Unifying Advanced Manufacturing: RAPID + TCT, AeroDef, WCX and TRX Colocation
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode, Steve Plumb sits down with Steve Prahalis, COO for , Chris Ciuca, VP of Programs for , and John Wilczynski, Executive Director for . They discuss the upcoming colocation of SME's AeroDef, SAE's WCX, and America Makes' TRX at RAPID + TCT 2025 in Detroit. They highlight the importance of collaboration among organizations to enhance value for attendees, the evolution of additive manufacturing and the defense sector, and the significance of Detroit as a hub for automotive innovation. To learn more about each event, visit , , , and
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Smart Manufacturing and the Future of the Workplace
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode, Padma Raghunathan, Product Marketing Manager at , discusses the future of smart manufacturing, focusing on the integration of AI and automation, workforce augmentation, and the evolving roles within the manufacturing sector.
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Navigating Leadership Challenges in Manufacturing
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb speaks with Craig Coyle, a former pilot and current leadership consultant, about the challenges new leaders face in the manufacturing industry. They discuss the importance of leadership training, the need for a supportive culture, and the concept of mentorship in developing effective leaders. To learn more about Operation Lead, visit them at
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Automation, Robotics, and the Future of Manufacturing
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host David Mueller speaks with Juan Martinez from about the evolving landscape of manufacturing, particularly in relation to automation and robotics. They discuss the challenges faced by the workforce, the advantages of robotic systems in material removal, and the innovations in compliance systems and electric solutions that Suhner offers.
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Manufacturing’s Year in Review (and a Sneak Peak at 2025)
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, the SME Editorial Team reflects on the highlights of 2024 and anticipates the trends and challenges for 2025. Topics include the addition of new team members (David and Lawrence), the launch of , and the importance of practical applications of technology in manufacturing.
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Exploring the Future of Aviation Fluids
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host David Mueller speaks with Greg Davidson, aviation specialty manager at , about the critical role of aviation specialty products in manufacturing. They discuss the importance of testing and certification processes for aviation fluids, the challenges faced in the industry, and the trends shaping the future of aviation, including electrification and new technologies.
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Shaping the Future Workforce with the SME Education Foundation
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb speaks with Rob Luce, Vice President of the SME Education Foundation. They discuss the foundation's role in workforce development, the importance of attracting the next generation to manufacturing careers, and the various programs offered by the foundation, including scholarships and the PRIME program. To learn more about the SME Education Foundation, visit them at
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From Selling Cookies to Exploring Careers in STEM: How Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio is Building the Workforce of Tomorrow
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of "Manufacturing the Workforce of Tomorrow," Toni Neary speaks with Jane Christyson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio, about the organization's bold steps to elevate STEM education. Since 2016, STEM has become a core pillar of the Girl Scouts, resulting in over 160 STEM-focused badges and initiatives designed to empower girls for STEM careers. At the heart of this mission is the new 8,000-square-foot STEM center at Camp Ledgewood in Peninsula, Ohio, where girls will learn biomimicry by exploring nature's engineering wonders. Partnerships with companies like...
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The Future of Sand Casting with Humtown
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode, Brandon Lamoncha, the additive manufacturing director for Additive, discusses the evolution of Humtown from a traditional sand casting company to a leader in additive manufacturing. He shares insights on the challenges faced in the sand casting industry, the shift towards additive manufacturing, and the importance of collaboration with OEMs.
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The Future of Manufacturing with Kathy Wengel
Advanced Manufacturing Now
In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb interviews Kathy Wengel, Executive Vice President, Chief Technical Operations & Risk Officer at , discussing her extensive career in manufacturing, the importance of quality and global standards, workforce development challenges, diversity and inclusion, digital transformation, and the role of AI in manufacturing.
info_outlineIn this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, host Steve Plumb interviews Ronald J. Bennett, a prominent figure in engineering education and leadership and author of new book The Engineer’s Guide to Authentic Leadership. They discuss Ron's extensive background in industry and academia, the critical need for leadership training in engineering programs, and the principles of authentic leadership.
More about The Engineer's Guide to Authentic Leadership:
The Engineer’s Guide to Authentic Leadership is a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of leadership in the technical world. It addresses the gap in essential leadership qualities —such as communication, emotional intelligence, ethics, teamwork, and other soft skills— by providing a roadmap for technical professionals to develop these crucial competencies. Drawing on recent employer surveys and decades of experience, it highlights the importance of skills beyond technical knowledge and demonstrates how to apply them effectively in real-world settings.
This resource introduces the challenges faced by emerging technical professionals, illustrated with real-life scenarios. It guides the reader in overcoming barriers and becoming an effective, authentic leader. While featuring interviews with a diverse group of authentic leaders who started from humble beginnings. These interviews provide practical advice and call attention to the various paths to successful leadership, demonstrating that anyone can become a great leader with the right mindset and skills. This book also focuses on the tools and insights necessary to bridge the gap between technical expertise and effective leadership. The reader will learn from the experiences of others, understand what it takes to be a true leader, and prepare for a fulfilling and successful career. Discover potential, overcome doubts, and embark on a journey to become a leader in the world of engineering.
This book is written for technical professionals who aspire to move up the career ladder or are already on that path. It is designed to help its reader grow both professionally and personally, continuously improve, and be ready for ever-increasing challenges and successes. It will aid in understanding oneself, dealing with occasional failures, and learning how to respond and overcome them.