Forged in Focus

In this episode of Forged in Focus, Jon talks with Andy Soprano of Lincoln Electric about how technology, training and workforce development are reshaping the future of welding.

Andy shares insight on automation, AI, immersive training and the changing skill sets today’s welders need to succeed. The conversation highlights how innovative education models and advanced welding solutions are helping manufacturers strengthen the skilled trades pipeline.

In this episode of Forged in Focus, Jon sits down with Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative, to explore the data and strategy behind America’s manufacturing comeback.

Moser shares how reshoring and foreign direct investment are reshaping supply chains, creating jobs, and reducing risk for U.S. manufacturers. The discussion dives into Total Cost of Ownership, workforce development, and why sustainability and competitiveness go hand in hand in today’s global market.

In this conversation, Stephen Borg of Vogel Group breaks down how trade policy, Section 232 and 301 tariffs, and a forthcoming Supreme Court review of reciprocal tariffs are shaping cost and certainty for fabricators and manufacturers.  

He and Jon discuss workforce development, the role of apprenticeships and CTE, and bipartisan ideas like the Dignity Act to expand a lawful labor pipeline while strengthening American manufacturing. They also touch on how association fly-ins, facility visits and consistent engagement with Congress keep issues like anti-dumping, reshoring and infrastructure funding on the agenda.