NYS Manufacturing Now

NYS Manufacturing Now is FuzeHub’s premier podcast with two main goals. The first, is to showcase new technologies and innovations developed right here in New York. The second, is to close the knowledge gap of small-medium size manufacturers about the NYS resources that can help them solutions to business and technical challenges.

Detox Your Wardrobe 10/16/2024

Detox Your Wardrobe The fashion industry uses dyes, petroleum-based plastics, and toxic chemicals to produce clothing that looks good on us but isn't great for the environment. In fact, pollution from the textile industry is a growing global concern. Valentina Gomez of Werewool is aiming to become part of the solution. The New York City company that she co-founded is developing biodegradable textile fibers with tailored properties for aesthetics and performance. Tune in and learn how nature creates the function and color that a cleaner, greener wardrobe needs. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/33488657

Generating a Breath of Fresh Air 10/10/2024

Generating a Breath of Fresh Air Farm to Flame Energy of Syracuse, New York has developed a scalable 10 to 30 KW generator that uses plant-based feedstocks for electricity generation that’s smokeless and odorless. That’s a breath of fresh air in places like Ghana, where many people use diesel-powered generators to produce electricity for daily life. Join FuzeHub for a conversation with Kwaku Jyamfi (KJ), Farm to Flame Energy’s president and CEO. This first generation American explains why he’s committed to bringing clean energy to everyone – and how his company is getting the job done. Farm to Flame Energy was the Grand Prize winner of the 2022 FuzeHub Commercialization Competition and is also an EPA SBIR award winner. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/33408932

Airway Management is Epic 10/02/2024

Airway Management is Epic Epic Airway Systems, Inc. is a medtech startup in Schenectady, New York with a game-changing technology for emergency medical care. The company’s product, , is easier to use than traditional airway management devices and addresses two pressing problems: the loss of pre-hospital tracheal intubation skill sets, and a decline in procedure success rates. Join FuzeHub for an engaging conversation with Dr. Eric Moses, the company’s co-founder, CEO, and CMO. Keith McKenna, COO, also provides valuable insights, especially in the areas of prototyping and manufacturing. Epic Airway Systems won a $50,000 grant Commercialization Competition award at the NYS Innovation Summit in 2023 and plans to file a 510(k) with the FDA in 2025. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/33302077

FuzeMoves 08/27/2024

FuzeMoves FuzeHub is moving New York State manufacturing forward with three new programs plus exciting new developments in the Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund and the annual Innovation Summit. Elena Garuc, FuzeHub’s Executive Director, joins the podcast to explain what’s new and how FuzeHub’s growth can help your business. From to , FuzeHub and its partners from ESD, NY MEP, and beyond are advancing microelectronics through programs that can strengthen NYS manufacturers and U.S. national security. There’s also a new Equity in Manufacturing initiative for historically underserved communities, and news to share from both the Fund and the Summit. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/32763512

Put Your Best Foot Forward 08/15/2024

Put Your Best Foot Forward Do you have an idea for a new product? Then put your best foot forward like Jialin Ke of . This Brooklyn-based company overcame tough design challenges on its way to a successful product launch and was a 2023 FuzeHub Commercialization Competition winner. Soulo’s product, an ergonomic toenail trimmer, may be quite different from yours. However, the advice that Jialin shares can help you go from idea to prototype to reality. From focus groups to FDM, and from multiple iterations to molding, this podcast provides real-world lessons for entrepreneurs. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/32586757

Breaking Out of the Box with Robotics 07/31/2024

Breaking Out of the Box with Robotics The finishing department at many small-to-medium manufacturers is a “black box” with manual operations and limited production insights, explains David Pietrocola, the co-founder and CEO of . Pietrocola, an ex-CIA Tech Officer, spied an opportunity to help these companies and is developing the Smart Finishing™ Robotic Workcell for high-mix sanding, grinding, and polishing operations. FuzeHub and ITAC, the NY MEP center for New York City, are supporting Cohesive Robotics in its development of this exciting new product, which includes autonomous 3D vision scanning. Last year, Cohesive Robotics was awarded a $50,000 FuzeHub Manufacturing Grant in partnership with ITAC, and the NYC-based startup has made considerable progress toward its goals. Join us as we talk to David and find out why overcoming obstacles to automation isn’t all about capital. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/32371952

Healthy Soil, Healthy Food 07/15/2024

Healthy Soil, Healthy Food Most of what we eat comes from soil, but experts predict we have just 50 years left to grow food on arable land. Around the world, the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and non-regenerative agricultural practices have stripped soil of vital essential nutrients. An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but would you want to eat five pieces of fruit just to get some basic nutrition? For Sashti Balasundaram, the founder and CEO of , the solution to degraded soil involves a systematic, data-driven approach to improving soil nutrient levels. The company’s technology helped it win a FuzeHub award in 2018, and a $250,000 prize from the Grow-NY Food and Ag Competition in 2021. Join us as we talk to Sashti about healthy soil, healthy food, and strong communities. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/32146882

From Oppenheimer to the Energy Transition 06/18/2024

From Oppenheimer to the Energy Transition of Flushing, New York designs and manufactures power supplies for industries that include offshore wind and solar power. As Mark Kupferberg, a Kepco owner, explains, the company was founded in 1946 by family members with connections to Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project. Today, Kepco serves military and civilian markets and makes power supplies that do more than supply electric power to an electric load. That’s because this New York State manufacturer specializes, as Kuperberg says, in "breaking bottlenecks" that slow down labor-intensive electronic testing. As listeners to this episode of New York State Manufacturing Now will learn, Kepco also makes power supplies that regenerate power instead of just dissipating energy as heat, a feat that reduces costs and cooling requirements. With products that make less electronic noise, Kepco also provided the "secret sauce" to a Nobel Prize winner in Physics. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/31799567

The Taste You Missed 06/12/2024

The Taste You Missed Vitality in the Valley 2024 featured a pre-event reception for exhibitors with fantastic food and drink from New York State’s Mohawk Valley. Two exhibitors took a break from the action to join FuzeHub’s Steve Melito for a podcast (and video) that provides a taste of what you may have missed in Herkimer. Our first guest, , is the Executive Director for the Center of Excellence (COE) for Food and Agriculture at in western New York. Tune in to find out what the COE does and how it’s helping food and beverage startups to scale-up with offerings that include a food innovation lab for product development. You’ll also get a preview of a special announcement that’s sure to delight farmers in Washington County and the eastern part of the Empire State. Our second guest, Tina Douglas of , traveled to Vitality in the Valley along historic Route 20 from Richfield Springs, New York. Tina and her husband, who also runs , raise cattle and sell beef. You’ll also find pork, chicken, eggs, milk, barbeque sauces, seasonings, and rubs at their farm store. Tina brought two delicious roasts to the pre-event reception and shared her plans to add agriculture tourism and education to the family farm. Listen to the podcast or watch the video to learn more, and don’t miss Vitality in the Valley at Herkimer College in Herkimer, New York in June 2025. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/31721032

A2A All the Way 05/29/2024

A2A All the Way The Advance 2 Apprenticeship (A2A) program is an employment initiative that’s improving access to apprenticeship programs for people with intellectual and development disabilities. It’s also providing a non-traditional source of talent to NYS manufacturers who are facing workforce challenges. In the Empire State, apprenticeship programs for people with disabilities have a record of success, as shown in . Yet misconceptions remain, beginning with the word “disabled” itself. Join host Steve Melito as he interviews this dedicated team of workforce professionals: Colleen Blagg is the Manager of Apprenticeship and Workforce Development at MACNY, the Marilee Boylan is Director of Employment Programs at the Brandy Solomon is Employment Project Coordinator at the University of Rochester Pat Dowse of the Dowse Factor is a consultant for MACNY and a resource that Steve describes as “a force of nature” By embracing the untapped potential of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the A2A program not only opens doors to meaningful employment opportunities but also enriches the workforce with a diverse array of talents and perspectives. As manufacturers seek to address their workforce challenges, this initiative offers a fresh and inclusive solution, fostering a more equitable and dynamic workforce for the future. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/31519597

Fly the Electric Skies 05/15/2024

Fly the Electric Skies Unlock the future of electric flight as we embark on a riveting journey with Jake Goldman from , navigating the electrified skies of eVTOL aircraft innovation. Charge up your knowledge on the strategic leaps made by Beta in revolutionizing electric aviation, from their core technology prowess to their proactive deployment of charging stations. Our discussion illuminates how this trailblazing company is not just flying high in a field brimming with competition, but also powering up economies with their $41 million expansion in New York's Clinton County—promising new horizons for job seekers and aviation enthusiasts alike. Step into Clinton County's manufacturing renaissance where Beta Technologies, in concert with local schools and the community, is engineering a talent goldmine for the aerospace industry. Learn how New York's rich manufacturing heritage and cooperative partnerships are shaping an electrified transportation corridor that stretches toward Canada. Join host for this episode to grasp the full spectrum of opportunities that electric aircraft manufacturing has to offer, all through the lens of collaboration, innovation, and strategic foresight. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/31307217

Vitality You Can Taste 04/30/2024

Vitality You Can Taste returns on June 4-5, 2024, with a new flavor you can taste for yourself. With the pairing of local cuisine and handcrafted drinks, the fifth edition of this annual event will be better than ever as the food, beverage, and agricultural ecosystem comes together at Herkimer County Community College in Herkimer, New York. Join us as Cory Albrecht, the Director of the at Mohawk Valley Community College, describes what’s on the menu for manufacturers. From the pre-event reception for exhibitors to educational opportunities for attendees, Vitality in the Valley is a signature event that delivers even greater value each year. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/31051138

The Fun in the Fund 04/16/2024

The Fun in the Fund Have you ever wondered what ignites the spark of innovation in New York’s manufacturing scene? Patty Rechberger of FuzeHub's Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund joins host Steve Melito to unravel the mystery behind manufacturing grants that are revolutionizing businesses across the state. We take a deep dive into the critical role these grants play in bridging the R&D "valley of death," setting the stage for collaborations that fuel growth and technological advancements. Eligibility might sound daunting, but Patty breaks it down: if you’re a New York State business partnered with a non-profit, you're on your way. It's all about connection and support that extends far beyond project completion, ensuring that innovation doesn't just start—it thrives. This episode isn't just about the potential of grants—it’s about the tangible outcomes they create, from patent navigation to overcoming the challenge of finding the right non-profit ally. We also give you a peek into what happens after the grant celebration dies down—setting project timelines, managing unexpected twists, and tapping into continuous support from FuzeHub. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/30857943

Rendezvous and Reunion 04/01/2024

Rendezvous and Reunion For this episode of New York State Manufacturing Now, host Steve Melito gathers opinions and insights from attendees and the organizer of the 2024 Québec-New York Transportation Rendezvous held in Plattsburgh, New York. Ever wondered what it's like to navigate the tricky waters of US employment laws and immigration, especially if you're doing business across the Canadian border? Steve’s first guest is Holly Black from who takes us on a virtual trip to the New York State Quebec Transportation Rendezvous in Plattsburgh, to shed light on these challenges. As a seasoned HR consulting and immigration expert, Holly shares her transition from Wabtec to launching her own own consulting firm, offering a treasure trove of advice for Canadian enterprises struggling with the complexities of operating in the United States. Amidst the hubbub of bankers, insurers, and industry professionals, this episode transcends transportation talk and dives into the importance of face-to-face networking in our digital age. Joel Wood from , the architect behind this vibrant gathering, also stops by to give us his unique perspectives on orchestrating such an impactful event. And we round out the event and this episode speaking with Mark from Canadian company on their work in gaskets and seals and how they find value in collaboration with New York State-based transportation-focused businesses. We hear first-hand how Plattsburgh is considered a suburb of Montreal, even though it sits in a different country. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/30632453

Building Better Economies 03/18/2024

Building Better Economies On this episode of New York State Manufacturing Now, FuzeHub's Steve Melito takes a journey through the evolving landscape of New York's economy with Alyson Slack, Senior Economic Analyst at . Listen in as we explore the storied past of New York State's manufacturing sector, its pivotal role in shaping our economy, and the transition from production to a service-based economy. We shine a light on manufacturing's enduring impact, from job creation to innovation, and how MRB Group's strategic planning is driving development readiness, with a nod to their successful collaborations and infrastructure enhancements that are revitalizing manufacturing across the state. In this discussion, we delve into the dynamic ecosystem of New York State's economic development, assessing the strength of investment in research and development, and how the NYSTAR network, complemented by FuzeHub, is propelling technology-led growth. We confront the myths surrounding New York's business environment, discussing the unexpected advantages that New York offers, such as a 0% corporate income tax for manufacturers and its proximity to R&D hotspots. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/30423113

Get on the Bus with Letenda 02/26/2024

Get on the Bus with Letenda Unlock the future of eco-friendly public transportation with Nikolas Letendre, founder of Letenda Incorporated, as FuzeHub’s Steve Melito gets us an exclusive peek behind the innovative curtain of Electrip electric buses. Designed to tackle the toughest of Canadian winters, these buses are more than just vehicles—they’re a testament to customer-focused engineering and Letenda’s commitment to zero-emission technology. Our chat with Nikolas not only reveals the secrets of the Electrip’s resilience but also sheds light on Letenda's expansion into the US market, starting with a bang in Vermont, and their strategic maneuvers to align with ”Buy America“ policies. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/30118628

The ABCs of Cybersecurity 02/06/2024

The ABCs of Cybersecurity Join us as we welcome cybersecurity expert Paul LaPorte from the Advanced Institute for Manufacturing (AIM) to shed light on the pressing issue of cyber threats facing small to medium-sized manufacturers. In our latest conversation, Paul explains the allure of these businesses to cybercriminals and the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. We tackle the complexities of the NIST 800-171 guidelines, essential for manufacturers within the Department of Defense supply chain, and the emerging Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). These discussions underscore the importance of staying proactive in cybersecurity to safeguard sensitive information and maintain eligibility for DoD contracts. Listen in as we also discuss the financial and time constraints that manufacturers face when implementing cybersecurity protocols. Our conversation lays out the support available through the New York State Cybersecurity Manufacturing Initiatives Grant, designed to offset the costs of cybersecurity assessments for small and medium-sized manufacturers. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/29825853

Look Inside the Box 01/29/2024

Look Inside the Box Unlock the potential of co-warehousing as we sit down with Jeff Mirel from the Rosenblum Companies to unwrap the intriguing world of Launchbox. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for entrepreneurs aiming to soar in e-commerce, light manufacturing, and product assembly without getting weighed down by traditional warehousing constraints. We step into the avant-garde setting of the New York Capital Region's Launchbox, where flexible lease terms meet a vibrant community of like-minded innovators. Picture a space that not only accommodates your logistical needs but also propels you forward with amenities like a co-working café and a photo media studio. It's all here, and we're peeling back the layers to reveal how businesses are leveraging this strategic near Interstate 87 and Albany International Airport to accelerate their growth. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/29700563

The Stories We Told: NYSMN's 2023 Recap 01/03/2024

The Stories We Told: NYSMN's 2023 Recap From handbags to human hair and concrete to craft brews, the New York State Manufacturing Now podcast traversed a diverse spectrum of ideas turned into reality in 2023. We shared tales of innovation, ingenuity, and triumph from across the state. Beyond being an informative platform, it continues to serve as a source of inspiration, as we recognize that with the right support system, every challenge is surmountable. Join us as we recap some of the brightest moments from New York State Manufacturing Now in 2023. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/29326368

Revolutionizing PFAS Groundwater Remediation 12/29/2023

Revolutionizing PFAS Groundwater Remediation Prepare to be enlightened as we unravel the truth behind the environmental nemesis known as PFAS – the 'forever chemicals' creeping into our groundwater. Dr. Michelle Crimi, environmental engineering expert from Remwell and esteemed professor at Clarkson University, joins us to shed light on the hazards these substances pose to our water systems, even at the incredibly minute concentration of parts per trillion. With her, we scrutinize the daunting challenge of purifying water tainted with PFAS using conventional methods, and the exciting potential of innovative technologies that promise to cleanse our water without the excessive energy usage of traditional techniques. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/29271808

It's Manufacturing Day Every Day 11/02/2023

It's Manufacturing Day Every Day In this episode of NYS Manufacturing NOW, we unravel the intricate world of apprenticeship programs with our esteemed guest, Franca Armstrong, who's at the helm of Apprenticeship Programs at Mohawk Valley Community College. If you've ever wondered how manufacturers can leverage apprenticeship programs or the perks of pre-apprenticeship programs, this episode will provide you with a comprehensive guide. Franca enlightens us about the SUNY Apprenticeship Program remarkably bypasses construction trades, opting to shine the spotlight on sectors like manufacturing and culinary instead. We get a look behind the curtain of the various apprenticeship programs available for eager students, and Franca unveils pre-apprenticeship programs currently in motion, including "Real Life Rosie's" which aims to inspire more women to explore the manufacturing industry. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/28500425

In the Same Vein with IV Wedge 10/23/2023

In the Same Vein with IV Wedge Join us for a compelling conversation with Brendan Laing of IV Wedge as we discuss the innovative solutions his company provides for the medical device industry. Brendan provides insight into the IV Wedge, a catheter stabilization device that significantly enhances patient comfort. He also shares his experience with the 2021 Commercialization Competition and the critical role the prize money played in enabling them to prepare IV Wedges for clinical trials. If you're a startup company, you won't want to miss Brendan's valuable advice on the art of pitching, including the importance of having a clear hook and staying focused on your storyline. To learn more, connect with Brendan directly at [email protected] /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/28397201

ReWire Energizes Sustainability 10/19/2023

ReWire Energizes Sustainability New York State Innovation Summit - Day 1: The ReWire Group Get set for an eye-opening expedition into the world of energy and technology with Al Evans from the . We promise you'll walk away understanding the indispensable contributions of this dual-division company that optimizes energy decisions in tandem with digital tech applications. Al unravels the unique operations of ReWire Group which has become a beacon for property owners, developers, and large-scale companies looking to bolster their energy efficiency. Stay with us as we venture into the visionary project of the Advanced Manufacturing Performance Center. We dive into the role of ReWire Group in this enterprise, and the creation of CAP - a career and technology alignment platform. Hear about the , nestled within the state-of-the-art . This mammoth 356,000 square foot structure, armed with a four megawatt data center, is a testament to energy-efficient technologies. Mike Fancher, director of the University of Albany's Center for Advanced Technology in Nanoelectronics and Nanomaterials, joins us to shed light on the digital twin developed from the data derived from the building's 8,000 data tags for continuous commissioning. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/28369778

Manufacturing Safety with EHS Risk Management 08/30/2023

Manufacturing Safety with EHS Risk Management Ever wondered why safety culture in manufacturing is so critical? In our latest episode of NYS Manufacturing now, we take a walk down memory lane with our guest, Jim Testo, president of EHS Risk Management and an expert in environmental, health, and safety (EHS) corporate programs. We dive into the evolution of safety practices, starting from the 1980s, and the stark contrast between compliance and risk management. Our interview shines a spotlight on the harsh realities of neglecting risk management – from soaring insurance costs to crippling fines and litigations. Despite their earnest efforts, we hear from manufacturers who've experienced accidents, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in safety. Fasten your seatbelts as we zoom in on how technology is revolutionizing workplace safety. We touch on ingenious inventions such as seatbelt alarms and auto-stop cars and discuss the financial benefits of implementing such programs. Uncover why the younger generation is more inclined to follow safety protocols and how empowering leaders with accurate information can catalyze effective decision-making. As a bonus, we also provide a glimpse into the enticing New York State Innovation Summit that aims to exhibit groundbreaking products and technologies. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/27888396

Fashion is in the Bag with Kema's Kreations 08/14/2023

Fashion is in the Bag with Kema's Kreations Join us on an exciting journey as we explore the inspiring story of Karen Kema Maxwell, founder of Kema’s Kreations. Hear about her incredible journey of taking a passion for sewing and transforming it into a successful business, creating stunning wood purses, clutches, backpacks, and travel bags with African and African American themes. In our conversation, we also dive into her experiences in manufacturing and the importance of finding the right partner to bring your product concept to life. Kema shares her personal experiences and highlights resources available to entrepreneurs to help get their products to market. This episode is more than just a conversation, it's a treasure chest full of inspiration and information for all aspiring entrepreneurs and designers. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/27747672

FuzeHub's First Ten 07/12/2023

FuzeHub's First Ten For 10 years now, FuzeHub has helped companies navigate the resources available to them while providing the support they need to accelerate technology development and commercialization. FuzeHub’s Executive Director Elena Garuc sits down with Steve Melito to unearth the story of the statewide MEP’s evolution, the victories and challenges, and the immense impact they've made on New York's economy. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/27446307

Workforce Excellence with Alaant 07/05/2023

Workforce Excellence with Alaant In this episode of NYS Manufacturing Now, FuzeHub's Steve Melito had the pleasure of engaging in a riveting conversation with Miriam Dushane, managing partner of Alaant Workforce Solutions. In this interview we took a fascinating journey into the evolving landscape of the workforce, dissecting how employers can attract and retain top talent in today's world. The chat delved into the benefits of apprenticeship programs, micro-certifications, and the increasing trend of hybrid work models including the potential rewards for employers that offer flexibility, pointing to increased loyalty and productivity. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/27378849

Precision Machining from Prototyping to Production 05/31/2023

Precision Machining from Prototyping to Production In this episode of NYS Manufacturing Now, FuzeHub’s Steve Melito discusses the back-story, the wide range of services offered, as well as some “out of this world” applications with Jim Rager, director of business development for Custom Tool & Model (CTM). A family owned and operated business since 1969, CTM works in the busy markets of aerospace, defense, and robotics, helping other industry leaders to take their parts from prototype to production. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/27006279

Building Better Boards 05/15/2023

Building Better Boards In this episode of NYS Manufacturing Now, FuzeHub’s Steve Melito discusses the unique offerings of Z-AXIS with Michael Allen, their president, co-owner, and former director of engineering. Most contract manufacturers are strictly that - contract manufacturers. But Z-AXIS is actually two companies in one - both a contract manufacturer and custom power supply company. Listen to how they have been working with two completely different customer bases for the last 20 years out of their facility in Phelps, New York. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/26841711

Stronger, Greener Concrete 03/29/2023

Stronger, Greener Concrete In this episode of NYS Manufacturing Now, FuzeHub’s Steve Melito breaks down concrete, cement, and glass with Jacob Kumpon, the co-founder and COO of KLAW Industries in Binghamton, New York. KLAW was a winner of the first New York State Advanced Materials Innovation Challenge and has developed a stronger, greener technology for the concreete and recycling industries. /episode/index/show/fuzehub/id/26379066

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