How do we make smart manufacturing part of our DNA in America? What's preventing small and midsized companies from adopting smart technology? How do we build a workforce capable of undergoing a digital transformation?

These are the questions CESMII is working on, under the leadership of CEO John Dyck, who joins the podcast to talk about the democratization of smart manufacturing.

From the challenges in rapidly training and retaining new employees to the growing significance of data engineering, we discuss the changing manufacturing landscape in the U.S. Is the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) an absolute necessity for smart manufacturing? How is the technical debt accumulated over the last three decades influencing manufacturers today?

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of data acquisition, efforts to standardize data architectures, the IT/OT convergence, micro-credentialing, and other factors that will instill in our listeners a "smart manufacturing mindset."

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Data architectures have to evolve from disparate silos to standardized platforms that can all work together on the shop floor: For decades, manufacturing has innovated one use case at a time, plant by plant. Now, each digital solution is vendor-specific and poses a major challenge to companies trying to create a single, cohesive data strategy. John shares how hundreds of organizations are currently working on creating standards to enable data to flow seamlessly in manufacturing operations.
2. Standardization will democratize smart manufacturing in the U.S.: If manufacturing can devise an open-source, interoperable language and architecture for data which will enable any new software and hardware to work together, then small and midsize businesses have a chance at digital transformation. Not only will standardization democratize smart manufacturing on the enterprise level, it will also enable individual workers on the plant floor to be successful around data-driven systems without needing a degree in data science.
3. The U.S. needs to adopt a smart manufacturing mindset: In the same way as quality, safety and continuous improvement became an ingrained part of manufacturing culture decades ago, a smart manufacturing mindset has to become part of the DNA of every American manufacturer. This means having a data-driven mindset for business decisions, for thinking about the way workers do their tasks, etc.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• To learn more about CESMII, visit their website: https://www.cesmii.org/

Connect with CESMII online:

LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  X (Twitter)

Visit episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/cesmii/

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3D scanning has been around for decades, but the technology today truly qualifies as an Industry 4.0 tool. Creaform is one of the world's leading developers of 3D scanning technology, and Fanny Truchon leads that business as it seeks to design the most cutting-edge, high precision and accessible devices for all industries.

If you don't know much about 3D scanning, be prepared to be amazed by the multitude of applications and capabilities this technology has. From product design, reverse engineering and inspection, to artifact archiving, 3D modeling and medical applications, 3D scanning is something every manufacturer and technical program should invest in.

Plus, hear about brand-new product Creaform has just launched that will totally revolutionize 3D scanning.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. 3D scanning is truly an Industry 4.0 technology: 3D scanners use lasers, cameras, lights and sensors to measure millions of data points in just seconds, creating a 3D rendering of objects large and small with a precision that measures in microns. Learn how 3D scanning, artificial intelligence and data analytics are making this technology a must-have in multiple industries.
2. 3D scanning has an unbelievably wide range of applications: About 90% of 3D scanning is used for standard manufacturing practices: reverse engineering, first article inspection, quality inspection during production, and surface damage assessment. But hear about some more unique applications, like forensics, art and artifact preservation, construction, medical uses, and even 3D character development for games and movies.
3. New technology announcement: HandySCAN MAX: Fanny announces the launch of Creaform's newest scanners, the HandySCAN MAX series. This new technology is capable of measuring large parts - up to 50 feet - using just a handheld scanner!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Learn more about Creaform: https://www.creaform3d.com/en
• Discover the new HandySCAN MAX series
• Educators, Creaform has teaching packages designed specifically for the classroom and lab. Learn about 3D scanning solutions for education.

Connect with Creaform online:
LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  X (Twitter)

Episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/creaform/

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What if you could supercharge your small to midsize job shop with the power of automation? That's what The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) was all about, bringing together experts in automation to help SMBs take actionable steps on their digital transformation journey.

The TechEd Podcast served as co-technical director at the inaugural conference, along with Modern Machine Shop's Editor-in-Chief, Brent Donaldson. Now, you're getting all the best insights from TASC compiled into one podcast episode!

Hear four conversations with four technology experts who share strategies for automation you can start implementing today.

4 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Collaborative robots are a first choice for automation with a long-term view of success: with Jerry Perez - Executive Director of Global Accounts, FANUC America. Cobots are a great choice for your first automation project. They are easier to deploy, provide a more positive user experience, and have a lower threshold for employees learning how to program and operate them. They're a gateway for future automation.
2. No-code and AI-powered automation are making it possible for any company to automate: with Andra Keay - Managing Director of Silicon Valley Robotics and Vice President of Global Robotics at AMT. This new evolution of robotics is moving so quickly and making it so easy for manufacturers to find a simple solution that they can benefit from. Plus, it's an order of magnitude more affordable today than it was decades ago. So there's no excuse - get started today, because your competitors already are.
3. Calculating ROI on automation requires a longer-term view, plus you'll need to consider some "hidden" factors: with Steve Alexander - Vice President of Operations & Standard Products at Acieta. Increasing capacity, adding shifts, employee retention...these are all positive impacts that an automation investment can bring your company. Learn more about how to calculate ROI on automation.
4. Looking for answers? Manufacturers today are more open to sharing what's worked for them: with Fabian Schmahl - Managing Director of Bold Promises Delivered. We talk about all the benefits of automation: it creates a culture of innovation where employees are engaged with their work, it makes you a destination employer for skilled talent, it helps you be more profitable...but how do you get started? Fabian has great advice on where to find answers, including networking tips, industry resources, and brands and integrators you should look into.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Automated Shop Conference is returning in 2024 as part of IMTS in Chicago! Check out their site for all the details.
• TASC is powered by Modern Machine Shop, Production Machining, and the team at Gardner Business Media.

Connect with our guests' organizations:
FANUC America  |  Silicon Valley Robotics | The Association for Manufacturing Technology  |  Acieta

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Innovation, not regulation. This is the mindset North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has instilled in his state's approach to education. As a result, innovation abounds across the state.

Hear firsthand from Governor Burgum about all the unique ways North Dakota is disrupting education and laying the foundation for other states to adopt a new model that is better for students, better for schools, and better for communities.

In this episode:

• Learn why states should flip their focus from inputs to outcomes
• Employers: hear why you're already too late when you start recruiting students in high school
• K-12 districts: get a 3-step roadmap for building a career readiness model
• Higher education: discover the four forces that are disrupting higher education - and how you can respond.

Plus, hear about the Governor's areas of focus as he runs for president of the United States and seeks to bring the success of North Dakota to the rest of the country.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Education should focus on outcomes, not just inputs: Too often, education fixates on inputs (what's the budget?) rather than on student outcomes. If we can flip that model and prioritize the outcomes we're producing in students (stackable skills, competencies, relevant knowledge), then we can align the budget to ensure those outcomes are met.
2. Career readiness is a journey that starts in kindergarten. Here are the three steps K-12 districts should implement: Governor Burgum outlines how school districts can maximize exposure to all different career options for students at each level of their K-12 journey. Career awareness begins in elementary school, career exploration happens in middle school, and career education happens in high school. Listen to the episode to hear what each step entails.
3. Higher education is being disrupted by four forces: Technology, economics, demographics, and a culture mindset shift are all impacting higher education today. Leadership must respond to these forces with a willingness to adapt the higher education model to remain relevant.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• North Dakota Office of the Governor
• Governor's Summit on Innovative Education

To learn more about Governor Burgum's presidential campaign, visit: dougburgum.com

Connect with Governor Burgum online:
Instagram  |  Twitter / X |  Facebook  |  YouTube

Episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/governorburgum/

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There is so much overlap between art and engineering...so much creativity that goes into the making of things. Bre Pettis knows this firsthand. As a puppeteer-turned teacher-turned entrepreneur, Bre founded MakerBot and helped democratize 3D printing, making it accessible for Fab Labs and MakerSpaces all over the country.

Today, Bre is at it again with Bantam Tools, a manufacturer of desktop CNC machines that are inspiring and equipping today's industrial innovators and tomorrow's inventors.

In this episode, Bre is sharing all his experiences in the world of STEAM and innovation with our audience. Learn about the origins of MakerBot and Bantam Tools. Discover why students need access to the tools that can help them bring ideas to reality. And learn why having industry-grade machines in classrooms helps bridge the gap from education to the workforce.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Let's take huge, difficult machinery and make it accessible, friendly and affordable for students: This is how we equip students for today's high-tech workforce. Bre is on a mission to remove the barriers that keep students from being able to design and create what's in their mind. With the right tools and resources (like 3D printers, desktop CNC machines and even pen plotters!) students can get the introductory skills that translate into real careers.
2. There is unique value in both additive & subtractive manufacturing: Now that most students have access to 3D printing, it's time to bring subtractive manufacturing back into the classroom. Both technologies have a unique use case that students should identify and explore. Bre talks about when to use which technology, and the real benefit of letting a student experience the creative process from ideation to finished part.
3. Students find their "aha" moments in technical education: From Fab Labs to Makerspaces to STEAM classrooms and Tech Ed labs, students discover new aptitudes and a love for making when they're given the right set of tools and resources. Bre shares how schools can help identify the right teachers to lead these endeavors, unlocking new potential for both the students and the educators.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• To learn more about Bantam Tools, visit their website: www.bantamtools.com
• Interested in the NEW Bantam Tools desktop CNC milling machine powered by FANUC? Visit this page to learn more.
• Learn more about what Bre is up to: https://brepettis.com/

Connect with Bantam Tools online:
Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  YouTube  |  LinkedIn

View episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/bantamtools/

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LIVE from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Connected Systems Institute, we're talking with a group of 5G network experts about the potential for this technology to make Industry 4.0 a reality for manufacturers.

Every manufacturer wants to automate. They want to pursue Industry 4.0 transformations. But far too often companies are limited by bandwidth issues, cybersecurity fears, and organizing far more data than they can handle.

That's where 5G and private cellular networks (PCNs) come in.

This tech has the potential to erase all those issues, if deployed right. Fortunately, UWM has partnered with industry leaders US Cellular and Ericsson to host a 5G testbed at the Connected Systems Institute to test and validate the technology. This industry-academia partnership is one-of-a-kind, and it's enabling small-to-midsize manufacturers to learn from the CSI's research so they can feel confident implementing it in their own company when they're ready.

This episode features a roundtable discussion, followed by a conversation with a mid-size manufacturer who shares how they're considering PCNs for their company.

This week's guest lineup:

• Atish Sinha - Academic Director of the Connected Systems Institute, UWM
• James Rose - Senior Manager-Private Cellular Networks, US Cellular
• Merle Haslam - Director of Technical Sales Support-Business Area Enterprise Wireless Solutions, Ericsson
• Dave Foley - Chief Operating Officer, Marchandt Schmidt

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What is the Connected Systems Institute?
• What are private cellular networks, and how are they being deployed today?
• How does private cellular network technology work? How is it different than traditional WiFi?
• What are the challenges to 5G adoption in manufacturing, and how are we going to solve them?
• Why is a 5G testbed at the CSI such a unique and valuable project?
• What will companies get out of the work being done at the CSI?

Connect with our guests' organizations:

• UWM Connected Systems Institute: https://uwm.edu/csi/
• US Cellular (business): https://business.uscellular.com/solutions/industry/manufacturing/
• Ericsson: https://www.ericsson.com/en
• Marchant Schmidt: https://www.marchantschmidt.com/

Episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/uwmcsi/

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Matt Kirchner was invited to keynote the 2023 Governor's Summit on Innovative Education by North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum.

Though this audio from that conference was directed toward North Dakota teachers, the message will resonate with educators from anywhere in the world.

The world of work is changing quickly, and there are major ramifications coming to education as a result. Hear about the top 6 trends to be aware of, plus suggestions for how to respond.

There is no better time than the present to embrace innovation in our schools so we can secure the American Dream for the next generation of STEM and workforce talent.

6 Big Takeaways from this episode:

Yes, SIX big takeaways, because these are the 6 trends that are totally disrupting technical education. Listen to the full audio to get all the details.

1. The edge to cloud continuum is relevant in every industry, and we have to teach it at every level of education.
2. Third party credentials are a stackable, skill-focused way to teach and assess competencies.
3. Artificial intelligence and machine learning should be taught in every tech ed classroom.
4. Industry engagement in technical education is better than ever, and those who don't act now will miss out on some great opportunities to influence the future workforce.
5. Stop calling it shop class and start calling it technical education - there's an important reason why.
6. The future of the four-year-degree is...well, just listen to find out.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Watch the full original keynote speech on YouTube.

View the episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/6techedtrends/

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Every institution of higher education is facing two major changes right now: Automation and artificial intelligence are universally transforming every sector of our economy (including the training required) - from healthcare to manufacturing, agriculture to education. Meanwhile, changing demographics and attitudes toward education are impacting enrollment rates and colleges' strategic focus.

In the midst of these changes, Dr. Kat Linaker has taken the helm of Minnesota's Riverland Community College. She comes with a passion for technical education and an enthusiasm for embracing these imminent changes in a way that will empower her students and impact Riverland's community.

In this episode, hear how Dr. Linaker plans to address these two major changes at Riverland. There are tons of insights you can implement in your own organization!

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Technical and community college can fundamentally change the lives of individuals: As a first-generation college student, Dr. Linaker has experienced how life-changing education is, especially those looking to build a strong future for themselves, their family and their future. Technical and community colleges provide that opportunity for millions across the country, regardless of socioeconomic background. 
2. Automation is changing the way work is done in every sector of our economy: With her background in the health field, Dr. Linaker understands how the same concepts of automation, digitization, data analytics and AI that we see in manufacturing are also changing healthcare, agriculture, food production, and even the business of education. We discuss what that looks like in Riverland's region and how the college is shifting their strategy to prepare for a new automation generation.
3. Higher education can use AI to better serve students: The first way education should leverage AI is to use these tools to complete some of the necessary but mundane tasks that eat up teachers' time that could better be spent with students. Paperwork, grading, and administrative tasks can all be done with tools that are available or in development. Secondly, schools can improve the education experience by running all the data available to them through AI tools for use cases like predictive scheduling and monitoring students' progress to identify those who might need help sooner than ever before.

Connect with Riverland Community College online:
Instagram  |  Twitter  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  YouTube

Episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/riverland/

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1. Technical colleges serve an unbelievably diverse range of learners, and they need to have a delivery model that can meet the needs of each: Traditional students (those coming directly from a high school) only make up a portion of technical college attendees. From transitioning military members, to incumbent workers, to justice-involved individuals, to those seeking their GED, Western serves them all. Roger explains how the college has different resources and pathways for each type of learner, from Operation Next for the military to customized training for workforce partners.
2. Degrees are important, but they're not everything: People today realize that skills are more valuable than a diploma. Western Technical College has recognized this shift and has made their workforce training programming extremely modular and customizable. That way, learners can focus on the targeted skills that are most relevant to them while maintaining the option to build into a degree later on if they choose.
3. A technical college education gives individuals the confidence that they can achieve their goals: Many technical college attendees are nontraditional students. Whether they're coming back later in life to finally earn their GED or whether they're a high school graduate who never felt successful in an academic setting but thrives in a hands-on environment, a technical college education gives learners confidence to pursue their career ambitions.

• Read about Operation Next in this local news release

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Ever wonder what it would look like to create a bachelors degree program so innovative, so accessible, so flexible, and so industry-driven that it's the first of its kind in the nation?

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has done just that with the new Automation Leadership degree.

Built on industry-recognized credentials with a  focus on hands-on skills and career readiness, the Automation Leadership program is meeting an acute need in the manufacturing industry in a way no other degree can. After completing the program, students will be equipped with the essential technical and leadership skills to take any company through a digital transformation.

UW-Stout Chancellor Katherine Frank and Dr. David Ding, Director of Stout's School of Engineering join us on this invigorating episode where we dive deep into just how innovative this program is.

3 Big Takeaways:

1. The Automation Leadership degree meets a crucial need of industry - the combination of technical and business skills: Manufacturers seeking to invest more in automation need someone who can take their company through a digital transformation. The Automation Leadership degree does just that.
2. The future of higher education consists of more on-ramps and off-ramps, greater flexibility, and more credit for prior learning: Discover how the university is making it easy for high school students, community college students and even incumbent workers earn credit for prior learning, take courses remotely, and earn a bachelors degree with very little university tuition paid. Spoiler alert: up to 88 credits of the degree can be earned through associated SACA certifications!
3. Built on skill standards defined by industry, the Smart Automation Certification Alliance credentials make up a foundational part of this new degree: UW-Stout didn't reinvent the wheel in this new program. By aligning courses to already-existing certification standards, the degree is guaranteed to meet the needs of industrial employers. Additionally, any SACA member institution across the country has the opportunity to create articulation agreements with UW-Stout, and students anywhere in the country can earn the Automation Leadership degree remotely.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

• Read the press release about the new program
• Visit the Automation Leadership degree page for more information and program contacts: https://www.uwstout.edu/programs/bs-automation-leadership
• To learn more about the Smart Automation Certification Alliance, visit their website: https://www.saca.org/

Connect with UW-Stout:
Instagram  |  Twitter  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  YouTube  |  TikTok

Episode page:

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