Innovating Legacy: Timothy Hofmann on Modernizing a Sixth-Generation Metal Fabrication Company

In this episode of Metals in Advanced Manufacturing, host Jennifer Betts sits down with Timothy Hofmann, VP of Operations at Frank B. Clayton's Son Inc., a sixth-generation metal fabrication company.

Timothy shares the rich history of the 126-year-old company, its challenges, and the innovations under his leadership, including digital transformations, lean manufacturing principles, and advanced quoting systems.

Together, they discuss the importance of adapting to modern technologies to remain competitive in the metals industry. 

IG: @fb_claytons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frank-b--claytons-sons-inc-/
Website: https://sheetmetal.parts/
Email: [email protected]

00:00 Introduction to Metals in Advanced Manufacturing 
00:36 Overview of the Podcast Series 
01:20 Introducing Timothy Hofmann 
02:00 The Legacy of Frank B. Clayton's Son Inc. 
02:46 Timothy's Journey in the Family Business 
06:54 Innovations and Challenges in Metal Fabrication 
09:31 Digital Transformation and Inventory Management 
14:11 Adopting Paperless Parts for Quoting 
23:54 Streamlining the Quoting Process 
24:49 Challenges in Metal Fabrication Industry
27:19 Innovative Inventory Management 
29:28 Digital Job Board Implementation 
32:34 Customer Portal Development 
37:24 Lessons from Miscommunication 
41:01 Future of Manufacturing Transparency 
43:25 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Produced by Magnar Metals