The TechEd Podcast

What does it take to lead the world’s largest robotics and CNC company? Mike Cicco, President and CEO of FANUC America, pulls back the curtain on his journey from programming robots to driving global innovation.  Recorded live at IMTS 2024, this episode is packed with insights on mentorship, leadership, and how FANUC is reshaping the future of manufacturing.  Mike shares the bold moves behind FANU...

This marks a milestone 200th episode of The TechEd Podcast! Matt Kirchner is joined by Rick Anderson, CEO of The Hive Health, to explore how transparency and technology are reshaping healthcare. Rick shares how The Hive Health uses AI and data-driven insights to negotiate fair pricing for medical devices, save providers millions of dollars, and help health systems remain viable—even in underserved...

With energy consumption skyrocketing and sustainability challenges becoming more pressing, nuclear energy is once again in the spotlight. But while its potential is undeniable, there's still a lot of public misperception of nuclear. For many, the words "nuclear energy" conjure outdated fears that overlook decades of innovation, safety advancements, and the vast opportunities in nucl...

When used to its full potential, additive manufacturing can revolutionize the way we design and make things. But too often, educators and manufacturers are stuck in old ways of thinking. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , host Matt Kirchner welcomes Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations, to discuss how 3D printing is advancing both industry and education. From manufacturing precise components for...

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time for our annual predictions episode!  What trends will shape technical education, industry, and workforce development in the year to come? This week, Matt dives into the most pressing topics for 2025: from AI in education, to economic and workforce trends, to new technologies to keep an eye on. With 13 predictions grounded in data, this episode will get you ready...

'Twas the night before Christmas, And STEM and TechEd Had closed up their classrooms, a long break ahead. The students all home not shedding a tear That school was on hold till the start of next year. Quiet the trainers pneumatics, hydraulics No action on systems to learn mechatronics. The robots all homed, depowered and sleeping Routers and mills neither cutting nor beeping. Empty their fixt...

Are we ready for a world where AI and technology shape every corner of our lives? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , host Matt Kirchner sits down with Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at the Institute for the Future, to explore how technology is transforming the way we communicate, collaborate, and connect . From the breakthroughs of generative AI to the concept of the singularit...

Ready to hear some of the most cutting-edge advancements in 3D printing, bio-materials and smart systems?  Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Bill Peter, Director of Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). From large-scale 3D printing to the use of bio-based materials, Dr. Peter is leading initiatives that are redefining the possibilities of manufacturing. He shares how ORNL...

With U.S. manufacturing facing a potential shortfall of 7.5 million skilled workers, how can we bring jobs back and build the workforce to sustain them? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , host Matt Kirchner sits down with Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative, to explore the critical intersection of reshoring manufacturing, workforce development, and technological adv...

Is creativity the most underrated skill in machining? This week, Matt dives deep into the world of Swiss machining with George Media, Vice President of Operations for Tsugami America. They explore how this innovative machining method, originally designed for crafting intricate watch parts, has evolved into a versatile tool for manufacturing precision components in medical, aerospace, and beyond. G...

From boardrooms to classrooms, AI is making waves—but what do organizational leaders really think of artificial intelligence? In this episode, host Matt Kirchner goes beyond the buzzwords to share real data and insights from a groundbreaking research report on artificial intelligence. From industry leaders to educators, discover what people at the forefront of AI are saying about its impact—and le...

With 600,000 job openings in manufacturing, could women be the solution to closing the talent gap? Host Matt Kirchner dives into this question with Mariana Cogan, Chief Marketing Officer at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. Mariana brings a unique global perspective to workforce development and shares her strategies for making manufacturing a more inclusive, appealing career path. From brand tra...

Additive manufacturing (AM) is reshaping industries from aerospace to consumer goods with unprecedented speed. Dayton Horvath, Director of Emerging Technology at AMT, joins us to break down the key trends, market shifts, and cutting-edge technologies that are defining AM today. What’s fueling the industry’s rapid evolution, and where are the biggest opportunities? Dayton has answers—and insight yo...

What if the future of work isn’t about replacing people, but amplifying their potential?  In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , Matt Kirchner sits down with J. Craig McAtee, CEO and Executive Director of the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC). Craig, a national thought leader in technical education, discusses why amplifying human skills is the future of workforce developme...

What’s driving AI transformation in industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing? In this live panel, top AI leaders reveal the use cases that are making the biggest impact, the data challenges they’re overcoming, and the workforce shifts we can’t ignore. Recorded live at an AI and the Workforce event, this panel discussion brings together AI experts from sectors that are leading the charge...

What does the future of manufacturing look like? Just ask the U.S. CEO of the #1 automation provider in the world. In this high-profile episode, Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA, joins us to discuss the latest innovations shaping global manufacturing. Siemens, a leader in automation and digital technologies, is driving advancements through digital twins, AI, and more. Barbara shares how these t...

In this episode, we're talking to you —educators and employers—about how to engage and inspire the next generation of manufacturing talent. Manufacturing doesn’t just need workers; it needs what Drew Crowe calls “blue collar ballers”—young people who see the industry as more than a job, but a mission worth pursuing. Drew "The MFG" Crowe is making waves in the manufacturing world. Wi...

"Why not me?" is a question every woman in manufacturing should be asking—and this episode gives them the answer. Join Matt Kirchner as he sits down with Allison Roberts Grealis, Founder and President of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), for a conversation about breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women at every stage of their manufacturing career. Whether you’re an entry-level...

Get an inside look at NASA’s plans to return to the Moon, build a sustainable presence, and prepare for the first human mission to Mars—powered by the most advanced rocket technology ever created. This week we sat down with Dr. Sharon Cobb, Associate Program Manager for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), to discover NASA's next endeavors in space exploration. As NASA embarks on its Artemis pro...

Unlock the power of AI in manufacturing with practical insights that could save your plant thousands—without the need for a data science team. This week, we sat down with Nitin Ranjan, Founder and CEO of Golgix, to explore the game-changing role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Nitin reveals how Golgix is breaking down the barriers to AI adoption, especially for small to midsize manufa...

Get ready for a deep dive into the world of welding with the leader of an iconic brand in welding...Miller Electric! Dave Lambert, Group President of Miller Electric gives us an update on the state of the welding industry, the future of manufacturing, and the evolving workforce needs. With nearly a century of innovation under its belt, Miller Electric is a household name in welding and manufacturi...

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about the opioid crisis, drug addiction, and related legal issues, which may be sensitive for some listeners. From producing hit series like Narcos and Painkiller to working with Hollywood legends, Eric Newman gives us the inside scoop on the evolving world of entertainment and the technology that powers it. This is an extraordinary episode that g...

This week Matt sits down with Dale Kooyenga, President of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC).  We discuss the transformative investments happening in Southeast Wisconsin, particularly Microsoft's $3.3 billion project, and the critical role technology plays in today's economy. Dale also shares insights into the importance of education reform, workforce development,...

Microsoft is making waves in the Midwest with a game-changing $3.3 billion investment in a state-of-the-art data center in Wisconsin.  This initiative is not just about expanding infrastructure; it's about positioning the region as a leader in artificial intelligence and data innovation. In this episode, we sit down with Mary Snapp, Microsoft's Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, to...

This episode dives into the world of healthcare, where cutting-edge technology and human compassion intersect in profound ways. We sat down with Dr. Ajay Sahajpal, the Medical Director of Abdominal Transplant and Hepatobiliary Program at Advocate Aurora Health. Dr. Sahajpal shares his remarkable journey from Prince Edward Island to leading life-saving advancements in transplant surgery. Ajay also...