Destiny of Manufacturing powered by PMA

This educational podcast provides insights from industry leaders and manufacturing-technology experts, who share their outlook for the destiny and future of manufacturing. Topics addressed include metal stamping and fabricating, smart manufacturing, STEM, additive manufacturing, and more. Hosted by Dean Phillips, PMA's director of technical training.

E814 - Building Manufacturing’s Future Workforce, Chris Zuzick, Vice President, Waukesha Metal Products 11/04/2025

E814 - Building Manufacturing’s Future Workforce, Chris Zuzick, Vice President, Waukesha Metal Products Join host Dean Phillips as he sits down with Chris Zuzick, vice president at Waukesha Metal Products, to explore the future of metalforming and fabrication. Chris shares his vision for the next five years of manufacturing, emphasizing the critical importance of workforce development, AI integration, and the growing role of fabrication in providing nimble, value-added services to customers. Drawing from his unique career journey—from hands-on manufacturing to investment banking and back—Chris offers insider perspectives on what makes manufacturing companies successful. He discusses how Waukesha Metal Products approaches fabrication as a "cradle to grave" partner for customers, helping them navigate product development through flexible processes before scaling to full production stamping. The conversation dives deep into workforce challenges and solutions, with Chris making a compelling case that companies need to stop "recruiting" and start "selling" the value of manufacturing careers. He emphasizes that workforce development should be treated as a leadership function, not just an HR checkbox, and that every person in an organization plays a role in attracting and developing talent. Chris also addresses the rising cost of education and how manufacturing offers viable, debt-free career paths for the next generation. About the Guest: Chris Zuzick Chris Zuzick is vice president of Waukesha Metal Products (WMP) and has been with WMP since 2016. He has more than 36 years of experience in various areas including manufacturing, investment banking, private equity, education, youth sports and various communication organizations. Chris is results-orientated and has a track record of building effective teams with empathy to grow, achieve success, maximize results, drive results and provide a roadmap for success for all members of the team. Waukesha Metal Products has more than 50 years of experience in high-quality precision metal stamping, metal fabrication, component assembly, and tool and die manufacturing. An agile, reliable provider of full-service solutions for its customers, WMP has operations located in Sussex, WI, Grafton, WI, and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Chris is an active PMA member, currently serving on the PMA finance committee and as PMA’s 2025 vice chair and treasurer. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/38893545

E813 - The Future Is Now: AI, Automation and Manufacturing with Stephanie Lowry of Dayton Rogers 10/27/2025

E813 - The Future Is Now: AI, Automation and Manufacturing with Stephanie Lowry of Dayton Rogers In this episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, host Dean Phillips welcomes Stephanie Lowry, CEO of Dayton Rogers, for an in-depth discussion on how technology is reshaping the manufacturing landscape. Stephanie shares her outlook for the next five years—emphasizing that now is the time for manufacturers to prepare for 2030, as AI, robotics and automation rapidly transform the shop floor. She highlights how AI-driven machine learning and preventive maintenance models are improving efficiency, quality and uptime, while servo press technology and energy-efficient systems are driving the next wave of innovation in metalforming. Dean and Stephanie also discuss: How affordable robotics and AI integration are changing plant operations. The evolving role of human workers in automated environments. Why schools and training programs must adapt to teach next-generation manufacturing skills. Stephanie’s personal journey from receptionist to CEO, and how curiosity and continuous learning shaped her career. The vital role of the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) in advocacy, networking and industry collaboration. From her firsthand experience at Dayton Rogers to insights on the industry’s future, Stephanie thinks embracing change and technology is key to thriving in the next decade of manufacturing. About the Guest: Stephanie Lowry Stephanie Lowry is the CEO of Dayton Rogers Mfg., a metal stamping and fabrication company with four divisions across Minnesota, Ohio, Texas and South Carolina. Celebrating 15 years with the company in May 2025, she has held diverse leadership roles, including General Manager, Director of HR and Executive Director of Sales. Stephanie is a recognized voice in the manufacturing sector, with features in publications including MetalForming Magazine, and appearances on the City of Columbia Economic Development Broadcast. She's also a frequent speaker at school events, championing the industry's future. Further solidifying her expertise, Stephanie serves as Vice Chair for the Precision Metal Forming Association's Southeastern District. She holds a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology from Strayer University. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/38771345

E812 - Building the Future Workforce, Mike Lauber, CEO, TucsoMFG 10/24/2025

E812 - Building the Future Workforce, Mike Lauber, CEO, TucsoMFG In this episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, host Dean Phillips welcomes Mike Lauber, CEO of TuscoMFG, for a forward-looking conversation about what lies ahead for American manufacturing. Mike shares insights on the industry’s most pressing challenges such as attracting and retaining a new generation of workers, navigating global supply chains, and staying ahead of rapid automation and AI adoption. He also highlights how Tusco is taking action locally, partnering with nearby schools, creating hands-on opportunities for students, and redefining what a manufacturing career looks like in 2025 and beyond. The discussion touches on: • The changing workforce mindset and why flexibility, culture and purpose now matter as much as pay. • Smart automation and AI tools that empower people instead of replacing them. • The impact of reshoring, trade policy and evolving markets such as EVs, data centers and power generation. • The value of collaboration within the manufacturing community and why competition doesn’t have to mean isolation. It’s an engaging, optimistic look at where manufacturing is headed and how leaders like Mike are proving that making things still matters in America. About the Guest: Mike Lauber, CEO, TuscoMFG Mike Lauber is the CEO of TuscoMFG, a company founded in 1949 that designs, engineers, and produces a variety of fabricated metal products used in retail advertising, gaming, conveyance and various industrial applications. Mike holds a BA in Economics from the College of Wooster and MBA from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College. He serves as chair of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation, as a member of the College of Wooster Board of Trustees, and on the board of MAGNET, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) that serves small- and medium-sized manufacturers in 22 Northeast Ohio counties. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/38764815

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with the MetalForming Magazine Leadership Team 10/14/2025

E811 – The Future of Manufacturing, Will Healy III, Global Industry Manager – Fabricated Metals, Teradyne 09/30/2025

E811 – The Future of Manufacturing, Will Healy III, Global Industry Manager – Fabricated Metals, Teradyne AI, Workforce Development and the Future of Manufacturing In this engaging episode, host Dean Phillips sits down with manufacturing technology expert Will Healy III to explore the rapid transformation of the industry. From AI-driven vision systems revolutionizing shop floors to the critical workforce challenges facing manufacturers, Will shares insights from his global travels visiting fabricators in Detroit, Shanghai and Germany. Key topics include: How AI and image processing are changing manufacturing faster than anticipated Why Asia's adoption of robotics is accelerating innovation The workforce crisis: 730,000 unfilled jobs in manufacturing, warehousing and utilities Making Manufacturing Month matter through local community action Why opening your doors to students, parents and teachers can transform your talent pipeline Hiring for attitude and curiosity over specific skills Will emphasizes that solving the workforce shortage requires local action—connecting young people to the "why" behind manufacturing and showing them how their work impacts the world. About the Guest: Will Healy III, Global Industry Manager – Fabricating Metals, Teradyne Will Healy III is enthusiastic about manufacturing, technology and workforce development. A Purdue University mechanical engineer who loves to share his passion for automation, Will is a global leader at Teradyne and with the Advanced Manufacturing Industry Partnership (AMIP) in Cincinnati, OH. He speaks from personal experience about people-centric technology investments, managing culture change in organizations, bridging the manufacturing skills gap and creating value through automation. With more than 20 years of experience in a variety of industries including automotive, packaging, food and beverage, metal fabrication, welding and more; Will is widely published, is a regular podcast guest, is an in-demand panelist and presents internationally at a variety of industry conferences. Follow Will on YouTube, Twitter and LinkedIn with the handle WillAutomate. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/38394675

E810 – Retaining Talent and Embracing Technology, Chris Highfield, President, Pennant 09/29/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Gene Lambert 09/25/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Shop Floor with Andy Melang 09/22/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Shop Floor with Lew Hurlbert 09/19/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Jeremy Edson 09/17/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Marion Wells 09/15/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Lisa Ryan 09/11/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Jake Hall and Will Healy III 09/11/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Jeff Dec and John Axelberg 09/10/2025

FABTECH Special: On the Show Floor with Jeff Dec and John Axelberg In this special episode recorded live from the FABTECH show floor, host Dean Phillips is joined by Brad Kuvin (MetalForming magazine), Jeff Dec (Laystrom Manufacturing Company), and John Axelberg (General Stamping and Metalworks). Together, they dive into the real-world challenges and opportunities of automation in metal fabrication. From running “lights-out” laser operations to deploying cobots on press brakes and robotic welding cells, the conversation highlights how companies are using automation to improve consistency, safety and ROI—while also keeping employees engaged by offloading tedious and repetitive tasks. The panel also explores the evolving role of AI, inspection technology and enterprise-wide automation strategies, offering listeners a glimpse of where fabrication is headed next. Tune in for actionable insights and a preview of what’s to come at the upcoming , November 18–19, 2025, in Chicago. About the Guests John Axelberg, CEO, General Stamping & Metalworks John Axelberg began his career at General Stamping & Metalworks in the pre-digital era, operating a mechanical press brake and recording production data with a pencil on paper. Over the next four decades he helped build GSM into one of the most broadly capable fabricating operations in North America. Today, John is focused on establishing high-integrity information flows to leverage GSM’s technology and help the company’s 370 associates reach their full potential as teammates, problem solvers and human beings. A lifelong resident of South Bend, IN, John holds a B.A. in English Literature from DePauw University. Jeff Dec, President, Laystrom Manufacturing Company Jeff Dec has been president of Laystrom Manufacturing since 2022. Jeff previously held various operating roles and has taught DFM/VAVE at more than 200 customers during the past 30+ years in the industry. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/38166780

E0809 - State of the Industry and Association, David Klotz, President, PMA 08/20/2025

E0809 - State of the Industry and Association, David Klotz, President, PMA Host Dean Phillips welcomes David Klotz, president, Precision Metalforming Association (PMA), to the podcast. Dean and David discuss the current state of the manufacturing industry, challenges and PMA’s initiatives to support its members. Dean and David highlight: Industry Trends: The manufacturing sector is currently flat or down, with industries like automotive and agriculture experiencing slowdowns. Recovery is expected to pick up around 2026. PMA's Strategic Initiatives: Improved member engagement processes. Implementation of a new association management system (AMS) to enhance the member experience online. And more. Workforce Development: PMA is focusing on training, both in-person and virtual, to help members upskill their workforce. The association also is developing apprenticeship programs to address skill gaps. International Collaboration: PMA is part of ICOSPA, an international association that connects global metalworking associations. Upcoming events include PMA hosting the Congress in Chicago in 2027 and a presidents meeting in Mexico in 2026. Advocacy Efforts: PMA is actively lobbying on issues such as tariffs, workforce development and OSHA regulations to support its members. About the Guest: David Klotz David Klotz became president of PMA in February 2019. Prior to that, he was president and executive vice president of sales and marketing for Tebis America, a developer of CAD and CAM software for the tool, die and mold manufacturing industries. He also previously served as senior manager of the Plex Automotive & Industrial Mid-Market sales team for eight years, and was a manager at Dallas Industries, Inc., for 12 years. As a metalforming industry professional, Klotz served as a member of PMA’s Board of Directors, a member of the Executive Committee, and as chair and treasurer of the PMA East Michigan District. He also served as chair of PMA’s Tool & Die Division, was a founding member of PMA’s Next Generation networking group, and was actively engaged in PMA’s programs and services in many other capacities. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/37885175

E0808 - Training, Nearshoring and Apprenticeships, Connie King, PMA 07/24/2025

E0807 - Driving Profitability with Strategy, Data and People, Laurie Harbour, Wipfli 07/08/2025

E0807 - Driving Profitability with Strategy, Data and People, Laurie Harbour, Wipfli In this episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, host Dean Phillips welcomes Laurie Harbour of Wipfli for a deep dive into how manufacturers can build resilient, profitable businesses amid constant change. Laurie shares key insights on: The importance of short- and long-term strategy for navigating economic shifts and policy changes. Using “swim lanes” and data-driven decision-making to boost scheduling efficiency and profitability. Aligning sales and operations for smarter quoting and production planning. Identifying and managing unprofitable parts and customers. Leveraging ERP and shop floor data to find hidden opportunities. Embracing generational collaboration and internal innovation to drive continuous improvement. Why workforce development, leadership succession and “knowing your why” are critical to a thriving future. This episode is packed with practical advice for manufacturers aiming to stay competitive, improve margins and prepare for long-term success. About the Guest: Laurie Harbour is a partner at Wipfli with more than 35 years of manufacturing and consulting experience. Prior to joining Wipfli, she was the co-owner of Harbour Results, Inc., and has spent her career helping clients develop strategies, improve operations, reduce risk and optimize business performance. Clients benefit from Laurie's ability to work with leadership teams to assess the current state of their business and provide strategic and operational recommendations for improvement. Laurie’s specializations include business strategy, leadership development, operational improvement, benchmarking, sales strategy and talent management. About Wipfli LLC is a top 25 advisory firm with a strong CPA foundation serving 59,000 clients across today’s most complex industries. For more than 90 years, Wipfli has evolved and grown to help its clients take on whatever comes next. Wipfli’s more than 3,200 associates help its clients with services that range from business consulting and digital services to audit and accounting. Wipfli focuses on emerging and mid-market organizations with specialized knowledge in industries like financial institutions, financial services, manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, construction, real estate, government, nonprofit, agriculture, auto dealerships, technology and tribal gaming and government. Wipfli has been a PMA member company since 2023. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/37328745

Cybersecurity Threats and Defenses for Manufacturers, Mike Brattain, Systems X, E806 06/23/2025

PMA District Leadership Edition—Perry Hytken and Tom Kelly, PMA Tennessee 06/09/2025

E0805 - Tom Alongi, UHY 05/26/2025

E0805 - Tom Alongi, UHY Join host Dean Phillips on the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast as he speaks with Tom Alongi, partner at UHY. They discuss how disruption is reshaping the future of U.S. manufacturing. From lessons learned during COVID-19 to the impacts of geopolitical turbulence, Tom highlights key factors pushing businesses to rethink supply chains, adopt cutting-edge technology and attract skilled talent. Discover how reshoring, nearshoring, and advanced investments in areas like AI, automation, and clean energy are turning challenges into opportunities. Tom also shares insights into high-growth industries like aerospace, medical devices, and chip manufacturing, while emphasizing the importance of creating competitive and resilient enterprises. About the Guest: Tom Alongi Thomas Alongi is the lead partner overseeing audits of public and private companies for UHY’s Audit and Assurance Department. For more than 20 years, Tom has given invaluable financial advice to both public and private clients, with a primary focus on companies looking to maximize shareholder value through acquisitions, profit enhancement, restructuring, and ultimately exiting their investment. Tom’s extensive background in costing separates him from the typical auditor. He’s involved in all stages of the costing process, starting with an in-depth understanding of operational and financial issues followed by a recommendations report and business model for improving the bottom line. Tom developed and implemented computer costing models that enable companies to better understand their cost structure and price their products for profitability. Tom is the leader of the firm’s National Manufacturing Practice and a member of the National Transaction Services Group, where he performs financial and operational due diligence, and has led a significant number of transactions over the past several years. He’s hosted several conferences and authored numerous articles for various manufacturing and accounting publications for UHY and outside the firm. /episode/index/show/longevityindustries/id/36689630