In this episode, Dr. Phil Mintz, Director of NC State University Industry Extension Services, talks with Bogdan Ionescu, co-owner of OGC Stained Glass (Ordway Glass Company), a husband-and-wife–run stained glass studio based in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Bogdan walks us through how he and his wife Nicole built a thriving, award-winning business out of their garage—balancing art, family life, and purpose along the way.

OGC Stained Glass was named the 2025 winner of the North Carolina Chamber’s “Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina,” a remarkable achievement for a two-person operation focused entirely on hand-cut, one-of-a-kind stained glass art.

This episode offers an honest and inspiring look at what it takes to build something meaningful—one piece of glass at a time.

NCMEP | IES | Ordway Glass Company

Bogdan Ionescu is the co-owner of OGC Stained Glass, located in Fuquay-Varina, NC, alongside his wife Nicole—the primary artist behind the glass. Together, they create contemporary and traditional stained glass works that preserve heritage while pushing the craft forward.

Dr. Phil Mintz is the Director of NC State University Industry Extension Services (IES). Through his leadership, IES supports manufacturers across the state with resources in innovation, process improvement, workforce development, and business growth.

NCMEP is the official state representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. NCMEP is administered by NC State University Industry Extension Services and partners with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, the Polymers Center of Excellence, Manufacturing Solutions Center, Hangar6, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, and NC State University Wilson College of Textiles to help manufacturing companies develop and maintain efficient operations that are well-positioned to grow profitably.

NC State University Industry Extension Services (IES), established in 1955 as the outreach team for the NC State University College of Engineering, provides resources, tools, and customized training programs to help businesses survive, thrive, and grow.

IES delivers comprehensive training and development programs tailored for a diverse range of sectors, including manufacturing, educational and research institutions, healthcare, pharmaceutical and medical device companies, defense contractors, aerospace, automotive, energy, and government agencies. 

Your IES dedicated Regional Manager is available to assist in identifying and implementing customized solutions, tools, and resources designed to optimize your organization’s productivity, efficiency, quality, and profitability.  ncstateies.com/RM

In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Dr. Phil Mintz sits down with Tommy Ausheman, co-founder and president of Outrider USA. Based in Mars Hill, North Carolina, Outrider USA is a premier manufacturer of adaptive electric all-terrain vehicles designed to restore independence, adventure, and access to the "great outdoors" for individuals with mobility impairments.

Tommy’s journey began at Appalachian State University, where his passion for mountain biking and rock climbing collided with his studies in Appropriate Technology. This discipline—focused on creating functional, repairable, and sustainable solutions without over-engineering—became the foundation of his design philosophy.

The company refers to itself as "Wing Builders," a title inspired by a moment of soul-searching and the myth of Icarus. Tommy explains that for many customers—particularly those with spinal cord injuries or veterans—an accident can feel like being stuck in a "dark place." Outrider machines act as "wings," providing the means to rise out of that space and rediscover freedom.

Listeners also get an inside look at Outrider’s manufacturing journey, from its humble beginnings in a small Fletcher workshop to its current 10,000-square-foot facility in a historic manufacturing building in Mars Hill. Tommy discusses the challenges and realities of American manufacturing, including supply chain complexity, scaling production, and the decision to sell direct-to-consumer to keep manufacturing in the U.S.

This inspiring conversation showcases how North Carolina manufacturers like Outrider USA combine engineering ingenuity, purpose-driven leadership, and local manufacturing to create life-changing products—and why NC manufacturing remains a powerful force for impact.

NCMEP | IES | Outrider USA

NCMEP is the official state representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. NCMEP is administered by NC State University Industry Extension Services and partners with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, the Polymers Center of Excellence, Manufacturing Solutions Center, Hangar6, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, and NC State University Wilson College of Textiles to help manufacturing companies develop and maintain efficient operations that are well-positioned to grow profitably.

NC State University Industry Extension Services is the extension operation outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, NC State University Industry Extension Services provides services that help manufacturers to:

Outrider USA is an innovative manufacturer of adaptive electric vehicles based in Mars Hill, North Carolina. The company’s mission—captured in the name “Wing Builders”—is about restoring freedom, independence, and adventure to people whose mobility has been limited by injury or illness.

Dr. Phil Mintz is the Director of NC State Industry Extension Services (IES). Through his leadership, NCMEP supports manufacturers across the state with resources in innovation, process improvement, workforce development, and business growth.

Tommy Ausherman is the President and Co-Founder of Outrider USA.

In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Phil Mintz sits down with Lindsey Crisp, President and CEO of Carver Machine Works—also known as CMW Global—a nearly 50-year-old manufacturing company located just steps from the Pamlico River in Washington, North Carolina.

Lindsey shares how Carver Machine Works has evolved from repairing phosphate mining equipment in the 1970s to becoming a trusted supplier for the industrial and naval defense industries. With a background in accounting, Lindsey offers a unique perspective on manufacturing leadership, financial management, and how adaptability has fueled the company’s longevity and growth.

Listeners will hear insights on Carver’s transformation, its commitment to quality certifications, and innovative approaches to workforce development, additive manufacturing, and AI adoption.

NCMEP | IES | Carver Machine Works

NCMEP is the official state representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. NCMEP is administered by NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions and partners with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, the Polymers Center of Excellence, Manufacturing Solutions Center, Hangar6, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, and NC State University Wilson College of Textiles to help manufacturing companies develop and maintain efficient operations that are well-positioned to grow profitably.

Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions provides services that help manufacturers to:

CMW Global, formerly known as Carver Machine Works, is a Washington, North Carolina–based, engineering-driven metal fabrication and machine shop that delivers world-class services to aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing sectors. Their capabilities span precision machining, custom metal fabrication, mechanical assembly, welding, refurbishment, and reverse engineering. With a strong commitment to quality, CMW Global operates under ISO 9001 and other industry certifications. What sets them apart is their ability to tackle mission-critical, high-value, and complex components while ensuring tight control over process, cost, and schedule.

Dr. Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP).

Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Lindsey Crisp is President and CEO of Carver Machine Works (CMW Global). A graduate of East Carolina University with a background in accounting, Lindsey is both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). Under his leadership, Carver Machine Works has expanded its capabilities and market reach, becoming a model of resilience, innovation, and community-centered manufacturing.

In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Phil Mintz sits down with Dr. Jason Alexander, Business Development Manager at Alotech, Inc., a contract manufacturing company based in Goldston, North Carolina.

Alotech’s journey—from its early roots in remanufacturing to its expansion into machining, engineering, logistics, and product development—reflects both the adaptability and innovation driving North Carolina’s manufacturing economy. The company was recognized with the 2019 NCMEP Manufacturing Leadership Award for innovative practices that improved customer profit margins through remanufacturing process improvements.

Jason shares his remarkable personal and professional path—from a college basketball standout to a leader in sustainable manufacturing—and discusses how determination, mentorship, and community relationships have shaped his career.

NCMEP | IES | Alotech

NCMEP is the official state representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. NCMEP is administered by NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions and partners with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, the Polymers Center of Excellence, Manufacturing Solutions Center, Hangar6, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, and NC State University Wilson College of Textiles to help manufacturing companies develop and maintain efficient operations that are well-positioned to grow profitably.

Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions provides services that help manufacturers to:

Dr. Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP).

Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Dr. Jason Alexander is the Business Development Manager for Allotech, Inc., where he leads efforts to match the company’s broad manufacturing capabilities to customer needs. A former college athlete and educator, Jason’s unique background spans entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, and leadership—earning him the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteerism in 2022.

In this episode of "Clocking In, Forces of NC Manufacturing," host Phil Mintz, director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP), interviews John Weir, the founder and CEO of I2E Group ( I2E stands for "Innovation to Execution”). Based in High Point, North Carolina, the I2E Group specializes in the design, development, and production of a variety of electronic assemblies, including printed circuit boards, electromechanical assemblies, cable assemblies, and harness assemblies.

Weir founded his first company, Nimbus Technologies, in 1993, which was a contract manufacturing business. He later started the I2E Group to offer a more comprehensive service, ranging from early-stage innovation to final execution and manufacturing.

Listeners will gain insights into the status of the printed circuit board (PCB) industry, how I2E Group has succeeded by focusing on "high contact" projects, where they can protect customers' intellectual property and meet stringent quality standards for industries like medical, aerospace, and defense, the challenges of sourcing raw components, and the continued growth of domestic manufacturing.

NCMEP | IES | I2E Group

NCMEP is the official state representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. NCMEP is administered by NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions and partners with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, the Polymers Center of Excellence, Manufacturing Solutions Center, Hangar6, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, and NC State University Wilson College of Textiles to help manufacturing companies develop and maintain efficient operations that are well-positioned to grow profitably.

Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions provides services that help manufacturers to:

Dr. Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

John Weir is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of i2E Group, LLC, based in High Point, North Carolina. With a career in manufacturing that began in 1993, he brings more than three decades of expertise in engineering, product development, and executive leadership. John earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering and his Master of Business Administration from Cornell University, a foundation that has shaped his approach to innovative problem-solving and scalable manufacturing. Under his leadership, i2E Group has established itself as a trusted partner, supporting product design, prototyping, and low- to mid-volume electronics equipment production across diverse industries including aviation, life sciences, telecommunications, and defense.

From Classroom to Continuous Improvement: Clifton Dial’s Journey in Manufacturing Leadership.

In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Phil Mintz sits down with Dr. Clifton Dial, Operations Manager at WePack Logistics in Laurinburg, North Carolina. From a start in biology and education to a leadership role in manufacturing, Dr. Dial shares his unconventional career path and how his passion for leadership development and continuous improvement ultimately led him to WePack.

WePack Logistics, a 2025 NC Manufacturing Leadership Award winner for Continuous Improvement, specializes in contract packaging, display assembly, and co-manufacturing services for major brands like Campbell’s. Clifton discusses how his background in teaching and consulting shaped his leadership style, the challenges and opportunities of working in a seasonal operation, and how WePack is building a culture of efficiency and standardization to support long-term growth.

Listeners will gain insights into leadership strategies, lean manufacturing practices, and the importance of investing in people and processes for sustainable manufacturing success.

LINKS: NCMEP | We Pack Logistics

ABOUT:

The North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP)

Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, NCMEP provides solutions and services that help manufacturers to:

Dr. Phil Mintz

Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Dr. Clifton Dial

Gilden in Sanford, North Carolina, Changes Corporate Culture.

North Carolina is the home to some of the world’s largest apparel manufacturers. In this episode of Clocking In, we are fortunate to learn more about Gilden, a leader in textiles for over 40 years, with 30 locations and more than 45,000 employees in over 12 countries.

On this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz sits down with Whitney Womack, a recruiter and talent acquisition specialist for Gildan in Sanford, NC, where they spin the yard for the oh-so-soft apparel. In 2022, Gildan purchased Frontier Spinning and the company culture immediately changed, with safety and automation playing a very important role.

Listen to the conversation as Phil and Whitney discuss Whitney’s journey in HR, how she learns the crucial skills needed for each position, and the importance of educating high school students about the many opportunities in manufacturing and changing the perception there are only “dirty jobs” in manufacturing.

LINKS: NCMEP | Gildan

Dr. Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Whitney Womack is a recruiter at Gildan in Sanford, North Carolina. She is responsible for creating an ongoing candidate pipeline, evaluating the effectiveness of the online application process, and maintaining as well as coordinating activities to direct applicant traffic and pre-screening. Whitney helps drive community outreach, ensuring Gildan taps into talent from local markets, and serves as a brand ambassador and educator, teaching company culture.

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s New Focus on Manufacturing

In this episode of Clocking In, NCMEP Director Phil Mintz speaks with U.S. Small Business Administration leaders Lisa Shimkat, Mike Arriola, and Dan Piche about the new Made in America Manufacturing Initiative. The initiative aims to strengthen small manufacturers through reduced regulations, tailored loan programs, and workforce development.

The conversation highlights the SBA’s renewed, hands-on approach—including plant tours and roundtables—to better understand and serve small manufacturers’ needs nationwide.

LINKS

NCMEP

U.S. Small Business Administration

Dr. Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP).

Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Lisa Shimkat is the Associate Administrator for the Office of Field Operations.

Lisa also serves as the Office of Manufacturing and Trade’s Acting Associate Administrator. Previously, Lisa was the state director for Small Business Development Centers in Iowa. She has extensive experience in economic development, managing a multimillion-dollar revolving loan fund to assist rural entrepreneurs and manufacturers in expanding their businesses and serving as a plant manager for an agricultural rebuilder.

Mike Arriola is the North Carolina District Director, SBA.

As the SBA District Director for North Carolina, Mike Arriola leads an office that drives economic development by helping entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses. He directs the implementation of SBA programs related to financing, business advising, and government contracts. Mike has been with the SBA since 1998. In 2004, he opened an SBA satellite office in Asheville. He moved to Charlotte to become the Deputy District Director for the state in 2014. He was named District Director in May 2021, overseeing the Charlotte district office and the Asheville, Raleigh, and Wilmington satellite offices.

Dan Pisché is the Director of Trade and Finance, SBA Office of Manufacturing and Trade.

Daniel Pische serves as the National Director of Trade Finance within the SBA’s Office of Manufacturing and Trade in Washington, DC. As Director, Daniel is responsible for the design and delivery of SBA’s export loan programs and oversight of the national staff of Export Finance Managers.

Prior to joining the SBA, Daniel was a Senior Vice President at First American Bank for over 15 years where he led their Trade Finance Division and was a member of the Senior Loan Committee. Daniel served on the U.S. Department of Commerce Trade Finance Advisory Council (TFAC) during the second charter term and as the SBA’s ex-officio representative on the third chartered term.

Daniel holds a BS in Finance from Northern Illinois University and is an Evans Scholar alumnus.

AI will be a Game Changer for an Optimistic Economic Outlook for North Carolina

New technologies such as artificial intelligence will no doubt transform the state’s traditional powerhouses of textiles, tobacco, and technology.

As a new federal executive branch takes shape and establishes its policies, Dr Phil Mintz, Director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership, discusses the economic outlook for North Carolina with “The People’s Economist,” Dr. Michael Walden.

Dr. Michael L. Walden is a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University and a member of the Graduate Economics faculty with The Poole College of Management. Dr. Walden retired at the end of March 2021 and is now a Professor Emeritus. He is also an accomplished author who has published 12 books and over 300 articles and reports.

Listen to Phil and Michael as they discuss the reasons the economic outlook for North Carolina is an optimistic one, covering topics from technology to immigration and tariffs.

LINKS

NCMEP

Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Micheal Walden is a William Neils emeritus from North Carolina State University. He graduated from Cornell University in 1978 with a doctorate in philosophy, concentrating in consumer economics. While working at NC State University, Doctor. Walden’s role at NC State comprised teaching, research, extension responsibilities, consumer economics, economic outlook, and public policy. He is an accomplished author who has published 12 books and over 300 articles and reports.

CTI Systems Realizes the Value in Retaining Their Workforce.

CTI Systems has been locally owned and producing high-quality equipment for the electronics assembly industry for over 35 years. CTI Systems offers a wide range of products, from the most complex laser markers to depaneling routers and simple conveyors. Located in the Lee County Industrial Park, CTI Systems is a four-fold operation in the manufacturing, sales, installation, and service of automated conveyor systems. CTI equipment, used in the manufacture of a printed circuit board, is utilized in a variety of applications and industries, from the automotive and medical fields to defense and aerospace.

On this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz sits down with Dreama Pilson, the HR manager for CTI Systems in Goldston, North Carolina. Dreama joined CTI Systems in 1996 when there were only 24 employees. Today, the workforce has grown to exceed 82 employees. Educated as a programmer, Dreama quickly shifted to the manufacturing industry because of her love of manufacturing processes and the people who “are out there making things happen.”

Listen to the conversation as Phil and Dreama discuss how CTI Systems has grown, the challenges of staffing the workforce, and the realization that the best employees are the ones they have already hired. CTI Systems has a long tenure of employees, many with 15-20 years of experience. The conversation highlights the importance of partnerships with organizations that assist in providing customizing training programs and educating the next workforce generation about the many opportunities for mechanical and electrical engineers, programmers, to machinists who manufacture the parts.

LINKS

NCMEP

CTI Systems

Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Dreama Pilson is the HR Manager at CTI Systems in Goldston, North Carolina, for over 29 years. Dreama hires and onboards with a focus on a corporate culture of “Whatever-It-Takes” that is reflected throughout the organization, beginning with top management and extending down to its professional staff of employees. Each department is an extension of the others, and every employee works as a team member to meet production deadlines.