EECO Asks Why Podcast

Learning, doing new things and helping other people is how our Hero Jonathan Noren describes his Why.  From determining how electromagnetic fields behave inside a rail gun to industrial networking his journey has been anything but conventional.  He found his passion helping industrial manufacturers implement and build solutions that connects data and leads to better decisions.

Jonathan offered great advice for those new to industry and spoke openly about the importance of mentorship.  He debunked some ideals around manufacturing and industry which resonates with so many that are trying to change the narrative.

He has a great hobby of 3D printing and shares about some of his fun projects with that venture.  Being a family man he has a full plate at home with his 4 children and stays busy with fun activities all the time. 

This is a fun conversation full of wisdom and insight from our hero Jonathan Noren! 

Guest: Jonathan Noren - Business & Industrial IT Group Manager at RoviSys

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

We are excited to release the first episode of our Industry War Stories.  The feedback has been pouring in and this is a first taste of some of the amazing stories we have collected.  Remember we want the good, the bad, the funny, the stories you will tell at dinner parties and around the family dinner table.  We believe our heroes of industry have amazing things happen all the time and this is the way we can all unite as a community and celebrate the wins, lessons learned and the character of those that make industry great.

Sit back, clear your mind and enjoy some war stories from industry that are sure to warm your heart and maybe leave you saying "yup been there done that." 

Keep the submissions coming and we would love to share your war story on an upcoming episode. 

Remember - keep asking why!

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

From the great state of Texas to leading the way at ndustrial.io Natalie Birdwell has an amazing journey that she unpacks in this insightful conversation.  She knew early on that her love of STEM would be prevalent in her journey and quickly started to make an impact when she entered industry. 

She offered sage advice to those in industry that are dealing with issues such as transferring knowledge and how the workforce transition is impacting everyone.  Her recognition in the disparity of female leaders in engineering compared to general business was eye opening and she sees that as a great opportunity to advocate and share STEM opportunities to create engagement early and often.

Natalie debunks the myth that industry is not innovative and shares personal insight and experiences she has that speaks to the ever evolving (and exciting) changes that are happening in industry every day!  She loves it when she can make better outcomes and as you will quickly see she does that in every engagement she has.  Her passion and energy is contagious and we even got to learn about her amazing family and some fun hobbies that she enjoys to relax.

Natalie Birdwell is a phenomenal leader in industry and hands down our hero!  Sit back and follow along with her and the outstanding journey she has forged through industry!

Guest: Natalie Birdwell - VP of Strategic and Corporate Development @ ndustrial.io

Resources:
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey
Manufacturing Happy Hour with Chris Luecke
Headway App

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

We brought in Michael Manzi to hit head on the topic of IT/OT convergence.  He brought a ton of wisdom and insight around this ever growing area that is impacting manufacturers everywhere.  Michael explains the general structure of these systems and how the priority of the system owners differ. 

He unpacks how OT networks have an insistent need to always be available and how the massive amounts of data being moved must be taken into consideration.  When dealing with operational data and process decisions speed is crucial.  This can be an area where IT and OT are not in alignment and where parties need to come together to work towards amicable solutions. 

When those solutions are not prevalent that is where experts like Michael can step in and translate for both sides.  His analogy to a marriage counselor that can understand what is important for both parties and lead them through a discussion that will have meaningful results. 

The world of the plant floor is changing and at some point every manufacturer will have to tackle IT/OT convergence head on.  Experts like Michael Manzi give us hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel and we know the impact this can have on many businesses that are striving daily to be industry leaders.  

Guest: Michael Manzi - Manufacturing Information Systems Practice Lead at Feyen Zylstra

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

"I like helping people, learning and leaving things a little better than I found it."  That sums up our hero Chester Burke and he shared his inspirational journey in this hero conversation. At the core he loves to create new things and he provided great insight to how the world of engineering and manufacturing provides so many opportunities for that to happen.  When he is faced with an opportunity to improve a process or engineer automation he loves how that allows him to use his unique skills to build something truly incredible. 

He shared some of the challenges he sees as a direct front line leader in manufacturing.  There was great advice offered for others to consider as they begin their own journeys and many of the points shared can apply to multiple disciplines of industry. 

Chester is an all around fun guy and has a passion for everything he does.  Whether he is engineering a cutting edge automation solution, finding peace on the gun range, spending time with his wonderful wife and daughter, Chester will always leave a lasting impact on others as his outlook on life and how he treats others truly makes him our hero!

It was an absolute treat to hear Chester's story and for those looking for inspiration and encouragement look no further - enjoy the ride with our hero Chester Burke! 

Guest: Chester Burke

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

In this Straight Talk With Chris episode he unpacks his internship journey at EECO that was 20 years ago.   The three areas that he remembered the most were the opportunity he had to explore and learn about distribution.  He also recalled how open everyone was and willing to teach him about the industry.  He concludes with the importance he had with his mentor and how he guided him and truly cared about his path.

Internships are an incredible way to bring new people into industry and some of Chris' tips are great to consider when getting started. 

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

So Chris got on a roll with this one and spoke to how features and benefit days are over. He stresses the importance of understanding the problems that are trying to be solved.  Another area he suggests is to be succinct in your solution.  The quickest to the answer these days is the one that provides the most value.  Finally he speaks to the power of listening with intent to understand instead of to respond.

Maybe this is the year you challenge yourself and others around you to focus on solving problems and serving others at the highest level possible. 

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

Our heroes always stress the importance of networking.  Chris wanted to provide some tips he's learned as you work on building your professional network in your career.  He discusses areas such as social media, the importance of sharing ideas and how impactful groups can be.  Networking has shifted in many ways and there are some nuggets of wisdom here that can help you break past the wall and start building meaningful connections in the future.

Connect with us on LinkedIn and let us know how your networking journey is going. Good luck! 

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

With a new year comes a new opportunity to build good habits that will help you bring the best version of you at work.  Chris talks about the importance of starting your day off right, the importance of boundaries and how using PTO is in place to help everyone rest and recharge. 

Here's to a fresh new year of ideas and heroes that make industry great! 

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram

In the first "Straight talk with Chris" episode he breaks down some of the craziness of 2021 that he saw.  No doubt the supply chain issues hit everyone hard and made it a challenging year.  His points of communication, patience and the need for more manufacturing in America are areas that will bring us together moving forward.

Happy New Year from the EECO family and many blessings for you all in 2022!  

Host: Chris Grainger
Executive Producer: Adam Sheets
Podcast Editor: Andi Thrower

Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!
Facebook
Instagram