U.S. Manufacturing Today

In the latest episode of US Manufacturing Today, Matt Horine sits down with Dillon Baxter, co-founder of PlantSwitch. They explore the critical issue of industrial displacement, questioning whether manufacturing can produce an economically viable material to replace plastic. Dillon discusses PlantSwitch's innovative compostable materials, which are designed to run on existing extrusion, injection molding, and thermoforming lines. These materials offer a sustainable, biodegradable, and affordable alternative to traditional plastic products. Dillon also touches upon the challenges of reshoring manufacturing in the U.S., the complexities of customizing biodegradable materials, and the importance of federal support to compete with low-cost imports. The conversation extends to the growing consumer and regulatory demand for sustainable products, driven by environmental and health concerns, especially concerning microplastics. Dillon concludes by discussing the outlook for the compostable materials market over the next decade, highlighting the potential for significant growth and reindustrialization in the U.S.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today

00:15 The Problem with Plastics

00:41 Introducing PlantSwitch: A Game Changer

01:16 Dillon Baxter's Journey and Vision

02:34 Challenges and Innovations in Biodegradable Materials

04:51 Economic Viability and Consumer Preferences

07:33 The Importance of Accountability and Education

14:13 Health Implications of Microplastics

16:56 Reindustrialization and Reshoring in the US

24:28 Future of Biodegradable Materials

26:00 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links

PlantSwitch

Dillon on LinkedIn

⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, our host Matt Horine sits down with Andrew Crapuchettes, Founder and CEO of RedBalloon, to discuss the important role of values in the hiring process and the challenges facing the current labor market. Andrew shares his journey from leading a labor market analytics firm to founding RedBalloon, a platform designed to connect employers with job seekers who prioritize freedom, merit, and work ethic. The conversation delves into the impact of AI on hiring practices, the implications of the H1-B visa debate, and the broader cultural shifts around labor and employment. Andrew also offers insights into the 'Freedom Economy' and how RedBalloon is helping to transform the world of HR tech by focusing on human judgment over automation. The episode concludes with a look at RedBalloon's future plans and the importance of maintaining an employment brand that values individuals.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today

00:30 Meet Andrew Crapuchettes: Founder of Red Balloon

01:45 The Birth of Red Balloon

07:53 The Impact of AI on Hiring

13:19 Challenges in the Labor Market

16:35 The H-1B Visa Debate

20:39 Historical Context and Economic Impact

21:39 Red Balloon's Focus on Merit-Based Hiring

23:15 Challenges in the Current Labor Market

24:28 The Pendulum Swing in Workplace Ideologies

26:33 Impact of DEI and Woke Culture

33:54 The Freedom Economy and Its Evolution

38:44 Red Balloon's Future and Growth Strategy

41:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links

Red Balloon

Andrew on LinkedIn

Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today powered by Veryable, host Matt talks with Bryan DeBois, Director of Industrial AI at RoviSys, about how data, artificial intelligence, and smart factories are transforming American manufacturing. Bryan shares his 25-year journey in the industry, the evolution of his company's AI initiatives, and how they are addressing current challenges. Key topics include the role of traditional AI, autonomous AI, and generative AI in modern factories, overcoming resistance to AI adoption, and the potential for AI to drive a reindustrialization and reshoring of American manufacturing. The episode provides valuable insights for leaders looking to incorporate AI and digital transformations into their manufacturing strategies.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to U.S. Manufacturing Today
• 00:24 Meet Bryan DeBois: A Leader in Industrial AI
• 01:11 Bryan's Journey into Industrial Automation
• 02:39 The Evolution of Industrial AI at Veis
• 03:03 Understanding Operational Technology (OT)
• 04:12 The Shift to Information Solutions
• 05:31 Pioneering Industrial AI at Veis
• 07:14 The Rise of Smart Factories
• 09:54 Leveraging Data in Modern Manufacturing
• 13:02 Exploring Traditional, Autonomous, and Generative AI

• 17:33 Generative AI in Manufacturing: Potential and Challenges

• 20:02 Generative AI Limitations and Risks
• 20:55 Current AI Use Cases and Challenges
• 21:24 Manufacturing's Cautious Approach to AI
• 21:51 Personal Experiences with AI
• 22:21 AI in Document Comparison
• 23:42 The Future of AI in Manufacturing
• 24:09 Overcoming Resistance to Industrial AI
• 25:14 Realistic Expectations and Flexibility in AI Projects
• 27:36 AI's Role in American Manufacturing Competitiveness

• 33:02 The Vision for the American Smart Factory
• 35:02 Getting Started with Digital Transformation
• 36:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links

• Rovisys Website
• Bryan on LinkedIn

• Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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n this episode of 'U.S. Manufacturing Today,' we dive into the resurgence of the U.S. textiles and furniture industries. Once the backbone of American manufacturing, these sectors were decimated by policies like NAFTA and China's entry into the WTO, resulting in massive job losses and factory closures. We discuss the new wave of targeted tariffs introduced to counteract cheap imports and how automation and reshoring efforts are positioning American manufacturers for a comeback. Listen as we explore the implications for national security, economic stability, and environmental stewardship. Join us in understanding the significance of this industrial reset and stay tuned for more insights from industry experts.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to U.S. Manufacturing Today
• 00:17 The Forgotten Industries: Textiles and Furniture
• 00:35 Economic Reforms and Tariff Strategies
• 01:39 The Decline of American Textile and Furniture Industries
• 02:07 The Impact of Globalization and Policy Decisions
• 03:03 The Devastating Collapse: Facts and Figures
• 04:36 Environmental and National Security Concerns
• 05:29 Seeds of Hope: Reshoring and Automation
• 06:48 The Role of Tariffs in Economic Realignment
• 08:28 Future Outlook and Conclusion

Links

• Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, hosted by Veryable, host Matt Horine speask with Andrew Kornuta, Founder and CTO of Noramark, and discusses the challenges and opportunities in the American manufacturing sector. Kornuta shares insights from his career, including his experience at Amazon, which highlighted the over-reliance on Chinese manufacturing and the need for a modern digital infrastructure to connect U.S. manufacturers. He explains Noramark's mission to simplify collaboration through a trust-driven platform that modernizes the fragmented offline sourcing model prevalent in American manufacturing. Kornuta also touches on the geopolitical threats posed by China's strategic economic practices and emphasizes the importance of reshoring manufacturing for national security. The episode delves into how Noramark's trust score can help U.S. manufacturers scale their businesses by minimizing risk and enhancing operational transparency.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to U.S. Manufacturing Today
• 00:41 Meet Andrew Kornuta: From Amazon to Noramark
• 01:17 The Challenges of U.S. Manufacturing
• 03:20 The Vision Behind Noramark
• 04:34 Historical Context and Modern Challenges
• 11:36 The Role of Trust in Manufacturing
• 14:23 Building a Trust Score System
• 15:52 Improving Valuation and Wages in Manufacturing
• 18:00 The Golden Age of Blue-Collar Work
• 18:34 The Importance of Trust in Manufacturing
• 19:04 Challenges in Contract Manufacturing
• 21:52 The Role of Government in Industrial Policy
• 23:40 China's Industrial Strategy and Its Impact
• 33:34 The Future of US Manufacturing
• 36:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links

• Noramark
• Andrew on LinkedIn
• Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, powered by Veryable, host Matt Horine welcomes Caleb Wiley, VP of Corporate Development at Veryable, to discuss the transformative Veryable Vendor Network (VVN). They explore the historical foundation of trust in American manufacturing and highlight the need for speed and responsiveness in today's industry, especially within the reshoring movement. Caleb elaborates on how VVN serves as a dynamic, verified marketplace that bridges the visibility and trust gap between manufacturers and suppliers. They also discuss the impact of VVN on small and mid-sized shops, the role of technology in streamlining the supply chain, and its significance in shaping the future of American manufacturing.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to U.S. Manufacturing Today

• 00:15 The Foundation of American Manufacturing
• 00:47 Introducing the Veryable Vendor Network (VVN)
• 01:21 Interview with Caleb Wiley: Challenges in Manufacturing
• 01:49 The Gap in Manufacturer-Supplier Connections
• 03:58 How VVN Transforms Supplier Directories
• 05:39 Verification and Trust in the VVN
• 11:24 VVN's Impact on Small and Mid-Sized Shops
• 14:07 The Future of Supply Chains and Marketplaces
• 18:23 Conclusion and How to Get Involved with VVN

Links

• Source Smarter, Move Faster: How the Veryable Vendor Network Shrinks Sourcing Cycles to Just Hours
• The Veryable Vendor Network
• Caleb on LinkedIn
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, powered by Veryable, the focus is on a massive scandal at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), where nearly a million jobs reported over the last year were found to be non-existent. The episode delves into how flawed modeling and outdated assumptions led to an inflation of job numbers, impacting decisions by the Federal Reserve, investors, and business owners. It also discusses the implications of these revised figures on the economy, especially on small and medium-sized manufacturers. Additionally, the podcast explores the role of tariffs in reshoring and strengthening domestic supply chains, highlighting recent tariff actions and their limited impact on inflation. Listeners are urged to focus on real data from their own operations and communities to navigate these challenges.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:15 The BLS Scandal Unveiled
• 01:07 Economic Implications of Faulty Data
• 02:12 Manufacturing Sector's Reality Check
• 02:42 Department of Labor's Response
• 04:50 Tariffs and Their Economic Impact
• 08:16 Legal and Regulatory Landscape of Tariffs
• 12:18 Conclusion and Call to Action

Links

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of US Manufacturing Today, host Matt Horine sits down with Russ Bukowski, President of Mastercam and member of the Forbes Business Council, to discuss the evolving landscape of American manufacturing. They dive deep into the manufacturing talent pipeline crisis, the impact of AI and automation on the workforce, and how education and apprenticeships are shaping the next generation of skilled workers. Russ shares insights on bridging the skills gap, the importance of clean data for successful AI implementation, and strategies for future-proofing the industry. Whether you’re a shop floor leader, educator, or industry enthusiast, this episode offers actionable advice and a forward-looking perspective on building resilience in US manufacturing.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction & Welcome
• 01:00 – Guest Introduction: Russ Bukowski of Mastercam
• 03:00 – Russ’s Background in Manufacturing & Technology
• 06:00 – The Manufacturing Talent Pipeline Crisis
• 10:00 – The Role of Parents and Education in Shaping Careers
• 13:00 – AI, Automation, and Bridging the Skills Gap
• 18:00 – Apprenticeships and Partnerships with Schools
• 22:00 – Mastercam’s Approach to Software, Automation, and AI
• 27:00 – Implementing AI: Clean Data and Practical Advice
• 32:00 – Trade Policy, Reshoring, and Industry Trends
• 36:00 – Generational Gaps: Gen Z, Technology, and Training
• 41:00 – Advice for Manufacturers: Future-Proofing the Workforce
• 45:00 – Where to Learn More & Closing Remarks

Links

• Mastercam
• Russ on LinkedIn
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, host Matt Horine is joined by Tony Kelbert and Dan Echternkamp, founders of Aerospace Growth Strategies, to discuss sustainable growth for machine shops. They delve into common issues in the industry, such as balancing spindle hours and morale, and why traditional growth strategies often fail. Tony and Dan share their insights on developing purpose-driven strategies that align with shop capabilities, leveraging inbound sales, and navigating the evolving aerospace and defense supply chain. They also discuss the importance of focusing on core competencies and building strong customer relationships. The conversation includes practical advice on improving business development and marketing strategies for machine shop owners.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to U.S. Manufacturing Today
• 00:23 Meet the Founders of Aerospace Growth Strategies
• 00:55 Challenges and Solutions in Machine Shops
• 03:10 The Importance of Purpose-Driven Strategies
• 04:36 Identifying and Avoiding the Wrong Work
• 06:38 Boosting Morale with the Right Work
• 09:57 Building an Inbound Sales Pipeline
• 13:17 Marketing Strategies for Machine Shops
• 17:47 Future Trends in Aerospace and Defense Manufacturing
• 21:05 Positioning for Success in a Rebalanced Supply Chain
• 26:29 Getting Started with Aerospace Growth Strategies
• 28:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links

Aerospace Growth Strategies

Tony on LinkedIn

Dan on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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In this episode, Matt Horine and Caden Gennerman, Founder of Dusty Shores, delve into the evolution of manufacturing with an emphasis on precision sustainability, strategic vision, and local production. Caden discusses the timely decision to focus on U.S.-based manufacturing practices, the significance of ensuring that outdoor brands' manufacturing processes align with the outdoor spaces they serve, and the ethical and environmental considerations in product creation. Matt and Caden explore the benefits of small batch production, the powerful marketing story of 'Made in America,' and the advantages of adhering to stringent environmental and labor standards absent in many other countries. The conversation highlights the detrimental impacts of fast fashion, the role of packaging in customer perception, and the potential future of American-made products as a standard for investment. Join us as we uncover how local manufacturing not only benefits brands but also advances environmental sustainability.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to Sustainable Manufacturing
• 00:07 The Impact of Tariffs on Business
• 00:16 Outdoor Brands and Manufacturing Ethics
• 00:41 Challenges in US Manufacturing
• 01:08 Marketing Made in America
• 01:43 Generational Views on Product Ethics
• 01:52 Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion
• 02:08 US vs. Global Environmental Standards
• 02:43 The Importance of Packaging
• 03:01 Investment in American Manufacturing
• 03:23 Conclusion: The Future of Local Manufacturing

Links

• Dusty Shores
• Caden on LinkedIn
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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