ASSEMBLY Audible

We spotlight the top five developments in manufacturing—and discuss what still needs improvement, according to Meaghan Ziemba, founder of Mavens of Manufacturing. Some areas of growth noted by Meaghan include how AI is helping manufacturers with small or no marketing teams and how companies are moving beyond outdated jargon to connect with audiences through authenticity, culture, and human-centered narratives. Tune in as we break down the progress, the gaps, and what manufacturers can do to keep moving forward.Sponsored By:

In this episode, we sit down with Ann Wyatt, President of Ann Wyatt Recruiting and Host of the Workforce 4.0 podcast. Ann shares her insights on how small to mid-sized manufacturers can adapt their hiring strategies to locate top-tier technical talent. From understanding which platforms to use for talent outreach to the growing importance of technology-driven training—like VR and AI—we explore what it takes to build a sustainable, skilled workforce. She also weighs in on tariffs, reshoring, and the shared responsibility of workforce development.Sponsored By:

Traditional robotic systems often require manufacturers to constrain their environments with expensive tooling and rigid setups. Griffin Gillespie, Account Executive, shares how Inbolt is transforming assembly operations by attaching a 3D vision system to industrial robots. Inbolt's technology allows robots to follow moving parts on assembly lines and has proven particularly useful in automotive manufacturing. Learn more about the company on a mission to create a vision system for industrial robots that enables robust real-time decision-making for any environment. Sponsored By:

Tariffs may well be the defining word of 2025—especially in manufacturing. In this follow-up to our earlier episode, The Impact of Trump's Tariffs on Manufacturers, we revisit the conversation with an updated perspective. We connect with René Linsner, President & CEO of Horváth USA, to discuss how tariffs are currently affecting manufacturers—from rising production costs to reshoring strategies, planning challenges, and even some business opportunities amid constant policy shifts.Sponsored By:

Optimal leak detection is critical to ensure quality control—and safety. In this episode, we speak with Dave Deiwert, President of Tracer Gas Technologies LLC, about the challenges of leak testing, especially when using helium as a tracer gas. Dave shares insights from his decades-long career, including what inspired him to launch his company and why hands-on training is essential. We explore common mistakes manufacturers make—like improper venting of helium—and the hidden factors that can undermine even the best equipment. This episode offers practical takeaways from optimizing leak detector systems to planning for long-term system wellness.Sponsored By:

Meet Nush Ahmed—Quality Inspector, founder of the NextGenMFG-Podcast, and co-founder of Sisterhood of Trades, a growing community built by tradeswomen to empower the next generation. Nush takes us inside the world of quality inspection in manufacturing. We dive into her philosophy that quality isn't a bottleneck—it's the heart of manufacturing. From aerospace to automotive, Nush explains how quality assurance is a powerful asset that deserves more investment and visibility. She also shares how content creation can serve as a bridge, attracting more people—especially young women—to explore careers in the skilled trades.Sponsored By:

Workforce regulations have intensified under the current administration—making compliance a higher priority than ever. This episode explores strategies to avoid costly fines, damaging publicity, and disruptive production delays. Our guest, Billy Milam, CEO of EmployBridge, the U.S.'s largest industrial staffing firm, suggests a "belt and suspenders"  approach to protect operations. We examine what happens when audits reveal undocumented workers, how that affects productivity, and how to mitigate the risk.Sponsored By:

Mark Cianciosa, Business Development Manager – Automation at Wauseon Machine, joins us to discuss the challenges and benefits beyond just the numbers of integrating robotics into high-speed assembly and manufacturing environments. Mark shares insights on the ripple effect of automation across a facility: why you should get everyone on board, how the investment in automation strengthens an organization's quest for job candidates and more fascinating tips. If you're considering automation or wondering how to get your team aligned, this conversation is full of tactical advice and lessons learned in the field.Sponsored By:

Artificial Intelligence Will Revolutionize Manufacturing, is the title of a book by our guest, Dr. Markus Guerster, Ph.D., founder and CEO of MontBlanc AI. In this episode, we discuss how advances in computing power and access to high-quality data have enabled AI to evolve from reactive to more predictive systems—such as predictive maintenance. According to Guerster, the key to unlocking AI value is analyzing existing data, building statistical models, and continuously observing and measuring new processes against established knowledge. Guerster's work on AI in manufacturing is the topic of an upcoming ASSEMBLY webinar. Sponsored By:

Fastening is critical to product design and assembly, as mistakes can be costly or dangerous. Discover the top fastening mistakes, according to longtime industry expert Doug Jones, Applications Engineering Manager at Bossard North America.Sponsored By:

Why are customers starting to simulate Assembly processes following their typical Stamping single part simulation? AutoForm USA will discuss the 3 approaches customers are using to simulate their assemblies, including potential savings if the software solution is used very early or very late in the development process. They will also speak about who are the early adopters and what's on the horizon for AutoForm.Sponsored By:

Thanks to technologies like LooprAI, assembly inspection is undergoing a paradigm shift. As fixed cameras fail to address the need for macro inspections and dynamic, real-time analysis, and with manual inspectors retiring rapidly, manufacturers need automated, mobile solutions that require minimal data training while delivering 360-degree views and multiple simultaneous inspections. Learn more about the topic and this disruptive AI model from the Founder & CEO of LooprAI, Priyansha Bagaria.Sponsored By:

According to the 2025 Cyber Incidents Insights Report, manufacturing continues to be a highly targeted sector for cybersecurity crimes. The report shows that attacks specific to manufacturing rose from 115 to 420 in 2024. Stay vigilant by learning about the rise and fragmentation of threat actors. Get tips on how to stay ahead with an impactful cybersecurity system and strategy, according to our guest, Steve Ross, director of Cybersecurity at S-RM.Sponsored By:

Michael Donoghue, Principal at Proactive Design Solutions, joins ASSEMBLY Audible in the lead-up to his presentation, Proactive Design Simplification: Integrating DFMA in New Product Development, at the ASSEMBLY Show South in April. Learn some Design for Manufacture and Assembly strategies for streamlining design, reducing costs, and improving production efficiency. With decades of experience deploying DFMA, Lean, and IPPD principles, Mike provides actionable takeaways for engineers and product developers looking to optimize their processes.Catch Mike live at the Music City Center on Tuesday, April 15th, at 10:30 AM as part of the Design for X workshop!Sponsored By:

As companies rethink their supply chains, many are considering bringing production back home. What does that mean, and what resources are available as tools for manufacturers? To help us explore the topic, we're joined by Ryan Hayford, VP of Business Development at Endeavor 3D. In the podcast, we discuss key reshoring strategies, the role of better communication and shorter lead times, and how manufacturers can compare the total cost of ownership when deciding between overseas and domestic production. We also explore workforce development, supply chain resiliency, and the government incentives available to support reshoring efforts. If you're a manufacturer weighing the decision to reshore, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tangible resources to help you build a solid strategy. Sponsored By:

How can reusable packaging drive efficiency, sustainability, and automation? Reusable packaging is more than a sustainability initiative—it's a strategic investment to improve production. In this episode, we talk with Lynn Hediger, ORBIS vice-president of product management, to explore how ORBIS's returnable packaging solutions support the most advanced manufacturing processes. Learn how sustainability fits into the picture, the benefits of a continuous-loop packaging system, and how manufacturers can integrate custom packaging with automation systems. Tune in to find out how smarter packaging can optimize your production floor and supply chain.Sponsored By:

In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we spotlight manufacturing and engineering innovation with one of SME's 2024 30 Under 30 honorees—Liam Fortier, Advanced Manufacturing Engineer at Peterbilt Motors Co. Liam joins us to share insights into his work at Peterbilt's Denton, Texas plant, where he focuses on assembling heavy-duty battery electric vehicles (BEVs). We discuss cutting-edge assembly technologies, the unique features of BEV production, and how Liam designed a course to help engineers. Sponsored By:

IoT solutions can help manufacturers integrate legacy machinery, transforming outdated operations into streamlined, data-driven ecosystems. With IoT-powered factory integration, manufacturers can bridge the gap between old and new technology—reducing downtime, improving decision-making, and freeing up engineers to focus on higher-value tasks. Bill Dykas, Senior Product Manager at Telit Cinterion, joins us to discuss how IoT solutions help manufacturers bridge the gap between old and new technology.Sponsored By:

Imagine a manufacturing environment where a single machine can take a product from raw material to a fully finished assembly—integrating multiple manufacturing tools into one seamless system. This vision of sustainable, on-site production is becoming a reality through an award-winning approach to single-cell manufacturing. On this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we're joined by an entrepreneur and innovator who is pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing. Recently recognized as one of SME's 30 Under 30 recipients, Ethan Baehrend, CEO of Creative 3D, joins us to discuss his groundbreaking work in 3D printing.Sponsored By:

It's a hot topic. The Trump Administration has pledged to impose significant new tariffs on imports from multiple countries. How will that affect your assembly operation? And what can you do to prepare? We hash through the potential impact of tariffs on manufacturers with Tony Klimas, the President of Horvath USA, a global management consulting firm.Sponsored By:

How does a background in theater design inspire innovation in manufacturing and supply chain management? Join us for a conversation with Cofactr Co-founder and CEO Matthew Haber, whose unique journey led to co-founding a platform used by over 50 hardware manufacturers and R&D groups building everything from rockets to wearables. Cofactr's platform helps companies streamline procurement and inventory management through a network of pre-vetted U.S. suppliers while automating the complexities of supply chains. In this episode, Matthew shares how Cofactr solves critical supply chain issues.Sponsored By:

In this special episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, host Jennifer Pierce is joined by ASSEMBLY Magazine's longtime editors and industry experts, John Sprovieri and Austin Weber, to count down ASSEMBLY's top manufacturing stories of 2024. From the rise of AI and digital tools in assembly plants to the growing popularity of unions, and even some fascinating assembly history, this episode dives into the stories that were most popular on our website. Don't miss the countdown featuring highlights like Tesla Cybertruck's modular wiring, humanoid robots, and the industry-shifting Boeing strike. Tune in for expert insights, memorable moments, and what's next for ASSEMBLY in 2025!Sponsored By:

In this episode, we sit down with Marcease Warren, Vice President of Manufacturing at Sentry Equipment, to discuss digital transformation leadership, maintaining a 25-year safety record, and how the latest technology is incorporated in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing setting. Plus, we explore how Sentry's 100% employee-owned structure fuels its culture of agility and innovation as the company celebrates its 100th anniversary. Tune in for actionable ideas, expert perspectives, and the inspiration to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of product assembly.Sponsored By:

Dive into a groundbreaking initiative to improve cybersecurity in manufacturing operations. We're joined by Lauren Lerman, Director of Workforce Collaborations at MxD, to explore the Cybersecurity for Manufacturing Operational Technology (CyMOT) Curriculum, a training platform developed in collaboration with the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). Recognized by the National Association of Manufacturers Manufacturing Leadership Council for its excellence in collaborative ecosystems, CyMOT addresses critical challenges as manufacturing becomes increasingly digitized. Learn how this curriculum equips manufacturers to secure connected floors, advanced control systems, and automation.Sponsored By:

In October 2024, Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) Production Operations team celebrated the opening of its Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) Center in Grand Prairie, Texas. George Kaniamos, Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Director, shares insights about the state-of-the-art facility designed to accelerate manufacturing technology development and enhance collaboration across teams. Join us as we discuss the importance of early collaboration in product development, the cutting-edge technologies engineers are experimenting with, and how the AMT Center is already delivering tangible results—like solving challenges for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System program using collaborative robots.Sponsored By:

As manufacturing becomes increasingly connected, the industry faces a growing wave of cyber threats, from ransomware to sophisticated supply chain attacks. Delve into how adaptive AI is transforming the fight against phishing and social engineering with Matt Burroughs, Chief Information Security Officer with Novolex, and Eyal Benishti, founder and CEO of IRONSCALES. Learn about the importance of identifying vulnerabilities in legacy systems, and creating a resilient operation through awareness, training, technical controls, and recovery planning to safeguard critical infrastructure.Sponsored By:

In this Assembly Audible interview, Kim Casineau, President of The Coating House, shares insights into her company's focus on quality, her journey as a female leader, and her commitment to empowering women through manufacturing. She emphasizes transparency, customer service, and adapting to industry demands.Sponsored By:

Learn about Ingersoll Rand's two-part sustainability practice, "lead sustainably" from IR's VP of Sustainability, Mary Betsch. Discover how Ingersoll Rand is creating safer, more efficient products, fostering employee well-being, and driving climate-friendly initiatives—both within their walls and in the markets they serve. Mary is one of ten manufacturing professionals inducted into the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame.Sponsored By:

Explore the critical role of leak detection in ensuring the integrity and functionality of industrial components and systems with John McLaren, Business Development for Leak Detection at Pfeiffer Vacuum. From the automotive industry, where hundreds of components must be leak-tested before final assembly, to cutting-edge applications in die casting, giga casting, and the electric and fuel cell vehicle market, John sheds light on how advanced leak detection technology prevents costly mistakes and safeguards product quality. He also highlights the potential consequences of undetected leaks, from minor inconveniences to major production setbacks, and the steps companies take to avoid costly failures. Tune in for a deep dive into the science behind leak detection and why it's crucial for product integrity in today's advanced manufacturing landscape.Sponsored By:

Many of our listeners are already familiar with Jake Hall, The Manufacturing Millennial—an influential voice in the industry. With an impressive 2024 tour schedule including 44 event visits, Jake is a true cornerstone of the manufacturing community. We had the privilege of sitting down with him for an interview at the 2024 ASSEMBLY Show to discuss how the industry has evolved since our last conversation. Jake shares his insights on how technologies, from humanoid robots and AI to advancements in content creation are reshaping the manufacturing floor. However, with advancements comes a need for a new mindset: companies must be prepared to leverage data and technology to drive meaningful change. Jake also discusses the importance of manufacturers opening their doors and showcasing what's happening on the shop floor in a more authentic, engaging way to attract talent. Despite progress, many companies still need to leverage social media effectively to highlight what they do, who they are, and why they're a great place to work. If you're looking to understand the current wave of innovation in manufacturing and how to stay ahead, this episode is a must-listen.Sponsored By:

A conversation with Jacob Sanchez, an industry figure who has worn many hats throughout his career, including CNC machinist, applications engineer, and content creator. Today, he leads Industry Solutions and Community Development with igus. From the perspective of both manufacturing tech and community, Jacob shares valuable insights on current industry trends, including the growing adoption of VR and AR beyond training, the rise of collaborative robots (cobots), and the shift toward more affordable AMRs and AMVs—a trend from overseas making its way to the U.S. Jacob emphasizes that accessibility is crucial for the industry's growth, and he's passionate about making automation approachable for companies at every stage. His current work involves creating an online community platform with igus that fosters collaboration and provides manufacturers with the necessary resources to integrate automation into their operations successfully.Sponsored By:

In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, Jennifer Pierce meets with longtime ASSEMBLY Show attendee and industry expert, Shawn Major, Sales Engineer with ATI Technologies for a conversation about the innovative assembly technology and trends exhibited at this year's show. One major theme? Fastening technology is becoming smarter, more cost-efficient, increasingly connected, and deeply integrated with Industry 4.0 principles. That's just the tip of the iceberg in this episode. Join us as we explore how the advancements showcased at the ASSEMBLY Show push the boundaries of what's possible in product assembly.Sponsored By:

Explore how the latest advancements in automotive technology are pushing the boundaries of adhesive applications. We sit down with Joshua Boquist, Head of Sales in Automotive at Delo Industrial Adhesives, to learn about some of the most cutting-edge features of Delo's adhesive applications including low-shrinkage, media-resistant solutions that can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 120°. Joshua also discusses the importance of fast-curing, high-performance adhesives in the EV market, particularly for motors, batteries, and other critical components.Sponsored By:

In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we connect with 2024 Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame inductee Elizabeth Hoegeman, Executive Director of HSE and Global Manufacturing at Cummins. She joins us to share her inspiring career journey in the manufacturing industry and discuss her leadership role in driving health, safety, environmental initiatives, and manufacturing excellence across Cummins' global network. From advancing manufacturing technologies to championing operational best practices, Elizabeth offers invaluable insights into what it takes to lead in manufacturing.Sponsored By:Photo courtesy of speaker Elizabeth Hoegeman

"You can't be what you can't see." This insightful statement from our guest, Cindy Moss—an esteemed educator, consultant, and STEM expert—points to the fact that many teachers and students don't know what's on offer in manufacturing. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation where Cindy shares her definition of STEM: Students and Teachers Energizing Minds. Cindy explains the importance of making learning relevant by demonstrating how real-world applications can inspire curiosity and innovation among students. Discover how we can strengthen the connection between the education system and manufacturers, ensuring that teachers and students are aware of the exciting opportunities available in manufacturing. Sponsored By:

As we gear up for The ASSEMBLY Show 2024, we're excited to feature a special conversation with keynote speaker Jairek Robbins. Ahead of his presentation, Crafting the Future: Leadership and Legacy in the Manufacturing Industry, Jairek joins us for an inspiring discussion on the power of proactive leadership in shaping the future of manufacturing. Leadership isn't just a title—it's about active participation, strategic vision, and fostering growth. Be sure to catch Jairek's keynote on Wednesday, October 23, at 9 AM at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. If you haven't registered yet, we've got great news—our listeners can enjoy a FREE expo pass using the discount code KEYNOTE24 when registering at theassemblyshow.com. Don't miss this incredible opportunity! Sponsored By:

Learn the four key steps to achieving a fast manufacturing turnaround with David Pate, VP of Operational Excellence Practice at TBM Consulting. TBM Consulting is a leading global firm specializing in operational excellence and digital manufacturing, helping manufacturers and other industries optimize performance. David shares his expert insights on how to transform an underperforming manufacturing plant, breaking down the “hows,” “whats,” and “whys” behind his proven turnaround formula. Join us as we explore the actionable strategies you can use to drive rapid improvements in any manufacturing environment! Sponsored By:

High performance in the workplace relies on recognizing and reinforcing the behaviors you want employees to repeat while offering constructive critiques for improvement. Many supervisors believe they excel at acknowledging their team, but employee surveys consistently show that recognition is lacking, often ranking in the top three concerns among employees. Relationship and performance management are at the forefront of our conversation with Mike White, Founder and President of Secchi, an engagement and performance management platform that connects leaders to their frontline employees. Mike has worked closely with leadership teams at over 60 manufacturing facilities globally (including Fortune 500 brands). He joins ASSEMBLY Audible to share his expertise in manufacturing facility leadership.Sponsored By:

Unplanned downtime is costing industrial manufacturers an estimated $50 billion each year. Join ASSEMBLY Audible and our guest Meg Swanson, Chief Market Officer at Eptura as we discuss the key technological advancements and preventative maintenance strategies manufacturers can implement to reduce unexpected downtime and financial losses. Tune in to learn how proactive solutions can help manufacturers overcome operational challenges and stay ahead of the curve.Sponsored By:

In an increasingly technologically advanced manufacturing environment, it's essential to assess whether the current educational curriculum aligns with employers' and students' needs and expectations. Cengage Group's Employability Report explores key issues surrounding the skilled trade labor shortage, examining how employers are building their workforce and how educators can adapt to enhance graduates' employability. The study aims to understand employers' expectations, graduates' perceptions of entering the workforce, their views on AI, and the relevance of 2- and 4-year degrees. Join us for an in-depth conversation with Rya Conrad-Bradshaw, SVP and GM of Cengage Work Business, as we discuss the report's insights and findings.Sponsored By:

Discover the challenges surrounding the AI talent shortage in the U.S. automotive industry with Christian Dallman, a partner at the global immigration law firm Fragomen. In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, Christian outlines the impact of the skilled labor shortage, the rise of AI and automation in automotive manufacturing, and how recruiting international talent is essential to driving the AI revolution. From evolving job roles to the complexities of U.S. immigration policies, tune in for a compelling conversation on how the future of the automotive industry hinges on filling critical AI talent gaps.Sponsored By:

In this episode of Assembly Audible, host Jennifer Pierce sits down with Ben Johnston, COO of Kapitus, to explore critical financial challenges manufacturers are facing today. From the effects of inflation and high interest rates to the influence of the upcoming 2024 presidential election, Ben shares insights on how manufacturers can navigate financing in a volatile economy. Tune in to learn about the options available for manufacturers seeking funding and how the evolving political landscape might reshape the future of American manufacturing.Sponsored By:

In the Summer of 2024, CELUS, a company dedicated to simplifying and speeding up the electronics design process for engineers worldwide, announced the global launch of its groundbreaking hardware design platform called CELUS Design Studio. The Design Studio is an AI-assisted electronics platform that helps engineers select the right components and manufacturers to streamline the design process, from concept to production. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by Tobias Pohl, CEO and Co-Founder of CELUS to explain how the design studio works and what's on the horizon for the growing company.Sponsored By:

As advancing technology drives digital transformation, power access is more crucial than ever. Discover how Starline's power distribution systems enable manufacturers to reconfigure or expand their operations with minimal downtime.Sponsored By:

Imagine a smart glove equipped with sensors, a microphone, and an accelerometer that measures the speed of assembling male and female connectors and ensures a complete and accurate assembly for all electrical and fluid connections (as long as they emit audible cues). QUARA lets operators work efficiently in hard-to-reach or visually obstructed areas. Discover how this innovative glove technology can transform product assembly operations.Sponsored By:

Purdue University and innovative business and consulting company, Accenture developed a fruitful collaboration that has resulted in a smart factory facility at Purdue's College of Engineering and Purdue Polytechnic Institute, a scholarship program, and most recently an online venture. The Smart Factory on campus provides instructional laboratories, design studios, and spaces where students from various disciplines will collaborate on smart manufacturing projects. The Accenture/Purdue multiyear collaboration evolved recently with the launch of an online smart manufacturing education program. Prasad Satyavolu, Lead-Industry X with Accenture, who played a key role in shaping the Smart Manufacturing Academy, joins ASSEMBLY Audible to tell us about the collaboration. Sponsored By:

On October 22- 24th, thousands of engineers and manufacturing executives will gather in Rosemont, IL for The ASSEMBLY Show. We catch up with ASSEMBLY Magazine's Chief Editor, John Sprovieri who is responsible for coordinating the event's agenda every year. John explains why attendees should attend and how to make the most of the ASSEMBLY Show experience. Free registration for the show ends on September 20th. Head to TheASSEMBLYShow.com to learn more and register. We'll see you there!Sponsored By:

From workplace safety, to supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages, manufacturers face unique, ever-evolving challenges. To address their specific needs, Liberty Mutual has a division devoted to manufacturing with industry-specific subsets. TJ Richter, Executive Underwriting Officer for Manufacturing with Liberty Mutual Insurance, highlights the current challenges manufacturers face and shares insights on how to simultaneously protect employees and bottom lines. Want to know more? Download a copy of Liberty Mutual Insurance's 2024 Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index for Manufacturing as a tool to reference as you listen. Sponsored By:

Artificial intelligence is a hot topic and a key component within the broader framework of manufacturing intelligence. Steve Ilmrud, Vice President of Operations at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, joins ASSEMBLY Audible to discuss how digital solutions, combined with a commitment to continuous improvement, can be leveraged to create higher-level jobs, attract talent, enhance on-the-job training, and more. Don't miss your chance to harness the wisdom of a longtime industry expert. Listen in to learn "Steve's 3 P's."Sponsored By:

In the fall of 2023, Viega announced plans for a new 180,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Ohio. With construction progressing rapidly, the company aims to have its first sellable product roll off the production line by mid-2025. ASSEMBLY Audible host Jennifer Pierce speaks with Marki Huston, COO of Viega, about the facility's cutting-edge technology, product focus, job creation, and sustainability goals.Sponsored By:

The Training Methods and Their Impact on Workforce Performance in Manufacturing Study is a 57-question survey developed by Intertek Alchemy and Campden BRI and distributed through numerous associations. The survey explores current manufacturing training programs in search of ways to improve factory safety and efficiency. Dante Dominick, Marketing Director and Senior Industry Analyst joins the podcast to discuss the survey queries and key findings. Download a copy of the survey here and listen for an in-depth summary.Sponsored By: