Making Sparks Podcast for Fabrication Leaders
Matthew Nix and I, Casey Voelker, are here to speak to the welding and fabrication industry. And just like MakingChips, we want to equip and inspire while attracting the next generation. Everyone will have some takeaways from MakingSparks.
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How to Leverage Conferences and Tradeshows to Grow Your Fabrication Business
01/29/2025
How to Leverage Conferences and Tradeshows to Grow Your Fabrication Business
In this special FABTECH edition of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Nick Goellner and Mike Payne to explore the value of conferences like FABTECH for driving business growth, building relationships, and planning for the future of metal fabrication. 🎙 Episode Highlights: [0:28] Why building relationships at FABTECH is more than just networking—it's planting seeds for long-term success. [6:10] The importance of stepping away from the grind and focusing on working on your business instead of in it. [12:40] How having the right team allows leaders to grow their companies and explore new opportunities. [17:50] Preparing for the future: the value of building a talent pipeline, even when you’re not hiring right away. [23:15] Why investing in industry events pays off, even in a challenging year for the fabrication business. Packed with practical advice and real-world stories, this episode is a must-listen for fabricators, business leaders, and anyone looking to spark new growth in the metalworking industry. Tune in now to discover how to make the most of Tradeshows! Resources: Simplify your quoting process with the #1 quoting and collaboration software for manufacturers: https://www.paperlessparts.com/ Enhance your leadership and business operations with resources from ProFab Alliance: https://www.profaballiance.com/
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Crafting Metal and Breaking Barriers with Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stork
01/15/2025
Crafting Metal and Breaking Barriers with Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stork
In this special FABTECH edition of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with two incredible guests, Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stotk, to dive into the artistry, resilience, and transformative power of welding. 🎙 Episode Highlights: 🔹 [2:00] Meet Barbie and Sarah, two trailblazing welding artists turning raw metal into breathtaking sculptures. 🔹 [5:30] Sarah shares her inspiring journey of turning a sexist comment into a masterpiece. 🔹 [10:45] Barbie reflects on the challenges of launching her career and the doubters who fueled her success. 🔹 [18:20] A heartfelt conversation about processing grief through art and how welding became their emotional outlet. 🔹 [28:00] Behind the scenes of their creative process, including the patience and dedication required to sculpt intricate works. 🔹 [35:45] The importance of community in welding and how social media brought these artists together. This episode is packed with personal stories, empowering lessons, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a welder, a creator, or just someone looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you motivated to spark your own creativity. Watch now and get ready to see welding in a whole new light! Resources - Simplify your quoting process with the #1 quoting and collaboration software for manufacturers: - Trusted for over 75 years, Pacific Press delivers high-quality hydraulic presses, press brakes, and shears tailored for the metal fabrication industry. Explore their solutions at - Enhance your leadership and business operations with resources from ProFab Alliance: - Connect with Barbie the Welder: - Connect with Sarah Stork:
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The People Behind the Sparks
12/31/2024
The People Behind the Sparks
In this special FabTech edition episode, we sat down with Jim Mayer, Founder of the Manufacturing Connector, and Mike Payne, Owner at Hill Manufacturing and the host of Buy the Numbers, to discuss the real driving force behind the industry: its people. From leadership lessons to celebrating the collaborative spirit of the industry, this episode dives into the human stories that make manufacturing thrive. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction and FabTech reflections: why the event stands out. [03:10] Meet Jim Mayer: his journey from bartending to becoming a manufacturing storyteller. [07:25] Collaboration over competition in manufacturing—how relationships drive success. [12:02] Mike Payne’s journey from finance to manufacturing and the inspiration behind By the Numbers. [15:18] Emotional intelligence and its role in leadership today. [19:30] Closing thoughts: celebrating the people who make manufacturing extraordinary. Resources Mentioned:
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Solving Labor Shortages with Cobots
12/18/2024
Solving Labor Shortages with Cobots
In this episode of MakingSparks, we sit down with Matt Bush, co-founder of Hirebotics, to explore how cobot welding is addressing one of manufacturing's biggest challenges: the labor shortage. From streamlining automation to delivering consistent weld quality, Matt shares how cobots are revolutionizing fabrication for shops of all sizes. We also discuss the differences between cobots and traditional robots, the evolution of automation technology, and Hirebotics’ mission to make robotics simple and accessible. Whether you're a shop owner, welder, or just fascinated by innovation, this episode has something for you. Timestamps: [00:01:15] Meet our guest: Matt Bush of Hirebotics [00:04:10] What makes cobot welding different and safer [00:09:25] Addressing labor shortages with automation [00:15:30] How Hirebotics is simplifying robotics for shops [00:19:45] Final thoughts: Solving labor challenges with cobots Resources Mentioned: for the most trusted name in custom presses & press brakes to grow & improve your shop
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Empowering Small Shops with Automation
12/04/2024
Empowering Small Shops with Automation
In this episode of Making Sparks, we sit down with Joshua Battles from Forge and Tripp Hudson of Machine Pilot and The Way Automation to dive into the transformative power of automation in small job shops. From laser cutting and robotic integration to making automation accessible for low-volume work, Joshua and Tripp share practical insights and real-life examples of how technology can empower employees and enhance efficiency. We also discuss the role of automation in preserving the backbone of American manufacturing—family-owned shops and owner-operators. Tune in to learn how small changes in automation can lead to big results, without sacrificing the people who make it all happen. If you're curious about the future of fabrication or just love hearing about cool tech, this episode is for you! Timestamps: [00:03:05] Meet our guests: Joshua Battles and Tripp Hudson [00:06:08] The benefits of laser cutting over plasma [00:13:12] Making automation accessible for job shops [00:24:06] How automation helps preserve small-town manufacturing [00:32:29] Real-world success stories from the shop floor [00:37:05] Final thoughts: The bright future of U.S. manufacturing Resources Mentioned:
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Bridging Generations in the Shop
11/19/2024
Bridging Generations in the Shop
In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Sam Gingerich, a 21-year-old shop manager at Wertzbaugher Services, to talk about the unique challenges of leading a team in the metal fabrication and trailer repair industry. Sam shares his story of growing from a technician into a leadership role, navigating the complexities of managing peers, and balancing modern techniques with old-school craftsmanship. They dive into the importance of patience and problem-solving, the rewards of delivering high-quality work, and how Sam bridges generational gaps with his team to keep the shop running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or a young leader stepping into a new role, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration straight from the shop floor. Episode Breakdown: [0:00] Introduction to Making Sparks [3:55] Sam’s journey to becoming shop manager [9:42] Managing peers and building team trust [14:18] Old-school techniques meet modern tools [20:11] Lessons in patience and resilience [26:00] Advice for young leaders in metal fabrication Resources Mentioned: ProFab Alliance Paperless Parts
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New Leadership Takes Over 150 Year Old Steel Fabrication Company
11/06/2024
New Leadership Takes Over 150 Year Old Steel Fabrication Company
In this episode of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Noah Dell, president of Champion Bridge, to explore the journey of a 150-year-old company embracing the future. Noah shares his experience taking over the family business, from updating old-school processes to integrating a brand-new Python beam line that’s transforming their fabrication capabilities. They cover the challenges of preserving legacy while adopting new tech, the nuances of capital investment, and why even an "old-school" business can feel like a startup. Noah also reveals his strategies for navigating the changing labor market, implementing digital tools, and steering growth while keeping the spirit of a family business alive. If you're in manufacturing, fabrication, or simply curious about modernizing a legacy, this episode is packed with insights for you. Episode Breakdown: [0:00] Introduction to Making Sparks [5:04] Noah’s journey into Champion Bridge [10:11] Legacy and new leadership at Champion Bridge [15:08] Installing the Python beam line: challenges and transformations [20:22] Capital investment decisions and future-proofing the shop [25:14] Going paperless: digital processes for efficiency [30:00] Labor market shifts, hiring challenges, and growth plans Resources Mentioned: grow and improve your business
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American-Made Excellence: Craftsmanship and Innovation at Pacific Press
10/30/2024
American-Made Excellence: Craftsmanship and Innovation at Pacific Press
Curious about what sets American manufacturing apart? In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with leaders from Pacific Press to uncover what it takes to be a standout in today’s competitive landscape. From their deep-rooted history to their hands-on approach to quality, Pacific Press’s story is a testament to American craftsmanship and innovation. The hosts and guests explore the significance of manufacturing in the United States, discussing everything from maintaining competitive advantages to embracing modern advancements like automation. They also dig into Pacific Press’s rebranding journey and what it means for their future. If you’re passionate about American manufacturing or want to hear how a company can maintain its edge for decades, this episode is a must-listen! Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction: Welcoming Pacific Press to MakingSparks [2:45] The history and heritage of Pacific Press [7:10] Manufacturing advantages of staying in the U.S. [10:30] Pacific Press’s rebranding and what it symbolizes [13:25] Embracing change: Automation and retrofitting old machines [18:00] A family tradition: The personal stories behind the team [21:40] Customer stories and standing out in a competitive market [25:20] The impact of partnerships and collaborations [28:30] Closing remarks and a dad joke by Casey Voelker Resources Mentioned: Pacific Press Multi Press ProFab Alliance
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Why It's Okay to Tell Your Employees You Love Them
10/23/2024
Why It's Okay to Tell Your Employees You Love Them
Curious about leadership and growth in manufacturing? In this episode of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Jim Stratman to discuss leadership strategies, culture, and business development in the plastics industry. Jim shares his 32-year journey building his company, from starting with a $5,000 credit card to achieving a private equity exit and remaining a leader in his industry. They explore topics like creating value, preparing for a business sale, and the importance of a strong culture to keep employees engaged. Jim also discusses managing growth, strategic acquisitions, and maintaining a sense of family in a growing company. If you're interested in leadership, business strategy, and scaling a successful manufacturing business, tune in! Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction to Episode [2:00] Jim's early business journey [6:00] Growing a company with private equity [10:00] Culture and leadership [15:00] Preparing for business growth [20:00] Advice for business leaders Resources Mentioned:
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Insights on Achieving High Growth Despite Challenges
10/09/2024
Insights on Achieving High Growth Despite Challenges
Curious about leadership and growth in metal fabrication? In this episode of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Jeff Salyer from Wysong Manufacturing to discuss the importance of culture, leadership, and business strategy in the fabrication industry. Jeff shares his journey from law enforcement to marketing, and how Wysong has increased profits by 45% during an unpredictable year. They dive into the power of custom press brakes, the role of automation in American manufacturing, and why it's essential to lean into company culture for success. If you're interested in insights on leadership, automation, and setting your business apart in today’s competitive market, tune in! Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction to Episode [2:40] Jeff’s journey to Wysong [3:05] Introduction to Wysong Manufacturing [6:00] Jeff's Transition from Law Enforcement to Marketing [8:05] ProFab Alliance Spark of Knowledge [10:30] Culture in the workplace [13:10] Custom Press Brakes [18:30] Marketing Strategies [26:27] Future of Wysong [28:56] Automation [31:01] Advice for Industry Leaders Resources Mentioned: ProFab Alliance
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From Wantrepreneur to Metal Industry Leader with Jeff Matuszak
09/25/2024
From Wantrepreneur to Metal Industry Leader with Jeff Matuszak
Looking to break into the fabrication industry or curious about the leap from corporate life to business ownership? In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix chat with Jeff Matuszak, a former finance executive who transitioned into owning a successful fabrication shop. Jeff shares how he navigated the jump from corporate boardrooms to running Carolina Metal and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From overcoming initial hurdles to embracing automation, Jeff opens up about the realities of scaling a small business in the fabrication world. They discuss the importance of smart investments, adapting to market changes, and the value of networking in an ever-evolving industry. If you're looking for inspiration or practical advice on managing a fabrication business, this episode has plenty to offer. Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction to MakingSparks [2:13] Jeff Matuszak Introduction & Background [7:34] ProFab Alliance Spark of Knowledge [9:18] Search Finder Trend [13:00] Navigating the Highs and Lows of Metals Industry [14:14] Consistency on Digital Presence [16:57] Networking Success [18:52] Personal Brand vs Company Brand [21:33] Sharing Projects on Social [24:06] Casey Voelker Dad Joke [24:53] Investing In Automation [28:26] ROI with Automation [31:40] Industry Collaboration + Joint Growth Resources Mentioned: Carolina Metals ProFab Alliance
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Navigating a Sales Downturn
09/16/2024
Navigating a Sales Downturn
Curious about to navigate a sales downtown in industrial manufacturing? In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix dive into the power of leveraging CRM systems like Pipedrive to drive business growth. They share their journey of customizing Pipedrive to fit their needs. The hosts also discuss the challenges of navigating economic downturns, offering practical advice on keeping teams engaged and business development efforts strong during slow times. If you're looking for actionable insights on data-driven strategies and maintaining momentum in tough markets, this episode is for you! Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction: Data-driven strategies in business [2:15] The role of Pipedrive in CRM and customizations [7:20] Facing economic downturns and mindset shifts [9:35] Captivated Content’s recovery from tough months [12:05] The importance of maintaining customer relationships [15:30] Real-world examples of sales cycles and follow-ups [18:50] Adapting strategies during slower business periods [22:10] Balancing cost control and revenue generation [25:40] Leadership focus: Shifting gears and leading through challenges [30:00] Closing remarks and a dad joke by Casey Voelker Resources Mentioned:
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Utilizing Marketing Strategies in Industrial and Manufacturing Businesses
08/21/2024
Utilizing Marketing Strategies in Industrial and Manufacturing Businesses
Did you know that the way you're marketing right now could be your secret weapon for massive growth? In this eye-opening episode of MakingSparks, we dive deep with Alissa Paik, an expert in leveraging existing marketing efforts combined with new opportunities to improve your brand perception and marketing results. Alissa shares invaluable insights on why doubling down on your current strategies might be the key to unlocking your brand's full potential. Join Casey Voelker, Matthew Nix, and Alissa Paik as they explore real-world examples and actionable tips that can transform your approach to marketing. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or simply curious about optimizing your efforts, this episode is packed with knowledge that could redefine your strategy.
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Using LinkedIn to Drive Leads for Your Manufacturing Business with Preston Hadley
07/30/2024
Using LinkedIn to Drive Leads for Your Manufacturing Business with Preston Hadley
There are over 1 billion users worldwide, 200 million of which are in the United States. Manufacturing is one of the largest industry segments represented on LinkedIn. Interestingly, LinkedIn is rewarding people who create content and share it on their platform. Why? It’s simple—they need more content. It’s time for manufacturing and fabrication businesses to take advantage of these facts. But how? In this episode of MakingSparks, Preston Hadley—the President & Founder of Envision Automation & Controls—shares how his content strategy on LinkedIn not only grew his following but transformed his business. – Matthew Nix Segments [3:11] Preston’s background in the industry [2:05] Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop [2:52] Envision Automation & Controls [6:02] Learn more about ProFab Alliance [6:45] Casey’s dad joke [8:10] Growing a LinkedIn presence [13:50] Finding a balance with content [19:43] Graduate to NetSuite by Oracle [26:59] How to write on LinkedIn [30:03] Getting started on LinkedIn Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Preston Hadley on Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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What’s Keeping You Up at Night? An Update from Matthew and Casey
07/30/2024
What’s Keeping You Up at Night? An Update from Matthew and Casey
What’s keeping you up at night? What are you excited about? It’s important to reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly. Why? First and foremost, to learn from our mistakes. But secondly, to embrace gratitude. Even despite challenges and setbacks, there’s always room for gratefulness and thankfulness. So in this episode of MakingSparks, Casey and I sit down to discuss the challenges we’re facing and exciting changes happening in our businesses. We also share why we don’t let worry consume us and instead, practice gratitude. – Matthew Nix Segments [2:39] What’s keeping Matthew up at night? [3:28] How ProFab Alliance can help you [4:11] Issue #1: Safety concerns in the shop [5:37] Issue #2: On-time delivery and customer service [7:24] Why you can’t let worry consume you [10:31] Using ProShop ERP to manage cutting tools [11:45] Strategic planning for Captivated Content [14:14] Practicing gratitude at all times [15:32] What’s happening at NIX Industrial [19:26] Launching a franchising business Have questions? Want to be a guest? Reach out to us on LinkedIn! We’d love to hear from you. Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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How Do We Get More Women in Welding?
07/30/2024
How Do We Get More Women in Welding?
Did you know that only about are women? Women bring a much-needed perspective and expertise to the table. So how do we get more women in welding? NIX has actively been trying to recruit, hire, and retain more women. In this episode of MakingSparks, we sit down with Tori Guzman and Aubree Beyer to hear what they think we can do—or continue doing—to draw more female interest to the welding industry. Listen to learn what you can do to change the welding workforce. – Casey Voelker Segments [1:13] Join the AMT community! [3:08] Learn more about Tori Guzman and Aubree Beyer [8:25] Learn more about ProFab Alliance [10:38] Why Tori is transitioning out of welding [15:44] Why you should consider NetSuite by Oracle [17:02] How to attract and retain women in welding [22:55] Why women should consider welding [25:10] How leaders can encourage women in welding [31:21] What Aubree and Tori find rewarding about welding [35:43] Wrapping things up with Casey’s dad joke Resources mentioned on this episode Join the Community Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Why Numbers are Important for Your Manufacturing Business | Mike Payne Part 2
07/30/2024
Why Numbers are Important for Your Manufacturing Business | Mike Payne Part 2
You need to know the “numbers” in your business. Every business owner needs to know that they’re making enough to pay their employees, make and deliver their products, and grow the business. That’s just good business. Non-financial metrics are important, too. A successful business has to focus on quality, safety, customer service, on-time delivery, retention, and even culture. Because if your culture is dialed in, the numbers will prove it. We take a deep look at the different numbers that are important for a manufacturing business to know in this part 2 episode of MakingSparks with Mike Payne. Also, listen to the end for a BIG announcement. – Matthew Nix Segments [1:00] Recapping part I with Mike Payne [3:13] Everything comes down to numbers [13:59] How to learn the numbers [17:49] How to decide what’s important [26:38] When should you hire someone? [35:20] Introducing “By the Numbers” Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Oklahoma Meets Indiana - A Manufacturing Chat with Mike Payne Part 1
07/30/2024
Oklahoma Meets Indiana - A Manufacturing Chat with Mike Payne Part 1
Mike Payne has spent the last 20+ years deeply entrenched in the M&A process with dozens of companies throughout Oklahoma. Early in his career, he realized he loved the world of manufacturing. He also learned that he enjoyed operating a business. He was just waiting for the right opportunity to unfold. Then it happened: Six years ago, Mike was able to purchase Hill Manufacturing. In this episode of MakingSparks, we chat with Mike about his work in the M&A space, why he made acquisitions close to home, and what led to his passion for manufacturing. – Matthew Nix Segments [1:10] Chit-chatting with Mike Payne [5:26] Spark of Knowledge: Strategic Planning [6:39] Casey’s dad joke [7:29] Mike’s background in manufacturing [9:32] Mike’s work in the M&A space [12:30] Why start with acquisitions close to home? [17:54] Get NetSuite by Oracle [19:11] Why Mike decided to run a business [26:02] Why build relationships within the industry? Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Staying Connected through Your Front Line Leaders Part 2
07/30/2024
Staying Connected through Your Front Line Leaders Part 2
How can leadership remain connected to what’s happening on the shop floor? At Nix, we’ve found a creative way to bridge a gap that many businesses experience. We’ve implemented a program that allows our front line to address problems and propose solutions so that their everyday real-world problems are being fixed. Dakota Hunt and Jack Henry Hagan return to share how this program has positively impacted them and the business. – Matthew Nix Segments [1:03] Netsuite by Oracle’s CFO's Ultimate KPI Checklist [4:56] Casey’s dad joke (stolen from his five-year-old) [5:41] The essential part(s) of an improvement program [15:48] Spark of Knowledge: Business development [16:59] Why communication is critical for success [19:37] The most rewarding part of this industry [21:55] The importance of a culture of respect Resources mentioned on this episode Netsuite by Oracle’s Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Growing Shop Floor Front Line Leaders Part 1
07/30/2024
Growing Shop Floor Front Line Leaders Part 1
How do we recruit more young talent to fabrication? How do we navigate rapid growth balanced with training and development? How do we help develop young talent into our future leaders? These are just a few questions we wrestle with in this episode of MakingSparks with special guests Dakota Hunt and Jack Henry Hagan. – Matthew Nix Segments [0:48] Join the AMT online community [2:14] Introducing Jack Henry Hagan & Dakta Hunt [3:47] Casey’s dad joke [4:16] Dakota’s background in fabrication [8:27] Jack Henry’s background in fabrication [11:24] Sparks of Knowledge: CRMs [13:45] Why fabrication is rewarding work [16:28] Dos and don’ts for bringing in young talent [21:38] How to handle rapid growth Resources mentioned on this episode Join the Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Manufacturing Precision and Processes with BWXT GM Nate Foote
07/30/2024
Manufacturing Precision and Processes with BWXT GM Nate Foote
BWXT Mount Vernon produces components for naval nuclear reactors, used in submarines and aircraft carriers. Their sprawling facility is home to CNC machine tools and sophisticated welding and heat-treating equipment. In this episode of MakingSparks, General Manager Nate Foote shares more about their commitment to processes, their recruiting practices, and why the work they do is incredibly important. – Casey Segments [1:09] Learn more about AMT [2:38] Introducing special guest Nate Foote [7:57] Casey’s dad joke [9:31] BWXT’s team-building process [13:54] Their program with a local high school [15:39] Spark of Knowledge: Strategic Planning [17:28] The recruiting strategies they leverage [26:38] Get Oracle’s KPI Checklist [29:42] BWXT’s involvement in niche markets [31:18] Their commitment to processes [35:38] What’s keeping Nate up at night [36:35] What Nate’s most excited about Resources mentioned on this episode Learn more about Get Oracle’s Connect with Nate on Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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How Technology Drives Innovation on the Other Side of Metalworking Nation
07/30/2024
How Technology Drives Innovation on the Other Side of Metalworking Nation
What are the pros and cons of plasma cutters vs. water jets vs. lasers? How does cutting with nitrogen differ from cutting with oxygen? How is technology driving innovation in fabrication? R.J. Reed and Brendon DiVincenzo join us in this episode of MakingSparks to cover all things lasers and fabrication. Because if you’re not MakingSparks with the right tool, you’re not making money. BAM! – Nick Segments [0:19] FREE IMTS 2024 Exhibitor Workshop [2:17] Nick’s dad joke [2:43] Learn more about R.J. Reed and Brendon DiVincenzo [9:45] The definition of precision [12:16] The history of lasers in machining [19:28] Netsuite by Oracle’s Ultimate KPI Checklist [21:29] Plasma versus water jet versus laser cutting [25:55] Cutting with nitrogen versus oxygen [31:05] How technology is driving innovation [38:48] Are people still G-code programming? Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Connect with Netsuite by Oracle’s “” by Eliyahu M Goldratt : October 15-17, 2024 Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Expanding and Transitioning a Family Business in Manufacturing with Joe Patterson
07/30/2024
Expanding and Transitioning a Family Business in Manufacturing with Joe Patterson
Every family business that’s growing and expanding runs into some challenges. From navigating tough conversations with family to determining a centralized versus decentralized model, there are numerous things to consider. Joe Patterson’s family business overcame the challenges that came their way and expanded globally. However, they had lofty goals for the business and ultimately needed more capital to realize those goals. Joe shares how they expanded their family business and why they sold the majority of their shares to private equity in this episode of MakingSparks. Listen to learn how you can help your family business make sparks, grow, and make money. Segments [1:20] Palo Alto Networks Zero Trust OT Security [5:03] Matthew’s dad joke [6:20] Learn more about Joe Patterson [10:50] Why Joe initially left the family business [13:30] Sparks of Knowledge: Host “tryouts” [14:33] How to have the conversation with family [17:05] How Flanders scaled the family business [20:51] Netsuite by Oracle KPI Checklist [22:23] The difference between offering services and products [24:40] A centralized versus decentralized model [31:35] Why the family decided to sell the business [40:08] How to join the AMT Community [41:00] How to scale your family business Resources mentioned on this episode Join the AMT Community by reaching out to or going to Connect with Joe Patterson on Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Embracing the Family Aspect of Business with Tad Dickel Part 2
07/30/2024
Embracing the Family Aspect of Business with Tad Dickel Part 2
Communication with your family? How do you foster open communication in difficult conversations? Running a family business is full of unique challenges—and successes—that many other businesses don’t have to think about. But navigating those challenges doesn’t have to be difficult. Tad Dickel returns in this episode of MakingSparks to cover it all. – Matthew Nix If you missed part 1, go back and listen HERE. Segments [0:56] Palo Alto Zero Trust OT Security [4:38] Casey’s dad joke [5:30] Common challenges family businesses face [7:28] Spark of Knowledge: Social media [8:40] How to have hard conversations [10:07] Tad’s thoughts on family governance [16:50] The purpose of the family council [19:49] Palo Alto Zero Trust OT Security [21:24] Open communication is the goal [26:08] When a small business should start [31:10] Think about the future now [32:30] Thomasnet programs Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Tad Dickel on Tad’s by Dave Ramsay Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Navigating a Family Business in Manufacturing with Tad Dickel Part 1
07/30/2024
Navigating a Family Business in Manufacturing with Tad Dickel Part 1
Nix Companies is a fifth-generation family business in an industry that's predominantly privately held and family-owned. Family-owned businesses are the fabric of our economy. Today’s guest on MakingSparks, Tad Dickel, is a Leadership & Strategy Consultant with a special interest in family-owned businesses. He helps them with everything from governance to succession planning. Tad shares why having difficult conversations with family early can make a profound impact on the long-term generational success of the business. He also covers how to have those conversations. Don’t miss this one! – Matthew Nix Segments [0:38] Netsuite by Oracle [2:42] How Tad Dickel helps family-owned businesses [5:39] Why work with a Leadership & Strategy Consultant [9:16] Challenges that family businesses face [12:42] Spark of Knowledge: The Ideal Team Player [13:57] Casey’s dad joke [14:25] Tad’s hope for this episode [17:43] Palo Alto Zero Trust OT Security [21:33] Using a Venn diagram to think through family dynamics Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Tad Dickel on Netsuite by Oracle: by Patrick M. Lencioni Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Why Should a Manufacturing Leader Come to FabTech?
07/30/2024
Why Should a Manufacturing Leader Come to FabTech?
What is FabTech? Why should anyone in welding, fabrication, metal forming, or finishing attend FabTech? They not only hold seminars and have booths and exhibitors to visit. You won’t only learn about trends in technology and meet with potential suppliers. Most importantly, you’ll be able to network. In this episode of MakingSparks recorded live at FabTech 2023, we interview a couple of people we met at FabTech whose careers were positively impacted because they showed up. Don’t miss it. – Matthew Nix Segments [1:16] Why you should go to FabTech [2:35] Netsuite by Oracle [4:06] Networking opportunities at FabTech [6:13] Casey’s dad joke [7:04] FabTech will help rejuvenate you [11:38] What stood out at FabTech 2023 [13:38] Palo Alto Networks Industrial OT Security [16:27] Spark of Knowledge: Use a CRM [17:49] Stephanie Hoffman with the AWS [22:39] Learn more about Weld.com [27:32] Check out Thomas™ services Resources mentioned on this episode Stepanie Hoffman on and Chris Ewing on Weld.com on Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Part 2: Tactics and Strategies to Use for Recruiting in Manufacturing
07/30/2024
Part 2: Tactics and Strategies to Use for Recruiting in Manufacturing
Recruiting in manufacturing can be difficult. Many students are taught the traditional “Graduate high school and go to college for four years” mentality. While there’s nothing wrong with taking that route, how do we capture the attention of young talent? How do we make them see the career trajectory available in welding or fabrication? Lindsey Nix and Angela Kirlin share some actionable tactics and strategies in this episode of MakingSparks! – Matthew Nix Segments [1:13] Lindsey’s dad joke [2:35] Create a Thomas™ profile [5:02] The internship programs at Nix Companies [9:53] Palo Alto Networks Industrial OT Security [12:21] How Nix is investing in recruiting [15:57] The benefits of video marketing [19:54] Palo Alto Networks Industrial OT Security [23:13] Spark of Knowledge: Try candidate tryouts [24:16] Leverage social media for recruiting [31:22] Now trending: work/life balance [34:23] Show children different career options [36:34] Register for IMTS 2024 [37:42] Be authentic and consistent Resources mentioned on this episode Matthew Nix on Lindsey Nix on Angela Kirlin on Casey Voelker on Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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Part 1: Embracing Culture to Recruit Top Talent in Fabrication and Manufacturing
07/30/2024
Part 1: Embracing Culture to Recruit Top Talent in Fabrication and Manufacturing
Most mom-and-pop shops don’t have to worry about recruiting, hiring, and retaining talent until they decide they want to grow. When you find yourself needing to recruit and hire talent, where do you start? Start with your core values. Your company needs core values and a clear mission and vision to hire the right people, build the right culture, and retain your team long-term. Lindsey Nix and Angela Kirlin weigh in on what it takes to recruit top talent in this episode of MakingSparks. Segments [1:10] Introducing Lindsey Nix and Angela Kirlin [2:30] Casey’s dad joke of the day [4:02] Hiring and recruiting in the beginning [6:37] Sign up for a Thomas™ program! [9:38] How Angela learned the culture [12:18] Spark of Knowledge: Core Values [13:38] Angela’s role encompasses retention [15:35] Recruiting women in fabrication [18:15] Palo Alto Networks Industrial OT Security [17:23] The importance of core values [28:23] Join the AMT community Resources mentioned on this episode Matthew Nix on Lindsey Nix on Angela Kirlin on Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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The Launch of MakingSparks with Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix
07/30/2024
The Launch of MakingSparks with Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix
MakingSparks has officially arrived! Matthew Nix and I, Casey Voelker, are here to speak to the welding and fabrication industry. And just like MakingChips, we want to equip and inspire while attracting the next generation. Everyone will have some takeaways from MakingSparks. In this episode, Matthew shares more about Nix Companies and their explosive growth over the last 20 years. We’ll also cover what you can expect from MakingSparks, who should listen, and give you a sneak peek at our next episode. – Casey Segments [3:24] Learn more about Matthew Nix and Nix Companies [5:33] Recruiting and talent retention in fabrication [7:27] Spark of Knowledge: Branding and marketing [9:25] Growing the company to 100x revenue [10:21] Who should listen to the MakingSparks podcast? [13:50] Learn more about IMTS+ [15:13] What should we talk about? [16:25] What’s happening in our next episode? Resources mentioned on this episode Casey Voelker on Matthew Nix on ProgressiveFabricator.com Connect With MakingChips On On On On On
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