ASSEMBLY Audible

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:

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:

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:

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:

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.Sponsored By:

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:

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:

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.

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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:

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: