In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt converses with Mark Beckmann, Director of Manufacturing Industry Solutions at Microsoft, to explore the evolving role of AI in manufacturing and its transformative potential. This episode offers some great insight into practical applications of AI with a special emphasis on the concept of AI Agency as a growing trend for companies heading into 2025. Mark also discusses other big ideas such as AI democratization and adoption, AI skills for the future workforce and concerns about the longterm impact that AI will have on our everyday lives and the future of work for humans.

In This Episode:

-00:29: Mark Beckmann's Background and Role at Microsoft

-03:14: Diving into AI and Future Trends

-04:04: AI in Manufacturing and Task Automation

-07:45: AI in HR and Performance Reviews

-10:13: Career Opportunities and Skills in AI

-12:54: Prompt Engineering Explained

-17:00: AI Democratization and Business Impact

-20:34: The Ubiquity of AI in Our Lives

-21:31: AI in Manufacturing: Enhancing Efficiency

-23:25: AI's Impact Beyond Manufacturing

-26:35: AI in Healthcare: Transforming Patient Care

-28:14: The Future of AI: Opportunities and Concerns

-32:58: AI and Labor: A Symbiotic Relationship

-34:57: Agriculture and AI: Feeding the Future

-35:53: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Mark Beckmann:

As a Director, Manufacturing Industry Solutions at Microsoft, Mark works with all manufacturers to consult with them on their Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation Initiatives. In particular, helping them transform their innovation, operational excellence, supply chain, field and dealer management services to fuel their ability to grow and compete in the face of advances in technology and disruption. Mark frequently engages with and advises manufacturers on innovations related to the Internet of Things (IoT), Smart Manufacturing, Connected Products, Analytics, Artificial Intelligence and the application of these technologies to address their manufacturing challenges. Mark frequently speaks at conferences and industry events on topics in manufacturing and leads Microsoft work with the Digital Manufacturing Design and Innovation Institute. Mark has worked in the Information Technology field for 38 years as a consultant, partner manager, sales and sales management positions. To learn more about Mark, 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 highly anticipated season opener of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Kevin Bowers, Vice President of Research at AMT, to explore the years hottest trends shaping the manufacturing landscape in 2025. This insightful discussion provides valuable perspectives for anyone in the manufacturing industry seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Join us as Kevin shares his hot takes on the impact of the CHIPS Act, the growing influence of Big Tech, sustainability in manufacturing and the potential impact that Trump era tariffs could bring to the industry at scale.

In This Episode:

-00:35: Meet Kevin Bowers from AMT

-03:53: Kevin's Career Journey

-05:52: The Role of AMT and Its Team

-11:47: Manufacturing Trends and Insights

-16:30: Leveraging Government Initiatives

-19:30: AI and Automation for SMEs

-26:01: Future of Work in Manufacturing

-30:32: Top Trends Recap for 2025

-34:48: Conclusion and Contact Information

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. To connect with Kevin, please do so here. Also be sure the check out the amazing research that AMT is doing through their AMT Research Services and as a special bonus, we're including the link to the specific article mentioned into today's episode, "Tariffs: They're A Big Deal."

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 season finale episode of Workforce 4.0, join your host, Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Co-Founder of TW Controls, Amber Wilborne. During this light hearted and inspiring conversation, Amber shares her journey of being a bona fide girl boss and reflects on critical ways that the manufacturing industry has evolved over the past few decades. Amber also shares some impactful lessons and insights for all the aspiring baby girl bosses in this industry and encourages us all to break up with the word competition and choose collaboration instead. Overall, this is a fun and engaging conversation that highlights the value of patience, resilience and the human aspect of leadership in the manufacturing sector that you don't want to miss!

In This Episode:

-01:35: Amber's Journey in Manufacturing

-02:45: Impact of TW Controls' Educational Initiatives

-03:44: Memorable Moments and Industry Influence

-05:53: Karaoke Adventures and Personal Stories

-10:23: Challenges and Changes in Manufacturing Culture

-17:41: Mentorship and Apprenticeship Importance

-20:10: Collaboration Over Competition

-22:39: Calm Down, We're All Going to Chicago

-23:08: The Future of Work, Works Together

-23:32: Empowering Women in Manufacturing

-24:27: The Importance of Failure

-24:59: Our Stories Matter

-26:17: Starting T.W. Controls

-27:10: Ministry Work and Giving Back

-30:16: Leadership and Philanthropy

-37:51: Advice for Future Generations

-40:33: Connecting with Amber

-43:30: Season Finale and Farewell

More About Amber Wilborne:

Amber and Tim have owned and operated TW Controls LLC since 2006. Both work with manufacturing companies offering training and education for the industry. Their company has worked in a variety of industries to improve access to clean water and sanitation, increase production of medical equipment, and improve skills to support manufacturing in the United States.

Amber is involved in Rotary International helping her community and doing work internationally. Her and Tim, as well as their children, have served alongside each other since 2015. Amber and Tim have witnessed new wells being dug, maintenance on wells, helping with clean water and sanitation needs, as well helping with mothers and children in developing countries.

Amber loves her manufacturing and Rotary community and will continue to serve in whatever capacity she is able to. Connect with Amber Wilborne 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.

Raise your hand if you've ever felt victimized by job boards and boring job descriptions! We know a certain recruiter that sure has and on this episode of Workforce 4.0, join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Alison Danielsen, CEO of Tallo, to discuss the platform's innovative approach to connecting job seekers and students with career opportunities. They delve into the unique data structure of Tallo, its user-friendly interface, and its focus on early talent aged 13 to 30. During the conversation, Allison also shares her own career journey, success stories and partnerships in manufacturing and workforce development agencies and breaking down workforce data. The conversation touches on challenges in awareness and exploration among young people and the evolving landscape of manufacturing careers.

In This Episode:

-02:19: Alison's Background and Tallo's Mission

-04:23: Simplifying Job Descriptions and Skills Matching

-07:30: Engaging Young Talent: Interests and Assessments

-11:54: The Evolution and Future of Tallo

-17:25: The Importance of Skills-Based Hiring

-28:12: Leveraging Data for Workforce Development

-35:53: Closing Remarks and Contact Information

More About Allison Danielsen:

Allison's experience as a mentor and small business consultant has shown her the value of one-on-one support. Her experience leading large teams and initiatives has shown her the power of influencing outcomes at scale. Trajectories can change when even small interventions are delivered widely. That's why she's energized by the opportunity to help millions of young people discover and explore career paths, learn and earn meaningful credentials, and make connections to good jobs through a digital platform that brings all stakeholders to the table. Learn more about Tallo and connect with Allison 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.

What valuable insights can be gained from "people data?" In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host, Ann Wyatt, sits down with the DE&I and Cultural Strategist of Philly Shipyard, Sophie Bierly, to take a closer look at how diversity in manufacturing is effecting everything from the products that we make to the people that buy them. Join them as they discuss the challenges of capturing and leveraging people data including employee and caregiving support. And be sure to stick around for the deep dive into exploring recruiting and retention strategies- highlighting the need for community engagement and flexibility in the workplace. Lastly, Sophie underscores the importance of transparency and honest communication in building a supportive and innovative work environment. Packed with insights and ideas, this episode provides practical go-to advice for businesses looking to implement effective DEI strategies and leveraging people data to enhance workforce performance and satisfaction.

In This Episode:

-01:08: Diving into DEI and People Data

-08:55: The Importance of Caregiver Support

-14:23: Challenges in Manufacturing Flexibility

-18:38: Recruitment Strategies and Community Engagement

-21:58: The Value of DEI in the Workforce

-36:10: Future Predictions for Workforce and Flexibility

-41:03: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Sophie Bierly:

Sophie Bierly is dedicated to empowering historically marginalized and underrepresented communities at work. As DEI and Culture Strategist at Philly Shipyard, her work is driven by elevating employees’ voices and collaborating with inter-organizational stakeholders. In her previous work, Sophie worked for the Kim Center for Social Balance, conducting workforce equity research and consulting with businesses across industries at the regional scale, creating the first ever LEAPS Report on Workplace Equity at the Regional level, with San Diego County. Sophie has a passion for using data to demonstrate the need and impact of DEI at workplaces. To learn more about Sophie, connect with her 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.

From working his way up in a machine shop out of high school to advising companies on the best methods for training their workforce for the era of Industry 4.0, this week's guest on Workforce 4.0 has done it all! Join host, Ann Wyatt, as she sits down with the Executive Director of NIMS, Montez King to share his passion for workforce development in manufacturing. During this interview, Montez shares his background and his own career journey, best practices for preserving tribal knowledge and the role of data and metrics in the training of your frontline workforce. Throughout the conversation, Montez emphasizes the need for dynamic and technology-driven training frameworks to address skill gaps and ensure sustainable growth in the manufacturing industry. We even learn about Montez's personal journey from "journey person" to gaining national (and parental attention) through a magazine feature. You don't want to miss this special episode of Workforce 4.0.

In This Episode:

-03:23: Montez's Journey: From Apprentice to Expert

-05:29: The Value of Hands-On Experience

-17:06: Overcoming the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

-19:52: Understanding Tribal Knowledge

-21:07: Documenting Processes vs. Tribal Knowledge

-22:18: Dynamic and Smart Technology in Training

-25:48: The Role of Data in Training Decisions

-29:29: Challenges in Training Implementation

-38:34: The Importance of Company Culture in Training

-41:07: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Montez:

As Executive Director of NIMS, Montez leads the transformation of outdated training approaches, including osmosis training where employers simply expect new employees to soak in knowledge from their co-workers. His goal, instead, is to teach companies to change their cultures, establish credibility and erase complexity gaps in learning. Prior to joining NIMS, Montez led the training function for one of the world's largest OEM automotive parts manufacturers and served as a machinist apprentice at a major energy company. To learn more about Montez, 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.

How do we make technology more accessible to our frontline manufacturing workforce? In this episode of Workforce 4.0, your host Ann Wyatt sits down with the Founder of Team Engine, Carlos Del Pozo as they talk shop on the importance of enabling and empowering your frontline workforce through technology. As the Founder of a small business and former military veteran, Carlos and Ann take a deep dive into the challenges between operational and HR leadership in recruiting and retaining talent, how AI can improve HR technology and the ultimate importance of creating a sustainable frontline workforce. This insightful conversation also sheds some light on re-shoring of American manufacturing, the future of blue-collar work and the multifaceted approach needed to address labor shortages.

In This Episode:

-06:05: The Importance of Workforce Development

-11:10: Challenges in Recruiting and Retaining Talent

-17:21: The Role of Technology in HR and Workforce Management

-24:04: Leadership Lessons from the Military

-28:39: Future Predictions for Technology and Workforce

-37:57: Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

More About Carlos Del Pozo:

Carlos del Pozo is a co-founder of Team Engine, a text-first software platform that helps companies in industries with a distributed workforce (such as landscaping, construction and manufacturing) grow and retain their teams. Prior to founding Team Engine, Carlos served as an Infantry Officer in the US Army and grew up in a small business family in San Diego. He lives in Boulder, Colorado. To learn more about Carlos, 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.

If there is one person in the manufacturing influencing community that knows how to make some noise- it's certainly Eddie Saunders! As one of the most authentic people on your social feeds, Eddie catches up with friend (and show host), Ann Wyatt during a truly fun conversation about the impact of authenticity. For years, Eddie has acted as a Creative Director and now owns his own marketing firm, Speak Friend. Today, Eddie shares with us the importance of being authentic to a company's brand and how to track that information with data. Furthermore, this episode delves into the evolution of marketing towards human-centric content, the role of data driven strategies and the benefits of leveraging your personal brand. Join us for this light hearted banner and always remember to "be a good human."

In This Episode:

-07:10: Authenticity and Personal Growth

-12:05: Empathy and Industry Evolution

-15:06: The Power of Authenticity in Branding

-17:00: Industry Insights and Cross-Sector Strategies

-18:12: Human-Centric Marketing Approaches

-19:26: Challenges and Opportunities in Manufacturing Marketing

-22:25: Leveraging Influencers and Social Platforms

-24:57: Data-Driven Marketing and Automation Tools

-29:49: Point of Contact Information

More About Eddie Saunders:

Describing himself as the "Chief Empathy Officer" of Speak Friend, Eddie has over 10 years of industrial marketing experience and demand generation experience. To date, Eddie's expertise is in crafting marketing campaigns that establish profound customer connections and he is committed to leading the conversation (and his team) on empathetic story-telling and customized narratives tailored to each of his clients. Learn more and connect with Eddie 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 interviews prominent manufacturing leader, Ashleigh Walters on lessons discovered through Ashleigh's book, "Leading with Grit and Grace." As these two southern girls unpack what it means to simultaneously "have grit and lead with grace," listeners of the show will learn more about the powerful impact that thoughtful leadership has on key topics such as recruitment, empowering your frontline workforce and succession planning.

In This Episode:

-05:35: The Inspiration Behind 'Grit and Grace'

-08:05: The Role of Technology in Manufacturing

-11:06: Marketing and Succession Planning in Manufacturing

-14:30: Transitioning To An ESOP Company

-16:45: The Impact of ESOP on Employees and Community

-17:12: The Decision To Choose ESOP Over Private Equity

-18:21: ESOP As A Recruitment and Retention Tool

-22:00: Leadership and Cultural Change in Manufacturing

-24:15: Continuous Improvement and Industry Evolution

-27:23: Learning From Other Industries

-28:36: Conclusion and Contact Information

About Ashleigh Walters:

Ashleigh and her family relocated to the Rust Belt town of Erie, Pennsylvania, in an attempt to revive her husband's family's 54-year-old business. She used the problem-solving skills she obtained while earning her BS in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University and was able to change the company culture by using a coach approach leadership style. Ashleigh regularly shares her story with fellow leaders and encourages them to "make things better" by continuously improving processes. To learn more about Ashleigh connect with her here.

The Future of Work (And This Episode) Is Powered 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.

As a former tennis instructor, Devin Leonard never imagined pre-pandemic that he would be working for a major systems integrator in the manufacturing industry. Fast forward to 2024, Devin now oversees Sales for the entire Southeastern United States for Igus Inc. In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Devin to talk about his own career journey and how Igus is providing preventative maintenance solutions designed for the advancement of careers and safety for the frontline workforce. Devin also talks about how you can meet some of the Igus crew this week at FABTECH.

In This Episode:

-04:43: Discussing Igus and FABTECH

-07:13: Automation Solutions for Manufacturing Companies

-11:23: Devin's Career Journey

-17:44: The Impact of Technology for Safety for Frontline Workforces

-19:37: Leveraging Technology For Training

-25:14: Innovations in 3D Printing and Manufacturing

-31:56: Thoughts on Renewable Energy

-35:48: Conclusion and Point of Contact

About Igus:

igus GmbH, founded by Günter Blase on October 15, 1964, in a double garage in Cologne, Germany, develops and produces motion plastics. Initially a supplier of complex technical polymer components, igus introduced reinforced plastic cable carriers and injection-molded polymer bearings as core products by 1983 under the leadership of Frank Blase. These self-lubricating, high-performance polymers improve technology and reduce costs wherever things move, making igus the worldwide market leader in energy supplies, highly flexible cables, plain and linear bearings, and lead screw technology made of tribo-polymers. Connect with Devin here.

The Future of Work (And This Episode) Is Powered 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.