Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

Ever wonder why some machine shops experience rapid, exponential growth while others hit a ceiling?  In this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the strategies behind this growth with Kirk Phelps and Mike Fritz—two seasoned veterans in the machine shop industry who have cracked the code on scaling businesses. With a focus on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), they've successfully expanded their oper...

In this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry. Special guest Bryce Barnes, a manufacturing AI consultant, shares his expertise and insights on how AI is transforming both the shop floor and business operations.  As a former mechanical engineer turned AI specialist, Bryce explains how manufacturers can...

In this episode of MakingChips, we take a deep-dive into the complexities of cybersecurity requirements for manufacturers working with the Department of Defense (DoD) with expert Jacob Horne.  Jacob, the Chief Cybersecurity Evangelist at Summit 7, brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, especially as it relates to the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). His deep dive into...

We're always looking for ways to build greater awareness of manufacturing, and we believe the conversation needs to start at an earlier age. That's why we're excited to speak with people like Michael (Mike) Nager, who shares our passion for bridging the gap. Mike is a passionate advocate for raising awareness about manufacturing through children's literature. As a long-time industry professional,...

The biggest problem in manufacturing today?  Finding  and  retaining  the right talent. Labor shortages aren't just about filling positions; it's about finding people who will truly thrive in your company culture and help drive long-term growth. But how do you accomplish that?  Trevor O'Malley and Myles Rickerd bring a fresh perspective to talent acquisition that is tailored  specifically  to the...

In manufacturing, speed matters—especially when it comes to quoting. If you can't turn around quotes quickly and accurately, your customers will move on to someone who can. But should you leverage AI, like ChatGPT, to make the quoting process easier?  In this episode of MakingChips, we're tackling a hot topic: the risks and limitations of using large language models for estimating and quoting.  Ja...

Many machinists dream of owning their own shop. But there's a big difference between being great at making chips and being great at running a business—just like a skilled operator isn't automatically a great manager. That's why we're launching a new series—think of it as a  MasterClass  on starting, running, and growing a successful machine shop. Business school teaches general principles, but the...

What's the secret to scaling a manufacturing business? For Mike, it all started with a growing passion for manufacturing, a desire to learn, and the decision to implement ProShop ERP. In this episode of MakingChips, Paul and Mike share their origin stories and dive into the transformative power of systems, processes, and ProShop. Mike's journey began with a love for technology and shop floor data...

Watching the wildfires spread in Los Angeles is both heartbreaking and sobering. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this unspeakable tragedy.  We're also reminded of the bravery and dedication of first responders—firefighters on the ground and pilots flying "super scoopers" to drop water where it's needed most. But behind every heroic effort is another layer of unsung heroes: m...

After nearly a decade of shaping MakingChips—spending close to 25% of his life on this journey—Jason Zenger is saying goodbye to the podcast that transformed the manufacturing space.  As one of the original trailblazers, Jason helped create a platform that built community, sparked essential conversations, and made manufacturing more approachable as a career. His vision and dedication inspired othe...

What does it take to build a truly exceptional culture in your manufacturing business? In this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Beau Groover, a seasoned coach with decades of experience in lean implementation, continuous improvement, and leadership. From his early days as an Inventory Control Manager to overseeing 21 plants as Director of Manufacturing, Beau's career has been driven by one...

The world is divided when it comes to New Year's resolutions. Some argue that if you're committed to change, you should take action anytime—not just at the start of the year.  But the new year is also a natural time for reflection, a chance to evaluate where you've been and map out where you're going, in both business and life. In this episode of  MakingChips , we're diving into resolutions that d...

In this special episode of MakingChips, we reflect on our favorite moments of 2024—the ones that made us laugh, the ones that brought a tear to our eyes, and the ones that remind us why we're so proud to be part of the manufacturing community. We dive into the topics that matter most: How to transfer tribal knowledge to the next generation.  Why implementing AI isn't just an option anymore—it's a...

Customer service in manufacturing is often seen as a pain point rather than a differentiator. We've all experienced the frustrations of dealing with companies like Comcast—impossible cancellations, endless transfers, and the feeling of being treated as just another number.  Unfortunately, too many manufacturing shops still operate with a similar "you'll get it when you get it" mentality, leaving c...

In part two of our conversation with Marlene Chism, we dive deeper into the intricacies of navigating workplace conflict and cultivating emotional resilience. Marlene shares actionable strategies for overcoming internal and external conflicts by aligning with your core values and taking personal responsibility for your reactions.  She highlights the importance of emotional regulation, urging leade...

How do you break free from dysfunctional workplace dynamics and create real transformation? Marlene Chism, a former factory worker turned HR consultant and coach, shares her journey from the shop floor to becoming an expert in conflict management. After 21 years at Kraft Foods, Marlene realized she wanted more. When she started taking college classes, she discovered the Karpman Drama Triangle—a to...

Today, we're shining a spotlight on some of the hardest-working and most impactful people in the world: machinists .  These skilled professionals are behind nearly everything we touch, from the medical devices that save lives to the cutting-edge aerospace components that explore the final frontier.  Machinists are the unsung heroes who take ideas from concept to reality, crafting the parts that po...

Election years cause a lot of upheaval in the world of manufacturing. Industry spending can often see a sharp decrease, which can negatively impact many shops. The general indecision leading up to an election impacts almost every sub-genre in manufacturing, from medical devices to aerospace, oil & gas to firearms.  The election is over and Trump has officially been elected back into office. Will a...

Are you ready to take your manufacturing business to the next level with production work? This episode of  MakingChips  dives into the top five benefits of production work and the essential steps to position your shop as a full-service production-ready operation.  Imagine the stability and growth potential when a substantial portion of your monthly revenue is already secured by repeat clients. We...

In this MakingChips  episode, Terry discusses the transformative power of mentoring in manufacturing, especially the importance of reverse mentoring. He shares how younger, tech-savvy workers can help Baby Boomers adapt to new technologies, creating a reciprocal learning relationship. This approach combines the strengths of both generations, enhancing collaboration and knowledge transfer within or...

On this episode of MakingChips, Jason dives into a conversation with Terry Iverson about his book, " Finding America's Greatest Champion: Building Prosperity Through Manufacturing, Mentoring and the Awesome Responsibility of Parenting ." Through initiatives like CHAMPION Now!®, Iverson strives to change public perceptions about manufacturing. He advocates for seeing the industry through a broader...

"How do we connect today's youth with the skilled careers of tomorrow?" This is the challenge the Skilled Careers Coalition is determined to solve. Manufacturing is at a crossroads. Long-time business owners are retiring without successors, shutting down operations entirely. Skilled operators are stepping away, leaving a void without replacements. Shops are struggling to keep up as talent drains a...

In this episode of MakingChips, Al Whatmough explores how AI and automation are transforming the manufacturing industry—not by replacing people, but by empowering them to focus on higher-value work.  Al shares insights from IMTS and introduces the concept of Human-Aided Manufacturing (HAM), where AI handles routine tasks, freeing machinists to make smarter decisions.  They also discuss shifting co...

How does a machinist from Canada end up leading a California tech startup? In Episode #432 of MakingChips, Al Whatmough shares his unique journey—from the shop floor to becoming the CEO of Toolpath, a company dedicated to improving machining through smart software solutions. Al's path is shaped by personal challenges, faith, and a passion for building—whether it's with tools, people, or technology...

IMTS is where manufacturing's cutting-edge technology takes center stage, and this year was no exception. IMTS 2024 brought the future to the forefront, showcasing the most advanced solutions in the industry. In this episode of MakingChips, Nush Ahmed and Chris Luecke join Paul, Nick, and Mike to dive into the game-changing technologies that caught their attention—from additive manufacturing and 3...