Manufacturing the Future

Theragenics' Michael Krachon on Precision, Particles, and Patient-Saving Innovation

Meet Michael Krachon, President of Theragenics Interventional
"The manufacturing process itself is challenging because there are really three distinct aspects of it," shares Michael Krachon, President of Theragenics Interventional, in our latest Manufacturing the Future episode. "We have to make the radioisotope itself, then put it into the seeds, and then put the seeds into custom configurations for each patient." This insights-packed conversation reveals the incredible precision required when manufacturing devices smaller than a grain of rice that save lives.
Theragenics tackles a manufacturing challenge like no other: creating medical devices that are tiny, radioactive, and perishable. These brachytherapy seeds, used primarily for cancer treatment, must be manufactured with absolute precision because they'll be implanted directly into patients. The complexity is staggering: managing radiation safety, tracking invisible materials, ensuring perfect quality in something the size of a grain of rice, and dealing with a product that has a limited useful life due to radioactive decay.
Founded over forty years ago, Theragenics has grown into a global manufacturer with one of the country's largest "cyclotron farms" — specialized equipment that creates the radioactive isotopes used in their products. Through multiple acquisitions, including Needle Tech, Galt Medical, and Aerotech, they've diversified their capabilities while maintaining their focus on life-saving medical technology. Over their history, they've manufactured more than 21 million seeds, a massive production volume that, as Michael notes with wonder, "would all fit in almost a cigar box."
In This Episode
In this fascinating conversation, Michael takes listeners behind the scenes of this highly specialized manufacturing operation. From the stringent radiation safety protocols that protect workers to the challenges of supply chain management for components measured in fractions of millimeters, the episode reveals manufacturing excellence at its most precise. Michael also discusses how emerging technologies like AI, targeted robotics, and 3D printing are opening new possibilities for Theragenics while they maintain the extraordinary quality standards necessary when manufacturing devices that patients' lives depend on. It's a rare glimpse into a manufacturing environment where there's no room for error — because getting it right means saving lives.
Topics
The unique challenges of manufacturing radioisotope-based medical devices that are simultaneously tiny, radioactive, and perishable with strict time constraints.
How Theragenics operates one of the country's largest "cyclotron farms" to create radioisotopes that become components in life-saving cancer treatment devices.
The extensive radiation safety protocols and monitoring technologies implemented to protect employees working with radioactive materials.
Managing precise manufacturing processes for implantable medical devices the size of a grain of rice that must be perfectly made every time.
Balancing innovation with strict regulatory requirements in a field where product quality directly impacts patient outcomes and safety.
Supply chain and inventory management strategies for components measured in fractions of millimeters that cannot use traditional tracking technologies.
The impact of COVID-19 on workforce management and the challenges of rebuilding institutional knowledge after experienced staff turnover.
Future technology applications including AI for production planning, targeted robotics for employee safety, and 3D printing for specialized components.
The critical importance of customization in medical device manufacturing, with each cancer patient receiving a uniquely configured product.
Advice for manufacturing leaders about cross-industry learning, relationship building, and engaging directly with technicians to solve manufacturing challenges.
Get in touch with Michael Krachon:  
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Get in touch with your host, Kerrie Jordan: 
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Epicor's Lisa Pope on Strategic Career Planning and the Future of ERP Technology

Meet Lisa Pope, recently retired President and Chief Revenue Officer at Epicor
"I think honestly the number one thing is to be client centric at all costs," says Lisa Pope, recently retired President and Chief Revenue Officer at Epicor, encapsulating the mentorship philosophy that has defined her remarkable 40-year career in software technology. Throughout leadership roles at industry giants including NCR, Oracle, QAD, Infor, and ultimately Epicor, Lisa has cultivated a leadership approach centered on empowering teams and maintaining unwavering customer focus.
Today's technology leaders face unprecedented challenges in navigating digital transformation, particularly as artificial intelligence emerges as what Lisa calls the third wave of ERP evolution. After the Y2K and cloud computing revolutions, AI represents a critical inflection point where software providers must seamlessly integrate this technology into their core systems rather than treating it as an add-on. Companies failing to embrace this change risk falling behind competitors who leverage AI to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
Lisa's career journey began unexpectedly when Triad Systems (later acquired by Epicor) recruited her after college, initially placing her in customer-facing roles that instilled a deep appreciation for client perspectives. This foundation guided her through multiple leadership positions across the industry, eventually bringing her full circle to Epicor where she helped drive the company's transformation into a billion-dollar cloud technology leader. Under her leadership, Epicor evolved from reactive customer relationships to deep collaborative partnerships, while simultaneously achieving double-digit revenue growth.
In This Episode
Lisa shares invaluable insights on strategic career planning, including the importance of thoughtful job transitions, the value of lateral moves for gaining broader experience, and practical advice for retirement planning. She discusses how mentorship and building diverse professional networks can accelerate career development, while emphasizing that the most sustainable path to organizational success lies in unwavering customer-centricity. For technology leaders navigating today's rapidly evolving landscape, Lisa's experience offers both practical guidance and inspirational perspectives on creating meaningful impact.  
Topics
The evolution of Lisa's 40-year career in software technology, from unexpected beginnings to leading a billion-dollar global enterprise at Epicor.
Strategic approaches to career advancement, including the value of lateral moves to gain broader experience rather than always climbing upward.
The importance of mentorship and building diverse professional networks beyond immediate colleagues to create career opportunities and support.
How artificial intelligence represents the third wave of ERP transformation, following Y2K and cloud computing revolutions in enterprise software.
Practical guidance for retirement planning, including developing a structured approach rather than focusing solely on age or financial milestones.
The transformation of Epicor over eight years from siloed products to integrated solutions, with significant improvements in customer-centricity and financial performance.
Evolution of customer relationships from reactive support to collaborative partnerships, with deeper engagement and value-focused interactions.
Industry consolidation trends and cross-pollination between manufacturing, distribution, and retail sectors creating new competitive challenges.
Work-life balance strategies that incorporate travel and personal interests throughout career development rather than deferring until retirement.
Why unwavering customer centricity at all levels — from frontline staff through executive leadership to the board — remains the cornerstone of sustainable business success. 
For more discussion about the future of AI in ERP, check out Arturo Buzzalino, Epicor Chief Innovation Officer, on the SourceForge podcast.
Get in touch with Lisa Pope:  
LinkedIn 
Get in touch with your host, Kerrie Jordan: 
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Twitter 

MRU Instruments' Alexej Kinderknecht on Revolutionizing Emissions Monitoring for Manufacturing Efficiency

Meet Alexej Kinderknecht, President & Technical Director of MRU Instruments
"Support is what we learned over the last couple of years," reflects Alexej Kinderknecht, President & Technical Director of MRU Instruments, emphasizing how technical innovation must be matched with exceptional customer service to truly transform manufacturing efficiency.
In today's manufacturing landscape, companies face the dual challenge of optimizing their operations while meeting increasingly stringent environmental requirements. This intersection of efficiency and environmental responsibility demands precise, reliable emissions monitoring solutions that can deliver accurate data while being robust enough to handle the harsh conditions of industrial environments.
Alex's journey with MRU Instruments spans over 16 years, starting as an intern in manufacturing before moving through R&D and service roles. His path to leadership was driven by a passion for efficiency and continuous improvement, eventually leading him to oversee US operations where he combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of customer needs.
In This Episode
The episode explores how precision-engineered analyzers are revolutionizing everything from home heating efficiency to industrial-scale emissions monitoring. Alex shares insights on balancing innovation with practical implementation, the critical importance of customer support in technical solutions, and why accuracy in emissions monitoring directly impacts both environmental compliance and operational costs. His perspective highlights how the right combination of technical excellence and customer support can transform environmental requirements from mere compliance issues into opportunities for significant cost savings and operational improvements.
Topics
The evolution of emissions monitoring technology from basic analysis to precision-engineered solutions that help optimize operational efficiency and reduce costs.
The critical role of customer support and practical implementation in ensuring the successful adoption of new monitoring technologies.
How accurate emissions monitoring can lead to significant cost savings by optimizing combustion processes and reducing unnecessary fuel consumption.
The importance of balancing rapid response to urgent customer needs with long-term technology development and innovation.
Strategies for implementing new monitoring technologies while ensuring both regulatory compliance and practical usability for customers.
The impact of EPA regulations and environmental requirements on the development of new monitoring solutions and customer support needs.
How starting as an intern and working through various roles provides valuable perspective for leading technical innovation and customer support.
The relationship between accurate emissions monitoring, cost savings, and environmental compliance in modern manufacturing operations.
The future of emissions monitoring technology and the increasing importance of support services in technical solution implementation.
Building customer trust through reliable products and responsive support services in the specialized field of emissions monitoring.
Get in touch with Alex Kinderknecht:  
LinkedIn 
Website 
Get in touch with your host, Kerrie Jordan: 
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Twitter 
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Joby Aviation's Srinivas Suresh on Building Supply Chains for Revolutionary Transportation

Meet Srinivas Suresh
"When you're working on new technology, none of these product and manufacturing processes exist. Getting to build, identify, and create those supply chains, and that's the best part of my job," reflects Srinivas Suresh, Supply Chain Lead at Joby Aviation, capturing the excitement driving innovation in manufacturing today.
The challenge of building supply chains for cutting-edge technologies is becoming increasingly complex as manufacturers push the boundaries of what's possible. From electric vehicles to commercial drones, and now revolutionary ridesharing aircraft, supply chain leaders must create entirely new processes while ensuring reliability and scalability.
Suresh's journey to Joby Aviation spans multiple innovative industries. After moving from India to Dubai and then to the United States for higher education, he built his career across procurement, supply chain, and manufacturing operations at companies including Tesla, Impossible Aerospace, and Apple. This diverse experience gave him unique insights into scaling production from prototype to full-scale manufacturing.
In This Episode
This episode explores how data intelligence is transforming supply chain management, the importance of building adaptable and resilient strategies, and the future impact of AI and robotics on manufacturing. Suresh shares valuable perspectives on sustainability, supply chain disruption management, and the exciting potential of electric aircraft to revolutionize transportation — from short urban hops between San Francisco and San Jose to eventual cross-continental travel. 
Topics
The importance of rapid iteration and velocity in supply chain management for new technologies, focusing on design, build, test, and learn cycles.
Building resilient supply chain strategies that can adapt to disruptions through diversification and strategic planning at all supply chain levels.
Leveraging data intelligence and analytics to optimize supplier selection, quality control, and supply chain decision-making processes.
Balancing sustainability goals with business objectives in pre-revenue companies while maintaining focus on long-term environmental impact.
The critical role of supply chain system automation in maximizing value across the entire manufacturing process.
Implementing effective data governance strategies to ensure high-quality data supports meaningful supply chain decisions.
The future impact of combining AI and robotics in transforming manufacturing processes across various industries.
Creating adaptable supply chain strategies that can respond to geopolitical tensions, material shortages, and natural disasters.
The evolution of electric aircraft manufacturing from urban mobility solutions to potential cross-continental transportation.
Building supply chain processes that support innovation while maintaining quality and reliability in aerospace manufacturing. 

Threat Tec's Jim Crawford on Manufacturing's Role in National Security and Innovation

Meet Jim Crawford
"What's better and more honorable than protecting the ideas of the United States of America?" reflects Jim Crawford, President and CEO of Threat Tec, capturing the passion that drives his unique approach to manufacturing innovation. In our latest episode of Manufacturing the Future, Jim shares how his journey from Army infantryman to defense technology leader has shaped his perspective on manufacturing's crucial role in national security.
Manufacturing capabilities in the United States have increasingly moved offshore, creating strategic vulnerabilities in our ability to respond to critical needs. Threat Tec addresses this challenge by combining advanced manufacturing capabilities with strategic defense expertise, developing solutions that range from Hollywood props to mission-critical military systems.
Crawford's path to founding Threat Tec was unexpected. After serving as an Army infantryman, he spent 20 years in commercial industrial construction before the 2007 downturn led him to government contracting. This transition allowed him to merge his military experience with manufacturing expertise, creating an organization that excels in threat emulation, wargaming, data visualization, and mission engineering.
In This Episode
The episode explores how military strategic thinking can transform manufacturing leadership, the importance of collective innovation through design thinking, and the game-changing potential of emerging technologies like AI and AR/VR in manufacturing. Jim also shares valuable insights on cybersecurity, mobile manufacturing solutions, and the critical need to rebuild America's manufacturing capabilities to ensure technological independence and national security. 
Topics
The critical importance of maintaining and rebuilding domestic manufacturing capabilities for national security and technological independence.
How military strategic thinking and experience can transform manufacturing leadership and drive innovative problem-solving approaches.
The integration of AR/VR technology in manufacturing visualization to improve communication and decision-making processes.
The role of mobile manufacturing capabilities in military operations and addressing point-of-need production requirements.
Implementation of design thinking and collective innovation approaches to solve complex manufacturing challenges.
The impact of emerging AI technologies on manufacturing processes and the importance of responsible adoption.
Cybersecurity challenges in modern manufacturing and the need for comprehensive protection strategies.
The development of mission engineering approaches to create more efficient and effective manufacturing solutions.
The intersection of defense technology innovation and commercial manufacturing applications, including entertainment industry contributions.
Building resilient manufacturing processes through data-driven decision making and strategic technology integration.

Epicor’s Josh Roberts on Harnessing Data and Reskilling the Manufacturing Workforce for a Tech-Driven Future

Meet Josh Roberts, Regional VP of Sales at Epicor
“We have to invest in these robots to keep up with the demand. There's not enough people. And even if we did hire them, training them has become a challenge because we haven't been able to document our processes, our procedures, and have a standard training mechanism to onboard people.” Our very own Josh Roberts, Regional VP of Sales at Epicor, shared this quote from a customer’s story. What he found wasn't a story of automation replacing jobs, but rather one of transformation — a shop floor where robots handle the welding while former welders learn to program and manage the automation systems.
The conversation highlights how manufacturers are finding success by focusing on fundamentals. In another example story, a Twin Cities manufacturer worked with Josh to unlock capabilities they already had but weren't utilizing. Through a simple training session, they discovered features that transformed their inventory management processes.
Epicor was founded with a mission to partner with the world’s hardest-working businesses, providing them with the technology solutions needed to succeed. Over the years, we’ve evolved from a traditional software provider to a leader in business technology, serving over 23,000 customers worldwide. Josh’s journey at Epicor reflects this evolution; starting as a business development representative, he has spent over 15 years learning the intricacies of manufacturing and technology, ultimately rising to a leadership role where he drives innovation and customer success.
In This Episode 
Kerrie speaks with Josh Roberts about the critical intersection of technology and workforce development in manufacturing. They explore how companies can leverage automation and AI to address labor shortages while emphasizing the importance of reskilling employees. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the future of manufacturing and the role of technology in shaping a more efficient and competitive industry. 
Topics
The impact of workforce shortages on the manufacturing industry and the increasing reliance on automation and robotics to fill skill gaps.  
Strategies for reskilling existing employees to adapt to new technologies and ensure they can effectively operate automated systems and machinery.  
The importance of documenting processes and procedures to facilitate training and onboarding for new employees in a rapidly changing environment.  
How AI and data-driven strategies are transforming manufacturing, enabling companies to make informed decisions and optimize operations for better efficiency.  
Insights into the evolving landscape of manufacturing technology and the necessity for companies to stay ahead of trends to remain competitive.  
The significance of fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation within organizations to keep pace with technological advancements.  
Challenges faced by manufacturers in implementing new technologies and the importance of setting realistic expectations during the adoption process.  
The benefits of leveraging customer feedback and insights to improve technology solutions and better meet the needs of manufacturing businesses.  
The future of manufacturing, including potential growth areas and the evolving relationship between technology and workforce development in the industry.

Cambridge Air Solutions’ Kevin Thompson on People-Centric Leadership in Manufacturing

Meet Kevin Thompson, Leadership Coach at Cambridge Air Solutions
“Don’t lead if you can’t love,” says Kevin Thompson, Leadership Coach at Cambridge Air Solutions. True leadership is about enriching the lives of employees and fostering a culture of care and respect. By prioritizing people over profits, leaders can create an engaged workforce that drives success.
Kevin highlights the disconnect often found in traditional leadership models, which tend to prioritize management over genuine human connection. Many organizations struggle with low employee engagement, high turnover rates, and a lack of innovation. Kevin believes that by shifting to a people-centric approach, companies can build stronger relationships with their employees, vendors, and customers. This transformation not only enhances workplace morale but also leads to improved productivity and even profitability.
Cambridge Air Solutions was founded over 60 years ago as a second-generation family-owned business. The company is committed to creating better indoor environments through innovative heating and cooling solutions. Over the years, they have invested heavily in research and development, leading to the creation of energy-efficient products that benefit over 37,000 installations. Their journey reflects a dedication to continuous improvement and a strong focus on the people who make their success possible.
In This Episode
In this episode, Kerrie and Kevin dive into the importance of a people-first mindset in leadership. They explore practical strategies for fostering a culture of trust and collaboration, the role of vulnerability in leadership, and how these principles can lead to lasting organizational success. Tune in to discover how embracing a people-centric approach can revolutionize your leadership style and transform your organization! 
Topics
A people-centric approach in leadership and how it can transform workplace culture and employee engagement within manufacturing organizations.
Strategies for building and sustaining strong relationships with employees, vendors, and customers to drive overall business success and satisfaction.
The transition from traditional management styles to a coaching mindset, emphasizing vulnerability, trust, and authentic connections with team members.
The impact of leadership behaviors on personal relationships, highlighting how improvements in workplace dynamics can enhance family and social interactions.
The concept of "one you," where employees bring their whole selves to work, and how this affects workplace dynamics and productivity.
The significance of gratitude and recognition in fostering a positive work environment, encouraging open communication and appreciation among team members.
The role of continuous improvement and adaptability in leadership, particularly in navigating challenges and changes within the manufacturing industry.
The balance between profitability and a people-first approach, illustrating how enriching lives can lead to natural business success and growth.
The necessity of engaging employees' hearts, heads, and hands to create a fully committed workforce that contributes to organizational goals.
The evolving expectations of workforce generations, emphasizing the need for leaders to adapt their styles to meet the demands of modern employees. 
Resources
Love Works by Joel Manby
Joy, Inc. by Richard Sheridan
Everybody Matters by Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia
Tugboat Institute
Encouraging Leaders

Enabling Empowerment’s Christopher Seifert on Breaking the Micromanagement Doom Loop

Meet Christopher Seifert, Founder of Enabling Empowerment
"The simplest trick is to stop telling people what to do,” says Christopher Seifert, Founder of Enabling Empowerment. Even when leaders don’t want to become micromanagers, sometimes they end up in the doom loop that leads them straight there. But there’s a solution — empowering teams to take ownership of their decisions rather than relying on top-down directives. 
The pervasive issue of micromanagement in organizations not only stifles creativity and initiative but also leads to disengagement among employees. As Christopher points out, the human brain is not naturally wired to make decisions in complex, uncertain environments, and many professionals lack formal training in decision-making processes. This gap creates a significant barrier to effective leadership and team performance.
Christopher's journey began in the U.S. Navy, where he learned the importance of empowering individuals to understand their roles in high-stakes environments. After transitioning to the civilian workforce, he applied these lessons in various leadership roles within manufacturing. Recognizing the need for a structured approach to decision-making, he founded Enabling Empowerment to help leaders transform their teams into independent, high-performing units.
In This Episode
In this episode, Christopher shares his insights on breaking free from micromanagement, the importance of empowering teams, and practical strategies for fostering a culture of accountability. Tune in to discover how you can enhance decision-making within your organization and drive meaningful change.
Topics
The significance of empowering teams to make decisions rather than relying on top-down directives from leadership to foster accountability and innovation.  
Understanding the micromanagement doom loop and its impact on team performance, creativity, and employee engagement within organizations.  
The value of formal training in decision-making processes for professionals, particularly in complex and uncertain environments like manufacturing.  
Strategies for leaders to shift their mindset from micromanagement to empowerment for their teams, including encouraging recommendations instead of providing direct answers.  
The role of cognitive biases in decision-making and how they can hinder effective leadership and team performance in organizations.  
The connection between employee engagement and their ability to influence business outcomes through decision-making and accountability.  
Practical advice for organizations looking to improve their decision-making capabilities and foster a culture of empowerment among employees. 
Resources
Chris’ book, Enabling Empowerment: A Leadership Playbook for Ending Micromanagement and Empowering Decision-Makers
Templates and Tools page on Enabling Empowerment’s website for free resources

Manufacturing Leadership Council’s David R. Brousell on Leveraging Advanced Technologies for Manufacturing Success

Meet David R. Brousell, VP & Executive Director of the Manufacturing Leadership Council
In the latest episode of Manufacturing the Future, I speak with David R. Brousell, VP & Executive Director of the Manufacturing Leadership Council. David shares profound insights on the ongoing digital transformation in the manufacturing sector, stating, “What I think we've learned over the years is this is indeed the challenge and the opportunity before manufacturing companies. If they can take the evolving set of advanced technologies, leverage them, change their organizations, their cultures, and have the right kind of leadership in their organizations that adopt a digital-first mentality, they can progress, they can achieve new competitive advantages, they can really transform and reinvent manufacturing in their companies.” This quote encapsulates the essence of the challenges and opportunities that manufacturers face today.
 
The manufacturing industry is at a crossroads, grappling with rapid technological advancements and the need for cultural shifts within organizations. Many companies struggle to keep pace with the evolving landscape, often underestimating the importance of leadership and change management in their digital transformation journeys. David emphasizes that without a digital-first mentality and the right leadership, even the most advanced technologies will not yield the desired results. The challenge lies not just in adopting new tools but in fostering an environment that embraces change.
 
The Manufacturing Leadership Council was founded to address these challenges head-on. David recounts how the organization began as a response to the need for ongoing dialogue among manufacturing leaders about the convergence of IT and operational technologies. Over the years, it has evolved into a vital resource for manufacturers seeking to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, providing insights, research, and a platform for collaboration.
In This Episode
Kerrie and David explore the critical issues facing the manufacturing sector today, from leadership to technology adoption. David offers valuable insights on how to effectively drive change and innovation in your organization, ensuring a competitive edge in the ever-evolving manufacturing landscape.  
Topics
The convergence of IT and operational technologies and its impact on the manufacturing landscape, creating new opportunities for efficiency and innovation.  
The importance of leadership in driving digital transformation, emphasizing the need for a digital-first mentality within manufacturing organizations.  
The cultural shifts required for successful digital transformation, including fostering collaboration and empowering employees to make decisions.  
The ongoing challenges manufacturers face in keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies and the necessity of adapting to these changes.  
The significance of change management in digital transformation, highlighting the need for structured approaches and constant communication throughout the organization.  
The role of the Manufacturing Leadership Council in providing resources, insights, and a platform for collaboration among manufacturing leaders.  
Strategies for manufacturers to effectively leverage advanced technologies and integrate them into their existing operations for optimal results.  
The critical issues agenda that guides the Manufacturing Leadership Council’s focus, including smart manufacturing, transformative technologies, and next-generation leadership.  
Insights into the future of manufacturing, including the potential of AI and automation in enhancing operational efficiency and productivity.  
The necessity for manufacturers to think big and develop a long-term vision for their digital transformation journeys, rather than focusing solely on incremental improvements.   

Future of Work in Manufacturing: A Roundtable with Kiva Allgood and Jennelle McGrath

Meet Kiva Allgood and Jennelle McGrath
In our latest special episode of Manufacturing the Future, Kerrie chats with Kiva Allgood, Head of Centre for Advanced Manufacturing & Supply Chains, World Economic Forum, and Jennelle McGrath, CEO & Inbound Sales and Marketing Agency Partner, Market Veep. They dive deep on how effective communication and transparency can enhance workplace morale and productivity in the manufacturing sector.
The manufacturing industry faces significant challenges, particularly in workforce engagement and morale. A recent report highlighted a disconnect between management and frontline workers, with only 45% of workers reporting high morale compared to 57% of managers. This gap often leads to increased stress and operational pressures, making it crucial for leaders to implement strategies that foster a more inclusive and communicative work environment. By addressing these issues, companies can improve employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and enhance overall productivity.
Market Veep was founded with a mission to help manufacturing companies expand their market share and modernize their sales processes, after Jennelle recognized the need for specialized marketing solutions tailored to the unique challenges of the manufacturing sector. Over the years, Market Veep has grown into a trusted partner for numerous organizations, earning accolades such as HubSpot Diamond Certified Partner and Inc. Best Workplaces.  
The World Economic Forum (WEF) is a renowned international organization dedicated to fostering public-private cooperation to address global challenges. Founded in 1971, the WEF has evolved into a platform where leaders from business, government, and civil society come together to discuss pressing issues and drive positive change. Through its commitment to inclusivity and dialogue, the WEF plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of work and manufacturing on a global scale. 
In This Episode
In this episode, Kerrie Jordan engages with Jennelle and Kiva to explore the future of work in manufacturing. They discuss the importance of transparency, the role of technology in empowering workers, and strategies for fostering a collaborative workplace culture. Our two guests also offer valuable insights on navigating the challenges of the manufacturing industry and the transformative power of effective communication and upskilling. 
Topics
The disconnect between leadership and frontline workers in manufacturing and its impact on morale and productivity within organizations.  
The importance of transparency in communication to foster trust and engagement among employees and management in the manufacturing sector.  
Strategies for involving workers in the change management process when implementing new technologies and automation in manufacturing environments.  
The role of upskilling and continuous education in empowering workers to adapt to technological advancements and evolving industry demands.  
How automation and AI can alleviate mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on higher-value work and enhancing job satisfaction.  
The significance of a phased approach to technology adoption, ensuring that employees are comfortable and successful before moving on to new initiatives.  
Best practices for promoting sustainability in manufacturing while balancing operational goals and meeting industry regulations.  
The need for a cultural shift in how manufacturing careers are perceived, emphasizing the value and opportunities within the industry.  
Insights on the Global Lighthouse Network and its role in showcasing best practices in advanced manufacturing and supply chain management.  
The impact of COVID-19 on workforce engagement and the acceleration of digital transformation in the manufacturing sector.