In this episode of Lights Out, we debrief from one of the largest manufacturing technology shows in the world—EMO Hannover. From automation and adaptive controls to AI-driven machining and the evolving economics of shop ownership, the team unpacks what's really changing in manufacturing and what's just noise.

As the hosts reflect on trends like the shift from horizontal to 5-axis machining centers, the rise of machine monitoring and IoT integrations, and the reality of underused OEM technology, they dig into what these patterns mean for modern shops aiming to run smarter—not just harder.

The conversation covers more than just new gadgets on the trade-show floor—it's about how cultural adoption, change management, and continuous improvement determine whether those technologies actually deliver ROI.

We explore the parallels between software as a service and machine tool ownership models, the challenge of aligning shop-floor teams around innovation, and why data-driven manufacturing will define the next generation of top shops.

Whether you're a shop owner wondering which investments will truly pay off, or a manufacturing leader preparing your business for the next wave of automation, this episode offers practical insights drawn straight from the global stage.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (0:22) Achieve RASRAM with SMW Autoblok
• (1:58) IMTS vs. EMO: Comparing global manufacturing events
• (6:52) Eric's three major takeaways from EMO
• (8:23) What's driving the shift from Horizontal to 5-axis?
• (10:10) The acquisition of Heller (and what it signals about market dynamics)
• (11:52) Why one-and-done machining is critical in today's talent-scarce environment
• (14:30) OEM strategy shift: Removing underused tech to lower sticker prices
• (16:00) Adoption gaps: Why built-in monitoring often goes unused
• (18:16) Investing in your business is an investment in ProShop ERP
• (19:52) Lessons from CRM and SaaS adoption
• (22:05) How technology should be offered and priced to match real shop behavior
• (25:18) The argument for offering advanced tech as optional—not standard—to increase real adoption
• (26:18) Lights-Out intermission: Eric's unexpected award-winning hobby
• (28:56) Monitoring explosion: Using data to drive continuous improvement
• (32:40) The case for hiring a dedicated integrator or continuous improvement lead in every modern shop
• (36:27) Why offering monitoring and condition-control tools lowers risk and improves adoption
• (39:30) Debating whether machine builders are truly adapting their business models
• (42:52) Three practical tips to takeaway from this episode of Lights Out
• (44:48) Join us at Top Shops 2025 (Get 20% off with code MAK20)

Resources & People Mentioned

• Achieve RASRAM with SMW Autoblok
• Join us at Top Shops 2025 (Get 20% off with code MAK20)
• Investing in your business is an investment in ProShop ERP

Connect With Lights Out

• LinkedIn
• MakingChips.com

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Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK