my TRUE POSITION

Welcome to another insightful episode of my TRUE POSITION. Today, we dive into the often perplexing world of manufacturing acronyms. For small manufacturing companies, the sheer number of industry-specific abbreviations can be both intimidating and confusing. In this episode, we unravel the mysteries behind these acronyms, helping you understand and navigate the jargon that dominates the manufactu...

Tune in to our latest episode as we delve into the pivotal role of team production meetings in shaping corporate culture and driving success! Join us as we explore why these meetings are essential for fostering a positive work environment where team members feel engaged, informed, and empowered. From sharing critical updates to fostering collaboration, these meetings lay the foundation for a thriv...

Ready to tackle the age-old debate? Join me on the latest episode of 'College vs Trades' where we dig deep into the Machinist vs College dilemma!  From job stability to earning potential, we'll explore all angles to help you make the right career move. Plus, let's talk money – with student loan debt on the rise, finding an affordable path is key. Get ready for practical advice, real stories, and e...

Discover the power of defining your company's Core values in our latest episode! Join us as we delve into the significance of establishing Core values and how they drive success. Learn how the book 'Traction' simplifies this essential aspect of business strategy, making it accessible and actionable for companies of all sizes. Tune in for expert insights on building a strong foundation for your org...

Elevate Your Business Acumen with Networking! Connect, Collaborate, and Conquer with the power of networking.  Expand your circle, exchange ideas, and unlock new opportunities to fuel your business growth.  From industry insights to strategic partnerships, networking is the key to success in today's competitive landscape. Don't just build connections—build your future.

Welcome to the latest episode of 'Shop Talk'! In this edition, we're diving deep into the heart of HR compliance and best practices tailored specifically for the dynamic environment of a machine shop. Join us as we welcome a VIP guest, Karla Dobbek, an HR specialist with a wealth of experience in navigating the intricate landscape of manufacturing HR. From safety protocols to labor laws, we're unc...

Join Jim from CARR Machine & Tool, Inc. as he shares key insights from their move to partner with a Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Discover the lessons learned and the benefits of this strategic shift for their aerospace CNC machine shop in Chicago. Tune in to learn how Jim's journey can inspire your own path to success in manufacturing.

Step into the realm of business mastery with 'Precision Pursuits: Engineering Corporate Growth'  Explore the delicate fusion of financial finesse, mental stamina, and physical resilience crucial for success in our industry. Learn firsthand how the growth of my business has defied expectations, offering invaluable insights for fellow entrepreneurs.

On this episode, we delve into the concept of pushing oneself in the world of business. While striving for success and pushing boundaries can yield favorable outcomes, it's essential to recognize the potential drawbacks and pitfalls that come with this approach. Join us as we explore the pros and cons of pushing yourself in business and how it can impact your professional journey.

Embark on a captivating journey with Brad and Pete, two engineers whose bond as colleagues blossomed into a dynamic partnership, ultimately leading them to co-ownership of a thriving machine shop. On this episode of my TRUE POSITION, Brad and Pete candidly share the invaluable lessons learned on their path from the cubicle to the corner office. From seizing opportunities to weathering challenges,...

Curious about rebranding your business? Join me, a seasoned business executive in manufacturing, as I delve into the dynamic world of rebranding a manufacturing company. On this episode, I'll share insights on how to strategically overhaul your brand image to stay relevant and competitive in today's manufacturing landscape. From redefining your brand identity to implementing innovative strategies,...

Get ready to elevate your business strategies for 2024 with the latest episode of "My TRUE POSITION"! Join me as I delve into the essential pillars of planning for the new year, covering everything from financial foresight and sales strategies to staffing solutions and budget brilliance. Don't miss out on insights that will set you up for success in the year ahead. Tune in now and discover your tr...

Exciting news, folks! CARR Machine & Tool, Inc. has boldly stepped into the future like a streamlined, paperless pacesetter! Say goodbye to paper jams and hello to digital glam! Our shop is shedding its paper weight faster than you can say "Ctrl + P"! From blueprints to invoices, we're digitizing it all, making our workflow smoother than a freshly tuned CNC machine! Join me on this journey as we e...

Embarking on the journey of launching a machine shop entails navigating through substantial challenges. The initial hurdle lies in the considerable start-up costs, machinery, tools, and skilled labor. The industry itself poses a formidable challenge with intense competition, making it difficult for newcomers to establish themselves. Securing and retaining skilled machinists can be an ongoing strug...

The 2008 Recession hit hard—jobs vanished, homes were lost, and dreams shattered. Triggered by the housing market crash, it brought widespread economic pain. Unemployment soared, savings disappeared, and the road to homeownership turned into a nightmare. The struggle wasn't just financial; it messed with minds, leaving scars that lasted. Governments tried to patch things up, but the ripples kept g...

Listen, maintaining a healthy machine shop environment offers dual benefits for businesses. First, it boosts efficiency by preventing accidents, optimizing workflow, and reducing equipment wear. Second, a clean and safe workspace fosters a positive workplace culture, enhancing employee satisfaction, morale, and retention. This commitment to environmental health not only ensures operational efficie...

Is retirement in your future? Are you sure this is something you want to do? What are the circumstances around your decision? Are you financially able to retire and at what age? Where are you going to live? On this episode I have a friend with me that made his decision and we chat about some of the key things to know about making this decision.

Are you ready for the New Year? Ready to lose some weight, get back in the gym, be a better spouse, increase sales by 50%, get better efficiency from your employees, grow your EBITDA and ramp up your gross margin? Think it's possible? Well don't get overwhelmed on this episode I'm going to give you some tips that have worked for me.

Are you moving your facility into a larger facility and want advice on how to set it up? How about looking for professional services to grow your business? In this episode I have an industry friend to tell us how to easily get grants for our business - and who doesn't want free money?

Ever have a near-miss in your shop? Ever have to file a Workers Compensation claim? It's not fun and can really affect your insurance rating. In this episode I'm sharing my tips and how to make your shop floor (even) safer.

Quoting a machined part isn't easy, you can spend too much time and still get it wrong. In this episode I'll share some tips on what I've learned quoting jobs for nearly two decades.

Are you thinking about implementing AS9100 to ramp up your brand and take your business to the next level? Think it's easy to create and assemble an AS9102 data package? Well on this episode I'm going to explain how we do it at CARR Machine.  

Think Employment Agreements are silly? Don't think they're necessary for your small business? Just more work for you? In this episode of my TRUE POSITION I share my experiences implementing them and why I think they're an integral part of a progressive business.

Ever wonder WHEN is the right time to buy new machinery? Are you hearing from your customer's that significant new business is in the queue? Are you debating leasing or purchasing ? Brand new or used? In this episode of my TRUE POSITION we explore all the pros and cons of acquiring new equipment and when is it the right time?

Are you ready for a new career? Been some time since you updated your resume? On this episode I share with you what I, and other HR personnel look for on a resume and offer some tips on how to differentiate yourself from your competition.