Workforce 4.0

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Lisa Masciantonio, Chief Workforce Officer at the ARM Institute about the critical role of workforce development in the robotics and manufacturing sectors. They discuss innovative training platforms, the importance of aligning skills with job market needs, and the challenges of bridging the skills gap. Lisa shares insights on how job seekers can navigate their career paths in robotics and emphasizes the exciting opportunities available in advanced manufacturing. When it comes to bridging the skills gap, the misalignment between the real world applications and the training that is available is real.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Show Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Lisa Masciantonio To Workforce 4.0

-03:00: Innovative Training Platforms and Career Pathways

-06:08: Addressing the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

-09:02: Karaoke and Personal Insights

-11:57: Bridging the Gap Between Job Descriptions and Skills

-14:31: Engaging with ARM Institute and Career Opportunities

-17:29: Future of Work and Career Pathways in Robotics

-25:43: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Lisa Masciantonio:

Lisa is a performance-driven leader with notable success in cultivating and executing business strategies and bringing in multimillion-dollar deals that exceed growth and revenue goals. Her greatest strength is in formulating long-term strategic client relationships and has proven success in developing business solutions, commercialization of products, technology transfer, and technological initiatives that have supported organizational growth, improved staff productivity, and increased profitability. Critical to her success is the ability to increase awareness and drive thought leadership position by designing and executing innovative programs as well as developing and launching new, value-add offerings for ongoing competitiveness.

The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute is a Pittsburgh-based, nationally-known, public-private partnership founded by Carnegie Mellon University. ARM actively develops, demonstrates and facilitates early adoption of robotic solutions in an effort to grow the national manufacturing ecosystem. ARM focuses on critical growth sectors that are ripe for rapid adoption of robotics in manufacturing. As widespread adoption of robotics in manufacturing continues to grow, so do the issues of expense, single purpose inefficiency, reprogramming and isolation from humans for safety. The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Institute integrates industry practices and institutional knowledge across many disciplines to realize the promises of a robust manufacturing innovation ecosystem. To learn more about Lisa, connect with her here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt interviews Hendrik Stoltz, CEO of Automated Industrial Robotics (or AIR). They discuss Hendrik's journey from South Africa to the USA, his experiences in the robotics industry, and the importance of cultural transformation within organizations. The conversation delves into the challenges of acquisitions, the significance of employee retention, and the future of work with technology integration. Hendrik emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence in leadership and offers advice for the next generation of professionals. Join us for this week's conversation packed with tips on how people are the center of your business and how acquisitions can integrate products and people- seamlessly.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0

-00:30: Welcoming Hendrik Stoltz of AIR on Workforce 4.0

-03:10: Hendrik's Journey and Experience in Robotics

-05:58: Cultural Transformation and Team Development

-08:53: Acquisitions and Integrations in Business

-11:41: Employee Value Proposition and Retention

-14:24: Future of Work and Technology Integration

-17:07: Leadership and Emotional Intelligence

-19:58: Advice for the Next Generation

-22:41:Final Thoughts and Networking Opportunities

-33:28: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Hendrik:

Hendrik Stoltz is a globally experienced business leader in advanced automation, packaging, and industrial technology, with over 25 years of executive leadership across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. As President of Automated Industrial Robotics (AIR)—an Ares Management portfolio company—he has led transformational restructuring, diversification, and value-creation initiatives, driving operational excellence and sustainable growth. Hendrik’s career spans leadership roles in multinational firms such as Elopak, where he oversaw global capital equipment operations across multiple continents, and Totally Automated Systems (TA Systems), where he integrated engineering innovation with digital performance management. Renowned for his people-centered, coaching-based leadership, he builds resilient, high-performing teams and cultures that thrive on accountability, innovation, and collaboration. With a foundation in mechanical engineering and multiple patents to his name, Hendrik combines deep technical expertise with strategic insight—applying state-of-the-art automation and data-driven technologies to improve efficiency, scalability, and competitiveness in complex global manufacturing environments. To learn more about Hendrik, connect with him here.

In this episode, Ann Wyatt and Kevin Bowers discuss the current challenges facing the manufacturing industry, particularly the impact of tariffs and other economic factors during the fourth quarter of 2025. They explore the importance of data collection through surveys, the implications of Section 232 tariffs, and the ongoing job losses in manufacturing. The conversation emphasizes the need for small manufacturers to engage with their representatives and utilize available resources to navigate these challenges. Additionally, they provide insights into the economic outlook for the manufacturing sector and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst uncertainty. If you're wondering how you can successfully navigate all of the political and economic shifts happening and need resources to do so, this episode is up your alley!

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Introduction

-00:30: Welcoming Kevin Bowers From AMT On Workforce 4.0

-08:35: The Role of Automation in Manufacturing

-11:30: Job Losses and Workforce Challenges

-14:15: Financial Resources and Support for Manufacturers

-16:53: Future Projections for Manufacturing

-19:13: Community Engagement and Advocacy

-21:47: Navigating Economic Uncertainty

-24:10: Conclusion and Key Takeaways

More About Kevin Bowers:

Kevin is the association's Vice President of Research: With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing across sales, operations, training, and support, he understands all aspects of our members' businesses. He also led research for industrial equipment and field services at the Technology & Services Industry Association, where they focused on benchmarking, advisory, and consulting to improve members' business outcomes. Kevin's deep-rooted industry knowledge and technical expertise, combined with his experience in actionable research, make him uniquely qualified to take our Research and Consulting team at AMT to the next level. He also serves on the board of NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills). Kevin graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Japanese and spent several years living and working in Japan.

Have you ever walked into a store and wondered "how is this store out of of the product that I need?" In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Jaimie Horstman, Director of Demand and Forecasting at Procter & Gamble. They discuss the critical role of data in supply chain management, consumer behavior during crises, and the importance of predictive insights. Jaimie shares her insights on how to leverage data for better decision-making and offers practical tips for smaller manufacturers to manage their data effectively. The conversation also touches on the passion for problem-solving in supply chain roles and concludes with career advice for aspiring professionals in the field. If you've ever wondered how one of the largest global consumer brands is leveraging data to keep the supply chain strong, regardless of what else is going on in the world, this episode is a must listen!

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Jaimie Horstman

-04:42: The Role of Data in Supply Chain Management

-09:14: Consumer Behavior and Supply Chain Dynamics

-13:25: Building Trust in Data for Smaller Manufacturers

-18:03: Maintaining Customer Experience in a Data-Driven World

-22:34: Career Insights and Advice for Aspiring Supply Chain Professionals

-23:43: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Jaimie Horstman:

Jaimie McIntyre Horstman currently serves as the Director of Demand Forecasting at Procter & Gamble. Jaimie has a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. She began her career in engineering and manufacturing at P&G but found and followed her passion over the last 24 years leading transformations and solving problems in the end-to-end supply chain. Her experience spans supply planning, customer service/logistics, transportation, S&OP leadership, global supply network design, internal and external cross functional collaboration, demand planning and short/long range capacity planning. She has been a strong advocate for women in supply chain, leading the NA Supply Network Operations Women’s Affinity group at P&G for 5 years and most recently being featured on the “She Supply Chains” Podcast.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Frank Gibson from the North Central Ohio Region Manufacturing Workforce Alliance about the intricacies of workforce development. They discuss the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, the evolution of workforce strategies, and the critical role of apprenticeships in building a skilled workforce. Frank shares insights on loyalty in the workforce, the challenges of implementing apprenticeship programs, and the necessity of investing in human capital to ensure sustainable growth in manufacturing and other sectors. If you ever wondered what the whole picture looks like when it comes to the moving parts of how people work and the systems that support them, this one is for you!

In This Episode:

-00:00:Workforce 4.0 Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Frank Gibson To Workforce 4.0

-03:47: The Importance of Collaboration in Workforce Development

-08:39: Identifying Key Stakeholders in Workforce Development

-12:26: The Role of Economic Development in Workforce Initiatives

-16:22: Historical Perspectives on Workforce Loyalty

-20:15: Current Trends and Future Directions in Workforce Development

-22:17: The Evolution of Manufacturing in Ohio

-23:23: The Importance of Apprenticeships

-25:25: Implementing Effective Apprenticeship Programs

-30:26: Challenges in Workforce Development

-35:01: Investing in Human Capital

-40:40: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Frank Gibson:

Frank, CEO and Interim Chairman of the Board, Workforce Development Advisor, retired from The Ohio State University Marion – Alber Enterprise Center. As an established business development expert, recognized throughout career for driving organic growth across operations. His expertise across industries has helped to guide operations in a positive direction, leading them through change and embedding Lean processes to support cross-functional teams. Frank is a passionate coach with a keen interest in the continued development of talent in businesses. His experience within adult education and in the development of training programs has given him the insight to drive professionals to the next level. As a mentor, he provides workforces with safe environments in which to air their concerns, identifying effective solutions and resolving problems to increase productivity and the satisfaction of teams in place. Throughout his career, he has brought his understanding of governance and what it is that businesses really need in order to move towards established goals. To learn more about Frank, connect with him here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Christelle Keefer from ABB about the critical role of education in preparing the next generation for careers in robotics and automation. They discuss the importance of teachers, the challenges in robotics education, and the need for hands-on experiences for students. Christelle shares inspiring stories of students and emphasizes the need for industry collaboration to bridge the skills gap. The conversation highlights the importance of accessibility in robotics education and the skills necessary for the future workforce.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Christelle Keefer, ABB to Workforce 4.0

-03:20: The Importance of Educators in Bridging the Skills Gap

-05:48: Challenges in Robotics Education and Teacher Support

-08:24: Hands-On Experiences: Inspiring the Next Generation

-11:07: The Role of Industry in Education and Community Engagement

-13:49: Future Aspirations: Making Robotics Accessible to All

-16:29: Skills Development for the Future Workforce

-19:08: Driving Change in Education and Industry Collaboration

-21:54: ABB's Initiatives and Success Stories in Education

-24:47: Conclusion and Future Engagements

-31:18: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Christelle:

Christelle is driven by a passion for advancing robotics and preparing the workforce of tomorrow. As a recipient of the 10 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics by the International Federation of Robotics, receiving the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce Tomorrow's 20 Award, and being honored as part of the Oakland County, Michigan Government's Oakland Together 40 Under 40 are incredible recognitions that reflect her commitment to creating opportunities in this transformative field. Throughout her career, Christelle has collaborated with professionals, educators, and students in over 40 countries, building relationships that encourage cross-cultural collaboration. Christelle is proud to serve on the A3 Robotics Technology Strategy Board, a leading industry association focused on advancing automation technologies. In her spare time, Christelle also contributes to advisory committees and mentors both robotics clubs and participants in ABB’s female mentorship program. To learn more about Christelle, connect with her here.

In this conversation, Ann Wyatt and Jeremiah Llewellyn discuss the multifaceted aspects of working at Horn USA, focusing on marketing, technology, and the importance of people in the business. They explore how technology enhances workforce collaboration, the unique skills developed at Horn, and the significance of passing down knowledge in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, they highlight the company's internship programs and community engagement efforts, emphasizing the need for effective recruitment strategies to attract future talent.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction To Workforce 4.0

-00:30: Welcoming Horn USA Back To Workforce 4.0

-05:35: Horn USA- Leading The Workforce With Innovation

-10:02: Collaboration Between Humans And Machines

-12:40: The Role Of International Business Skills

-15:52: Opportunities Obtained Through Horn USA

-19:12: Building Confidence With Hands On Training

-21:08: Preserving Tribal Knowledge: The Call To Step Up

-25:24: Horn USA: Passing The Torch To Future Generations

-33:06: Horn USA's Blueprint For Creating An Internship

-34:51: The Value Of Leveraging Creativity To Build Talent Pipelines

-39:15: Leveraging Marketing As A Recruitment Function

-43:47: How You Can Work For Horn USA

-46:35: Conclusion And Contact Information

More About Jeremiah Llewellyn:

As a once- IT- turned- Marketer guru, Jeremiah Llewellyn is passionate about about taking a creative approach to solving problems. A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), Jeremiah began his manufacturing career in IT at Horn USA and has since transformed his career into Marketing. Jeremiah most recently kicked off the Horn USA summer internship program and is well known for taking an analytical approach to understanding marketing data and driving business value. You can learn more about Jeremiah by connecting with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

Do you ever wish you could go back in time and be 8 years old again? Or even relive your first plant tour? In this engaging episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt interviews her son Phoenix, who shares his experiences and insights about his recent visit to Horn USA. The conversation covers Phoenix's interests, his impressions of the manufacturing world, and the importance of safety and quality in the industry. Through a light-hearted and informative dialogue, listeners gain a unique perspective on manufacturing from a child's viewpoint, highlighting the significance of education and curiosity in understanding complex topics.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Phoenix Wyatt On Workforce 4.0

-07:02: Phoenix's Trip To Horn USA In Franklin, TN

-09:05: "This Is Not A Warehouse": Phoenix's First Impression

-10:17: Manufacturing Principles: Additive V Subtractive Manufacturing

-11:02: Kid Friendly Lessons In Additive Manufacturing

-12:15: imagining The Future Of Work With Robots

-13:34: Manufacturing 101: Discussing Safety First

-15:49: Exploring Parts Made Through Machining

-17:08: Introduction Into Engineering Principles

-18:23: Quality and The Manufacturing Supply Chain

-19:47: Phoenix's Future Goals

-22:34: Final Thoughts

-22:55: Workforce 4.0 Outro

About Phoenix Wyatt:

Phoenix Wyatt is the 8 year old son of podcast host Ann Wyatt. Phoenix is a self proclaimed "nerd" with interests ranging to favorite franchises such as Star Wars and Bottle Bots to robotics and tinkering with his 3D printer. He loves music and playing with his friends. Above all, Phoenix is one of many representatives and voices of the future of work.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this episode, Ann Wyatt interviews John Piller, a seasoned expert in automation and controls, who shares his journey from working in a corporate environment to starting his own consulting business. The conversation delves into the importance of workforce development, the role of Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) in supporting small manufacturers, and John's passion for teaching the next generation. Additionally, John discusses his involvement in a fundraising event for at-risk youth, highlighting the significance of community support and mentorship.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to John Piller and His Journey

-02:38: The Importance of Teaching and Mentorship

-05:21: Passion for Youth and Workforce Development

-07:49: Real-World Applications in Education

-10:30: Teaching Challenges and Successes

-12:59: The Role of Engineering in Understanding Systems

-15:44: Connecting Theory to Practice in Engineering

-18:14: The Impact of Teaching on Future Generations

-20:53: Understanding Complex Concepts Through Simple Analogies

-22:55: The Importance of Manufacturing and MEPs

-26:31: Data as the New Currency in Manufacturing

-34:46: Community Engagement and Supporting At-Risk Youth

More About John Piller:

John Piller is the founder of JPiller Design and Consulting, where he helps small and mid-sized manufacturers chart their path into the era of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0. With a career spanning industrial controls, advanced automation, and OT/IT integration, John combines deep technical expertise with executive-level strategy to guide organizations through digital transformation.

Today, John is recognized as a fractional CTO and thought leader, helping executive teams turn complex technologies into practical, scalable solutions. His work emphasizes not just adopting new systems, but building the culture and strategy to make them sustainable. Check out the Over The Edge Fundraiser here. Learn more about John and connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Scott Gauvin, an operations and strategy consultant with over 30 years of experience in manufacturing. They discuss the importance of respect for people in improving company culture, the challenges organizations face in cultural transformation, and the psychological principles that underpin effective workplace interactions. Scott shares insights from his book, 'Leading with Compassion,' and offers actionable steps for leaders to foster a more engaged and compassionate workplace via the Respect for People Roadmap. The conversation emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to culture change, the significance of listening skills, and the role of gratitude and social proofing in creating a positive work environment.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0 and Guest Scott Galvin

-04:33: Challenges in Improving Company Culture

-09:49: Understanding Respect for People in Organizations

-14:01: The Psychological Foundations of Behavior

-19:08: Tools for Objective Thinking and Compassionate Engagement

-21:42: Understanding Customer Expectations and Reactions

-26:30: The Importance of Active Listening

-32:24: Implementing Culture Change in Organizations

More About Scott Gavin:

Scott Gauvin is the CEO of Macresco Consulting and the co-founder of the Respect for People Roadmap. With 30 years of experience in operations, he has helped organizations around the world and across industries rethink the path to transformation—not just in process, but in mindset.

A contributing author to Leading With Compassion: Cultivating Connection from the Inside Out, Scott believes real change happens when organizations bridge the gap between culture and strategy. Right now, he’s focused on helping organizations unlock performance by systematically cultivating the behaviors that make it possible. To test drive the Respect for People Roadmap, sign up here. To learn more about Scott, connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.