Workforce 4.0

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt welcomes Soren Peters, CEO of HowToRobot. They delve into Soren's background, from IT to robotics, and discuss the importance of making technology accessible and mainstream in the manufacturing industry. Soren shares insights on community building in manufacturing, workforce development, and the future impact of technology on work. He also emphasizes the need for simpler adoption processes and training programs to ease the transition for workers. Join them for an engaging conversation on the future of automation and workforce transformation. In This Episode:-07:38: Building Community in Manufacturing -21:48: Leadership and Thought Leadership in Robotics -26:38: Humane Aspects of AI and Robotics -26:51: Debating Practicality and Ethics in Robotics -28:21: Factory Insights: The Importance of Windows -30:12: Leadership and Responsibility -34:30: The Future of Work with Technology -40:11: Workforce Development and Automation -47:56: Adoption and Accessibility of Robotics About Soren Peters:Søren Peters is the founder and co-CEO of the global automation advisory and market platform, HowToRobot, providing vendor-independent guidance to businesses looking to automate. A serial entrepreneur, Søren has previously founded, led, and successfully exited a series of companies in the IT industry. Søren was born and raised in Denmark where he founded HowToRobot. Today, he is spearheading HowToRobot’s expansion in the United States and Europe, helping local manufacturers succeed in automation and find the right solutions and suppliers. Learn more about Soren and connect with him here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Paul Ryznar, CEO and Founder of Light Guide. They discuss the transformative impact of projection-based augmented reality technology in manufacturing. Paul shares his journey and insights into how technology can enhance productivity and quality on factory floors. Topics include the role of AI in manufacturing, the benefits of connected worker technology, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workforce. Paul also touches on the future of work and how innovative tools can empower workers and reduce stress- ultimately giving a higher quality of life to workforces around the world. Tune in to learn about the exciting advancements shaping the manufacturing industry. In This Episode:-01:29: The Magic of Light Guide Technology -04:01: Connected Worker Technology and Manufacturing Challenges -06:57: The Eureka Moment and Founding of Light Guide -09:14: Impact of Light Guide in Medical and Manufacturing Industries -10:11: Empowering the Workforce with Technology -22:06: The Future of Work: AI and AR in Manufacturing -36:16: Leadership and Community Impact More About Paul Ryznar:Engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur Paul Ryznar is the Founder, President, and CEO of Wixom, Mich.-based LightGuide, Inc. The technology uses proprietary software and high-powered projector systems to guide and confirm the completion of complex manual tasks from assembly to quality control to training. Prior to LightGuide’s invention in 2005, he held senior management roles including Vice President of Operations positions at Detroit Diesel, Bosch, and Energy Conversion Devices—more than 30 years of manufacturing experience. To learn more about Paul, connect with him here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

According to this week's guest on Workforce 4.0, James Soto, sharing stories across the manufacturing industry isn't only mandatory for good marketing, it's mandatory for building a lasting workforce. This week, Ann Wyatt sits down with James (CEO of Industrial Strength Marketing) to learn more about how manufacturing companies can leverage the power of story telling to boost their recruitment initiatives and their legacy and impact that they can have on the future of work. Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, we also learn more about Jame's story from his time growing up around manufacturing to the origins of Manufacturing Day and his purpose behind founding Nashville Made. In This Episode: -01:27: James Soto's Journey in Manufacturing -03:05: The Impact of Manufacturing Day -04:42: The Importance of Manufacturing in Education -08:54: Leadership and Trends in Manufacturing -21:37: The Role of Makers in Modern Manufacturing -27:11: The Impact of Community Investment -36:51: The Importance of Core Values -43:02: Building a Career Tribe More About James Soto:With over 20 years of experience as the founder and CEO of Industrial Strength Marketing James is passionate about helping industrial companies transition from traditional to technology marketing. James leads an integrated marketing agency that specializes in the industrial sector, creating omnichannel storytelling that engages and inspires industrial audiences. James also founded INDUSTRIAL STUDIOS, a video-first studio that redefines what a manufacturing video can be and how it can impact perceptions of manufacturing. As a co-founder and board member of Nashville Made, James continues to support the growth and development of local manufacturing companies and makers, providing them with programming, education, event strategy, and connections to key stakeholders. James also works directly with them on community engagement, diversity, workforce development, and job training programs. To learn more about James, connect with him here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

How does Mission Design and Automation take the lead on retaining fresh talent for their growing workforce? On this episode of Workforce 4.0,, host Ann Wyatt interviews Ryan Lillibridge, (Vice President of the organization) as he shares best practices for fostering a collaborative work culture and Mission's key philosophy on taking care of each other (as well as the customer). Ryan also delves into his own extensive career in automation, what it's like to cover industries from aerospace to agriculture and the significance of curiosity, mentorship and continuous learning for career growth. Lastly, Ryan talks in depth on the role of technology in enhancing the employee experience and the future of manufacturing. In This Episode:-02:13: Company Philosophy: Taking Care of Each Other and the Customer -03:31: A Tour of Mission Design and Automation -07:06: Innovation and Leadership at Mission -13:43:: Building a Creative and Collaborative Company Culture -16:15: Ryan's Career Journey and Advice for Young Professionals -19:39: Fostering a Successful Environment for Interns -25:28: Technology's Impact on Employee Experience -32:23: Future Goals and Industry Impact More About Ryan Lillibridge:Ryan has over 19 years of experience in the automation industry, In his role as VP of Mission Design and Automation, Ryan oversees the business development, sales, and engineering teams, and ensures that they deliver high-quality and innovative products that meet their clients' needs and expectations. Ryan is passionate about creating solutions that improve efficiency, productivity, and quality in different industries, and he is always eager to learn new technologies and trends. Ryan values teamwork, collaboration, and diversity, and he strives to create a positive and inclusive work environment for Mission Design and Automation staff and stakeholders. Learn more about Ryan or connect with him here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

From building machines to building Apple iPhones, Roman Piszcz (Founder of Quotebeam) has a lot of experience in creating products and helping businesses find real solutions. It was from his personal passion for creating a better way for companies to purchase products. This week on Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Roman and Nikki Gonzales to discuss in more detail about his passion for entrepreneurship, what it means to hire "intraprenuers" and how start up companies can leverage the interviewing process to identify and hire leading talent. Roman and Nikki also share their unique perspectives on the benefits of remote work, how automation and machine learning apps empower people to focus on more meaningful work and why providing tools for ownership is crucial to organizational success in the digital era. In This Episode:-03:06 Roman's Journey and QuoteBeam's Origin -18:03 Exploring The Spirit of Entrepreneurship -29:59 Evaluating Candidates Via An Interviewing Question About Climate Change -31:03 Unlocking Interview Tactics To Assess Critical Thinking-31:56 Hiring Fresh Graduates: A Unique Approach -36:05 The Future of Workforce and Technology -38:57 The Evolution of Communication -55:47 Building and Retaining High-Performing Teams More About Roman Piszcz:Throughout his career, Roman always designed machines using two principles: simplicity and performance. These two principles brought about the inception of Quotebeam. Although the machines he was designing were using state-of-the-art technologies, Roman realized that the process of designing them was extremely fragmented and inefficient. Recognizing these engineering and procurement gaps in parts search, sourcing, and vendor collaboration marked his first efforts in automating these processes. During the five years before taking Quotebeam full time in early 2021, Roman led a team at Apple’s iPhone & Core Technologies manufacturing operations. That experience amplified his belief of the importance of data transparency and supplier collaboration, and led to the beginning of Quotebeam as a company. Learn more and connect with Roman here. About Nikki Gonzales:Nikki has a unique mix of skills including growing SaaS startups and direct experience as a field Sales Engineer in industrial automation for Festo and Keyence. After a series of meetings over a few years from Silicon Valley to Seattle, a couple of babies, a global pandemic, and a move to Texas, finally the stars aligned for Nikki to join Quotebeam full time! She’s always loved problem solving and building things, so it led to a career in engineering sales spanning technologies such as Machine Vision, Pneumatics & Mechatronics, Computational Electromagnetics, and AI & Data Analytics, to name a few. Learn more and connect with Nikki here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this season 5 opener of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Jeff Kondel, Founder and Executive Director of ROOTS Education Company. They discuss Jeff's journey into robotics and his dedication to integrating advanced automation and robotics into educational systems, spanning from elementary schools to universities. Jeff shares insights on how Roots Education is bridging the gap between technology and meaningful work for students. Jeff also highlights impactful projects, like the use of robotics in health care and other applications for robotics beyond industrial use cases. Lastly, we hear more on career advice from Jeff for aspiring roboticist and engineers, alike. In This Episode:-03:51: The Origin Story of ROOTS Education -14:48 Robotics Applications Outside of Industrial Manufacturing -25:59 Collaboration in Workforce Development -27:13 Automation vs. Human Resources -34:50 Success Stories in Automation More About Jeffrey Kondel:With over 20 years of experience in Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics including Automotive, Medical Device and Food/Beverage, Jeff is passionate about bringing robotics training to all ages and assists manufacturers in achieving their goals to build efficient, data driven manufacturing operations. To serve the specific needs of Academia, ROOTS Engineering has created a product and curriculum to advance industrial skills in manufacturing using automation, with the goal of bridging the gap between local industry and the competencies of our future workforce. ROOTS Engineering works to bridge that gap by placing collaborative robots and training into academia, from middle school to advanced technical programs which help filter and prepare students for their future interests. To learn more about Jeff, connect with him here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

Is it truly the end of document as we know it? Bryan Bauw, COO of Pico MES thinks so and on this episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt is in conversation on Bryan on how the future of work is being drastically changed through the adaption of technology for the dreaded documentation process. Bryan also shares his journey from starting as an industrial engineer to becoming a prominent figure on the manufacturing scene, the evolution and digitalization of manufacturing and the role of AI in the future of our favorite industry sector.In This Episode:-03:27 The Evolution of Manufacturing and Technology-07:20 Teaching and Networking in Manufacturing-11:05 Digitization in Manufacturing: The Future is Now-20:18 The Evolution of Automation Systems-21:24 Exploring the Differences: Automation vs. Robotics-22:53 AI in Manufacturing: Current and Future Applications-28:02 Industrial Automation and Robotics: Practical Implementations-31:46 Balancing Standardization and InnovationMore About Bryan Bauw:Bryan Bauw is Chief Operating Officer of Pico MES, a software startup that helps manufacturers improve their productivity. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of North Alabama and a Strategic Advisor to venture-backed manufacturing startups. Bryan has nearly two decades of experience leading advanced manufacturing teams and product development in high-growth businesses, startups and VC investments.Prior to joining Pico MES, Bryan was Head of Manufacturing and Partner at Prime Movers Lab, Director of Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and Technology and General Manager at Collins Aerospace and held various manufacturing and business roles at GKN Aerospace. To learn more about Bryan, connect with him here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt interviews Lori Harbour, Principal of Wipfli. Lori shares her journey into the manufacturing industry, ignited by her father, and her passion for revitalizing North American manufacturing. They discuss the importance of a strategic approach to HR, succession planning, and building a strong company culture. Lori emphasizes the role of technology and diversity in manufacturing, and the challenges of competing with other industries for talent. They also touch on the significance of community engagement and educating the younger generation about manufacturing careers. Lori highlights insights from her book, 'Tradition Meets Transformation,' and her efforts to raise awareness about the critical state of manufacturing in the U.S.In This Episode:-08:09 Challenges in Manufacturing and HR Integration-14:07 Succession Planning in Manufacturing-28:19 The Impact of Manufacturing on Local Economies-30:27 Challenges in the Manufacturing Sector-37:53 Building a Better Company Culture-44:13 Promoting Diversity in Manufacturing-49:20 Conclusion and Ways to ConnectMore About Laurie HarbourThroughout her distinguished career, Laurie has been instrumental in guiding companies through periods of transformation, leveraging her expertise in lean manufacturing, strategic planning, and organizational development to drive sustainable growth and competitiveness. Her insights into the evolving landscape of workforce management in the era of Industry 4.0 offer invaluable perspectives for businesses navigating the complexities of modern manufacturing. To date, Laurie is the Principal of Wipfli. To learn more about Laurie, connect with her here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

From rocking Warped Tour to rocking the way that we train the next generation of manufacturing talent, Peter Costa, CEO and Founder of Baltu Technologies, has always done things on his own terms. On this week's episode of Workforce 4.0, Peter sits down with Ann Wyatt to share more about how he took inspiration from YouTube and the way that he learned in a classroom setting and developed a unique training platform that is making manufacturing skills accessible for all. We also deep dive into Peter's love for music and physics and how that has shaped his concept of the evolution of the manufacturing workforce. In This Episode:-Peter shares his thoughts on how technology has impacted our daily lives and how the evolution of technology in manufacturing is becoming more embedded into the way that we work (~timestamp 13:05)-Peter shares his own story of how he was inspired by video learning throughout his college career and how he hopes that his shared experience impacts hands on learners of the manufacturing workforce (~timestamp 18:31)-Peter talks more in depth about the shrinking labor pool in manufacturing and how short term training solutions can provide a pathway for a more sustainable manufacturing workforce and local economies (~timestamp 27:59) More About Peter:Peter Costa is the CEO and co-founder of Baltu Technologies. He is a seasoned tech entrepreneur with a passion for employing technology to solve real-world problems. Early on he was exposed to computers, science, and technology, thanks to his father's work in designing and building supercomputers. This early immersion has shaped his professional pursuits and fostered a lifelong passion for innovation. At Baltu Technologies, Peter merges his diverse experiences to accelerate the development of a skilled workforce. As a recognized thought leader, Peter has spoken at conferences across the United States, Abu Dhabi, and China. Throughout his career, Peter's love for building things has evolved into a mission to create technological solutions that better people's lives, making him a driving force in using entrepreneurship and technology to help drive positive social impact. Connect and learn more about Peter here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

Creativity in manufacturing comes in all forms and for Paul Miklautsch, Soloprenuer at BOLDR Project Management, design thinking is a key part of creating strong processes and strong workforces. On this episode of Workforce 4.0, we learn more from Paul on the concept of design thinking and how implementing that strategy to your manufacturing business to build your team can lead to success in building a solid foundation for your workforce. Paul also shares more with host, Ann Wyatt, on what it means to be BOLD in manufacturing and how we can all make positive changes every day. In This Episode:- Paul shares how design thinking has become a must have business tool for not only creating a more efficient business, but also a more empowered and successful workforce (~timestamp 7:29)- Paul shares his own thoughts on how both individuals and businesses can be bold in manufacturing and how we can make incremental impacts through baby steps (~timestamp 12:44)-Paul talks in depth about the power of influence and how everyone in leadership is an industry influencer. He also shares his own tips on what successful influencing looks like and how it impacts your company culture (~timestamp 22:50)More About Paul:Paul believes that every product, every service, every experience should be purposeful and add value to customers. That’s why he works with leaders at B2B manufacturing companies to help them focus and advocate for customers. Through the course of his career, Paul has discovered that the path to better innovation is through strong product management. Paul helps organizations understand the benefit of product management, add the role in their processes, and help professionally develop product managers to a higher standard of excellence. Maximizing your product management capabilities means maximizing the value you deliver customers through more purposeful innovation. Connect with Paul directly here to learn more. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

Culture is a hot topic in manufacturing and a topic that is near and dear to TCO Strategies owner and fellow podcaster, Jim Mayer';s heart. On this episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt sits down with Jim for a one on one conversation on the impacts that culture has on your organization from a recruiting perspective as well as the financial impacts that poor culture can have on your organization. Most importantly, Jim offers real suggestions on how companies can improve their culture. In This Episode:-We learn more about how Jim helps companies shift their culture mindset and adopt healthy habits to create healthy cultures (~timestamp 16:56)-Jim shares how he works with his clients directly in order to create metrics for healthy and financially stable cultures (~timestamp 19:14)-Jim talks in depth on the value of transparency and how leading conversations through transparency have had positive effects on his client's employees (~27:43)More About Jim:In the manufacturing world, Jim is your go-to guy for turning 'just okay' workplaces into environments where everyone thrives. His journey began over 20 years ago in the skilled trades. Today, as the founder of TCO Strategies, he's all about helping manufacturers craft teams that don't just function but excel. Jim also hosts the very popular podcast, Manufacturing Culture Podcast. Learn more and connect with Jim here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

It all started when Amy Teal and Mike Franz met up for coffee. That's how the origin of ShopFloor Coffee was born. Now, with names like "Red Shop Towel" and "First Shift," ShopFloor Coffee is leveraging their workforce themed coffee and their passion for workforce development to give a portion of their proceeds back to keep fueling critical training programs to fight the skills gap. In this week's episode, join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with ShopFloor Coffee CoFounders, Amy Teal and Mike Franz to hear more about their passion for workforce development, how technology is already impacting the lives of our younger generations and how we can all make an impact in creating a better manufacturing future. In This Episode:-As an industry veteran of 3D printing, Amy gives us her thoughts on how 3D printing and additive manufacturing are going to continue to be a huge part of the future of manufacturing (~timestamp 9:18)-Amy and Mike talk in depth on the importance of their mission for ShopFloor Coffee and how they are continuing to partner with agencies like SkillsUSA, NCATC and Skill Up Arizona (~timestamp 15:17)-Amy and Mike share their thoughts on how we're innovating the way that we train our manufacturing workforce and how that is very different than years past (~timestamp 25:08)More About ShopFloor Coffee:"Not your regular coffee cult." At ShopFloor Coffee, we're more than just a coffee brand; we're on a mission to make a real impact in the world of manufacturing education. Our passion is to bridge the gap between industry needs and education, empowering the next generation of skilled professionals. Every cup you enjoy with us contributes to this mission. A portion of our proceeds is dedicated to supporting organizations committed to advancing manufacturing education. Together, we're shaping the future of this industry through knowledge, skills, and opportunity. Join us in this journey! Connect with our community of coffee lovers who are equally passionate about education and industry growth. Together, we can brew success, one sip at a time. To learn more visit ShopFloor Coffee. Or, connect with Amy Teal and Mike Franz directly. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

As the former CEO of BILSTEIN ThyssenKrupp, Fabian Schmahl not only understands the value of stakeholders, but the value of people. Today, Fabian acts as a Managing Partner for Bold Promises Delivered, and continues to advocate for Industry 4.0 and people over process. Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down for a one on one conversation with Fabian to learn more on what it means to win big for people through technology and how those win impact an organization's ROI at scale. In This Episode:-Fabian shares what it means to win as a CEO by explaining the key differences between "shareholder" and "stakeholder" and leveraging relationships between your community, partnering agencies and internal workforce to identify and eliminate lower value tasks (~timestamp 6:55)-We learn more on how Fabian successfully implemented culture changes and how manufacturing organizations can begin to initiate culture changes to improve recruiting efforts and retention rates (~timestamp 11:13)-With all of the buzz surrounding Industry 4.0, Fabian drops his best practices for separating good information from the noise and for manufacturing leadership interested in driving innovation through technology (~timestamp 25:20)More About Fabian Schmahl:Fabian is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of growing business excellence experience in the plastics, rubber and automotive industries. He began his career in 1997 as a Management Trainee at Thyssen Henschel Industrietechnik in Germany, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become Production Manager and Vice President in the United States. After later serving as Executive VP at HF Rubber Machinery, Fabian entered the Tier 1 automotive sector as President & CEO of thyssenkrupp BILSTEIN of America, Inc. where he led the development and manufacture of premium quality, high-performance automotive suspension solutions. During his 15+ year tenure at BILSTEIN, Fabian led the company through 5 major expansions, expanded its workforce by 600+ employees, and facilitated the planning, testing and plant-wide deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies. In 2015, he received the German-American Friendship Award on behalf of the German Ambassador recognizing outstanding service to German-American relations. In 2016, he was named in Cincy Magazine’s 75/71 Business Hall of Fame, and in 2018 he received the Civic Leadership Award honoring Cincinnati leaders for “demonstrated leadership, professional achievement, and continuous, invaluable contributions to their community.” In 2020, he was inducted into the Greater Butler County Business Hall of Fame. Fabian remains committed to the advancement of Industry 4.0/5.0 and firmly believes "you must automate to innovate." Connect and learn more about Fabian here. The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

It all started in a cornfield. That is the how Mike White, Founder of Secchi.io, began his mission to create a solution that has been haunting the manufacturing HR world for decades- how do we let great workers do great work? On this Season 4 opener of Workforce 4.0, join your host Ann Wyatt as she talks one on one with Mike about the the day to day challenges that manufacturing HR executives are faced with, why that's important to recruiting and retention in our industry and why manufacturing operations should care. In this up front conversation between two people that love people and HR, we learn more about how utilizing gamification, incentives and easy to follow guidelines for our industry supervisors are shaping the way that we work- for the better! In This Episode:-Mike shares his passion for the frontline leader and offers challenges and solutions that allow HR to finally get out of the way of our frontline leadership and let great leaders lead (~timestamp 7:01)-We learn more about Mike's own career journey from playing sports growing up, to getting an early start in tech through a school web club and finally, how Mike ended up becoming the dynamic HR leader he is today- including leading 60+ manufacturing facilities across the globe (~timestamp 17:06)-Mike shares some of the results that he has had through popular HR strategies such as gamification and incentives and how we can improve retention rates and build stronger manufacturing cultures (~timestamp 23:07)More About Mike White:Mike is a Data-Driven Decision Maker who is passionate for data based decision-making utilizing six sigma methodology. His prior work experience includes results in recruitment, labor efficiency, training, consulting, and turnover reduction. As an HR Leadership and Business Partner with the responsibility of 60+ manufacturing facilities globally (including Fortune 500 brands), Mike has led a human resource team, including managers, supervisors, generalists, recruiters, trainers, coordinators, and operations managers. Mike holds a Master’s Degree of Human Resources and Industrial Relations, and is a graduate of the University of Illinois School of Labor and Employment Relations. All of this has led Mike to become the founder of Secchi.io, where they provide clarity for HR professionals and frontline leaders to make data-driven performance decisions, simplified. By tracking more than just discipline, Secchi is a software that provides visibility of team performance, removes the barriers of administrative tasks, and increases productivity. To learn more about Mike, connect with him here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

How is a self described "serial entrepreneur" bringing her passion for business and creative design to the forefront of the robotics industry? This question and more is revealed on this week's episode of Workforce 4.0 as Kim Losey, Chief Growth Officer of Rapid Robotics sits down with Ann Wyatt to discuss the importance of creative design in business and how creativity is shaping the future of the way that we work. Joined by special guest co-host Ryan Treece, we uncover more about Kim's own career journey and more key insights that you don't want to miss! In This Episode:-Kim shares what her favorite use cases for implementing technology like robotics and advice for driving real business value by being genuine in creating solutions (~timestamp 13:34)-Kim talks in depth about her role as a being a creative entrepreneur and how her creative skills have led to her own successful career growth by learning to share the stories of others (~timestamp 25:51)-Kim shares her insights on the future of work and how remote monitoring will one day lead to more flexible work and the greater impact that will have on women in manufacturing and diversity recruiting (~timestamp 37:08)More About Kim Losey:Kim is a catalyst for business growth and impact with a deep appreciation for the power of a brand, She's passionate about leading diverse global teams and demonstrating exponential business growth through creative vision, strong strategic leadership, and insight-based global marketing programs. She's an innovative problem solver, a trusted business partner, and a champion for cross-functional collaboration with proven versatility across teams that span high creative to in-depth technical. With experience leading businesses large and small, across industries and consumer targets, she brings a persistent pursuit of awesome and inspiration to everything she does. Kim currently serves as the CGO for Rapid Robotics. To learn more about Kim, connect with her here. To learn more about Rapid Robotics, visit them here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

When it comes to the transformative power of technology and how tech is shaping the way that we work, Jack Nehlig, President of Phoenix Contact is far from a stranger. Conversely, Jack is quite the innovator in this space just as much as Phoenix Contact is continuing to innovate industrial automation. In this episode, join our host, Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Jack to talk more about how Jack is not only keeping his company's products at the center of solutions driven tech, but also how Jack is keeping his workforce centric to adopting technology day to day. Joined by guest co-host, Ryan Treece, this episode of Workforce 4.0 is one that you certainly don't want to miss!In This Episode:-Listen to how Jack shares how the impact of digitalization has only fueled his own determination in creating internal workforce development programs to up skill employees (~timestamp 22:27)- Jack shares what his inspiration and motivation is behind being one of manufacturing's most well known leaders and a "champion of the people" (~timestamp 30:47)-Learn what skills Jack is always recruiting for and how Phoenix Contact adopts transferrable skills (~timestamp 34:35)More About Jack Nehlig:Jack Nehlig was named President of Phoenix Contact USA in November of 2001. He is responsible for Phoenix Contact’s operations in the United States, comprising the U.S. sales subsidiary and the Group Center of Competence for the Americas. In addition to his U.S. responsibilities, he became a member of the Phoenix Contact Group Executive Committee in 2016. ack serves on the Board of Governors of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). He holds a B.S. in Industrial Distribution from Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., and an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix in Arizona. To learn more about Jack, connect with him here. See solutions provided by Phoenix Contact here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

How is Augmented Reality going to shape the way that we work in manufacturing? On this week's episode of Workforce 4.0, our host Ann Wyatt sits down with Angela Ortiz to learn more about how work instructions are not only going digital, but impacting recruiting and retention strategies, addressing resource challenges and scaling and the impact that partnerships have on influencing career goals. In This Episode:-Angela shares how manufacturing companies are leveraging AI to assist in finding and capturing their triable knowledge repositories to revolutionize and define work instructions that will enable the next generation of the workforce (~timestamp 12:47)-Angela talks more in depth about how HR is influencing and leading impactful conversations with their manufacturing teams in order to drive and champion digital change for the frontline workforce and how this technology can play a critical role in recruiting, training and development (~timestamp 16:34)-Angela talks about the power of partnerships in manufacturing and how her own career journey in manufacturing has evolved from Business and Project Management into a successful CoFounder (~timestamp 19:36)More About Angela Ortiz:Angela is a strong heart-centered business professional with a passion for helping companies identify and solve their pressing challenges using AR and smart glass technology. Angela and Javier Ortiz created NewForge to be a comprehensive resource for onboarding, training, and implementing new processes and technology solutions for companies of all sizes. To learn more about Angela, connect with her here. This Episode of The Future of Work Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

What's it like to be a robot boss and why is this an exciting new career of the future of work? Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Florian Pestoni, Co-Founder and CEO of InOrbit AI to learn more about how manufacturing companies and supply chain companies are utilizing cutting edge cloud technology to enable the workforce of the future. Joined by Ryan Treece as a guest co-host, Ryan and Ann go in depth with Florian to talk more about his experience as a Founder of multiple companies, his advice for the future of the workforce and some hot takes on pizza, music and what manufacturing jobs could look like in the next 10-15 years. In This Episode:-Florian and Ann share their mutual love for working with start up companies and Florian gives his unique perspective for members of the audience interested in what an average day looks like as a Founder (~timestamp 5:42)-Florian shares his top advice for candidates that are interested in working for a startup company and shares what that advice has in common with one of his passions- pizza (~timestamp 11:13)-Florian goes into detail more about what it will be like interacting with robots as our coworkers of the future and shares how that will impact every industry (~timestamp 26:36)More About Florian Pestoni:Florian is an accomplished business leader and author, with hands-on experience bringing innovative products to market. As InOrbit’s CEO and co-founder, Florian leads strategy, fundraising and go-to-market activities. He is passionate about raising awareness around the new category of RobOps, sharing his compelling vision for the evolution of robotics and the future of work. He is also a co-founder of the Robot Operations Group, a community-led organization of experts in scaling robot deployments. Florian is an investor, advisor, board member, and mentor to young startup founders. To learn more about Florian, connect with him here. More About InOrbit AI: InOrbit is the leading provider of SaaS RobOps - DevOps for robotics. InOrbit offers a secure, scalable, cloud-based robot management and analytics platform that enables robotics companies and their customers to develop, deploy and operate smart robots at global scale. Our platform is designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing programs and other services, bringing RobOps to scale. InOrbit's mission is to enable a world where humans, robots and AI work together to drive radical productivity improvements and enable people to reach new heights. Learn more about InOrbit AI here.

Manufacturing careers are for everyone, especially creatives! In this episode, we dive into the intersection of manufacturing innovation and the perspectives of the Gen Z workforce. Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Jacob Sanchez, the MFGKid, for a dynamic conversation about the roles of creativity in the future of work, what Gen Z values in their career development and how we can continue to make an impact for the next generations.Featuring Ryan Treece as the guest co-host, tune in as we explore how Gen Z is revolutionizing manufacturing. From embracing emerging technologies to advocating for sustainability and diversity within the sector. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or simply curious about the future of manufacturing, this episode promises to offer thought-provoking insights and inspiration.In This Episode:-Jacob shares his passion for the nonprofit program, FIRST Robotics and how he has seen this robotics competition impact kids of all ages at a deep level (~timestamp 9:44)-Jacob shares his insights on recruiting more members of the Gen Z workforce into the manufacturing industry by expressing what motivates them (~timestamp 18:57)-Jacob shares the one word that describes the Gen Z workforce and how being upfront with people and embracing empathy can help bridge the gap between the workforce generations (~timestamp 39:47)More About Jacob Sanchez:Jacob's passion for changing people's lives, no matter their age or experience, is why he stays connected with his industry and stays engaged with his community. Jacob began his career as an Application Engineer and has successfully grown his own brand to include hosting educational content for MSC, being featured at industry events and working exclusively as a digital creator. Jacob continues to bring his talent and passion for this industry to his clients by developing individualized winning social media strategies that improve company brands and speak to multiple generations. To learn more, connect with Jacob here.About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:How many times over the last few years have we heard the words, "supply chain" and what types of jobs can we expect to be trending amongst the future of the supply chain landscape? Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Tom Brouillette from OTIS Supply Chain Consulting as they answer this question and tackle some of the other topics related to this rapidly growing industry. In This Episode:-After spending decades in the Supply Chain Industry, Tom shares his thoughts on where the supply chain is heading over the next 10 years in beyond (~timestamp 8:06)-Tom speaks in depth about the importance of product and packaging sustainability and how we're embarking on the age of the circular economy (~timestamp 14:55)-Tom shares some advice for the younger generations of the workforce and how to ensure that you continue to grow personally and professionally (~timestamp 32:27)More About Tom Brouillette:Tom leads professional services and solutions for digital transformation focused on supply chain intelligence through advanced visibility analytics. With over 15 years of experience in supply chain management, logistics, and technology, he has the expertise and vision to help clients achieve their unique business objectives and priorities by developing and implementing resilient and agile strategic roadmaps that deliver value, efficiency, and innovation based on regular evaluation of market and industry disruptions and changing priorities. To learn more, connect with Tom here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:When Ryan Treece began pursing his educational path at Western Michigan University, he had a very limited scope of what career opportunities actually existed in the world of manufacturing outside of engineering roles. Flash forward a decade later and Ryan has certainly earned his role as a Business Development Manager of his company, Telit. Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down for a deep dive on Ryan's own career journey through manufacturing on this exciting season 3 opener of Workforce 4.0. Learn more about this self identified "Nerdy IOT Guy's" own personal relationship with how he incorporates data into his health, how he found his calling and how he continues to inspire others. Also hear more about what it means to him to be featured as a top Industry 4.0 Influencer.In This Episode:-Ryan shares how he was recruited out of school for his first manufacturing job and how the allure of selling lasers caught his attention straight away (~time stamp 12:28)-Ryan talks in depth about his personal health journey and how technology has helped him be successful in his career, how he shares that as an Industry 4.0 Influencer and how manufacturers can also think of technology aiding their human workforce in innovative ways (~timestamp 19:28)-We talk briefly about how small and medium sized manufacturers can incorporate their legacy machinery and assets into new and emerging technology (~timestamp 19:28)More About Ryan Treece:Ryan Treece brings 14 years of experience in Industrial Automation & Manufacturing to his role as the Chair of the Cloud & Edge Technical Committee for ISA's Smart Manufacturing & IIoT Division. In addition to his leadership at ISA, he is a Co-Founder of the Industry 4.0 Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the technological future of manufacturing. Serving as the Business Development Manager for Telit Cinterion's IIoT Edge & Cloud Software Platforms division, Ryan is a key figure in the implementation of cutting-edge Industry 4.0 solutions. To learn more about Ryan, connect with him here. More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:Launched in 2016, KTECH has awarded more than 300 certifications. In 16 weeks KTECH students earn 4 industry recognized certifications to meet the increasing demands of our manufacturing rich community. KTECH is meeting a need in the non-profit sector that no other organization is serving, connecting people to careers. Taking Kids to Love from grassroots to a global outreach has landed Lee on the list of the 500 Most Influential CEO’s in the World. Lee has been named an “Angel in Adoption” by Congress and honored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for her adoption awareness efforts. Kids to Love was named the Women-Owned Business of the year with the Huntsville – Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Lee has also been honored by the Alabama Broadcaster’s Association for her journalistic contributions and was named one of 2017 Women Who Shape The State. 2019 Entrepreneur of the year in Huntsville, 2019 Non Profit Executive of the Year and 2020 Woman of Impact Honoree.In This Episode:-Lee drops her pro tip for those interested in starting their own non profit training program in their local area and credits the power of networking to KTECH's continued success (~time stamp 11:58)-Lee talks about being comfortable being a disruptor in the training space and how KTECH's success story is one for the underdogs (~timestamp 13:02)-In addition to providing advanced technical skills to underserved children, Lee also shares how they incorporate their training initiatives with soft skills development as part of their Life Lab (~time stamp 13:02) More About Lee Marshall:Lee Marshall’s purpose and passion is to advocate for youth living in foster care. Lee was born into foster care and adopted at the age of 2, so she knows firsthand the difference adoption can make. Through her Kids to Love Foundation, which meets the needs of foster children, Lee is changing the trajectory of young lives. Connect with Lee to learn more here. More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:When I first met Mike Yost through the Industry 4.0 Club, I remember being so inspired by his passion for people his commitment to making sure that they're the focus of all digital transformation. After learning more about his work through his own nonprofit, IGBYS and his work regionally, nationally and globally, I can personally testify that Mike Yost is the manufacturing man! Mike's tenure with manufacturing nonprofits exceeds those ventures. He has also been involved with organizations such as MESA and continues to support the work carried out through CESMII. Through all of his endeavors, his main mission continues to be connecting industry experts, solution providers and just people of the manufacturing community and developing connections far deeper than any internet stream.In This Episode:-It's been said many times that your "network is your net worth," and Mike Yost is no exception to this rule. Learn more about how Mike has built and leverage his own network to not only develop his leadership skills, but also to advance the manufacturing industry as a whole. (~timestamp 10:39)-Mike shares why his continued support in the Industry 4.0 Club is crucial to the education and knowledge sharing of the manufacturing industry. Mike goes on to provide key advice in the importance of educating each other and practicing active listening of our network providers. (~timestamp 15:30)-Mike shares his hot take on digital transformation and why the moment for implementing technology with people at the center of this process in more of our manufacturing facilities is critical to the continued success of our industry (~timestamp 16:34)More About Mike Yost:Mike Yost is a trusted IT/OT leader, messenger, advisor with 30+ years of industrial, commercial and leadership experience in Industrial Automation/Software. In short, he grew up with software on the plant floor and help scale its impact throughout the business. Mike is passionate spokesman and speaker, skilled at message creation, adaptation and delivery. Mike is also dedicated to helping manufacturers compete, leveraging modern software solutions to drive performance. Connect and learn more about Mike here.More About Industry 4.0 Club:Industry 4.0 Club is a dynamic, growth-oriented community that brings together professionals from diverse backgrounds to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation within the realm of Industry 4.0.Our members include practitioners, technology providers, consultants, and thought leaders united by their passion for the advancement of smart manufacturing solutions. By hosting engaging events, insightful discussions, and providing a platform for networking, we empower our members to forge connections, learn from one another, and shape the future of sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices. Learn more about the work Industry 4.0 Club is facilitating here.

Episode Notes:It's hard to imagine someone more passionate about technology and workforce development in the manufacturing community than the one and only Will Healy! Will has made his own identity as "Will I Automate" on numerous social platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn and Tik Tok. His dedication to the industry through serving on panels about technology, product marketing and workforce development have also lead to most of us thinking of him as our big bro. Always eager to help and always informative and educational, Will joins our host, Ann Wyatt for in depth look at how investing in technology is driving value as an investment in our manufacturing workforce, too.In This Episode:-Will gives us his industry insights into what he feels like are the biggest technology disrupters for the manufacturing industry and how they are aiding in bridging the workforce talent gap (~timestamp 7:02)-Will shares his thoughts on how manufacturing companies will need to be more versatile and agile in their training techniques (~timestamp 14:31)-Will shares his passion for evangelizing the manufacturing industry and shares tips on how manufacturing industry partners such as NAM, AMEP and other local area organizations are critical to driving success in creating a future talent pipeline (~timestamp 18:52)More About Will Healy:Will is passionate about people-centric technology, helping others find value in automation, building our talent pipeline and working to improve manufacturing productivity. When we work together, Will brings innovative automation concepts, proven solutions and fresh workforce insights that can dramatically change how you work, raising your competitive position. Will does this from the US in the Cincinnati/NKY metro but loves to travel and see how stuff is made around the world. To learn more about Will, connect with him here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:This week on Workforce 4.0, we are extremely honored to be hosting Mike Nager, with the Solution Center of Festo Didactic. Mike is not only a 3x published author but a 4x Top IIOT and Industry 4.0 Influencer and has some solid experience in leading the way when it comes to Digital Transformation and smart manufacturing. A champion of workforce development, Mike has long been advocating for diversity in the manufacturing workforce and finding solutions to overcome the impending skills gap.In This Episode:-Mike shares his own experiences working within a multigenerational workforce but gently reminds us all that the key to success is overcoming road blocks by finding new and innovative paths with emerging technology (~timestamp 15:36)-Mike describes the realistic outcome of Industry 4.0 and how we, as consumers, are already experiencing Industry 4.0 manufacturing within our own communities (~timestamp 20:54)-Mike shares his passion for sharing the exciting opportunities offered through manufacturing careers with younger generations by discussing his why behind authoring his children's book, "All About Smart Manufacturing" (~timestamp 22:30)More About Mike Nager:For years Mike worked in Sales and Marketing for some of the most innovative industry controls companies in the world. He has helped manufacturers to optimize their operations, heading towards Industry 4.0 before we had the term for it. He currently enables hundreds of US manufacturers to become more efficient and profitable to successfully compete worldwide against best-of-class competitors. Connect with Mike here, to learn more! More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:If "The Fearless Frontline" is not gracing your bookshelf as a valuable blueprint for frontline workforce design, this episode is sure to be a treat! Ann Wyatt sits down with the nationally acclaimed and top ranked business book, Ray Attiyah to learn more about the origin story for the book's inception and how the #fearlessfactory in Cincinnati, OH brought "The Fearless Frontline" to life.In This Episode:-Ray begins our conversation unpacking what he defines as a "fearless culture" and a "fearless" frontline and shares deep insights into how to nurture that culture within your own organization (~timestamp 5:08)-Ray shares his top tool for jobseekers that are interested in assessing future employment opportunities by critically analyzing design thinking as an HR function (~timestamp 12:45)-Ray shares his absolute trademark for assessing an industry top performer for hiring managers with in the manufacturing industry (~timestamp 30:31)More About Ray Attiyah:Inspired by his desire to train and seek break through improvements Ray founded Definity Partners (formerly Midwest Manufacturing Solutions/MMS) in 1996 and is currently the Chief Innovation Officer. Ray is also an accomplished author having written several articles for various industry journals and having launched his first book in March of 2013 entitled The Fearless Front Line: The Key to Liberating Leaders to Improve and Grow Their Business. To learn more about Ray, connect with him here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:This week on Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt sits down with the VP of Marketing of Dexterity, Michael Perry. Join us for this conversation on breaking down how Michael's experience in the robotics industry has brought new perspectives on what happens when a little bit of technology is mixed with a little bit of creativity from our human workforce in manufacturing.In This Episode:-Michael gives his hot take on how automation is supplementing automation and freeing your human workforce for "more meaningful work" (~timestamp 11:16)-Michael gives us his powerful feedback on how companies interested in increasing automation within their facilities can successfully do so with their human workforce alongside cutting edge technology (~timestamp 20:30)-Michael gets candid on how the robotics industry is constantly evolving their design efforts in order to better accomodate the humans working alongside them, operating them and repairing them (~timestamp 27:43)More About Michael Perry:Michael works with companies, creators, and innovators across the world to deploy cutting-edge mobile robots. He is currently the VP of Marketing for Dexterity Robots and is a long time robotics enthusiast. To connect with Michael click here.More About Dexterity:Dexterity helps people thrive and grow by freeing them to do work that humans do best. For warehouse robotics, we focus on AI, machine learning, and platform-based robotic intelligence to make warehouses more productive, efficient, and safe. Learn more about Dexterity here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:When it comes to all things Industry 4.0, digital twins are at the top of a lot of talking points. So is the impending manufacturing skills gap and the supply chain. This week on Workforce 4.0, we sit down with CoFounder of SwipeGuide, Willemijn Schneyder, to have a more in depth conversation about how technology is creating more sustainability for our people and our processes in the world of manufacturing. In This Episode:-Women everywhere get some inspirational words of wisdom as we discover what keeps Willemijn focused and how we can all learn to speak kinder to our younger selves (~timestamp 1:49)- Willemijn offers value advice as she shares feedback from the minds of the frontline workforce and how our priorities are shifting when it comes to the way that we work in a post Covid world (~timestamp 6:12)-Learn more about the mission behind Willemijn's company, SwipeGuide, to bring more equity to the frontline workforce as a whole and why that is crucial to the future of work (~timestamp 32:53)More About Willemijn Schneyder:Willemijn is the Proud Founder & CEO of SwipeGuide. She is an innovator, entrepreneur, technologist, curiosist, and positivist. She is bringing simplicity in a world where complexity is assumed. Willemijn is a profound believer in the transformative power that comes from democratizing knowledge with crowdsourced technologies. Leveling the playing field and creating access is the cornerstone of creating a more inclusive and sustainable society. To learn more about Willemijn, connect with her here.More About SwipeGuide:We started SwipeGuide in 2015 to make it easier for frontline teams to work, learn, share and improve what they know. From our modest beginnings, we’ve grown into a multinational crew of digital natives on a mission: to build a future-proof frontline "how-to" platform that actually helps people get work done.The clear-cut platform lets you coordinate instructions, checklists, and training to standardize 50 different ways of doing the same thing. Share best practices across teams to drive efficiency and continuous improvement. Crowdsourced expertise keeps every process running: SwipeGuide captures the know-how of the best to remove the guesswork from the rest. Learn more about solutions provided by SwipeGuide here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:As the CEO of Raven, Martin Cloake knows a few things about digital transformation and continuous improvement. As a CoFounder of the Industry 4.0 Club, Ann has personally had the pleasure of working with Martin on hosting numerous conversations centering around people, process and culture. Join Ann as she interviews Martin in more in depth about how the frontline workforce is the most valuable asset to business value for manufacturing operations.In This Episode:-Martin shares his unique career that led him to becoming the CEO of Raven.AI and he shares his thoughts on the importance of manufacturing as a business of people (~timestamp 4:56)-Martin provides key insights into how companies can assess their readiness for implementation of digital transformation and industry 4.0 technology (~timestamp 12:52)-Martin delves into how to share the value of digital transformation and leading change management efforts for integrating technology into your organizations frontline workforce (~timestamp 22:05)More About Raven.ai:Raven.ai's mission is to set a new standard of work for the smart factory and its people, as the one source of truth that powers Industry 4.0 tech stacks throughout factories. Learn more about the industry 4.0 solutions provided by Raven.ai here.More About Martin Cloake:Martin is an experienced executive and award winning technology entrepreneur with a background in Manufacturing, Data Science, IP and Operations Management. He holds multiple patents and am a Mechanical Engineering graduate from McGill university in Montreal, Quebec. He publishes articles and posts regularly on the topics of Industry 4.0, Leadership, Manufacturing and Augmented Management. And, as he proudly and accurately suggests- is a decent follow (and a good guy). To connect and learn more about Martin, click here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:When it comes to the future of Workforce 4.0, the connected worker tools are front and center of the intersection between people and technology. Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Tor-Inge, CTO of Clarify as we take a deep dive into how data is creating a vital link between preserving tribal knowledge and driving engagement across your internal workforce.In This Episode:-Learn how Tor's company, Clarify, is helping to design connected worker tools that use technology to better understand people analytics and how he envisions the future of how technology will intersect in the frontline workforce (~time stamp 4:28)-Hear about how Tor's team made the decision to incorporate emojis into their software design to bridge the technology gap between the tools that we use at work and the platforms that we use every day in our personal lives (~time stamp 9:18)-Listen to how Clarify is actively capturing real time tribal knowledge, even within busy and fast paced manufacturing environments (~time stamp 12:47)More Information About Clarify:Clarify is the operational intelligence cloud. Take control of your OT-data, engage your team, and build better operations. Do it together with Clarify. Learn more here.More About Tor-Inge Johannessen Eriksen: Tor has always been interested in the intersection between people, software and the physical world, and starting out as a consultant. It was this passion that drove Tor and the other founding members of Clarify to build a SaaS product that combines human context and industrial data for daily decisions- Clarify. Connect with Tor-Inge here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode Notes:While anyone in the manufacturing industry will tell you that there’s not a “secret sauce” to recruiting and retaining the next generation of talent, there are a couple of factors that really stand out to MIT Researcher, Ben Armstrong. On this final season 1 episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann sits down to talk to Ben about the numerous case studies that he’s conducted with mostly Small and Medium Size businesses. Spoiler alert, most of his finding support that wages and skills are equal contributing factors to the success of the future manufacturing workforce and that robots really aren’t taking our jobs.In This Episode:-Ben shares his own experiences in working with medium sized manufacturing companies on why they prefer to "hire for will over skill." (~time stamp 10:03)-Ben shares his hot takes on the four categories of manufacturing businesses in the U.S. and how good ideas and good practices help manufacturing companies scale quickly (~time stamp 12:59)-Hear how this MIT Researcher perceives creative skills in the manufacturing workforce and how organizations that offer room for upward mobility and increased wages are winning the war on talent. (~time stamp 30:37)More About Ben Armstrong: Ben Armstrong is the Executive Director and a Research Scientist at MIT’s Industrial Performance Center. His research and teaching examine how workers, firms, and regions adapt to technological change. In his work, Ben has collaborated with governments, non-profit organizations, and firms to understand how scholarship and education can be useful to practitioners and policymakers. To learn more about Ben and read some of his recent publications, visit his MIT page here.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Episode notesThe future of work will require more opportunities for people to work remotely, even within the manufacturing environment. With the rise of remote work, we must be prepared and equipped to not only develop functional systems that our teams can rely on, but also to create more opportunities for our remote teams to interact and be human. When it comes to successfully creating both of those aspects for our future workforce, Chris Luecke is ahead of the game. Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Chris to talk about how he is strengthening the manufacturing community through events, his day job and his popular podcast, "Manufacturing Happy Hour." In this episode:Learn how Chris uses his brand and his social media platforms to escalate diverse voices within the manufacturing industry and how he views the importance of being an ally. (~time stamp 7:30)Chris shares his thoughts on the implementation of technology and highlights the importance of company culture, process and habit building that goes behind the scenes of buidling a remote workforce. (~time stamp 9:35)Chris shares his personal passion for rollercoasters and tells us more about his own journey that ultimately led him down the Mechanical Engineering and Manufacturing path. (~time stamp 18:31)More About Manufacturing Happy Hour: Hosted by industry veteran Chris Luecke, each week, we interview makers, founders, and other manufacturing leaders that are at the top of their game and give you the tools, tactics, and strategies you need to take your career and your business to the next level. We go beyond the buzzwords and dissect real-life applications and success stories so that you can tackle your biggest manufacturing challenges and turn them into profitable opportunities. Connect with Chris Luecke on LinkedIn.More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

There's a lot of talk about the "Great Resignation" when it comes to the manufacturing workforce, but our guest this week on Workforce 4.0 certainly has some insight on how leadership matters. Join Ann as she sits down with the Owner of Elite Automation, Malachi Greb to learn more on his take of being a business owner during the Covid 19 pandemic and how a strong leadership culture matters. Learn more about the creation of Elite Automation and how Malachi has grown his company from a single person to over one dozen employees into over a dozen employees and how culture is the center of his companies growth- regardless of great resignation or not. In this episode:Malachi gives us the meaning behind Elite Automation's slogan "robots are freeing one human at a time" and how that truth is leading to increasing the potential of the manufacturing workforce through Elite's own use case of deploying AMRs. (~time stamp 12:02)Malachi explores how system integrators have to practice meeting their manufacturing clients where they are in their digital transformation process and be ready to provide diverse solutions to accommodate both larger and smaller companies (~time stamp 13:45)How companies can leverage the career goals of multiple generations in order to attract, recruit and retain their manufacturing workforce for the long term (~time stamp 21:16)More About Elite Automation: Elite's mission is not only to increase the profitability and efficiencies of your processes and business, but also to free humans along the way. Life has so many exciting and interesting things to offer. With today's technology why should a human spend their time putting things in a box all day every day? This is a small step towards our goals. However, how can we truly buy back time so that we can spend our time more meaningfully with our families and friends? Connect with Malachi Greb on LinkedIn. More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Connect with your host, Ann Wyatt | Watch video recordings on YouTube | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

When Universal Robots isn't busy giving people more meaningful work with their variety of multi-use cobots, they are on a mission to provide education and training to the next generation of Workforce 4.0. In this week's episode, Ann sits down with Corey Adams to discuss how UR not only believes in providing solutions to empower the manufacturing workforce, but also how they are heading up the charge in partnering with educational providers to strengthen local communities. In this episode:Corey shares his personal perspective on how co-bots are being utilized by manufacturing companies to drive workforce engagement between people and automation (~time stamp 6:43)We learn more about the educational resources that Universal Robots is delivering through partnering with community technical partners and what role their involvement is playing in developing soft skills such as critical thinking for our future workforce generations (~time stamp 11:03)Corey gives us a practical road map for other automation and manufacturing companies interested in expediting their own workforce initiatives through joining forces with their own local nonprofits and technical education systems (~time stamp 24:39)More about Universal Robots: Universal Robots is an innovative robotics company of over 1,000 employees united behind a common vision – to create a world where people work with robots, not like robots. Since the sale of their first collaborative robot in 2008 their technology, along with that of their partners, has been changing the way work is done across the world. To learn more, connect with Corey Adams on LinkedIn. More about Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Video Recordings can be found on YouTube. | Your Host, Ann Wyatt | Workforce 4.0 on Spotify | Workforce 4.0 on Apple Podcasts

Ever since meeting with a company called Augmentir for an online event last fall, Ann Wyatt has been all in on connected worker technology. On this episode of Workforce 4.0, join Ann as she talks directly with Augmentir's VP of Marketing, Chris Kuntz, on why the future of work will not only be connected but empowered. Learn more about how manufacturing is transforming from an industry of specialists to generalists, how connected worker technology is giving manufacturing operations quick (and big) wins and what exactly we can do to preserve tribal knowledge. In this episode:Chris shares his thoughts on the relationship between empowering your workforce and how connected worker tools are creating a more collaborative environment for the future of work (~time stamp 11:11).Ann and Chris discuss the importance of digitally capturing tribal knowledge and how connected worker tools are the future of work in an Industry 4.0 centric workplace ( ~time stamp 19:58).Chris explains how connected worker technology is giving manufacturing companies a competitive edge on training their incumbent workforce to better prepare them for advancing into higher skilled roles within their careers (~time stamp 25:00).More About Augmentir: Augmentir™ is the world’s only provider of AI-based connected worker software. Augmentir’s software platform is a suite of AI-powered connected worker tools that helps industrial companies optimize the safety, quality, and productivity of today’s rapidly changing industrial frontline workforce. Companies in manufacturing, service, energy, and construction leverage Augmentir’s AI in conjunction with the platform’s digital workflow and remote collaboration capabilities to optimize their frontline operations and deliver significant growth and continuous improvement in the areas of performance support, training, and workforce development. Chris Kuntz on LinkedIn More About Workforce 4.0: Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Video Recordings on YouTube | Your Host: Ann Wyatt | Workforce 4.0 on Spotify | Workforce 4.0 on iTunes

When it comes to women taking the manufacturing industry by storm, Meaghan Ziemba is certainly paving the way. Through her LinkedIn Live show, "Mavens of Manufacturing," Meaghan sits down with women leaders of manufacturing from the "shop floor to the C Suite." In this episode of Workforce 4.0, Meaghan explains why women have a critical role in growing the future workforce of the manufacturing industry and shares some of the unique challenges that face women when it comes to growing in this male dominated space. In This Episode:Hear from the #ogvoiceofwomeninmanufacturing herself as she talks about the importance of how we have to engage the future generations of the manufacturing workforce and how she's inspiring her own kiddos to tune in (~ the 5:28 time stamp).How technology is bound to impact all career paths in manufacturing and adjacent industries for the future of work (~the 28:00 time stamp).How flexibility in manufacturing is critical to work/life balance and also how flexibility is crucial for recruiting more women into manufacturing (~the 30:51 time stamp).More About Maven's of Manufacturing: Meaghan's podcast, "Maven's of Manufacturing," is a LIVE video broadcast series that combines women empowerment, brand storytelling, and the amazing world of manufacturing. Its main goals include: • Bringing awareness to U.S. Manufacturing to help increase our competitive edge from the rest of the world. • Recruiting younger generations to the engineering and manufacturing industries and helping to close the skills gap. • Attracting more women to the industries to increase our presence and fill more of the vacancies that are expected over the next 5 to 10 years. • Providing a platform for different brands so they can share their stories and get connected with potential customers and future employees.Connect with Meaghan and her show, Maven's of Manufacturing to learn more: Mavens of Manufacturing | Meaghan Ziemba on LinkedIn More About Workforce 4.0:Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Video Recordings on YouTube | Your Host, Ann Wyatt | Workforce 4.0 on Spotify | Workforce 4.0 on iTunes

If you're a part of the manufacturing community on LinkedIn, you undoubtedly follow Jake Hall, the Manufacturing Millennial. Jake not only creates videos showcasing automation being deployed by manufacturing companies to create the products that you buy everyday, but he also openly advocates for the adoption of automation to give people more meaningful work. Join the conversation to learn more about how he is doing his part to change the narrative of the role that automation will play in the future of the manufacturing workforce and how companies are already successfully making that transition happen today. In This Episode:Jake shares his thoughts on how the industry is progressing into a STEM based industry and how we can attract and recruit incoming generations of the workforce to manufacturing (~the 4:58 time mark).Ann and Jake explore how technology is going to be a critical part of supplementing labor over the next 5-10 years as we continue to face a growing workforce deficit of 2M manufacturing jobs by 2030 (~the 12:36 time mark).Jake addresses the longstanding myth of robotics and automation and how companies can strategically lead conversations with their existing workforce in proactive way in order to guide them into new career paths that are emerging from this technology (~the 22:00 time stamp).More About The Manufacturing Millennial: Jake Hall, The Manufacturing Millennial, talks about the latest technology in the automation and manufacturing while making it engaging for all audiences. He is an experienced sales professional with extensive knowledge building lasting business relationships across multiple accounts, designing sales strategies, and creating and accomplishing project goals. Proficiency in creating new business opportunities with existing and new accounts by leveraging key strengths and maintain customer relationships. Connect with him to learn more and follow him on his social channels: :The Manufacturing Millennial LinkedIn | Jake Hall's LinkedIn | Jake Hall on Tik Tok | Jake Hall on YouTube More About Workforce 4.0:Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as the increasing talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles. Workforce 4.0 on YouTube | Your Host: Ann Wyatt | Workforce 4.0 on Spotify | Workforce 4.0 on iTunes

The year was 2013. Content creators were barely a thing. Blake Shelton and Adam Levine were still pranking each other on "The Voice" and the rest of us were still trying to figure out how to incorporate the power of social media into our branding strategies. That's when the Manufacturing Resource Center in Allentown, PA decided that the status quo of how we reached middle school kids as an industry had to change. This led to a now state-wide movement called "What's So Cool About Manufacturing."If the manufacturing industry had an Emmy's, this is would surely be it. Join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with CEO, Richard Hobbs and Director of Workforce Initiatives, to learn how manufacturing companies are partnering with local area middle school students to create their own content showcasing the future of manufacturing jobs, networking opportunities between companies and the future workforce and bringing a flavor of an entire awards show all at once. In This Episode:-Richard explains to us what is so cool about manufacturing and why this program (tailored for middle school students) is making a larger impact by being unique (~timestamp 10:30) -Richard shares how this program was designed to leverage these student's creativity and how that is shaping this sought after "future of work" skillset (~timestamp 15:43)-Richard explains how What's So Cool is leveraging industry diversity by partnering the students with different niches of manufacturing industries year after year- exposing them to a wide variety of processes (~timestamp 25:14)More About What's So Cool About Manufacturing:Created by the Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC) in Allentown, PA in 2013, the What’s So Cool About Manufacturing® contests draw entries from teams across Pennsylvania. The teams of students and teacher coaches receive camera equipment, software, and professional guidance as they learn to script, record, and edit their video stories. The contest’s objective is to change students’ perceptions about manufacturing careers.