In this conversation, Aldo shares more than 20 years of experience across operations, commercial strategy, logistics, and global metal trading. We explore how the industry is evolving and what new generations need to know as they enter the field.

Topics Covered

Immigration, workforce shortages & generational knowledge loss

Why younger talent is not entering manufacturing — and how to fix it

How tariffs and Section 232 are reshaping risk, pricing, and investment

Global competition: What Asia & Europe do differently

Technology adoption and why the U.S. is behind

Recycling rates: Why the U.S. lags and what’s needed to improve

Market uncertainty and pricing strategy in volatile times

The real challenges recyclers face in sourcing manpower

Vertical integration and why aluminum is leading over copper

How small & mid-size yards can scale using new commercial models

The role of mentorship, conferences, and knowledge-sharing in the next decade

GuestAldo — Founder of The Metal Agency, with extensive background in operations, sourcing, international trading, and commercial optimization in the non-ferrous sector.

Why This Episode MattersIf you're in metals, manufacturing, recycling, logistics, or plant operations, this conversation gives you actionable clarity on where the industry is heading and what leaders need to prepare for.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com