In this episode, we sit down with Dennis Sonney, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and longtime advocate for American manufacturing. With a background spanning organizational leadership, supply chain management, robotics, automation, and advanced technology systems, Dennis has spent more than two decades helping manufacturers strengthen their operations and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.

Through a nonprofit supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Dennis has worked with more than 1,500 manufacturers across California, guiding companies through modernization, process improvement, and operational strategy. Known as a trusted advisor in the manufacturing community, he brings a practical and collaborative approach to helping organizations build stronger systems and embrace continuous improvement.

Beyond industry, Dennis is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of innovators and makers. He serves on the boards of two STEM-focused nonprofit organizations that spark curiosity and hands-on learning for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. His work bridges industry, education, and workforce development to ensure that future generations are prepared to carry forward the legacy of American manufacturing.

In this conversation, we explore:

• The role of service and leadership in manufacturing

• How systems thinking strengthens organizations

• Practical insights into continuous improvement and Lean thinking

• The importance of supporting workforce development and STEM education

• Why collaboration between industry, education, and community matters more than ever

Dennis also shares valuable resources for manufacturers, educators, and leaders who want to strengthen their organizations and support future innovators.

Resources & Organizations Mentioned

Science & Technology Education Partnership (STEP STEM)

Inspiring students and educators in the Inland Empire toward STEM careers.

Website: step-stem.org

Conference: stepconference.org

Address: P.O. Box 21100, Riverside, CA 92516

Phone: (714) 925-9062

Garner Holt Foundation

Inspiring youth to explore robotics, animatronics, and STEAM careers.

Website: garnerholtfoundation.org

Address: 1255 Research Drive, Redlands, CA 92374

Phone: (909) 799-3030

Email: [email protected]

Phenix Fire Helmets / Phenix Technology, Inc.

Manufacturer of firefighting helmets led by President & CEO Angel Sanchez, Jr.

Website: phenixfirehelmets.com

Address: 3453 Durahart Street, Riverside, CA 92507

Phone: (951) 272-4938

Email: [email protected]

California Workforce Development Board (CWDB)

Statewide workforce development system supporting 45 local workforce boards.

Website: cwdb.ca.gov

Address: 800 Capitol Mall, Suite 1022, Sacramento, CA 95814

Phone: (916) 657-1440

National Manufacturing Day / Creators Wanted

An annual event held on the first Friday in October where manufacturers open their doors to the community.

Website: mfgday.com

National Veterans Chamber of Commerce (NVCC)

Supporting veteran-owned businesses, workforce development, and families.

Website: vccsd.org

Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GoBiz)

California’s business support office providing assistance with permits, incentives, and economic programs.

Website: business.ca.gov

Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce

Regional chamber serving all 52 cities in the Inland Empire.

Website: iechamber.org

Continuous Improvement Resources

• Free 5S / 6S Checklists and Audit Forms (search online for printable templates)

• Value Stream Mapping guides available through Lean.org

• Free Lean templates such as “5S template” or “value stream map PDF”

• Webinars and educational resources from the Lean Enterprise Institute and ASQ