ASSEMBLY Audible

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The ASSEMBLY Audible podcast explores the people, processes and technologies for assembling parts into finished products. Whether you make large products in small volumes or small products in large volumes, our goal is to provide insights, ideas and inspi

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    • Feb 17, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 22m AVG DURATION
    • 361 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from ASSEMBLY Audible

    Nashay Naeve on Reframing Manufacturing to Attract and Retain New Talent

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 17:43


    Nashay Naeve, president of the Engineered Plastic Components business unit at Tsubaki Nakashima, breaks down why manufacturers are still struggling to fill roles, what leaders can change immediately to reframe the industry and how modern operations are reshaping what manufacturing careers actually look like. She also shares practical insight on bringing more women into technical roles, building trust early on the plant floor and creating mentorship that's real, not a “check-the-box” program.Sponsored By:

    Linir Zamir on How the deviceWISE Intelligence Suite Brings AI to the Edge

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 20:16


    Telit Cinterion's Dr. Linir Zamir discusses how Artificial Intelligence is moving closer to the factory floor through edge-based systems that keep data on site and enable faster decision-making. He explains how industrial IoT platforms can connect legacy equipment, normalize machine data and support AI “agents” that help detect early signs of failure, guide fault recovery and reduce downtime.

    Breaking New Ground in Industrial Sustainability Through Collaboration

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 18:23


    Sustainability in manufacturing is no longer about broad promises or future targets, as leading companies are developing science-based standards. In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we spotlight a major milestone in industrial sustainability: Schneider Electric's groundbreaking achievement as the first industrial product manufacturer to earn UL Solutions' new ECOLOGO Certification.Bin Lu, EVP of Schneider Electric's Power Products Division, joins us to discuss what this certification means for transparency, environmental performance, and the future of sustainable manufacturing. Learn about the rigorous testing, lifecycle analysis, and the fruitful collaboration with UL Solutions' team, especially Jeff Smit, Senior Vice President — Testing, Inspection and Certification, Industrial. Tune in to discover how companies can build trust and meet growing market and regulatory demands through credible sustainability certifications.Sponsored By:

    How Short-Sighted Cost-Cutting Could Hurt U.S. Manufacturers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 31:04


    Are U.S. manufacturers mortgaging their future to cut costs? New research from EFESO Management Consultants suggests that many U.S. manufacturers may be undermining their long-term competitiveness through short-sighted cost-cutting strategies driven by tariffs, rising energy costs, and ongoing market pressures. Chuck Deise, Senior Partner at EFESO, joins the podcast to share insights from EFESO's newly published research, in which out of 150 large ($5 billion in revenue) and middle-market ($500M to $5B) manufacturers surveyed, 79 percent said delaying capital investments is important to their cost takeout efforts this year. However, nearly half (44 percent) expressed concern that this will increase costs by reducing operational agility and scalability. The conversation examines the pressures influencing today's decisions, how cost-cutting strategies differ by company size, and what a “healthy” cost-takeout strategy should look like in the year ahead.Sponsored By:

    Making GenAI Work on the Factory Floor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 28:46


    According to ABBYY, many manufacturing businesses are investing in GenAI solutions that promise more than they can realistically deliver, and in some cases, GenAI isn't even the technology they need. To research, ABBYY commissioned the 2025 State of Intelligent Automation Report: GenAI Confessions, a survey examining how manufacturers are adopting GenAI, where they're struggling, and what's actually driving results. Jon Knisley, Director of Process AI Strategy and Operations Leader at ABBYY, joins us to explain the findings. The conversation looks beyond GenAI alone, examining the role of complementary technologies such as agentic AI, process intelligence, and purpose-built AI in delivering reliable outcomes and faster ROI.Sponsored By:

    How a 113-Year-Old Company Keeps Fastening Technology Modern

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 12:45


    Industrial Rivet & Fastener Co., also known as RivetKing, won Product of the Year in the fastening category at the ASSEMBLY Show in 2025. We're joined by Steven Sherman, vice president of engineering, to learn more about the award-winning product, the company's history, and how it keeps an old-school product line modern.Sponsored By:

    Power Distribution Strategy Is Important for Smart Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 9:56


    We're joined by Adrian Sanchez, director of commercial and industrial sales at Starline Holdings LLC, to explore why flexible power distribution is no longer just a technical decision, but a strategic one.Sponsored By:

    How a STEM Grant Turned One Teacher Toward a Manufacturing Career

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 31:59


    What happens when a STEM grant drops industrial CNC machines into a high school classroom, and the teacher has never machined a part? In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we share an upskilling story about Jeremy Jennings, who began his journey in manufacturing as a teacher in Texas, whose classroom was grant-funded for an engineering design program. With no prior machining experience, Jeremy became the program's pilot instructor, a move that ultimately reshaped his career. Today, Jeremy is a Technical Content Developer and Trainer at Mastercam, working on the frontlines of workforce development by helping educators across the country make CNC machining more accessible. He reflects on his unconventional path from educator to skilled worker and trainer. Learn how opportunity, access to tools, and purposeful training can close the skills gap.Sponsored By:

    Panasonic's Approach to Continuous Improvement for Assembly Tools

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 18:16


    We connected with Ryan Lashley and Sota Ito with Panasonic, at The ASSEMBLY Show in Rosemont, IL, to learn about the evolution of the AccuPulse series, their new product offerings, and their emphasis on continuous improvement.Sponsored By:

    What the 2026 CUSMA Review Means for North American Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 23:54


    Since taking effect in 2020, the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) has supported nearly US$2 trillion in annual trade, providing a stable framework for the duty-free movement of qualifying goods. Today, however, stricter rules of origin, evolving tariff policies, and geopolitical pressures are reshaping supply chains and raising new risks for manufacturers. As CUSMA approaches its 2026 joint review, manufacturers across North America are facing growing uncertainty in an increasingly complex trade environment. We're joined by Falak Kothari, Manufacturing Industry Leader at Marsh Canada, to discuss key findings from Marsh's report, Trade Policy Outlook for North American Manufacturing. Find out what manufacturers need to know as the 2026 review approaches, how tariffs and trade rules factor into day-to-day operations, and how companies are strengthening resilience through smarter risk management, supply chain strategies, and insurance solutions.Sponsored By:

    Developing Automation Products: From Napkin-Sketch to the Factory Floor

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 20:35


    During The Assembly Show last fall, we sat down with Anthony Leo, president of IPR Robotics, to talk about new product development in the automation sector. Leo explains how he transforms a napkin sketch into a usable product that people want. We discuss the development of StackTrax, IPR's new, modular seventh-axis system designed to extend robot reach and flexibility on the factory floor. Leo discusses why StackTrax was created, what gaps it fills in the marketplace, and how IPR's approach differs from other seventh-axis providers.Sponsored By:

    Transforming Aerospace Operations with an Embedded Engineer Model

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 15:20


    The demand for aerospace engineers is projected to grow 13% through 2031. Meanwhile, companies are under pressure to keep production, maintenance, and innovation on track while facing an industry-wide skilled workforce shortage. Michael Campbell, President of ACD Consulting, a division of Coltala Aerospace, joins us to discuss how ACD Consulting's Solutions-Based Embedded Engineer program, a model that places engineers directly inside customer teams, is helping ensure faster problem-solving, reduce downtime, and connect operators to ACD's broader network of data-driven alternate solutions, including reverse engineering, component sourcing, and specialized repair options. The episode highlights the expansion of embedded engineering locations across the U.S., underscoring how this collaborative program is transforming aerospace manufacturing and maintenance.Sponsored By:

    What's Motivating Today's Manufacturing Job Seekers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 25:58


    In Aerotek's latest Job Seeker Survey, nearly three-quarters of more than 2,400 respondents said they're applying to manufacturing jobs, and 64% are optimistic about the industry's future in North America. We connect with Stanley Johnson, Director of Business Development for Manufacturing and Logistics at Aerotek, to discuss findings from Aerotek's job seeker survey, including why job seekers are enthusiastic about manufacturing, what factors make manufacturing feel stable and rewarding, and the biggest motivators driving candidates to apply. Additionally, learn why 60% of job seekers feel entry-level jobs require too much experience and how manufacturers can close the gap between expectations and readiness through training, mentorship, and better role definitions. If you're examining your recruitment and retention strategy heading into 2026, this episode provides insights from the perspective of job candidates.Sponsored By:

    An Expanding Manufacturing Franchise Model

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 28:32


    You don't usually hear “franchise model” and “manufacturing” in the same sentence, but Isembard is rewriting that narrative. The company's plan to build a distributed network of software-driven factories across the U.S. and beyond is backed by full operational support, including machines and tooling, hiring, quality, and an integrated pipeline of customer orders. At the heart of it all is MasonOS, the company's AI-native operating system that connects quoting, scheduling, supply chain, machining, and quality under one platform. Justin Baucum, General Manager of Isembard, joins us to discuss why Isembard believes franchising can solve longstanding challenges for small workshops. Learn how to become a franchise owner and what's ahead as the company expands its distributed-factory model.Sponsored By:

    New Tool Controller Increases Flexibility, Improves Maintenance

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 7:20


    During the ASSEMBLY Show in Rosemont, IL, Russ Hughes, product marketing manager at Desoutter Tools, joined ASSEMBLY Audible to discuss his company's new tightening platform, AXON. Hughes discusses how AXON solves assembly challenges, such as managing diverse tools that require backup controllers onsite, reducing downtime, enabling live data analytics, supporting sustainability goals, and shrinking equipment footprints.Sponsored By:

    How Agentic AI Is Transforming Cost, Schedule, and Risk Estimation

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 31:47


    Cost estimation is becoming smarter, faster, and more predictive thanks to advances in AI, demonstrated by platforms such as Galorath's SEERai, a new agentic AI platform engineered to deliver secure, traceable, and audit-ready cost, schedule, and risk insights for manufacturing, aerospace, defense, and IT programs. In this episode, ASSEMBLY Audible welcomes Charles Orlando, Chief Strategy Officer at Galorath, to discuss how SEER and SEERai work, the gaps in today's costing tools, and why AI-driven estimation is emerging as a strategic advantage. If you're exploring digital transformation, AI adoption, or manufacturing software, this conversation is a must-listen.Sponsored By:

    The Connected Worker Manufacturing Stack

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2025 18:05


    Software companies are building a new manufacturing stack that includes four layers: ERP, MES, Connected Worker, and AI. Dan McKiernan, principal product manager with Epicor, joins us at the ASSEMBLY Show to talk about the success that arises when these systems work together in a stack rather than a patchwork of tools.Sponsored By:

    How 5G Connectivity Is Revolutionizing Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 26:50


    Next-generation connectivity is emerging as a powerful solution to meet sustainability goals and enhance operational efficiency. In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we speak with Michael Weller, Global Practice Leader in Manufacturing, Energy, and Utilities at Verizon Business. Did you know, for every million linear feet of copper cabling, manufacturers require significant amounts of energy-intensive infrastructure, often dozens of control closets throughout large facilities. By eliminating this copper-based network design, 5G enables a leaner approach to connectivity. One 5G antenna can replace three to ten Wi-Fi access points, dramatically simplifying plant infrastructure and reducing overall power consumption. Weller shares how private networks are helping manufacturers implement measurable environmental and performance benefits by modernizing network architecture.Sponsored By:

    From CAD to Clarity: Why Automated Work Instructions Are the Critical Step in Reindustrializing the West

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 13:35


    At the 2025 ASSEMBLY Show, we sat down with Ben Brakenwagen, Account Executive, to explore how Dirac's BuildOS automated work instruction platform transforms complex CAD models into clear, repeatable, and scalable work instructions, creating the digital thread that connects design, production, and quality. By automating and standardizing this critical step, manufacturers can accelerate digital transformation, reduce documentation time by up to 95%, and enable agile production across facilities. Learn why work instructions, “the blueprints of the modern industrial base,” could be the key to reindustrialization across the West.Sponsored By:

    From Back Office to Factory Floor: Discover the Benefits of Agentic AI in Assembly

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 24:37


    A new report from Deloitte, From Vision to Value: A Roadmap for Enterprise Transformation in Manufacturing with Agentic AI, reveals that more than a quarter of manufacturers are already exploring how agentic AI technology can transform everything from the back office to the factory floor. We explore the report's implications with the AI & Data Principal at Deloitte, Patricia Henderson, breaking down where AI agents deliver the greatest impact, why most manufacturing work remains human-driven, and how agentic AI can autonomously reconfigure operations when disruptions strike. Ready to turn agentic AI into real enterprise value? Don't miss this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible.Sponsored By:

    The Technologies Powering John Deere's Smart Factories

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 21:49


    Explore the technology ecosystem behind John Deere's award-winning factories, such as Davenport Works, which was named ASSEMBLY Magazine's 2025 Plant of the Year. Jason Wallin, Senior Principal Architect, TechStack at John Deere, shares how an engaged workforce supported by the right digital tools drives the quality John Deere customers expect. We dive into the company's use of AI, digital twins, private 5G networks, and their proprietary John Deere Assembly Assist Tool (JDAAT). Tune in to learn how these systems work together to deliver ROI, increase agility, and pave the way for the next generation of adaptive, tech-forward factories.Sponsored By:

    Turning Supply Chain Volatility into Operational Control

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 23:59


    According to Kearney's latest Supply Chain Navigator 2025 H2 Outlook, global supply chain costs are projected to rise from 4 to 7% above inflation by Q4 2025. We examine disruption-led cost inflation and what "designing for disruption” really means in today's manufacturing landscape. Our guest, Rupal Deshmukh, Partner, Kearney, explains the intent behind the Supply Chain Navigator and what the findings reveal about the role of AI and digital tools in building adaptive, high-performing operations. Learn why leadership today is less about resilience and more about absorption and the approach needed for turning volatility into operational control.

    How To Overcome the Technology "Value Void" in Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 25:00


    Join us for an interview that covers a new report from Infor, How Possible Happens: Overcome the ‘Value Void' Through Technology-Driven Productivity. Andrew Kinder, SVP Industry Strategy, explains the findings, sharing insights into the challenges manufacturers face when adopting new technology. Learn what the “value void" is in the context of advanced manufacturing settings, how to avoid it, and how manufacturers can ensure their technology investments deliver on their full potential. This episode presents tips on transforming potential into performance and bridging the skills gap in the era of automation.Sponsored By:

    Precision, Automation, and Scalability in Micro Medical Device Assembly

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 30:54


    Intricon specializes in designing, molding, and assembling some of the smallest and smartest components in the medical device industry. Our guest, Jay Tavakolian, Operations Program Director at Intricon, shares insights into the precision, scalability, and innovation behind building micro medical devices that serve critical applications in surgical navigation, wearables, diagnostics, and therapeutic technologies. The conversation dives into the opportunities and challenges of working at the micro scale—from molding and tooling to advanced automation and 3D manufacturing techniques. Discover how Intricon enhances production capacity while minimizing risk, ensuring that every device meets the highest medical standards.Sponsored By:

    2025 Manufacturing Outlook According to U.S. Executives

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 22:22


    Dive into the latest insights from Sikich's 2025 Manufacturing & Distribution Industry Pulse survey. According to the study, despite persistent challenges like inflation, supply chain disruptions, and tariff pressures, more than half of U.S. manufacturing executives remain moderately optimistic about the year ahead. Jerry Murphy, Principal and Manufacturing Services Leader at Sikich, joins us to break down the survey's key findings. From economic uncertainty and workforce concerns to AI adoption and automation, this conversation unpacks where manufacturing executives are investing. Sponsored By:

    Consumer-Driven Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 23:44


    What does it really mean to be consumer-driven in today's manufacturing landscape? Traditional production models based on forecasts can't keep pace with shifting demand, volatile tariffs, and rapid market changes. In this episode, we welcome Liya Getachew, Principal at Sendero Consulting, to explore how manufacturers can transform their operations to stay agile and competitive. Liya shares her expertise on the fundamentals of consumer-driven manufacturing, explaining how it differs from traditional models and why agility is crucial in navigating tariff volatility. From designing production lines that can pivot quickly to leveraging real-time consumer insights and translating data into smarter procurement and production strategies, this conversation offers a clear picture of how manufacturers can embrace resilience and flexibility in an era of constant disruption.Sponsored By:

    Connecting Quality, ASSEMBLY, & SMTA at The ASSEMBLY Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 18:52


    This joint episode of ASSEMBLY Audible and Quality Magazine's Q-Cast spotlights the collaboration between SMTA and The ASSEMBLY Show 2025. Hosts Jennifer Pierce and Michelle Bangert welcome Greg Vance, principal engineer at Rockwell Automation and president of SMTA's board of directors, to discuss how electronics manufacturing has evolved over the decades, from miniaturization to the latest developments, to protect products in harsh environments. Greg also shares how SMTA and ASSEMBLY are working together to create a premier event for manufacturing professionals, combining innovation, education, and networking in one location. Join us for a preview of what's ahead in Rosemont this October.Sponsored By:

    How Additive Manufacturing Drives Innovation in Aerospace and Beyond

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 24:16


    This conversation with Foster Ferguson, Vice President of Industrial Business, explores how Stratasys, a leader in aerospace manufacturing R&D and additive manufacturing, is innovating 3D printing to advance part production, materials, and processes. Advanced additive manufacturing enables parts to be printed in a single, optimized design, thereby reducing supply chain complexity and improving performance. From certifications to safety to cross-industry benefits, this episode highlights how innovations in aerospace ripple across the automotive, industrial tooling, and other manufacturing sectors.Sponsored By:

    Change Management Strategies for Manufacturers

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 32:22


    Join us for a conversation with Vanessa Akhtar, Kotter's Head of Consulting and Managing Director, and co-author of Change: How Organizations Create Hard-to-Imagine Results Despite Uncertain and Volatile Times. We examine how reshoring affects organizations beyond logistics, how to measure the success of reshoring or other operational transformations, how to engage employees during times of uncertainty, and how to prepare teams for transitions that may otherwise spark fear or resistance. This conversation reveals proven change management tactics that can turn uncertainties into opportunities.Sponsored By:

    The Competitive Edge: Building People Who Build Trucks

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 12:48


    Join us for a conversation with Joanna Cooper, General Manager at the Mount Holly Daimler Truck plant, to explore what it really takes to connect with people and get desired results in today's manufacturing landscape. Joanna offers insights into innovative management strategies to address workforce challenges, some of which can involve a “game of telephone” unless new tools and approaches are utilized to facilitate effective communication. Learn more about the Competitive Edge it takes to succeed as a plant manager during the ASSEMBLY Show keynote presentation. Sponsored By:

    How FIRST Robotics Students See the Future of Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 6:19


    Join us for a conversation with Tennessine Titans FIRST Robotics member, Lacey Coates. Lacey offers valuable insights into how manufacturers can attract and inspire young talent, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift that prioritizes innovation, technical skills, and long-term investment in STEM education. As part of FIRST Robotics, Lacey and her teammates take a holistic approach to design and engineering, ensuring every member understands all aspects of their robot to develop a versatile skill set that translates beyond competition.Sponsored By:

    Automation Strategies for Modern Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 22:05


    From addressing workforce and skills gaps to enhancing quality control, assembly line maintenance, and front-office operations, learn how automation is helping manufacturers and how to formulate a successful strategy. Colin Dowd, Industry Strategy Senior Manager for the Manufacturing and Distribution practice at Armanino, shares practical insights on building effective automation strategies that are a perfect marriage of data-driven and human-centric elements. Discover common pitfalls to avoid, hallmarks of a strong plan, and how automation is helping manufacturers overcome shared challenges in large-scale transformations.Sponsored By:

    Benefitting from Machine Learning

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 21:19


    Welcome to this joint ASSEMBLY Audible and Quality Magazine Q-Cast podcast episode! Get a preview of the upcoming presentation by David Dechow, Benefitting from Machine Learning in Machine Vision Applications, through this collaborative podcast, where we discuss how machine vision applications are implemented in assembly applications. David will be joining us at the ASSEMBLY Show in October. Learn more about the conference program.Sponsored By:

    FIRST Robotics Paves the Path to Manufacturing for Next-Gen Engineers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 11:25


    Participation in FIRST Robotics serves as a gateway into STEM and manufacturing careers as students learn facets of mechanical, programming, electrical, and the business side of robotics. Dhruv Patel from Flagship First Robotics joins us from the ASSEMBLY Show South in Nashville to share his enthusiasm for the latest technological advancements in manufacturing, like rapid liquid printing. He also shares ideas for how manufacturers can inspire the next generation through sponsorships, camps, and partnerships with local colleges. For many students who join us at the ASSEMBLY Show, observing the impressive precision of robotic arms on display is like viewing a work of art. Learn more about how FIRST Robotics is involved with The ASSEMBLY Show.Sponsored By:

    Rethinking 5S: Why Standardization Should Come First

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 30:58


    Without clear standards in place, efforts toward kaizen or continuous improvement often fall flat. During this episode with consultant, author, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, and student of Japanese philosophy and culture, Steve Beauchamp, we discuss how failing to establish standards makes it difficult to identify problems, recognize what's necessary, and communicate change. Learn some of the common obstacles that sabotage continuous improvement as we explore two publications: 5S Mastery and Kaizen Mastery.Sponsored By:

    Why Manufacturers Should Consider Hiring Workers from Puerto Rico

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 20:08


    Puerto Rico is a smart source for recruiting manufacturing talent, and our guest on the podcast, Clay Martin, founder of Isla Talent, a staffing and recruiting agency specializing in this area, has been successfully matching companies with qualified Puerto Rican workers for over two decades. Find out the benefits and what's involved in the process of recruiting from this overlooked territory.Sponsored By:

    Leading with MORE: Human-Centric Leadership in Manufacturing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 27:39


    What is meaningful work, and how does an organization improve when employees are instilled with a sense of meaningful work? We're joined by Kathy Miller, author, operations leader, and Women in Manufacturing Hall of Famer, to discuss her upcoming publication based on her MORE model. Kathy discusses her approach to processes, sound leadership principles, and the science of human flourishing within the manufacturing sector. In addition to her upcoming guide, Kathy is the co-author of Steel Toes and Stilettos: A True Story of Women in Manufacturing Leadership and Lean Transformation Success.Sponsored By:

    Reimagining Factory Production in the Era of Hyper-Automation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 23:39


    Explore insights from the Accenture's report, Rethinking the Course to Manufacturing's Future. Based on a global survey of 552 factory managers across industrial, automotive, and aerospace sectors, the study reveals how manufacturers are reimagining production in the era of hyper-automation and AI. Our guest, Patrick Vollmer, Global Industry Group Lead, Industrials, Accenture, breaks down the defining features of tomorrow's hyper-automated factory—from autonomous operations and self-learning machines to smart connected cells and digitally linked crews. We examine why Asian manufacturers are outpacing their Western counterparts in embracing this vision, and what it means for the global manufacturing landscape. Sponsored By:

    Tariffs, AI, and Supply Chain Insights from an Automotive Parts Manufacturer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 20:36


    The automotive industry has one of the most complex supply chains in the world, comprising thousands of parts and an ever-expanding range of products. The shifting global landscape, including tariffs, trade uncertainty, and supply chain disruptions, impacts production at every level, including the aftermarket. We're joined by the CEO of Premium Guard Inc (PGI), a manufacturer and supplier of auto products, to explore how AI is being utilized in predictive inventory planning, demand forecasting, and maintenance strategies.Sponsored By:

    Building Smarter Turnkey Manufacturing Systems

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 6:55


    Every plant has its unique set of challenges and situations. Innovative, customized turnkey solutions for advanced manufacturing operations go far beyond a single segment. Rhino's holistic approach brings together tools, hoists, automation, and expertise to deliver sustainable, high-impact results. In this episode, Michael Fecher, Area Sales Engineer, shares how Rhino is helping manufacturers across industries—automotive, aerospace, food service, and medical—solve complex challenges with integrated systems designed to optimize performance.Sponsored By:

    Smarter Shop Floors Powered by Computer Vision

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 5:46


    From detecting defects at the source to inventory counting and tracking, Roboflow's platform can be deployed via smart cameras to deliver actionable insights on the shop floor. We're joined by Daniel Bender, Product Specialist at Roboflow, to explore how their customizable computer vision platform is helping companies extract real-time data from their environments.Sponsored By:

    User-Friendly Robotic Welding System Delivers Fast ROI

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 6:13


    The global welder shortage is affecting fabrication shops of all sizes—from small, 12-person teams to large pontoon boat builders. Spartan Robotics is helping companies overcome this talent gap with a 7-axis cobot welding system that delivers speed, flexibility, and a fast ROI. Pierre de Giorgio, President and CTO of Spartan Robotics, joins us to share key components of the user-friendly system designed to solve labor challenges—and reshape the future of fabrication.Sponsored By:

    The True Potential of AI in Factories

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 33:42


    What does AI actually look like on the factory floor? In this episode of ASSEMBLY Audible, we learn about the real-world applications of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Ivan Madera, CEO and Founder of Adaptive AI, has raised and deployed over $100 million to launch advanced engineering and manufacturing facilities, working closely with some of the biggest names in the industry. We discuss how AI is currently being used in factories, why adoption is slower than the hype suggests, and what the factory of the future looks like.Sponsored By:

    Local Industry-Led Collaborative Creates a Workforce Model That Works

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 14:11


    With nearly half a million open manufacturing jobs reported in the U.S., communities across the country are feeling the pressure to fill critical roles. In this episode, we spotlight the Lincoln Manufacturing Council (LMC), a powerful example of how local leadership and industry collaboration can create meaningful change. Based in Lincoln, Nebraska—where manufacturing is the city's second-largest economic driver—the LMC is breaking barriers with a workforce development model that's as inclusive as it is effective. We speak with Caden Pearson of the LMC about how the organization supports talent development through certificate-based education pathways that cater to both newcomers and seasoned workers.Sponsored By:

    The AI-Driven Shift Toward Adaptive Supply Networks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 21:46


    From the lingering impacts of COVID-19 to the challenges of tariffs, Jennifer Chew, VP of Solutions and Consulting at Bristlecone, explains why supply chains must move beyond cost management to focus on resilience and adaptability. She highlights the critical role of planning and how AI is emerging as a powerful tool for improving visibility, facilitating scenario planning, and supporting strategic decision-making. Tune in to learn why supply networks — not just chains — define today's complex landscape and why adaptability remains the ultimate goal for the most mature organizations.Sponsored By:

    Modernizing Manufacturing with Open AI for Industrial Automation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 31:18


    Xaba's Generative Industrial AI equips machines with cognitive intelligence, allowing them to autonomously adapt, optimize, and execute tasks with precision. Its flagship product, xCognition, empowers industrial robots and cobots with AI-driven cognition and awareness, enabling them to autonomously generate programs and execute complex tasks such as welding, drilling, assembling, and additive manufacturing. We connect with the CEO of XABA, Massimiliano Moruzzi, to learn more.Sponsored By:

    Top 5 Developments in Manufacturing—and What Still Needs Work

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 20:34


    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:

    Strategic Recruiting for Small and Mid-Sized Manufacturers

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 17:35


    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:

    Vision System for Dynamic Automated Assembly Lines

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 4:04


    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:

    How Manufacturers Are Responding to Tariffs

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 17:15


    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:

    Leak Detection Optimization Starts with Training

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 21:55


    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:

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