Ever wondered how a seventh-grade engineering camp can ignite a lifelong passion for STEM? Alyssa Sanders, Associate Director of Research and Development Engineering at Baxter, is living proof of just that.

This week's episode is a fascinating discussion about the role of innovation in an engineering career. Managing a diverse, global team of engineers, Alyssa is an expert on innovation, product development and manufacturing, and highlights the importance of understanding market needs, meticulous research, and considering manufacturing capabilities in the R&D process.

We also hear a new perspective on the very definition of innovation. Learn how engineers can do so much more than design the next big product to go to market, and discover the value of continuous improvement and never accepting things just as they are.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Engineering skills are highly transferrable and can lead to a multitude of career experiences in vastly different industries: Students: your first job out of college isn't a life sentence. Especially for engineers, there's potential for you to apply those foundational skills to any number of careers and fields you may not even know about yet. As an example, Alyssa shares how her first job after earning a biomedical engineering degree was in the automotive industry. Keep learning, keep working with cross-collaborative teams and you can build a career of unlimited experiences.
2. Innovation isn't just about creating the next big product on the market; innovation is about new ways to improve processes, systems, and products: While an R&D Engineering team does spend time designing new products, they also work to improve current product designs, improve manufacturing processes, and create more efficient systems - all with the goal of making a better experience for the end user. Innovation is about continuous improvement, looking at things with a fresh perspective and never accepting things as-is just because it's how they've always been.
3. Engineering on a global scale is a fascinating challenge that crosses multiple disciplines of engineering, different cultures and different ways to think about product design: Working on a global team developing products for many different geographies and markets, Alyssa has learned the value of having a diverse R&D Engineering team. Hear interesting anecdotes from Alyssa and Matt about designing products for different cultures and how thinking through challenges like these are important for today's engineering students.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
To learn more about Baxter, visit their website: www.baxter.com

Connect with Baxter online:

LinkedIn  |  X (Twitter)  |  Facebook  |  YouTube

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

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We went in search of the most cutting-edge learning systems that every career and technical education program should have in their classrooms in 2024.

The best place to find them? ACTE's annual CareerTech VISION conference, where technical educators from across the United States come to learn best practices and discover the latest innovations for delivering career-focused courses to their students.

Out of the hundreds of technology companies featured at the conference, we found 7 that stood out, and we're sharing their newest technologies with you in this episode.

7 top technologies for technical education in this episode:

1. Transfr's VR systems for career exploration and skills training
2. Amatrol's new 895 Smart Controls Troubleshooting system
3. MarsFarm's AI-backed greenhouses for data-driven ag learning
4. LJ Create's lineup of electric vehicle training technologies
5. FANUC's new tools to quickly integrate a cobot with your CNC machines
6. Creaform's 3D scanners for limitless applications in engineering, design & art
7. MINDS-i's new autonomous tractor for next-gen agri-tech programs

Resources mentioned in this episode:

For information about any of the learning technologies mentioned in the episode, click the links in the section above.

To learn more about the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), visit: www.acteonline.org

Connect with the ACTE online:

LinkedIn  |  X (Twitter)  |  Facebook  |  Instagram

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

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Don't underestimate Milwaukee - a thriving city with not only a rich history, but a bright future with opportunities to live, work and play.

Kathy Henrich is CEO of the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition, a nonprofit on a mission to grow the region's tech ecosystem while creating life-altering opportunities for tech talent. We dive deep into Milwaukee's unique tech landscape (and the blending of traditional industry with high-tech), the status of our tech talent pool, and the impact of artificial intelligence on business and work.

This is an insight-packed episode that can help organizations in similar regions across the U.S. strengthen their own technology ecosystem.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Our approach to the tech talent gap needs to change: Tech occupations are up 30% in the last 10 years, with no sign of slowing down. Every year there are 100,000 new tech jobs nationwide, with only 90,000 graduates for those roles (with others leaving the workforce). On top of that, every sector is now tech-based. Tech can't just rely on traditional higher education for its talent pipeline. Instead, we must embrace other methods, like apprenticeships, skills-based training, hiring workers from non-traditional places.
2. People are looking for these 3 things in a company. If you want to hire great tech talent, make sure you: 1) Show people how they can have a great career at your company, with opportunities for mobility both laterally and vertically, 2) Help people solve problems that matter to the world (give them purpose in their work), 3) Let them work on advanced technologies / show them their career will be cutting-edge.
3. Leading companies are implementing artificial intelligence in 3 areas: 1) AI in their processes (on the business side and manufacturing systems), 2) AI embedded in products (do you have products to which you can add AI to make a better customer experience?), 3) AI in gaining customer insights and enhancing customer service.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
To learn more about the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition, visit their website: https://www.mketech.org/

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

• Book: All-in On AI: How Smart Companies Win Big with Artificial Intelligence by Thomas H. Davenport and Nitin Mittal
• AI Data Specialist degree at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC)
• Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute
• AI programs at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)

Connect with the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition online:
LinkedIn  |  X (Twitter)  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn

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In a world of constant information overload, how do you stay connected with your network and build meaningful relationships? Canay Deniz, Co-Founder and CEO of Ren joins us on the podcast to discuss a groundbreaking software that leverages artificial intelligence to get you in touch with the people you care about most, at the times it matters most.

Discover the power of AI in strengthening relationships, improving efficiency, and achieving professional success. Don't miss out on this eye-opening conversation that will change the way you think about networking and relationship management.

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Right person, right time, right context...AI can systematize luck: There are moments in life where the right circumstances can completely change the trajectory of your career. Usually that requires putting the right people together at the right moment within the right context, something we'd traditionally call luck. Ren is systematizing luck. By scouring over 350,000 sources across the Internet and prioritizing content to what matters most to you, you can discover the important moments in the lives of your network, connect with them at these opportune moments, and spark opportunities you never would've been able to construct otherwise.
2. Properly used, AI can actually improve your relationships with your network: Many of the social media tools we use have the tendency to build shallow relationships defined by posting and reacting. Canay's team has worked hard to build a tool that does just the opposite. Ren was intentionally designed to foster meaningful relationships with your network. Properly used, the AI platform will save you the time of researching and discovering meaningful news about your network and allow you to focus on the personal connection with each person.
3. When it comes to implementing AI, don't start with the tool, start with the problem you want to solve: There are a plethora of AI tools out there that claim to help businesses, schools and individuals do their work more efficiently. In the rush to embrace AI, make sure you're not investing in a solution that doesn't solve a problem in your organization. Just like any tool or software investment, start with the biggest challenges your organization is facing, then see what AI tools out there might solve that problem. Canay suggests some easy steps to get started on the process, along with some ideas on where to look for AI solutions.

Special offer on Ren for The TechEd Podcast listeners!
If this episode piqued your interest in Ren, we've got a special offer just for you. Click here to get started with Ren and use the code TECHED20 to get 20% off your first year.

Connect with Ren online:

LinkedIn  |  X (Twitter)  |  Connect with Canay on LinkedIn

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

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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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