The TechEd Podcast

With coffee fueling the shop floor, can it also fuel the future of manufacturing?

This week, Matt Kirchner is joined by ShopFloor Coffee Co-Founder Mike Franz as they explore the intersection of coffee, manufacturing, and workforce development. What started as a side project quickly became a nationwide movement to support technical education and career awareness in manufacturing—all through a product that shop workers already know and love.

From the early morning rituals of manufacturing professionals to the power of branding that truly speaks to the industry, Mike shares how ShopFloor Coffee is brewing up more than just bold blends. With 20% of proceeds going directly to workforce initiatives, this isn’t just about coffee—it’s about investing in the next generation of makers and doers.

Listen to learn:

• Why coffee is more than just a drink—it’s part of manufacturing culture
• How ShopFloor Coffee’s fundraising model outperforms traditional school fundraisers by putting more money back into technical education programs
• The branding strategy behind blends like “Red Shop Towel” and “First Shift” that instantly resonate with manufacturers
• Why Metallica is making a surprising impact on the future of technical education and workforce development (hint: it’s not just about the music)
• The surprising number of robotics teams in one U.S. state (hint: it beats high school hockey!)

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Coffee culture runs deep in manufacturing.
Early mornings, long shifts, and breakroom conversations—coffee has always fueled the shop floor. That’s why ShopFloor Coffee uses it as a bridge to workforce development, helping manufacturers invest in the next generation while enjoying a better cup of coffee.

2. Workforce development has an awareness problem.
Despite countless initiatives, many students and employers don’t know about the programs designed to connect them. ShopFloor Coffee is directing funding to organizations like FIRST Robotics, FAME, and Metallica's All Within My Hands foundation to help close this gap—giving educators new opportunities to introduce students to careers in manufacturing.

3. Branding matters—speak the language of your audience.
When manufacturers hear Red Shop Towel or First Shift, they immediately recognize something familiar. ShopFloor Coffee’s approach proves that technical education programs can better engage students by framing opportunities in ways that resonate—whether that’s through pop culture, industry traditions, or hands-on experiences.

Resources in this Episode:To learn more about ShopFloor Coffee, visit:

 shopfloorcoffee.com

Remember, 20% of all proceeds go toward workforce development!

Connect with ShopFloor Coffee Online:

LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  YouTube  |  Instagram

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What does it take to lead the world’s largest robotics and CNC company? Mike Cicco, President and CEO of FANUC America, pulls back the curtain on his journey from programming robots to driving global innovation. 

Recorded live at IMTS 2024, this episode is packed with insights on mentorship, leadership, and how FANUC is reshaping the future of manufacturing. 

Mike shares the bold moves behind FANUC’s massive growth, the game-changing scholarships empowering the next generation of talent, and how robotics education is creating endless career possibilities. 

If you’re ready for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes look at leadership and the future of automation, this is an episode you can’t miss!

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This marks a milestone 200th episode of The TechEd Podcast! Matt Kirchner is joined by Rick Anderson, CEO of The Hive Health, to explore how transparency and technology are reshaping healthcare. Rick shares how The Hive Health uses AI and data-driven insights to negotiate fair pricing for medical devices, save providers millions of dollars, and help health systems remain viable—even in underserved communities. It’s a game-changing model that’s keeping hospitals open, providers supported, and patients cared for.

This conversation highlights lessons from healthcare innovation that educators and employers can apply across industries. Learn how emerging technologies like AI and data transparency are driving cost savings and reshaping supply chains. For technical educators, the episode underscores the importance of preparing students for a future where technology and strategic decision-making are key to sustaining systems and communities.

Inside this episode:

• Why 50% of U.S. health systems operate in the red
• How The Hive Health uses AI to analyze 40M+ lines of purchasing data and uncover massive pricing gaps
• How a physician-led model builds trust between administrators and providers to improve care
• What educators and employers can leverage these AI-driven approaches in their own industries

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. AI is transforming healthcare cost management: By analyzing over 40 million lines of purchasing data, The Hive Health identifies massive pricing gaps, saving health systems an average of 22% on costs. 
2. Transparent pricing is essential for sustainability: The Hive Health reveals shocking price disparities for identical medical devices, ensuring fair deals without sacrificing quality. This model of data-driven transparency has lessons for other industries like manufacturing and education, where cost efficiency and resource allocation are equally critical.
3. Cost savings directly impact patient access: By reducing device costs and operating more efficiently, health systems can avoid closures, reinvest in innovation, and expand access to care. The result is a more resilient healthcare system that better serves patients and communities.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about The Hive Health visit: thehivehealth.com

Connect with The Hive Health Online:

LinkedIn

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With energy consumption skyrocketing and sustainability challenges becoming more pressing, nuclear energy is once again in the spotlight.

But while its potential is undeniable, there's still a lot of public misperception of nuclear. For many, the words "nuclear energy" conjure outdated fears that overlook decades of innovation, safety advancements, and the vast opportunities in nuclear power today. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Patrick O’Brien, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at Holtec International, to demystify nuclear energy and explore its transformative potential as a cornerstone of clean, sustainable power.

Patrick shares insights into the nuclear "renaissance" and its critical role in balancing growing energy demands with environmental responsibility. From the recommissioning of Michigan’s Palisades Nuclear Plant to the groundbreaking possibilities of small modular reactors (SMRs), Patrick provides an insider’s perspective on cutting-edge technology, workforce opportunities, and nuclear’s future in the United States.

Inside this episode:

• Breaking down nuclear vs. wind and solar: land usage, energy density, and why nuclear leads in efficiency
• How Holtec is rewriting history with the unprecedented recommissioning of Palisades Nuclear Plant
• Small modular reactors (SMRs): the future of nuclear energy and their game-changing scalability
• How public perception of nuclear energy is evolving
• Inside the nuclear workforce: training, skills, and career paths shaping the industry's future

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Nuclear energy offers unmatched efficiency and reliability.
   A single nuclear plant can produce 1,000 megawatts of consistent power on a fraction of the land required by solar or wind, which would need 3,000 megawatts of capacity to achieve the same output. Nuclear’s 24/7 reliability makes it indispensable for meeting growing energy demands sustainably.
2. Holtec International is rewriting nuclear history by recommissioning a decommissioned power plant.
   The Palisades Nuclear Plant in Michigan is the first facility in history to reverse a permanent shutdown order, requiring unprecedented collaboration with the NRC and innovative regulatory actions. This groundbreaking project could set a precedent for extending the lifecycle of nuclear facilities worldwide.
3. The nuclear industry offers diverse career opportunities for every education level.
   From operators with high school diplomas to engineers with advanced degrees, the field provides clear pathways for growth, as seen in one worker’s rise from janitor to control room supervisor. Nuclear also sets itself apart with rigorous training programs, where operators must retrain and pass exams every six weeks to stay certified.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about Holtec International visit: holtecinternational.com

• Learn more about the recommissioning of Holtec Palisades in Michigan

Other resources mentioned:

• Access the Department of Energy's Liftoff Report
• Learn about jobs in the nuclear energy industry at NuclearWorks.org

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When used to its full potential, additive manufacturing can revolutionize the way we design and make things. But too often, educators and manufacturers are stuck in old ways of thinking.

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner welcomes Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations, to discuss how 3D printing is advancing both industry and education. From manufacturing precise components for medical devices and aerospace to equipping students with in-demand skills, Shon explains how reliable 3D printing technology can transform outcomes in any setting.

Together, Matt and Shon explore the real challenges manufacturers and educators face, including material limitations, workforce gaps, and the pitfalls of outdated thinking. They discuss how educators can move beyond cheap, unreliable 3D printers and teach students the skills needed to thrive in a world where design freedom and innovation are key. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to bring 3D printing into classrooms or manufacturing facilities the right way.

What You’ll Learn:

• The 3 biggest challenges manufacturers face when implementing additive—and how to overcome them.
• The surprising ways 3D printing can reduce lead times, cut costs, and enable design flexibility.
• How to ensure your additive projects are successful, even if you don't have a technical expert on staff.
• The role of education in preparing students for careers in additive, including the essential design and software skills they’ll need.
• What is the make-or-break factor for 3D printing implementation?

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Additive manufacturing thrives on design freedom but requires a shift in thinking.
   Many engineers approach 3D printing with traditional manufacturing mindsets (we've always made it this way). That limits the immense creative freedom additive allows. By leveraging additive’s ability to produce complex geometries and customized solutions, individuals can solve challenges that are impossible with conventional methods.
2. Education must prioritize design skills when teaching additive manufacturing.
   It's time for education to move beyond tasking students with downloading a file and running a print. Employers want to know that students understand the fundamentals of design for additive, material properties, and cost analysis.
3. Organizational culture is the key to successful adoption of 3D printing technology.
   Companies that embrace change, communicate across departments, and align goals with additive capabilities see greater success. Without this, even the best technology can fail to deliver value due to resistance or lack of integration.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about B9Creations technology, visit: www.b9c.com

Connect with B9Creations Online:

LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Connect with Shon Anderson on LinkedIn

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As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time for our annual predictions episode! 

What trends will shape technical education, industry, and workforce development in the year to come?

This week, Matt dives into the most pressing topics for 2025: from AI in education, to economic and workforce trends, to new technologies to keep an eye on. With 13 predictions grounded in data, this episode will get you ready for the year to come.

Listen to learn:

• Why applied AI is set to dominate STEM education in 2025
• The surprising ways EV training and infrastructure will evolve
• What manufacturing contraction could mean for technical colleges and workforce development
• Why skilled trades might thrive even in a shifting economy
• How flexible degree programs are reshaping higher education

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'Twas the night before Christmas, And STEM and TechEd
Had closed up their classrooms, a long break ahead.
The students all home not shedding a tear
That school was on hold till the start of next year.

Quiet the trainers pneumatics, hydraulics
No action on systems to learn mechatronics.

The robots all homed, depowered and sleeping
Routers and mills neither cutting nor beeping.
Empty their fixtures, empty their chucks
Dark were the bays full of autos and trucks.

The training equipment had all been sequestered
Awaiting the dawn of the coming semester.
When atop the classroom commotion was nigh
As STEM TechEd Santa dropped down from the sky.
Reindeer out front and his sleigh right behind
Full of STEM gadgets of every kind.

Fire Chimneys and Hearths Santa’s usual ports
But on the school roof he saw none of the sorts.
He instead spied a vent and then planned his vector
Right down a great duct through the sawdust collector.

All covered in shavings, this jolly old elf
Let a hearty deep laugh at the sight of himself.
Then Gift Sack in tow he squeezed out the trap door
And proceeded to spread TechEd gifts on the floor.

For cutting and tapping and drilling new holes
A tabletop mill with industrial controls.
Mechanical Drives, pulleys and gearing
A new 3D Scanner for reverse engineering.

Smart sensors, devices controlled by smart phones
Unmanned Arial Vehicles,  aka Drones.
Trainers Refrigeration and HVAC
A new DLP resin Printer 3D.

He paused, dropped his bag, and caught a deep breath
Then dove right back in, not finished just yet.
He laid out a track, filled with autos, and signs
Autonomous vehicles that is, for teaching AI

Bleeding edge automation, a CRX Cobot
A fleet of autonomous mobile robots.
off on their way, avoiding collision
And for Robots 6-Axis new systems for vision.

His sack was now empty, he stood with a jerk
Placed his hands on his hips and admired his work.
The lab it now burst with incredible things
To prep students for roles that the future would bring.

His eve just beginning STEM TechEd Santa his name
Went back up the vent the same way that he came.
Returned to his sleigh to continue his tour
So Many American Dreams to Secure.

Then let out a loud bellow, this man dressed in Red
“Merry Christmas to all in STEM and TechEd!"

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Are we ready for a world where AI and technology shape every corner of our lives?

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at the Institute for the Future, to explore how technology is transforming the way we communicate, collaborate, and connect. From the breakthroughs of generative AI to the concept of the singularity, Toshi shares cutting-edge insights into what’s next for humanity—and why curiosity might be the most important skill of all.

With decades of experience in emerging technologies and strategic foresight, Toshi offers a compelling vision of a future that feels as exciting as it does uncertain. Together, Matt and Toshi unpack the promise and pitfalls of technological change, from AI’s creative potential to the ethical challenges it presents.

Listen to learn:

• A better understanding of generative AI - and why tools like ChatGPT don't actually give you "answers"
• Could the "holodeck" be more than science fiction? Toshi's work in XR and AI suggest it could be a real tool someday soon.
• Toshi's surprising connection to famed futurist Ray Kurzweil and what we know about the singularity
• How AI modeling enables more accurate scenario planning, helping organizations prepare for a range of possible futures and make smarter decisions today.
• Why curiosity isn’t just a personality trait but the defining skill for thriving in a world of rapid disrution.

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Generative AI redefines creativity but also challenges our trust in technology. Generative AI doesn’t give deterministic results, as the same inputs can yield different outputs. This non-deterministic nature enables creativity but also raises issues with reliability and accuracy. Educators should keep this in mind when having students interact with AI-driven tools in the learning experience.
2. Immersive technology like XR and AI is on the verge of delivering "holodeck"-like experiences. The combination of AI and XR tools can create real-time, interactive simulations for collaboration and learning. These systems could allow users to explore environments from historical settings to molecular structures. Imagine how immersive learning can become with this technology!
3. Thanks to AI, modeling and scenario planning are becoming democratized, empowering organizations to anticipate diverse futures. Modeling tools informed by AI can simulate complex systems such as city planning or healthcare data. These tools enable organizations to test strategies across multiple scenarios and adapt effectively.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about Institute for the Future, visit: www.iftf.org

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Ready to hear some of the most cutting-edge advancements in 3D printing, bio-materials and smart systems? 

Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Bill Peter, Director of Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). From large-scale 3D printing to the use of bio-based materials, Dr. Peter is leading initiatives that are redefining the possibilities of manufacturing. He shares how ORNL is not just solving technical challenges but also reshaping the skills pipeline to meet the demands of tomorrow’s manufacturing jobs.

With a mission statement "solving the big problems," ORNL is exploring the convergence of technologies like machining, additive manufacturing, and smart systems. Discover how ORNL is addressing workforce gaps through cutting-edge training programs and collaborations with universities and industry leaders—all while bringing manufacturing innovations back to the U.S.

In this episode:

• How ORNL is 3D printing bio-based, locally sourced materials to construct entire homes
• The breakthrough that’s cutting waste in aerospace manufacturing from 90% to just 10%
• Why 3D-printed molds are slashing lead times for industries like boating and construction
• Using AI to spot defects & make adjustments in real-time during production
• How ORNL's partnerships are driving U.S. innovation in wind energy, machining, and carbon fiber

Quotable Moments:

"We’re trying to see where and how can we bring those [manufacturing components] back, making them affordable, while integrating smart manufacturing not just to large companies, but also small and medium enterprises."

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Converging technologies are revolutionizing manufacturing: Advanced manufacturing is no longer about isolated processes. ORNL is pioneering the integration of machining, additive manufacturing, smart systems, and AI to create flexible, efficient production methods for everything from aircraft components to hydro dam turbines.
2. Sustainability meets innovation: ORNL’s work with bio-based and locally sourced materials is reshaping industries like construction and packaging. From 3D-printing entire homes to developing recyclable molds for industrial applications, the future of manufacturing is green, scalable, and efficient.
3. Preparing tomorrow’s workforce for multi-disciplinary roles: The next generation of manufacturing professionals will need to blend computational, hands-on, and problem-solving skills. Through programs like America's Cutting Edge and collaborations with institutions like the University of Maine, ORNL is setting a new standard for workforce development.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about Oak Ridge National Laboratory, visit: www.ornl.gov

More resources:

• ACE - America's Cutting Edge
• Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF) at ORNL
• University of Maine's Advanced Structure and Composites Center (ASCC)
• Strati - The 3D Printed Car

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With U.S. manufacturing facing a potential shortfall of 7.5 million skilled workers, how can we bring jobs back and build the workforce to sustain them?

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative, to explore the critical intersection of reshoring manufacturing, workforce development, and technological advancement. With decades of experience in manufacturing and workforce advocacy, Harry shares actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and business leaders aiming to strengthen America’s industrial future.

From addressing workforce shortages to overcoming supply chain risks, Harry explains the importance of apprenticeships, hands-on learning, and reshoring strategies like total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis. He also reveals why countries like Switzerland excel in workforce preparation and what the U.S. must do to compete.

Listen to learn:

• How reshoring addresses a 45% cost gap with China to protect U.S. supply chains and economic security.
• Why FAME apprenticeships produce $98K earners within five years, rivaling or exceeding college degree outcomes.
• How TCO analysis helps manufacturers uncover hidden costs, making U.S. production viable in 50% of cases.
• What the U.S. can learn from Switzerland, where 60% of students enter apprenticeships & fuel their industrial workforce.
• How reshoring has grown U.S. manufacturing jobs 25x since 2010—and the critical steps needed to sustain it.

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Reshoring is essential for U.S. economic and national security in an era of global uncertainty.
The U.S. faces a 45% manufacturing cost gap with China, but Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis shows that 50% of cases favor reshoring when hidden costs like tariffs and geopolitical risks are factored in. Harry Moser emphasizes the dangers of supply chain disruptions and reliance on foreign manufacturing for critical goods.

2. Apprenticeships are a high-earning alternative to traditional college degrees, with faster results.
Graduates of programs like FAME earn an average of $98,000 annually within five years, far surpassing many degree holders. They also start earning earlier, graduate debt-free, and enter the workforce with advanced technical skills in high demand.

3. The U.S. must address a projected 7.5 million skilled worker shortfall in manufacturing.
Harry Moser highlights Switzerland’s apprenticeship model, where 60% of students gain hands-on skills through advanced training programs, as an example the U.S. could emulate. Building similar pathways could help meet workforce needs and drive manufacturing growth.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about the Reshoring Initiative, visit: reshorenow.org

Try the Total Cost of Ownership Estimator®

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