #1: Schedule phone calls and Zoom meetings [22:17] Tip #2: Share your calendar to avoid availability ping pong [24:33] Tip #3: Time block your calendar to get work done [29:59] Tip #4: What's required and what's optional changes [35:36] Tip #5: Manage "out of office" time the right way [43:14] Jason is certified as a "Full Focus" professional Resources mentioned on this episode Schedule a meeting with Jason! Full Focus Planner ProShop ERP Xometry Don't miss IMTS 2022! China Opposes Semiconductor Bill Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

"King Richard" is a movie about Venus and Serena's dad, Richard Williams. I remember watching their rise in tennis and was fascinated by this movie that followed their path to success. Their father was a large driving force behind their successful careers. So in this unique episode of MakingChips, we talk about 7 takeaways from King Richard and how they can be applied to the manufacturing world. If you want to rise to the top, you have to make chips. Because if you're not making chips, you're not making money. BAM! Segments [3:01] The sacrifice(s) it takes to achieve success [6:25] What's happening in our lives [9:21] Manufacturing News: Manufacturing Activity Slows [15:08] Takeaway #1: The importance of planning [18:41] Takeaway #2: What are you willing to sacrifice? [21:31] Takeaway #3: Hard work and tenacity can take you places [23:20] Takeaway #4: The more successful you are the more haters you'll have [24:25] Takeaway #5: Don't make success about getting in the spotlight [26:23] Takeaway #6: The power of a positive mindset [28:20] Takeaway #7: Make no excuses Resources mentioned on this episode The movie: King Richard U.S. manufacturing activity slowest in more than 1-1/2 years as workers quit Xometry IMTS 2022! ProShop ERP The CNC Samurai Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

5S is a methodology that I decided to implement when Carr Machine & Tool moved to a new location. We were meticulous about each decision we made so that we could create a clean and safe work environment to lead to increased productivity. The 5 S's consist of sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain. In this episode of MakingChips, I share how we implemented 5S in our shop. Our process is something that any shop can learn from and implement. It's time to get organized and make sustainable changes so you can safely and efficiently make chips. BAM! Segments [3:13] What is the 5S methodology? [7:07] What's happening in our lives [11:18] How we implemented 5S in our inspection department [21:04] How we implemented 5S on our shop floor [23:13] The two hardest S's: standardize and sustain [30:50] Why we bought a floor scrubber to shine our epoxy floors [32:45] Don't forget to register for IMTS 2022! Resources mentioned on this episode Xometry's alternate option for quoting Don't forget to register for IMTS 2022! Check out LISTA for custom workstations Trump, Seiri, Shitsuke and 3 Other "S" Words Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

There's so much wisdom my generation needs to extract from our older colleagues before they retire. Many young people in this industry are naive because it takes time and experience to master a trade. I don't want someone to retire and still have lingering questions I wished I would've asked. That's why we NEED to document the wisdom of our elders. So how do I extract wisdom from my colleagues before they retire? In this episode of MakingChips, we talk through a few ideas you can use to learn as much as you can from your expert machinists. We'd like to hear from you—How would you extract knowledge from peers? Reach out to [email protected] Segments [3:25] A conversation about retirement [5:34] Why we never learned anything from our dads [7:21] Manufacturing news: Germany is in a recession [12:30] An impromptu ProShop ERP Shoutout [15:55] How to approach a conversation with a veteran machinist [18:52] Four ways to extract knowledge from veteran machinists [25:30] What inspired me to choose this episode's topic [27:54] Don't miss IMTS in September 2022! Resources mentioned on this episode Get 10% off Xometry EU ban on Russian energy would spark 'sharp recession' in Germany ProShop ERP helps you extract and codify knowledge Make sure you're at IMTS 2022 Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

How do gaming, programming, and the world of a machinist look intersect? In this episode of MakingChips, Steve Courchane—the CNC Samurai—shares his "origin story," talks about how programming and gaming are aligned, and how to apply gamification to machining to motivate employees. Because if your employees aren't making chips, you aren't making money! BAM. Segments [2:27] What's going great in our businesses [4:37] Manufacturing news: Shoe manufacturing shifting to the US [8:00] Becoming the CNC Samurai: Steve Courchane's origin story [15:02] The convergence of programming and gaming [19:37] The interface between Roblox and machining [24:37] Gaming: Attracting the next generation to manufacturing [26:08] How to apply gaming principles to motivate employees Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Grow your shop with Xometry - Get 10% off Connect with Steven on LinkedIn or follow him on Instagram Check out Roblox Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

If your business has been slow-growing or stagnant, can you ramp up your growth? Matthew Nix would know—he's grown his family business by a 100x multiple and spent seven straight years on the Inc. 5000 list. But how do you grow from a small mom-and-pop shop to an acquisition and growth machine? In this episode of MakingChips, Matthew shares how they've scaled their business with a three-prong strategy and how you can, too. Segments [3:40] What's happening in our lives? [6:16] Learn all about Matthew Nix [8:23] What Nix Companies looks like 100 years ago [14:47] How Matthew rapidly grew his business [20:28] The difference between growing and scaling [24:31] Nix Companies' three-prong approach to growth [26:52] Should you provide your leadership team with equity? [32:22] How to use acquisitions as a growth tactic [35:58] Financial advice for acquiring businesses [40:10] Manufacturing news: lead times & pricing Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Don't forget to book a hotel for IMTS 2022! Should Your Shop be an ESOP? Growing Your ESOP to a New Level Good to Great by Jim Collins Connect with Matthew Nix on LinkedIn Nix Companies Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Today's episode of MakingChips is recorded at a special LIVE Tri-State Manufacturing Alliance (TSMA) event in conjunction with the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership. We are joined by three amazing panelists: Leah Curry: The President at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana David Conner: The CFO at Anchor Industries in Evansville, IN Matthew Nix: President at Nix Companies in Poseyville, IN Each panelist shares their perspective on the importance of taking care of your people, implementing the right processes, and how to compel and measure performance. We also have the pleasure of announcing this year's Manufacturing Excellence Award. Don't miss out on a unique perspective from manufacturing leaders in the trenches! Segments [0:33] Don't forget to register for IMTS! [1:43] Learn more about each of us! [7:41] Successfully hiring and retaining top talent [25:10] Processes and procedures to meet customer demand [35:55] The PDCA process: Plan, do, check, and act [39:10] The impact of compensation and benefits on performance [44:44] Applying gamification to impact performance [49:01] How to recover culture post-COVID [52:43] Making processes adaptable when hiring and promoting [56:52] Presenting the manufacturing excellence award [1:02:31] Make sure to listen to the MakingChips Podcast! Resources mentioned on this episode Register for IMTS Keeping the Culture High in A virtual World Leah Curry David Conner Matthew Nix Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

We're on a five-hour drive to a speaking event for the Tri-State Machining Association (TSMA) so we thought, why not do an episode on the importance of travel for manufacturing leaders? In this special episode of MakingChips, we cover the benefits of travel, the potential downsides, and how to use your time wisely when you're on the road. Welcome to MakingTrips. Segments [0:35] Don't forget to book a hotel for IMTS 2022! [2:27] Welcome to our special edition: "MakingTrips" [3:16] Is travel necessary for a manufacturing leader? [7:04] Manufacturing news: The price of gas [11:23] The hidden benefits of travel [16:53] Use your time wisely when traveling [18:49] The dangers of traveling too much [21:14] You have to establish travel guidelines [23:41] Weighing the cost of travel against the ROI [26:07] Get out of your cave—go and see for yourself [28:20] Identify and connect with the decision-makers Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Book a hotel for IMTS 2022! Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What do you do when an employee resigns? How do you handle their departure in a dignified way? What do you do when you have to let someone go? You have to handle each scenario differently—and sometimes gingerly. So in this episode of MakingChips, we walk through navigating the exit process. Paul Van Metre joins us to share how ProShop ERP can make the transition easier. Segments [0:26] Come see us at IMTS 2022! [3:14] What's happening in our worlds [5:07] Manufacturing News: What's happening in Ukraine? [7:28] What do you do when someone resigns? [10:37] The formalities of the exit process [13:38] Paul shares how ProShop ERP can ease the transition [19:50] What happens when you have to let someone go? [22:10] What Jim's Dad would have done Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Register for IMTS 2022 ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What do you expect from your employees? Do you expect them to think like an owner? Or just clock in and get their work done? Are they compensated for your expectations? In this episode of MakingChips, we'll cover the bonus incentive plan I've structured for my core team. I'll share the goals of the program, how to determine what behaviors to incentivize, what the reward(s) will be, and an easy way to manage it. Don't miss it! Segments [2:16] ZENGERS new bonus incentive program [2:50] What's happening in the lives of ZENGERS and Carr [5:59] Illinois and Chicago's Vaccine and Mask Mandates to End Feb. 28th [9:03] How I structure my bonus incentive program [13:15] The 4 goals of my bonus incentive program [15:39] How to determine what behaviors to incentivize [23:53] The goal of the incentive program is to drive results [26:20] Determine the reward of your incentive program [28:17] How to manage your bonus incentive program [32:33] Are you incentivizing what someone is paid to do? Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Illinois and Chicago's Vaccine and Mask Mandates to End Feb. 28th, Anticipation Builds for IMTS 2022 Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

As our team begins to grow at Carr Machine & Tool, I believe it's time to hire for a middle management position. But what is middle management? What does a middle management role consist of? Will implementing this role truly solve our problems? Jason helps me talk through the challenges I'm facing in this episode of Making Chips! Any tips, tricks, or ideas to help me through this? Reach out at [email protected]. I'd love to hear from you! Segments [2:00] Does my shop need middle management? [4:46] What's happening in our worlds [7:33] BIG NEWS: Meet us at IMTS 2022! [8:36] Manufacturing is a high-tech frontier [15:48] What does a middle management role consist of? [18:54] How to determine if you need middle management roles [24:49] The core problem we're trying to solve [30:45] What is the biggest role of a middle manager? Resources mentioned on this episode What Has Led to the Manufacturing Labor Shortage? Why Middle Management is So Exhausting and What to Do about it International Manufacturing Technology Show 2022 ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

How do you keep corporate culture alive when your workforce is completely remote? How do you focus your company on your values, mission, and goals? When a thriving company culture is crucial to retaining your employees, it can't be neglected. We dissect this problem we're facing because of the COVID pandemic—and 6 possible ways to promote and maintain your unique company culture—in this episode of MakingChips. Segments [2:11] How remote work impacts company culture [4:57] What is corporate culture? [6:27] What's happening in our worlds [8:09] Celebrating our 50th Anniversary our way [10:05] Artificial intelligence in manufacturing [15:20] Corporate culture in a virtual world [18:23] Tip #1: Populate your social stream [20:38] Tip #2: Start a virtual club [21:34] Tip #3: Embrace video calls [25:40] Tip #4: Gamify your platform [26:56] Tip #5: Create an expert's area [28:27] Tip #6: Keep your company mission alive Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! ProShopERP.com OTT-JAKOB How to Keep Company Culture Alive When Remote Working: 6 Proven Strategies Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Is the labor shortage accelerating automation? Why is there a perception that automation is both risky and complex? How do you lead your elders with authority yet humility? To dovetail—or not to dovetail? These are the questions that we hash out with Michael Gaunce, the VP of Sales for Tooling and Workholding at SCHUNK. We take a deep look into the technical side of workholding and automation in this episode of Making Chips. Now is the time to embrace automation. Because if you're not making chips efficiently, you're not making money! Segments [2:55] What's happening in our lives [5:23] 2022 Labor and Employment Outlook for Manufacturers [9:09] Learn more about Michael Gaunce [12:47] Is the labor shortage accelerating automation? [15:20] The perception that automation is risky or complex [19:10] Two ways to do automation machine-tending [27:42] A conversation on workholding [32:55] To dovetail or not to dovetail? [39:01] Leading your elders with authority and humility Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss 2022 Labor and Employment Outlook for Manufacturers Connect with Michael Gaunce on LinkedIn Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

MakingChips is NOT a cult of personality. We want MakingChips to be about the Metalworking nation. We want to interview you. We want to talk about your problems and how to solve them. We hope we equip, inspire—and sometimes entertain—you. With that being said, some BIG changes are coming. What will the future of MakingChips hold? Listen to this episode to hear our game-changing update for the Metalworking nation. Segments [3:58] Learn more about the MakingChips hosts [5:22] We're NOT a cult of personality [7:26] The numerous transitions of MakingChips [11:05] MakingChips 3.0: next steps [14:39] How to apply to become a podcast host [16:06] Jim's new show: My True Position [20:00] Nick's new show: Design. Build. Grow. [22:30] Jason's new show: At the Boring Bar Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! We want to bring on three new hosts of three NEW shows. If you believe you have a podcast the Metalworking nation can benefit from, connect with us. Send us a pitch at [email protected]. Share a description, your history, and why you believe it can become a monthly show. You may just become a member of the MakingChips podcast family! Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Your people are the most important part of your business. If they're not, they should be. When you hire someone, it's always with the hope that they'll become a long-term part of the family, right? So you need to cultivate a workplace culture they want to stay and thrive in. So in this episode of Making Chips, we'll share nine simple tactics that you can implement immediately to transform your company culture. Segments [5:01] Your culture is the muscle below the muscle [7:56] The good things happening in our lives [13:30] Tactic #1: Fight for individuals that you care about [14:52] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [16:48] Tactic #2: Get to know your employees [21:58] Tactic #3: Cultivate and promote friendships [23:38] Tactic #4: Don't overly focus on profit and achievement [27:30] Tactic #5: Reward your people for success [29:06] Tactic #6: Believe in your mission and align everyone to that [30:33] Tactic #7: Be humble and treat everyone as equals [32:10] Tactic #8: Inspire your people to be better [33:44] Tactic #9: Be approachable in any circumstance Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! New Sales Simplified By Mike Weinberg Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What are the things you HATE about meetings? Moving into 2022, would you like to have better, more productive meetings that don't waste time and actually get things done? The MakingChips team is discussing the issue on this episode based on a book Nick read recently, called, "Death By Meeting." Learn 3 steps you can take to make your meetings powerful for 2022. Segments [0:32] Holiday experiences from the guys (good ones) [7:35] Manufacturing news: supply chain issues: trucking, air, ocean, rail trends [13:30] Nick's resolution: Lead better meetings in 2022 [21:45] How to have better meetings [26:25] Making it safe for participants to share differing opinions [36:19] Asynchronous meetings: what they are, how they work Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! OUR SPONSOR: https://www.xometry.com/makingchips/ BOOK: Death by Meeting MOVIE: The Santa Clause BOOK: Smart, Not Spoiled BOOK: The Advantage Supply Chain article Nick discussed BOOK: No Fail Meetings Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

This is NOT another goal-setting podcast episode. You know, the kind that explains how to effectively set goals for the year… this one is about WHY you need to set goals. No tips and tricks. No newest approaches and apps. We're going to talk about the impact goal-setting can have on your life and business. Jim and Nick come along for the discussion because this is something important to me, personally. We're going to cover eight reasons annual goals will benefit you, so be sure to listen. BAM! Segments [3:57] This episode's topic [6:19 ] Manufacturing News: Industry Week Article: Taking action, future flexibility [11:56] Closure of the preceding year comes from annual planning [13:15] Goal-setting enables you to Identify opportunities [15:09 ] Prioritization flows from goal setting [15:39] Goal-setting enables you to develop an attitude of gratitude [22:26] You can focus on what is important throughout the year when you set goals [23:04] Goals enable you to say "NO" to things [23:45] You can tell if you have won at the end of the year if you set goals [27:04] Annual goals set you up for 3 to 5 years Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! MT Forecast Conference Previous podcast episode about goal setting BOOK: Traction Two episodes about the Entrepreneur Operating System: here and there Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

In our previous conversation with Jeff Taylor (episode 292) we introduced the idea of ESOPS (Employee Stock Ownership Plans) as a way to give true ownership to your manufacturing business employees. We invited Jeff back for this episode to tell us more of the journey he's been on with ESOPs and discovered that the outcome was more than he could have imagined. Going back to the beginning of the process for Jeff, he has spent his adult life working for others and adding value to their companies. But he never received any sort of extended value or equity in the company. His experience led him to think about how he could develop cultures and attitudes among working teams that enabled them to truly have ownership in the company (in terms of mindset AND equity). That's when the idea of ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans) came onto his radar. This episode explores the topic in greater detail and will open your mind to how your manufacturing business could be organized to leave a legacy through your employees. Segments [1:13] Thank YOU for being such loyal listeners [3:45] Manufacturing news: NASA "dart" mission [7:35] Resuming our previous conversation with Jeff Taylor about ESOPs [15:10] The conscious decisions and eventual growth that make and ESOP reality [27:49] Nobody set out to sell, but they wanted to be ready for the best situation [35:51] The timeline and summary and how the company is different now [37:52] Jeff's view of the ESOP in the continuum of possibilities, pros and cons Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Visit our Sponsor Xometry Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn NASA "DART" mission BOOK: Progressive Partnerships BOOK: Name of the Wind BOOK: Hitler's Monsters Crafts Technology - the company Jeff served and that sold to Hyperion Technologies Previous MakingChips episode (292) featuring Jeff Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

The "Great Resignation" as it's been called, has created a wide variety of circumstances that have impacted the American workforce. 55% of workers making under $30K/year say they will be looking for a new job soon. Has this impacted manufacturing? If so, what can we do as manufacturing leaders to mitigate the impact? This episode focuses on what leaders can and should be doing to build the kind of loyalty that will sustain their companies and provide a culture and experience for team members that is "sticky," keeping them around for years to come. BAM! Segments [1:20] The Great Resignation: How it impacts manufacturing [6:22] Ripples across the country from this Great Resignation [12:50] Employment news: 55% making under $30K/year expect to look for a new job [16:20] If you lose people on your team, how can it affect your business? [18:45] Why do people leave your company? Why do they stay? [22:06] Hiring process: ways to win candidates and be smart in your process [26:32] How you can improve your retention rate [32:10] Tech company trends and how it might spread Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Visit our Sponsor Xometry Eden Business Concepts (gave Jason the inspiration for this episode) Bob Dylan song "Hurricane" BOOK: Reforming Marriage by Douglas Wilson 55% of people expect to find a new job soon Apple TV show: Ted Lasso Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

There is a paradigm shift happening in the industry: many skilled machinists are retiring. As these long-term skilled machinists are leaving, they're leaving with intellectual legacy knowledge that's irreplaceable. Do procurement people sourcing machining parts know what the processes and procedures look like? Do they know the difference between a fabricated, turned, or machined, or five-axis part? What can we do as owners to mitigate the problem or offer solutions? We dive into the discussion in this episode of Making Chips! Segments [1:23] The challenges we face with retiring machinists [4:30] The definition of intellectual property [6:28] What is keeping us awake at night? [14:22] Boosting automation in manufacturing [18:18] A discussion of intellectual property Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! What is Intellectual Property? Report Outlines Difficulty in Boosting Automation in Manufacturing The Future of Manufacturing is Automated Production Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Finding Solutions to the Supply Chain Chaos, #293 What is the root cause of the supply chain crisis? How can manufacturing businesses mitigate those risks and find realistic solutions that work in the short and long term? Tom Hilaris—the President & CEO of Ergoseal—joins us to share the three things they focus on: risk mitigation, communication, and culture. In this episode of Making Chips we offer real, practical solutions your business can implement to overcome the supply chain chaos. Because—after all—if you're not making chips, you're not making money! BAM! – Jason Segments [1:10] Material lead times and pricing [5:10] What's happening at Carr Machine & Tool [7:07] Manufacturing news related to supply chain issues [14:39] Learn more about our guest—Tom Hilaris [17:16] Step #1: Risk Mitigation [19:46] Managing pricing with redundancy of sourcing [22:58] Step #2: Communicating with your customers is imperative [29:12] Elmhurst University Supply Chain Masters Program [32:15] Step #3: A great culture improves outcomes Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Connect with Tom Hilaris on LinkedIn Clean Energy Faces its Own Supply Chain Crisis What Everyone Gets Wrong About the Never-Ending COVID-19 Supply Chain Crisis Growing your Manufacturing Business Through Acquisitions with Tom Hilaris Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What is an employee stock ownership plan ESOP? How does it work? How can it transform the buy-in of your team and lead to revenue growth? Jeff Taylor—the President and CEO of Crafts Technology—implemented an ESOP. Listen to this episode to hear about the impact it had on his business—and figure out whether or not it's right for yours. Employee buy-in can lead to profitability which can lead to Making Chips! BAM! – Jim Segments [4:49] What's happening at ZENGERS and Carr Machine & Tool [8:20] Disclaimer about implementing an ESOP [10:54] Welcome Jeff Taylor to Making Chips! [12:13] What is an employee stock ownership plan ESOP? [13:45] How Jeff got into manufacturing [20:15] What is Craft's technology? [21:49] Choosing to create an ESOP [30:00] Who should consider an ESOP? [35:05] Pensions, profit-sharing, and ESOPs [39:45] What kind of return does an ESOP get? [45:36] Are you handing over control to your team? Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Crafts Technology Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What does your hiring process look like? Do you even have a hiring process in place? In this episode of Making Chips, we walk through what each of our processes look like and share some useful strategies that anyone can implement. A streamlined process leads to better hires which leads to Making Chips! BAM! – Jason! What are your tips and tricks for the hiring process? Let us know! Send an email to [email protected]! Segments [0:30] Check out ProShop ERP for manufacturing software! [3:35] What's happening in our lives and businesses [6:54] Manufacturing news: A discussion on composite materials [11:44] Shoutout to listeners who've left reviews! [14:26] Step #1: It's all about the setup [19:10] Step #2: The careers landing page [22:43] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [24:31] Step #3: Screen your candidates Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! 6 of the Most Exciting Trends In Composite Materials Today Join the ZENGERS Team! LinkedIn Recruiter Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What factors should you consider when forecasting? What questions do you need to ask to determine your next steps? Who gets to make those decisions? We walk you through some common questions to ask yourself—and your company—about your business. We'll also cover Miles and Snow's Typology of Defender, Prospector, Analyzer, and Reactor to see how your type impacts your decision-making process. Learn a great process to forecast and set goals in this episode of Making Chips! Now is the time to look ahead! BAM! – Nick If you have a great methodology for forecasting, let us know! Shoot us an email at [email protected]! Segments [0:32] Check out ProShop ERP for manufacturing software! [3:16] How future proof is your business? [5:25] What we're happy about right now [9:34] Discovering the Keys to U.S. Manufacturing Recovery [14:23] What factors should you consider when forecasting? [17:47] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [21:39] The Miles and Snow's Typology of Defender, Prospector, Analyzer, and Reactor [24:56] Who makes the forecast in your company? Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Discovering the Keys to U.S. Manufacturing Recovery Miles and Snow's Typology of Defender, Prospector, Analyzer, and Reactor BOOK: Humanocrisy Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Nick jokes that I have a recession obsession—and it's true. Recessions are painful. I want to make the experience less painful when a recession comes around again. So in this down-to-earth episode of Making Chips, I'll share the common causes of most recessions and 8 tips you can use to prepare yourself—and your business—for a recession. Preparedness is key to helping your business survive and thrive. Because after all, if you're not making chips, you're not making money. BAM! – Jim Segments [0:43] Check out ProShop ERP for manufacturing software! [2:53] Shoutout to everyone involved with the research project with Xometry [5:11] The reasons why Carr Machine & Tool is thriving [9:38] Manufacturing News: Hertz bought 100,000 Teslas [12:18] What's new in Jason and Nick's worlds [14:43] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [15:53] Be smart with the buying decisions that you make [21:55] Learn about the common causes of recessions [24:39] 8 tIps to prepare yourself for a recession [28:28] Learn about Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! How to Prepare for a Recession: 8 Tips You Can Start Now Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

In round three with Titan Gilroy, we talk about why Titan decided to move his entire business from California to Texas. Was it a smooth transition? Was he able to retain his entire team? Titan also shares more of the "why" behind his business and his passion for serving his audience. Titan continues to go above and beyond the expected as he grows his academy. Listen to learn more. BAM! Segments [0:52] Why Titan moved his business to Texas [11:28] Solving people's problems = success [18:28] Understand your audience + tell your story [26:50] Titan's transition from regret to changing lives [29:34] Where did Titan's "Boom!" come from Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

In this episode of Making Chips, we dive back into the conversation with Titan Gilroy. This time, we talk about how Titan's TV show, "American Built," came to life. We also talk about how he almost gave up the TV show to do something he was passionate about—helping prisoners transform their lives and learn to become full-fledged machinists. This passion project eventually led to the creation of the Titans of CNC Academy, where you can learn everything from the fundamentals of machining to creating aerospace parts—all completely free. Don't miss this episode with THE Titan of the industry. BAM! Segments [1:55] Why schools and colleges don't have sufficient manufacturing training [7:35] How Titan's TV show, "American Built" came to fruition [13:31] How Titan took inmates and helped them become full-fledged machinists [19:34] Why Titan uses the phrase "uniquely abled" instead of disabled [32:48] Learn more about Titans of CNC Academy Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Titans of CNC Academy Check out Titan's Youtube Channel: MakerSpace77 Follow Titan on LinkedIn Follow Titan's organization on Twitter: @TitanGilroy Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

This episode takes you (and us) to Texas to speak with Titan Gilroy. He calls himself an advocate for advanced manufacturing, and that's a huge understatement. He runs two academies that teach what it takes to be a success in manufacturing. His personal stroy demonstrates that becoming a success in the industry — individually or as an organization — doesn't happen overnight or without a significant amount of struggle. We skip the banter and back and forth typical of our episodes because we are so excited to bring you this conversation with Titan. So, without further delay, click the play button and hear what Titan's got to share. BAM! Segments [1:50] Titan Gilroy's start in CNC machining came through a great deal of hardship [6:30] Moving to California and finding his first opportunity in a shop [10:15] Stepping into his first role in a machine shop and making the most of it [18:10] Moving into a troubleshooter role for large companies, then starting his own shop [22:15] The beginning of Titan Engineering in early 2005 [31:15] Raising the bar to eliminate variance and manufacture art for customers [40:35] The 2008-2009 recession hit hard — everything stopped & 15 people had to be let go [46:53] Lessons learned during the economic downturn were exactly what he needed Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! https://titansofcnc.com - Find out about Titan's training courses Follow Titan on LinkedIn Follow Titan's organization on Twitter: @TitanGilroy Wall Street Journal article, "A Tale of a Young Boxer's Redemption" Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

According to a recent article in Reuters, "The ISM said its index of national factory activity inched up to 59.9 last month from a reading of 59.5 in July. A reading above 50 indicates expansion in manufacturing, which accounts for 11.9% of the U.S. economy." Manufacturing is on the rise, yet every industry is struggling with an impaired supply chain. Will things get better anytime soon? How can manufacturing businesses manage shortages in the meantime? We share some thoughts in this episode of Making Chips! Segments [0:40] Check out ProShop ERP for manufacturing software! [4:15] A discussion about supply chain issues [6:57] What do we like right now? [11:30] U.S. manufacturing activity rises; shortages linger [14:08] The disruption that comes with reshoring [17:00] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [19:40] How shortages are impacting industries [26:14] Learn about Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [26:57] Will the supply chain get better anytime soon? [29:01] Tips to mitigate the pain of supply chain disruptions The Great Supply Chain Disruption Manufacturing is becoming increasingly busy but supply chain woes linger. It's the #1 thing on our minds right now. Most machine shops are at or near capacity. But we're having trouble getting aluminum, brass, steel, and finished goods. Even getting containers to ship the goods is a struggle. This phenomenon is being dubbed "The Great Supply Chain Disruption." Whenever you're making a systemic change, it's going to cause disruption. No matter how much planning you put into something, disruption happens. This should have been expected. The disruption that comes with reshoring Reshoring is more relevant than ever. And this isn't a new topic to our show. What is driving the reshoring initiative? COVID. Everything that was coming from overseas halted or decreased. Ships weren't coming through the Panama Canal. Ships weren't being unloaded because the workforce was at home. When China started rethinking its business environment and they started to incorporate more free-market tendencies, they wanted to become an export economy. They didn't have the technology to export high-end goods so they started on the low end. But now they're catching up. Now, China is focused on export as well as making branded goods for their economy. People spent their time in quarantine buying low-cost things that are sourced from Amazon—from exercise equipment to kitchen mixers. They're buying computers, TVs, headphones, etc. Many things that are sourced from China. Will the supply chain get better anytime soon? Lead time and prices are going to increase. Everyone is dealing with it right now. We can't be the link that absorbs all the cost increases. The federal government knew that the influx of money into the economy plus the supply chain issues were going to lead to increased prices. This is going to lead to inflation. Inflation does slow growth. But everyone is saying that interest rates will be holding steady ingo 2022. We think the supply chain issues will continue into 2022 but it's currently a game of wait and see. So what can manufacturers do in the meantime to mitigate the problems that come with supply chain issues? We share a few tips in this episode you don't want to miss. Check it out! BAM! – Jim Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Camino Island by John Grisham U.S. manufacturing activity rises; shortages linger Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Do your employees feel like they're a means to an end? I think a lot of team members don't realize—or believe—that we care about them. Some feel that when you hold them accountable to hit their numbers that data is all you care about. But that isn't always the case. At the end of the day, we're all business leaders who need an efficient working environment. So where do we find a balance between data, accountability, and caring for our team members? How do we drive profitability without driving our employees away? Listen to this episode of Making Chips for the full discussion! Segments [0:40] Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! [3:24] Hold your employees to metrics they can control [7:33] Manufacturing News: A Generation of American Men Give Up on College [16:55] Learn about Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [17:39] Avoid measuring data that is not helpful to the employee [37:33] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry Hold your employees to metrics they can control I've seen a trend where everything is about data. Everyone wants to harvest data. But can you take it a step too far? Can there be an imbalance in the data? On a recent episode of Russell Brand's podcast, he talked about how Amazon's delivery people have an app they have to use. The app tracks every move they make and everything they do when they deliver packages. But it appears that Amazon is tracking metrics that are outside of the control of the employee and using those metrics to evaluate them. We believe when you hold people accountable with metrics it should be something that's within their control. But Amazon has taken it so far that people are being fired when they don't meet the metrics of the algorithm Amazon has in place for delivery drivers. When Russell Brand described this, he pointed out that Amazon was treating their employees like zombies living in an algorithm—disposable cattle. The data doesn't always show the full picture Nick had a conversation with leaders at AME and Hennig about compensation for their salespeople. Commissions are results-based compensation and the result is why you work. But there are other activities salespeople do that add value. They do activities to achieve an objective to create a result. So his company talked about activity-based objectives they could compensate their salespeople for. They decided compensation should be a mix. Salespeople are driven by increasing their compensation. So they tend to focus on what would compensate them the most. But if your company wants them to focus on other activities not directly tied to making a sale, you might have to compensate them. You have to match the compensation with the desired behavior. Situations when data-tracking is necessary I just took off the month of August and ZENGERS had a record month of sales while I was gone. I'm not trying to micromanage my team. They have an overall objective—sales and profitability. My goal is to train them on the right things to do to achieve that goal. I'm not saying they need to make a certain amount of calls a day or track every detail. I give them an overall mission to achieve but I don't track their every movement. I feel like asking your team to track everything they do is the kiss of death. But is that true for every business? For Jim, due to Carr Machine & Tools AS9100 certification, they are mandated to document all of the results from their machining process. He runs a data-driven and oriented business where he has to measure, record, validate, time-track against jobs, and more. And of course, each individual on my team has those types of quality measurements that they have to hit. We record data that contributes to useful management of your team. But I don't want my team to record data that's pointless. Nick's brother always says that any data that you record and isn't used to make an improvement is wasted money. Wasted information is wasted action. The bottom line is that everyone needs to take a step back and think about this. Are the right activities being tracked? Are you gathering useful data, or just wasting time? You need to collect the right data that helps you drive profitability for your company. Listen to the whole episode for the full conversation. BAM! – Jason Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! A Generation of American Men Give Up on College Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

The U.S. labor market is still struggling despite record numbers of job openings. Businesses aren't able to hire as quickly as they need to. What's the holdup? Is there a lack of candidates in the market? Are people choosing not to return to work? In this episode of Making Chips we dissect what's happening—and a few things you can do about it. Segments [0:18] Check out ProShop ERP for manufacturing software! [2:30] What's happening in the Making Chips world [8:43] Manufacturing news: The U.S. Labor Market [19:41] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [20:36] What I'm learning through the hiring process [35:35] How to recruit high caliber candidates [41:34] Learn about Amper Technologies monitoring systems The U.S. Labor Market Isn't Adding Up—And This Is Why According to Andrew Hunter's research, we're seeing a high level of job openings but low levels of hiring. Millions of Americans are quitting and many aren't re-entering the labor market. It's claimed that the labor market is healthy, but the numbers don't add up. Why? Subdued Employment: 8.7 million Americans remain unemployed. Before the pandemic, 5.7 million Americans were unemployed. Record Job Openings: The number of job opportunities is high and rising, reaching 10.1 million at the end of June with 590,000 more openings than the month before. Low Hiring: Hiring isn't keeping pace with job growth. June saw 6.7 million hires, but that's 3.4 million short of the number needed to fill open roles. High Quits: Referred to as the "great resignation," 3.9 million people quit their job in June. It's partly the response to job opportunities. Workers are confident in their ability to find better jobs. The incentive to stay home and not work will decrease as the double unemployment payments are pulled back. The economy is recovering but worker confidence isn't returning at the same pace. Autumn 2021 may bring the correction needed to balance the market. The outlook is optimistic. But until things turn around, what do manufacturers do? Find creative solutions to your problem A client of Jason's had a key person in their shop that was doing some things that he deemed worthy of firing. But Jason's client couldn't afford to lose—and be forced to replace—this person. So he took a risk and sat him down for a conversation. He gave him the option to fix the problem or he'd be fired. This person turned his life around completely. This may not be an option for everyone, nor will it work in every scenario, but it was a creative way for this business owner to solve a problem. Two ways to hire for difficult positions Recruiting for regional sales positions has been a huge focus of mine recently as we are restructuring our sales. But I don't want to hire the first warm body. Everyone has heard "Hire slow, fire fast," right? But if your machinist quits, you can't hire slow because it causes production problems. So what am I doing right now? Finding a way to work with a candidate before we commit to hiring them full-time. If there's a way to test the relationship, do it. Making Chips is a podcast and marketing agency. We brought someone on as a contractor to try out on a trial basis before we commit to hiring him full-time. It's great for both parties to make an educated decision about each other. You can even put it in writing so it's transparent and fully agreed on. What else can you do to hire for a difficult-to-fill position? Use LinkedIn's recruiting tool. The price is steep—approximately $30,000—but you're given access to highly qualified candidates interested in a new position. LinkedIn will even train you how to use it. The opportunity to do it yourself is available for larger companies who can make that number work. Listen to the whole episode to learn more about how the hiring process has gone for me and get some in-depth details on my two strategies. BAM! – Nick Shameless plug: If you are interested, we're all hiring! Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! The U.S. Labor Market Isn't Adding Up And This Is Why Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

I wanted to differentiate myself among other machine shops in the area with the new Carr Machine & Tool location. The shop floor is where we make our money. I took extra steps in the process to create a new image for my shop. I wanted to present it in a way that was sophisticated, high-tech, polished, and professional—while remaining efficient. That's where IMEC came in. I reached out to them for some technical collaboration to help design an efficient shop floor. I worked with both Dean Harms and Tim Maurer and it was an amazing experience. So in this episode of Making Chips, I'm sharing what the collaboration and design process looked like with IMEC. Segments [0:24] Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! [2:46] Why I chose the new Carr Machine & Tool location [4:17] What's happening at ZENGERS? [6:19] Why investing in your business is important [10:32] President Biden Announces Support for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework [12:55] The process of designing a new facility with IMEC [15:10] What IMEC (the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center) is all about [19:16] Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [19:59] How the infrastructure bill will be distributed to MEPs [25:43] My experience working with IMEC to design my shop floor [36:50] Other types of shops IMEC works with [38:55] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry What IMEC (the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center) is all about Dean Harms is a Regional Manager with IMEC. It's his mission to help others any way he can on a daily basis and have fun along the way. Sounds like us, right? IMEC is part of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network. It's connected to the US Department of Commerce through the NIST organization. IMEC launched in the 1990s and is about to celebrate its 25th anniversary. There are 51 MEPs (one in every state + Puerto Rico). Their overall mission is to provide solutions and improvements to small and medium-sized manufacturing companies to help them navigate the changing landscape, drive profitability, sustain growth, and become globally competitive. IMEC is a non-profit that is both privately and publicly funded. They are a channel that brings tax dollars back into the state of Illinois by specifically serving manufacturing businesses. Dean Harms makes sure the money is applied where it's needed most. My experience working with IMEC Dean cold-called me after I was on a live Facebook interview. I mentioned I was about to move my shop, so he reached out. He knew that there was probably something IMEC could do to help with the move. I heard that they could help design my shop floor and I really wanted a high-end polished shop. Dean introduced me to Tim Maurer and said he would be the perfect guy to collaborate with to design my shop floor. Tim has decades of experience not only with IMEC but also with Caterpillar. After I met Tim, I knew I was dealing with someone who was competent and knew what a manufacturing floor should look like. The shop floor design process Tim's design process was thorough, starting with the vision for our future and ending with the execution of the move. We started by setting objectives: Where did we want to be? What type of work would we be doing? What new technologies will be utilized on the shop floor? We did a physical walk of both of the properties. He took physical measurements of the new building, all of our tools, and made sure the room was big enough for a CMM. After he did the physical layout, we met again to go over the flow of the room and nail down the workflow. We placed the machinery and equipment in the prime areas of the floor to maximize the square footage. He established power needs, air drops, water needs, an eyewash station, etc. He developed the CAD and we talked about future automation and made sure they'd be room around the machines. He delivered the final layout to us in a CAD model. The best part? On moving day we had a roadmap to mark where everything went. We knew where every single thing would go. The design process was an investment in our future productivity. I would never have completed this process as well as Tim did. I highly recommend working with IMEC through a big move to create a more efficient shop floor. Don't be afraid to delegate design to the experts. BAM! – Jim Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Why Investing in Your Business is Important President Biden Announces Support for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework Connect with Dean Harms with IMEC Connect with Tim Maurere with IMEC Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Everyone is familiar with the concept of networking. But how many people actually implement it to grow themselves and their businesses? In this episode of Making Chips, Jim, Jason, and I dive into how networking has impacted our businesses in unexpected ways. To hear the good, bad, and the ugly—give it a listen! Segments [0:18] Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! [3:04] Learn what's happening at ZENGERS [3:51] Nick welcomed a baby boy to his family on June 27th! [4:54] Boeing Slows Dreamliner Production After New Manufacturing Issue [9:17] Can Networking Change Your Manufacturing Business? [12:41] How networking has changed Jim's business [16:10] Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [16:54] The Making Chips Network of Manufacturing Leaders [20:59] Should increasing sales be the objective of networking? [24:41] A working relationship built on mutual interests [26:15] Ad-hoc networking: Keep your ears to the ground [28:58] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry [30:09] Networking is like growing a 401k Networking is what brings us together today I think it's important to point out that networking is why all of us are here. It's why we all know each other and host a podcast together. But where did this partnership start? Jim was spending money at ZENGERS and was a great customer for them. So Jason loosely knew who he was. Why did Jim purchase from ZENGERS in the first place? One of his friends—a production manager at a shop—recommended ZENGERS. One would've thought that's how their relationship started. But it wasn't. Jason and Jim were both asked independently to be on an AM radio show at 6 am on a Saturday (the time slot when you know only serious entrepreneurs and business owners would be awake and listening). Jason was talking about creating a vision for your company and Jim talked about social media marketing for manufacturers. They were both impressed by each other, their business acumen, and how well acquainted they were with the industry. They realized they'd make a great combination and the podcast was developed from there. The question is—without networking, would they have gotten the opportunity to speak on the same radio show? How networking has changed Jim's business Jim had a strategic vision for networking for his business. He became a member of the Technology and Manufacturing Association (TMA) who had recently hired a marketing manager to help machine shops with their marketing. Jim got on the phone with him and they got along. He became instrumental in helping Jim develop networking within the association. Jim was asked to join a young leaders group where he was able to meet like-minded people. He knew if he committed his time to networking and building relationships within the community, that he would grow in some capacity. He didn't know where it would take him but that he'd walk away from networking events learning more. If you go to a networking event and leave feeling like you learned nothing, you're doing something wrong. You're either in the wrong place—or not asking the right questions. Jim also joined the Greater O'Hare Association and the Valley Association. He met great people in all of them. Networking is a great way to listen to other people and learn from their experiences. The Making Chips Network of Manufacturing Leaders Some of our Making Chips sponsors have been a great way for us to realize connections across the industry. Amper can help you better understand your shop and help you solve problems on your shop floor. Nick, our guest on a previous episode, also works with Amper. It was a game-changer for him. Nick had emailed me a year or so ago and I hadn't followed up with him. Luckily, Jim met him again at a networking event and we all got back in touch. Another sponsor, Xometry, asked us to be part of a focus group consisting of manufacturing leaders. This shows that Xometry cares about their network. How often do companies hire a credible third party to dig into discovery? How often do they dig into their segments to find out what they care about and need? They got a third party to investigate and find out what's happening. They wanted to re-engineer their value proposition to serve their customers better. In the Xometry focus group, we heard that four of the individuals were all ProShop ERP users—and had heard about them through the Making Chips Podcast. These leaders all loved ProShop. It certainly gave us more structure for our processes. You'll become more efficient, productive, detail-oriented, data-driven, and results-oriented. They heard about ProShop because Jason and Jim had the courage to create a podcast just for the manufacturing industry. I joined them because I'm just as passionate about the space and I know that this show delivers valuable content. People tend to think networking has to be about growing your business and making connections to make sales. Why is that the wrong mindset to have? What min

Part of being a machine shop owner—and a business owner in general—is that every day there's a new challenge to navigate. A machine might break down. Perhaps someone who has been a team member for decades quits. Your factory could burn to the ground. Or your Dad—the owner and manager of the shop—gets sick with cancer. That's how Nick Sainati was thrust into becoming the GM of Belden Universal. In this episode, he shares his journey. It will resonate with some of us, fascinate most of us, and impress all of us. Don't miss this inspiring family story! Segments [0:26] Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [6:24] Dealing with supply chain issues caused by COVID [8:09] Fun facts about family-owned businesses [14:07] Create a Formal Business Succession Plan in 7 Steps [16:52] Today's guest: Nick Sainati, GM at Belden Universal [24:00] Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! [27:42] When everything changed: How Nick took over his Dad's machine shop [40:10] Managing a machine shop through COVID [44:35] What the future looks like for Belden Universal [46:32] How Nick's experiences have prepared him for the future [48:42] Accelerate your digital transformation with Xometry The history of Belden Universal Belden Universal is an AS9100 manufacturer of precision universal joints and drive shafts. They started in 1970 as Belden Tools, founded by Nick's grandfather and his brothers on Belden Avenue in Chicago. They used to buy tools from ZENGERS, which was just down the street! Instead of going into the family business, Nick ended up in San Francisco in investment banking. He spent two years at an eCommerce startup and eventually moved back to Chicago. After both he and his wife got an MBA, they moved to Seattle for her job. After running a wine business, Nick transitioned into Starbucks Corporate in brand management. He helped launch the Starbucks evening program that tied-in with wine. He transitioned to a strategy team after that. He learned about culture, managing people, and running complex projects. How Nick took over his Dad's machine shop Two months after Nick's first daughter was born, his parents came to visit them in Seattle. They told Nick that his Dad had a rare form of Leukemia. He needed to take time off of work for treatment. They were going to have to sell the business unless Nick or his sister could come back and run it. Nick was shocked. His parents were healthy active people who were never sick. After processing the news and discussing it with his wife, Nick decided to move back to Chicago to take over Belden Universal, an AS9100 manufacturer of precision universal joints and drive shafts. Four months later, he was in Chicago running a machine shop—and he knew nothing about manufacturing. Nick bought a large book about manufacturing that was for a college-level manufacturing class and dug into back episodes of Making Chips, which helped him get immersed in the language of machining. Navigating challenges while learning the ropes When Nick took over in 2018, the machine shop had just moved into a new facility, doubling the size of their manufacturing floor. They had a tenured team and people to help get Nick up to speed. But he was also their boss—and couldn't do most of their jobs. Soon after taking over, Belden lost their biggest customer—which was one of the reasons they had moved into the bigger space. They immediately lost what would have been ¼ of their business. Nick knew it would be his first challenge. But then his sales manager of 19 years quit three months in. Instead of panicking, he took stock of the situation and helped define where they wanted to go in the future. They hired an internal candidate for the sales management position. She blossomed as a leader and got their team back on track. They worked hand-in-hand on the culture so people were excited to come to work every day. In an era like today where every shop is competing for employees, the culture matters. A shop can't survive with a negative culture. 18 months later, after continuous incidents with the production manager (who had been there 29 years), Nick decided it was time to part ways. They let him go. But this man had been involved in every part of the business. The benefit of letting him go was that Nick was forced to get more involved in floor operations. He began to work closely with his engineers on improvement projects and personnel issues. He got to know the people on the factory floor. He stepped up and earned respect from his team. How did Nick manage the machine shop through COVID? What does the future hold for Belden Universal? Listen to the whole episode to hear more of his unique story. How Nick's experiences have prepared him for the future What did Nick learn? The most important thing is that problems can look very daunting in the moment—especially multi-faceted problems. But the most important thing is to take a break, formulate a plan, understand what the desired end outco

What is the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)? The DOD is implementing the CMMC to normalize and standardize cybersecurity preparedness across the Federal government's defense industrial base. Meaning? If you're doing DOD work, they're mandating that you get this certification. So you need to know what this is all about. We've brought in Paul Van Metre and John Bilek to help fill in the blanks. Check it out! Segments [0:00] Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [3:39] Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) [5:05] Let's talk acronyms (there's one for everything) [7:20] What's happening at ZENGERS? [8:20] The amount of money wasted on cybersecurity [11:05] We welcome our two guests to the show [14:48] What is CMMC really all about? [17:09] Who is impacted by the CMMC requirement? [19:44] Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! [20:44] The five levels of CMMC compliance [21:56] The CMMC implementation process [27:19] What does "CMMC Compliant" mean? [29:02] What ProShop ERP is rolling out to enhance security The amount of money wasted on cybersecurity Cybersecurity is a large problem. Most attacks originate from Russia but there's also a lot of domestic hacking happening. Because of this—according to MXD—the DOD is now spending more than $300 billion each year on government contracts. The DOD Directive 8140 requires that any contractor must satisfy specific training and certification provisions to ensure sensitive data remains secure. The qualifications can be transferable and useful across the board. Jason points out that this cybersecurity effort is how we protect our country, industry, economy, and more. Our enemies want to steal our technology, which is why we must keep it secure. Because manufacturing is a huge part of what the DOD does, anyone in their supply chain must follow the same cybersecurity protocols. Who is impacted by the CMMC requirement? CMMC applies to anyone in the defense contract supply chain. That includes both contractors who engage directly with the DOD and subcontractors who fulfill and/or execute those contracts. The CMMC standards will affect over 300,000 organizations. If you want to continue to do work for the DOD, you will have to get certified over the next 4–5 years. Paul has heard of shops that are starting to lose work because they aren't on track to get the CMMC certification. John has been asked multiple times if he's been certified. While you cannot get certified yet, he is working toward compliance. There are five different levels of CMMC compliance. Most machine shops are expected to be certified at level three. How soon do you have to implement this? Paul points out that you can't sit on this. There are very few approved auditors, so if you wait until the last minute you'll lose out on a significant amount of your sales. If 30% of your business deals with the DOD, you could lose millions without the certification. The financial impact on machine shops In May 2021, an entity was announced that would start handling the CMMC audits. What kind of costs will be put on machine shops? It's going to be far more expensive to implement than an AS9100 audit. The CMMC is built on cybersecurity standards, the main one being the NIST 800-171 standard. If a company is already compliant with that standard, they can likely check off the boxes for CMMC Level one. If you aren't compliant with this standard, to reach level one compliance could cost you between $5,000 to $25,000. For level three, it will be around $15,000 to $100,000, depending on the size of your shop. This is going to be a large financial hit no matter what you do. The certification is costly—but if you don't get it, the loss of business may cost you more. A shop in Florida was quoted $100,000 for a company to "help" them get CMMC certified. Be wary of who you look to for help—a lot of unscrupulous people will take advantage of this rollout. Find accredited and reputable consultants. There will be grant money offered to help companies get this certification. Can you swing the cost of the certification? What can help cover some of these costs? IMEC gave Carr Machine a grant to get ISO certified years ago, which covered some of the implementation and auditor fees. IMEC will be giving grants out to augment the cost of implementing this. Paul points out that the MEP gets its money from the Federal government and allocates it to different organizations like IMEC. The unknown? The amount of labor you may have to invest in to get to level three certification. So what does CMMC compliant actually mean? How is ProShop ERP implementing updates to help you walk through the process? John and Paul share a few examples, so keep listening! If you have an idea for a MakingChips message, please ask us a question or leave us a message at 312-725-0245 and let us know! Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! John Bi

In this episode of Making Chips, Jim and I chat with Paul Van Metre—the Co-Founder of ProShop ERP—about the process of selling his machine shop. We dissect the process, including how to understand the valuation of your company and how to make your shop more attractive to potential buyers. If you're considering selling in the next few years, this episode is full of actionable tactics and strategies that will help you succeed. BAM! - Jason Zenger Segments [0:07] Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems [3:10] How to sell your machine shop [5:11] Ozark Technical Community College offering a two-week manufacturing bootcamp [7:49] Jim shares what's new at Carr Machine [8:42] Paul Van Metre's experience selling his machine shop [13:42] Is this a big change in the manufacturing industry? [15:27] Why would a strategic buyer pay more? [16:40] Understanding the process of valuation [17:35] Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! [26:10] The experiences of Paul's customers buying shops [28:12] How to make your company more attractive for buyers [30:53] How buyers can make sure they're getting a fair valuation Now is a great time to sell—or buy—a machine shop I bought ZENGERS from my Dad in 2019, right before the pandemic hit. learned that there's a lot involved in buying/selling a machine shop. Not only that, but it takes multiple years to get to the point to learn how to run a shop by yourself. Running any business that employs a team of people takes a lot of work. A lot of people are looking to retire and sell their machine shops. The youngest people of the Baby Boomer generation will be 65 by 2030. And of the 18,000 machine shops in America, the majority are owned by Baby Boomers. The vast majority will have some type of transition of ownership in the next 10–15 years. Jim is getting calls from M&A companies all the time about buying his shop. He isn't even close to ready to sell. I'm on the buy side, and I think this is a great time to buy a machine shop. Whether you want to merge, participate in a roll-up, etc. now is the time. Even if you're not ready for several years, you need to start planning. The experiences of Paul's customers buying shops Paul notes that owning a business is one of the most significant financial decisions anyone can make in their lifetime. These shops are the baby of their owners. They've poured 10, 20, 30, 40+ years into them. Leaving that behind and passing it on to the next generation is a difficult and taxing process. Some shops may close their doors and sell off their machinery. A client of Paul's, Mike, was deeply involved in the M&A and private equity space. He was trying to sell a shop where the owner wasn't interested in making her business attractive for sale. They couldn't sell the shop for years. So Mike decided to buy the shop himself. He knew it was a good business at the core and got it for a great deal. He also recently acquired another machine shop. Paul worked with a small shop in Colorado—Focused on Machining—who was in banking before moving into manufacturing. He looked at 4–5 shops before landing on this one. Because he was in banking he understood the financial side and has done an incredible job growing the business. Paul's experience selling his machine shop Pro CNC was founded in 1997 when Paul was just 23—straight out of college. When they sold in 2014, they were a mature company with 17 years of experience under their belt (Paul shares his story in episode #98 of Making Chips). In hindsight, Paul had been preparing the company for sale for many years. They started hiring people to replace the three partners so they weren't working in the business every day. They then hired an M&A company to take them to market (the whole process took around a year). Sadly, Paul points out that 80% of businesses that get listed for sale never sell. Many businesses end up selling off their assets. Those people are likely making only a fraction of what their company could be worth. So how do you set your business up for success? What can you do now to make it more attractive to future buyers? Listen to the whole episode to learn the process! Resources mentioned on this episode Get The Boring Bar Newsletter - Text CHIPS to 38470 to subscribe! Ozark Technical Community College offering a two-week manufacturing bootcamp Paul Van Metre's Story: Episode #98 of Making Chips Check out ProShop ERP for more information on manufacturing software! Modern Machine Shop magazine Focused on Machining The E Myth: Why Most Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It Built to Sell: Creating a Business That Can Thrive Without You Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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In this week's episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim Carr and Jason Zenger bring in Federico Sciammarella, the President & CTO of MxD, to discuss the basics of cybersecurity, including the types of cyber attacks, and how a manufacturing leader can equip their shop with a strategic plan to prevent and deal with potential cyber threats. Segments 0:08 | Amper Technologies pilot program for machine monitoring 1:21 | Jason introduces manufacturing cybersecurity as the topic of the episode 4:57 | Jim and Jason talk about what's new at their businesses 5:28 | Jason introduces the episode guest: Federico Sciammarella, the President & CTO of MxD 6:52 | Jason discusses manufacturing news, including a press release on the FBI's internet crime report 10:17 | Jason explains Business Email Compromise, a type of phishing attack 12:21 | The hosts mention another type of cyber attack, Ransomware 13:52 | Jason mentions Malware attacks due to malicious software and brute force attacks 15:44 | The hosts and Federico discuss how to avoid and prevent coming under cyber attack 17:40 | ProShop ERP is being used in shops across the country 20:46 | Federico shares advice on how to avoid ransomware and how to prepare your business for potential cyber attacks 25:31 | Federico explains how MxD helps strengthen cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry 30:18 | Jason asks what a manufacturing leader can do to create a strategic plan to prevent cyber attacks 34:16 | The hosts share their thoughts on the new information they learned during the episode

In this week's episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim Carr and Nick Goellner talk with Nick St.Cyr, a Product Manager at Methods Machine Tools, about his history in the manufacturing industry, the role of a product manager, and the importance of establishing a vision of the future for your company. Segments: 0:11 | Jim mentions his experience with Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems through their pilot program 2:12 | Nick G. and Jim discuss CARR Machine & Tool's move to their new, upgraded facility 3:40 | Nick G. talks about the current state of the manufacturing industry supply chain and reasons for the disruptions 7:30 | Jim introduces special guest Nick St.Cyr, a Product Manager at Methods Machine Tools, where he oversees the design, sales, support, and integration of MMT machine tools 9:45 | Nick S. shares his background and history in the manufacturing industry, and talks about his current position and responsibilities at Methods Machine Tools 17:14 | Jim talks about it's important for machine shops to have a vision of the future 18:22 | Nick G. mentions how he sees ProShop ERP being used in shops across the country when he travels 19:22 | Jim explains the progression of his shop towards the established vision 21:40 | Nick S. discusses the expansion of the Methods facilities as they've grown 24:25 | Jim asks Nick S. about how Methods is preparing for the industry in the near future 26:30 | Nick G. asks how Methods is able to offer such quick, custom machine orders 30:38 | Nick S. talks about the change in the relationship between the product manager and the customer 33:52 | Nick S. shares his thoughts on automation's role in the future of manufacturing 38:01 | Nick S. mentions taking a focused look at current products to create a roadmap for the future product lines and features

In this episode of MakingChips, hosts Jim Carr and Jason Zenger meet with Paul Van Metre of ProShop ERP to discuss 10 things to consider when going through the process of getting AS9100 certified. Segments: 0:13 | Jim talks about his time using Amper Technologies machine monitoring systems under their pilot program 2:27 | Jim shares manufacturing news about past experiences with IMTS Rockstars and the current boom in manufacturing 4:24 | Jason mentions his 2021 sabbatical and how it's okay to take a break from work 6:04 | Jim introduces the topic of the episode and offers questions you can ask yourself to decide if AS9100 certification is needed 8:58 | Jason introduces this week's guest: Paul Van Metre of ProShop ERP 10:45 | Paul talks about his time at his former company implementing AS9100 features into ProShop ERP 12:30 | Jason asks if a cutting tool distributor would benefit from being AS9100 certified 25:10 | Paul shares how ProShop ERP can help you build your process for getting AS9100 certified