Clear Impact Podcast

Clear Impact Podcast

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Clear Impact Podcast episodes

  • Episode 221: How MITER Brands Built the C700: Inside the Fiberglass Window Launch

    Curious how top manufacturers design the next generation of fiberglass windows and doors? In this episode, you will hear how MITER Brands brought the Milgard C700 fiberglass window line to life. The conversation explores practical innovations, the role of automation, and how teamwork creates better products for both dealers and homeowners.

    What You’ll Learn

    • How the C700 was designed to meet real customer needs using advanced fiberglass technology
    • Why automation is important for safety and production efficiency in window manufacturing
    • How engineering and operations teams worked together to improve both product quality and workplace safety
    • Simple ways manufacturing teams can use feedback to drive continuous improvement
    • Episode Highlights

      02:15 – Why fiberglass windows require different manufacturing methods
      06:40 – How the C700 project started and what problems it solves
      15:05 – What automation looks like in a modern factory
      21:30 – How new corner designs prevent water leaks

      Meet the Guests

      Viktor Stantsiyer leads product engineering at Milgard. Mike Barton directs operations at Tacoma Manufacturing. They both have experience launching new products and improving manufacturing processes.

      Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

      • Pultrusion and hot melt injection for fiberglass
      • Mechanically joined corners
      • Sturtz line automation
      • MITER Brands University for ongoing training
      • 22 min
      • Episode 220: Launching the C700: How MITER Brands + Customer Engagement Drives Innovation

        Want to know how a new window product changes the market? This episode tells the story of the C700 fiberglass window launch from the inside. Listeners get a clear look at how MITER Brands works with dealers, uses customer feedback, and builds lasting value through automation and innovation.

        What You’ll Learn

        • Why the C700 is designed for new construction, replacement, and multifamily projects
        • How MITER Brands uses automation to deliver consistent quality
        • The steps MITER takes to support dealers before and after a product launch
        • How customer input shapes both product and service at MITER
        • Episode Highlights

          01:50 – Stephen Moore’s experience with product launches at Milgard
          07:30 – How the C700 meets the needs of modern homes and buildings

          Meet the Guest

          Stephen Moore is a veteran in window and door sales and product development. He shares practical knowledge and lessons from decades in the industry.

          12 min
        • Episode 219: Operational Excellence: Chris Hewitt & MITER Brands Commitment to Quality

          Discover how operational excellence and community-driven innovation are shaping Florida’s window and door industry in this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast featuring Chris Hewitt.

          Chris Hewitt shares his journey from Midwest manufacturing to leading quality and operations at MITER Brands’ Southeast facilities. Learn how MITER Brands is simplifying its product lines, investing in workforce development, and launching customer-focused innovations like protective films for vinyl finishes—all under the “We Are Florida” ethos. This episode reveals how a bias for action, continuous improvement, and local collaboration drive industry-leading quality and resilience.

          21 min
        • Episode 218: Building Trust & Innovation—Inside MITER Brands with Tony Prummel

          Discover the power of Florida-made impact windows and doors in this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, featuring Tony Prummel, a seasoned industry expert.

          Our host, Sherri Connor, sits down with Tony Prummel, whose journey began in 2003 and has taken him from warehouse management to senior sales leadership MITER Brands. Tony shares firsthand insights on navigating product transitions, building customer trust, and driving innovation in Florida’s window and door manufacturing sector.

          What You'll Learn:
          • How MITER Brands and PGT are redefining impact-resistant windows and doors for Florida communities
          • The evolution of the Wingard line and its role as an industry leader
          • Real stories of customer relationships, product verification, and adapting to change
          • How streamlined operations and strategic decisions shape the future of Florida’s window and door industry
          • Why Listen?

            This episode is packed with actionable takeaways for window and door dealers, coastal homeowners, architects, and anyone passionate about quality, energy efficiency, and hurricane protection. Discover how MITER Brands’ “We Are Florida” campaign reflects a commitment to local communities, and how innovation is creating safer, more efficient homes.

            Tune in for expert advice, industry authority, and the latest trends in indoor-outdoor living and energy-efficient design.

            15 min
          • Episode 217: Advancing Window & Door Manufacturing with Craig Nath

            Join host Sherri Connor as she welcomes Craig Nath, manufacturing leader at MITER Brands, for an insightful conversation about operational excellence, innovation, and collaboration in the window and door industry. Craig shares his journey from production supervisor to leading manufacturing across 14 U.S. campuses, highlighting the successful integration of MITER Brands and PGT Innovations.

            Discover how MITER Brands combines MI’s manufacturing prowess, Milgard’s sales and marketing expertise, and Florida’s innovation culture to deliver industry-leading products—like the modern C-700 fiberglass window. Learn about advancements in automation and new glass technologies that drive both safety and job satisfaction.

            This episode explores:

            • The importance of balancing automation with human expertise
            • The launch of new products that meet evolving customer needs
            • The value of humility, teamwork, and cross-functional collaboration
            • Tune in to hear how MITER Brands is shaping the future of the window and door industry. Recorded before Craig’s trip to the International Builders’ Show in Orlando, this episode is a must-listen for dealers, coastal homeowners, architects, and anyone passionate about operational excellence and industry innovation.

              12 min
            • Episode 216: We Are Florida – with Dean Ruark

              What happens when you blend technical expertise, engineering know-how, business acumen, and a standout personality? You get Dean Ruark, Senior Vice President of Engineering at MITER Brands. In this episode, Dean discusses our approach to developing and enhancing our product portfolio. He explains how we leverage customer feedback and embrace new technologies to stay ahead of market demands.

              28 min
            • Episode 215: We Are Florida - with A.J. Wells and Meggie Francisco

              Evaluating what works and what doesn’t work is something we all need to do from time to time. This past year has held a lot of evaluating and changing for our Florida partners – and all leading to a better future for all of us. Today’s episode brings A.J. Wells and Meggie Francisco, our Florida Sales Directors to chat about these changes. We also mention llamas, cleaning out closets, speaking Spanish, violin lessons, and the New England Patriots. You’ll have to listen to this fun conversation for yourself!

              23 min
            • Episode 214: We Are Florida - with Chris Curwood

              Today’s conversation is a real treat! Chris Curwood shares not only his impressive history with PGT, but also what he and his team are doing in the Ft. Myers Manufacturing facility. They are up to BIG things there- literally. Assembling 5 x 12 sliding glass door panels safely and with excellence, requires planning and teamwork. You’ll enjoy this conversation with Chris.

              18 min
            • Episode 213: MITER Foundation - with Dr. Brook Bello and Dawn Sakes

              Human trafficking is devastating and complex, and we are thankful for organizations like More Too Living. We met with Dr. Brook Bello and Dawn Sakes after our day on the golf course to learn more about this impactful organization. Not only do they address the legal system and address prevention, they also help victims to overcome the trauma they’ve endured. MITER Foundation is proud to help support this amazing organization.

              To learn more about their work, click here.

              28 min
            • Episode 212: MITER Foundation – with Patrick and Holly Wright

              Tragedy can often be used for the good of others. In this episode, we meet Patrick and Holly Wright of the Payton Wright Foundation. They share how they carry on the legacy of their daughter by helping other families who are dealing with pediatric brain cancer. Their loss has allowed them to give back by providing time and memories for others.

              The Payton Wright Foundation Financially assists families who have children being treated for cancer of the brain and spinal cord. Learn more here.

              13 min

            About Clear Impact Podcast

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            As the manufacturing leader in the fenestration industry, we are bringing our expertise to you. Listen to learn more about windows and doors, the components, running a successful business, and other…

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