Automation Alley, a World Economic Forum AMHUB, is at the center of some of the most innovative Industry 4.0-focused projects, startups and technology accelerators in the country. 

In episode two of our two-part series with Automation Alley Executive Director and CEO Tom Kelly, we get into some of these initiatives that deploy cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing, blockchain, artificial intelligence and more. 

Learn how small and midsize manufacturers are leveraging additive manufacturing for unique applications, get an understanding of how blockchain technology can be leveraged in an Industry 4.0 world, and see the value of supporting startups in the advanced manufacturing technology sector.

(Did you miss our first episode with Tom Kelly? Get caught up here: techedpodcast.com/automationalley)

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Project DIAMOnD is a living case study in how 3D printing is revolutionizing manufacturing: Project DIAMOnD (Distributed Independent Additive Manufacturing on Demand) is the country's largest distributed 3D printing network, enabling small and midsize manufacturers to leverage the technological advantages of production-capable 3D printing while learning from other organizations in the 300-printer network. We talk about the role of 3D printing, its current and future applications, how it's solving supply chain issues, and the role of blockchain in a distributed network.
2. Blockchain technology is an integral component of digital manufacturing: The more digitalized manufacturing becomes, the more important it is that organizations start leveraging the power of blockchain to keep their products, processes and IP secure. Tom provides a great overview of blockchain and the importance of digital ID, digital recipes, digital rights management, and digital quality assurance.
3. The Industry 4.0 Accelerator is supporting Industry 4.0 startups developing fascinating technologies: Industry 4.0 is full of potential for innovative, disruptive technologies that can transform traditional manufacturing. That's why Automation Alley partnered with a number of organizations, including Lawrence Technological University (Centrolpolis Accelerator), Lean Rocket Lab, and a number of well-known companies, to launch the Industry 4.0 Accelerator which is supporting Industry 4.0 startups in Michigan. Hear about some of the incredible technologies these companies have invented and the role of partnerships in an accelerator model like this.

Resources

To learn about Automation Alley and get free access to Industry 4.0 knowledge visit: automationalley.com

Learn more / get involved with Project DIAMOnD: www.projectdiamond.org

Learn more about the Industry 4.0 Accelerator: www.i40accelerator.com

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Automation Alley is one of the World Economic Forum's AMHUBs (Advanced Manufacturing Hub). These centers of excellence aggregate and share knowledge, resources and tools around Industry 4.0 through collaborative projects and initiatives. 

In episode one of our two-part series with Automation Alley Executive Director and CEO Tom Kelly, we discuss the state of Industry 4.0 in the United States. Are small and midsized manufacturers aware of the impact Industry 4.0 will have? What technological and cultural changes need to be made for a business to embrace Industry 4.0? How will reshoring impact our manufacturing workforce?

We answer all these and more in a fascinating discussion all around advanced manufacturing strategies.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Industry 4.0 and digital transformation must be collaborative efforts: This concept is unfamiliar in manufacturing where companies hold tightly to their "secret sauce," but the rate of change of technology today makes it imperative that organizations share their knowledge and best practices around Industry 4.0. At Automation Alley, the mindset is share what you know; take what you need. We discuss the roles that companies, academic institutions, government and other entities must play in this collaborative effort.
2. Industry 4.0 readiness is about business culture, too: While so much focus is placed on technology, Automation Alley's research with small to midsize companies has shown that it's really about company culture and a willingness to change - and that might mean disrupting business models from a capital-asset-focused strategy. Hear Tom share the four biggest barriers to change for SMBs and how he scores the U.S. for Industry 4.0 readiness.
3. The workforce will be massively disrupted by Industry 4.0: Disrupting business models, changing technologies, reshoring manufacturing to the U.S. and an aging manufacturing workforce all play into this idea - that the manufacturing workforce will be greatly disrupted by Industry 4.0. Echoing earlier sentiments, the workforce challenge should be solved through collaboration, company culture, and building connections between academia and industry.

Resources

To learn about Automation Alley and get free access to Industry 4.0 knowledge visit: automationalley.com
To get access to the Industry 4.0 Readiness Assessment discussed in this episode, visit: https://www.automationalley.com/initiatives/industry-4-0-leadership-assessment

Connect with Automation Alley on social media:

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View episode page: techedpodcast.com/automationalley

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Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) is on a mission to empower the nation's young  people with the skills and the support they need to succeed in education, employment, and life.

Their vision? All young people are prepared for future success.

JAG reaches 70,000 young people in 1,500 communities across the United States - students who are underserved and face barriers and challenges that leave them disconnected from traditional education. Through their unique JAG Model and 3-pronged JAG Advantage, the organization is able to reach these students where they are, give them voice and choice in their education journey, get connected with local employers, and get the support and skills they need to find future success.

In this episode, JAG Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Janelle Duray joins us for a discussion around JAG's strategy and the impact it's having on students across the country. Educators, employers and community leaders will glean great insights from the success stories Janelle shares with us.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. JAG's unique model empowers students who have been disengaged from traditional education: Thousands of students in the U.S. face barriers to education and life success - often outside of school - that manifest in their education journey and create challenges to success. JAG Specialists and classrooms meet students where they are, give them voice and choice in their education pathway, give them a place to belong, and support them with tools to succeed in education, life and work. This model has resulted in over 96% graduation rate and 96% continuing education rates (2-year, 4-year or apprenticeship) for JAG students.
2. Young people do better when classrooms emulate how the real world works: JAG classrooms rely heavily on project-based learning (PBL). When students learn by doing, they can directly relate their education to their life and career outside of school. Education as a whole can learn from PBL's success. The modern classroom structure, schedule and focus hasn't evolved with the rest of the world, and the JAG model is the next evolution of education that truly sets up students for success in 2022.
3. The 3-pronged approach to student success combines project-based-learning + trauma-informed care + employer engagement: The JAG Advantage, as this formula is called, ties together three student-centered strategies to education. PBL helps students learn by doing. Trauma-informed care seeks to understand each individual's struggles, help them build relationships, teach resiliency and gives them voice and choice in the classroom. Employer engagement gets local employers involved from the start - from classroom and facility visits to apprenticeships and job opportunities - employers are actively engaged with JAG students.

Resources
Connect with Janelle Duray on LinkedIn

To learn about the work of Jobs for America's Graduates, visit: jag.org

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Architects are visionaries whose designs bring purpose to places, bring communities together, and can be a catalyst for life-changing experiences. As past President of the American Institute of Architects and Co-Founder of Architecture is Fun, Peter Exley designs spaces for mission-driven organizations to help them tell their story and have a positive impact on students, families and communities.

In this episode, we talk all things architecture - the perfect combination of STEM skills and artistic craft. Learn about the importance of vision, design and purpose in physical spaces. Hear about what it's like to be an architect. And even hear the surprising answer to our question: what kind of skills and personality make for a great architect?

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Digitization is changing architecture, too: Technology has evolved the way architects envision, design and edit their work. Modern architecture is a combination of hand-drawn art and digital design. We discuss how technology is disrupting design, like how architects use software to update designs and renderings on the spot to help clients visualize the future of their building.
2. The right design can revitalize a community and help people find their purpose: Through his work designing children's museums, Peter has seen architecture bring small towns together, revive main street communities, and create safe, inviting spaces where children find their passion and purpose. It's these life-changing moments that remind us that the right spaces help organizations share their values and tell their story.
3. There's a place for any person in architecture: That's right - architecture isn't just for the left-brained or right-brained. Architecture is a rewarding, purpose-fulling career for those who want to design, envision and realize the future. And it can be for anyone! Whether you're a mathematical, precise, strategic organizer or a creative, artistic visionary, there is a place in architecture for you.

Resources

• To learn more about Peter Exley and Architecture is fun, visit their website: architectureisfun.com
• To learn about the work of the American Institute of Architects, visit: aia.org

Connect with Architecture is Fun on social media:

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

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The REC Foundation is all about sparking student interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) by engaging them in affordable, hands-on robotics programs and competitions. Through these programs, students increase their technical abilities and workforce skills, preparing them for a bright future.

Dan Mantz, Chief Executive Officer of the REC Foundation spent the majority of his career in industrial robotics and automation. He has seen firsthand how lives can be fundamentally changed through STEM and technical careers. Today, his work at the foundation is focused on inspiring students toward these careers and helping them understand all the different pathways to and through them.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Competition reinforces learning & ignites creativity: All students should have the chance to get hands-on exposure to robotics and engineering technologies in the classroom - but no classroom program can compare to the life-changing experience of applying that learning in competition. The Guinness World Record-holding VEX Worlds hosts over 3,000 teams from all over the world coming together to compete. In these competitions, students' classroom knowledge becomes real-world experience where teams apply the design process, engineering process, strategize, communicate and use teamwork to win championships.
2. The REC Foundation's programs create pathways to industrial robotics & Industry 4.0: Through VEX competitions and classroom programs using drones, sensors, programming and other ancillary technologies, the REC Foundation is getting students excited about robotics. Once they're hooked, students can work their way up to authentic industrial robotics and automation systems as well as high-tech Industry 4.0 learning systems that their district or post-secondary school offers. Dan speaks to the importance of investing in students as early as possible, giving them exposure to real Industry 4.0 technologies, and inspiring them toward technology-focused careers.
3. Our future manufacturing and industrial business leaders will come from technical backgrounds: With all the opportunities in STEM and the skilled trades, individuals are finding more and alternative models for entering and moving upward in these careers. Today's students have the option to go to a two-year school, four-year school, apprenticeship program, direct-to-workforce, earn industry-recognized credentials, or any combination of these - at any point in their career. The REC Foundation is a huge part of this effort, whether through their educational programs or through projects like the Tesla Externship. Dan shares great insights into the endless opportunities for upward mobility and leadership for those with technical backgrounds and training.

Resources

To learn more about the REC Foundation, visit their website: roboticseducation.org

Get in touch with Dan directly: [email protected]

Connect with the REC Foundation on social media:

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Manufacturers are putting more emphasis on diversity efforts than ever before, but are they working?

Executives, if you want to build a more diverse leadership team, then look no further than your frontline workforce.

And if you want to implement diversity practices that truly impact your frontline workers - the ones who stand to gain the most from these efforts - then you need to listen to this episode.

Our host Matt Kirchner combines decades of manufacturing leadership experience with recent data to uncover the key to building a more diverse workforce.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1.  Diversity in your workforce is good, and it's good business: Having a diverse team means your company can relate to any customer, any supplier, any team member. Having a diverse leadership team means there are more and better perspectives at the table when approaching solutions to problems and understanding how they'll impact the entire business and employee base.
2. Most companies' diversity efforts have missed the group that stands to reap the most socio-economic benefits from them: 2/3 of office workers say diversity efforts are working. But only 4/10 frontline workers think so. Why? Because too often diversity initiatives ignore the interests of the frontline workforce, like giving them skills-building abilities and the path to upward mobility. Keep this in mind: the frontline employs 61% of the entire American workforce, which is also the most diverse workforce you'll find. If you want to invest in diversity, invest in your frontline workers.
3. The key to a more diverse workforce is skills training for frontline workers, both hard skills and professional skills: Do you want diversity among your supervisors, administrators, managers, executive leadership? Look no further than your frontline workforce. The data tell us that these individuals want to learn new skills and grow into leadership roles. So invest in them. Provide opportunities to progress in their careers, and your entire business will benefit.

Resources
Wall Street Journal Article - Black and Hispanic Employees Often Get Stuck at the Lowest Rung of the Workplace

McKinsey Report - Race in the Workplace: The Frontline Experience

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

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Careers in aerospace are out of this world! And thanks to the work being done by SpaceTEC, the aerospace technicians are being trained and certified for cutting-edge careers all over the U.S.

SpaceTEC was launched as a National Science Foundation center to train aerospace workers. Led by Executive Director Steve Kane, the organization creates curriculum, resources and certifications to help training centers across the country prepare the workforce in their region for aerospace careers.

In this episode, we talk with Steve about his vast experience in the aerospace industry, the work being done by SpaceTEC around training aerospace technicians, and the future of space technology!

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Aerospace and Manufacturing align on so many technologies and competencies: For our manufacturing-focused audience, you'll be intersted in how similar the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries are. In fact, it was the end of the Space Shuttle program in Florida that enabled a massive influx of manufacturing into the region - because the technical workforce was already trained for advanced manufacturing roles. We discuss how these industries are similar, and perhaps more importantly, how they're different.
2. SpaceTEC is building out the first apprenticeships for aerospace technicians in the U.S.: Drawing from traditional apprenticeship models and the experience of partners in Germany, SpaceTEC has launched apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs to train more individuals for careers in aerospace. Their first cohorts focus on three key areas: Mechatronics, Advanced CNC Machining, and Fiber Composites. Built on strong partnerships with well-recognized industry leaders, these apprenticeship programs are the first of their kind to focus on the aerospace market.
3. Automation and mechatronics are revolutionizing the aerospace industry: Like nearly every sector of our economy, aerospace is also being disrupted by automation. Traditionally manual processes like working with composites are now fully automated. Steve helps us understand that those who have programming knowledge and certifications, can operate automated machinery, and have experience in mechatronics will be set up for success in the ever-evolving world of aerospace.

The Future of Aerospace
With all the commercialization of space travel, advances in space technology and demand for a skilled workforce, we couldn't help but ask Steve his predictions for the future. All we can say is...There is so much opportunity in the aerospace industry for curious people who love to work with their hands! Listen in to hear all about it.

Resources
To learn more about SpaceTEC's resources, curriculum and certifications, visit: https://spacetec.us/

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

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Esports (short for electronic sports) is a fast-growing, multi-billion dollar worldwide phenomenon...and the opportunities for our students through esports are astounding.

In this episode, we're talking with former California Teacher of the Year Alan Sitomer, who's now the Founder and CEO of Mastery Coding - an organization that's helping turn gamers into makers.

We're taking a deep dive into the world of esports - what esports is all about, how schools are launching teams and even offering scholarships, and the career opportunities in STEM fields that are available inside the world of professional gaming. With a unique academic approach to esports, schools can help their students find community, get great at gaming, and inspire them toward computer science and coding.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Esports is a worldwide phenomenon that will become just as engrained in school culture as football and basketball is today: If your school hasn't embraced esports, you're missing out. K-12 districts, colleges and universities worldwide have official teams; professional leagues draw millions of viewers globally; and the benefit for your students is limitless. Alan gives us the scoop on the benefits of esports for schools, which include the opportunity to win competitions, SEL benefits for students, the equity component, and the STEM implications.
2. Gaming is the gateway to computer science: Computer science drives every company in this digital world, and because of this there's an immense need for students with STEM skills entering the workforce. If schools are looking for a way to get more students engaged in computer science, esports is the answer. By launching an esports program, you're meeting them where they are, engaging them in what they love doing, but also (if you follow an academic methodology) giving them a chance to "look under the hood" and learn about game design, coding, programming and so much more.
3. Academic Esports is the key to turning gamers into makers: While esports alone has many benefits for students, it's also a ripe opportunity for education to engage, inspire and equip gamers with industry-recognized credentials, skills-based programming and credible pathway to emerging and growing careers in STEM. Alan shares his organization's methodology of academic esports - a way to take your students' love of gaming and turn it into academic programming that leads to real computer science skills and certifications.

Tips for Getting Started

Want to start an esports program? Here are some initial steps:

1. Get buy-in from administration, coaches/instructors, parents and students
2. Decide your goals for your esports team - some options include winning competitions, academic value, and social-emotional learning value
3. Choose which tools are you going to use to achieve that goal. Hint: Mastery Coding can help with all of them! See resources below to learn more.

Resources

To learn more about Mastery Coding's esports programming, league and resources, visit: masterycoding.com

Connect with Mastery Coding on social media:

YouTube  | 

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Johnson Controls is on a mission to make buildings smarter and to transform the environments in which we live, work, learn and play.

In this episode, we're talking with Marc Vandiepenbeeck, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of North American Building Solutions at Johnson Controls. It's a fascinating discussion about the digitization of building controls, smart buildings, smart supply chains, and how digitization is impacting every aspect of the business, including finance.

Get ready to take notes. Because we're not just talking about emerging technologies - but how to know when and where to invest in digital solutions, how to focus on value-add for the customer, how to carry these strategies along your entire supply chain, and the value of risk taking in innovation.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. The ultimate goal of digitization is to make a better product for the end user: Like every sector, building controls are being transformed by digitization. But without a clear focus, organizations will be lost in the noise of all the digital technologies and solutions they could invest in. Marc reminds us that digitization (in building solutions) enables JCI to bring multiple systems and products together in one connected smart building, making it easier for the building owner to control their smart solutions.
2. The two biggest drivers of technology in finance: Big Data and RPAs: Big Data enables JCI to bring all their disparate data into one dataset, analyze it and make better business decisions, especially around supply chain and market intelligence. RPAs (robotic process automation) automate many of the low-skill activities in the finance team, enabling humans to do value-added tasks that give them a more fulfilling work experience.
3. A crucial key to success in 2022 is getting smart about your supply chain: We discuss how to use technologies like Big Data to understand your entire supply chain, forecast future demand, and feed those insights all the way back up the value chain. This is especially crucial in sectors like building controls and construction where an organization is managing multiple supply chains at once. Find out why we might be moving away from just-in-time manufacturing and toward a system of smart connected supply chains.

Resources
To learn more about Johnson Controls, visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/

Connect with Johnson Controls on social media:

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

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"It's fulfilling to be manufacturing the products that people want to get work done, as we say. Our people take pride in the products we produce. It's meaningful work...The Briggs & Stratton brand is a legendary brand....The company is thriving and embracing new technologies and processes. Our team members are going to have a tremendous amount of growth and development opportunities. And let's face it, everybody likes being part of a winning team."
-Steve Andrews, President & Chief Executive Officer of Briggs & Stratton

Briggs & Stratton is an iconic brand known for its power and energy solutions. With a 114-year history, the company has manufactured products we all recognize in our homes and businesses. In 2020, Steve Andrews took on the role of President & CEO at Briggs & Stratton, ushering in a new era with a commitment to win.

In this episode, we discuss the formula for a winning business, which includes focusing on the right products and markets, building a strong culture, and fostering innovation.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Have a sharp focus on the right things: In the last few years, Andrews has led the company to some major strategic decisions that will set up the organization for long-term future success. His advice? Have a sharp focus on what creates value for the organization and what does not. Steve goes on to share how this sharp focus has impacted Briggs & Stratton's culture, leadership, products and solutions.
2. Build a culture with a commitment to win: How do you build a culture that drives success across every unit and department within a large organization? Andrews discusses Briggs & Stratton's eight commitment to win values and how these become a litmus test for every decision the company makes.
3. Those who work in advanced manufacturing get to create the brands they love: We hear this from many guests on the podcast: there are countless exciting career opportunities in advanced manufacturing today. In this episode, Andrews reminds us that the skilled workforce is in a unique position to get to be a part of building the very products and brands they love - whether that's power solutions, engines, turf and consumer products or job site products.

Resources:

To learn more about Briggs & Stratton, visit: briggsandstratton.com

Follow Briggs & Stratton on social media:

YouTube  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter

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

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