Manufacturing Mavericks

In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we're heading to Salt Lake City to talk with Steve Van Orden and Eric Van Orden —father and son leaders at Paramount Machine. Steve started the company in the family garage with a manual lathe and a bold vision. Now, Eric is helping lead the next chapter of growth with a focus on automation, people-first culture, and smart investments in technology.Eric opens up about why his dad made him start at the bottom and how that decision shaped his leadership style. From sweeping the shop floor to now helping run a 70-person team, Eric shares his perspective on generational transitions, developing trust within the team, and what it takes to modernize without losing your core.Together, Steve and Eric talk about the balancing act of family and business, the turning points in Paramount’s growth, and why listening to employees is a competitive advantage.If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to grow a shop across decades and do it with heart, humility, and smarts—this one’s for you.Show Notes:2:20 — The garage days: How Paramount started with a manual lathe and a vision4:03 — Why Eric started with a broom, not a title7:43 — Choosing the shop over law school10:43 — Why Steve invests based on employee feedback14:25 — Betting on Swiss machines changed the game19:25 — Developing new talent without a programming department23:30 — Navigating the tension and trust of a family business37:39 — Datanomix's positive change on Paramount's culture The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

What happens when you decide to bet on yourself and back it up with clear goals, data, and follow-through? In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Greg sits down with Dan Plath, VP of Operations at MedFab Precision Solutions, to talk about what it means to take ownership of your career and your company’s future. Dan shares how he went from being a bored student to driving cultural and operational change on the shop floor. One meeting, metric, and mindset shift at a time.They explore why trusting yourself is only part of the equation and how pairing that drive with data and the right technologies creates real momentum. Dan shares his mindset on automation, the tools he’s using to unlock more from his team, and why embracing change is the key to staying competitive.You’ll also hear how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) is helping MedFab align every part of the business, from leadership to the shop floor, and how data is driving smarter decisions, clearer priorities, and continuous improvement at every level.Highlights: 1:30 – How a CNC class sparked Dan’s passion for manufacturing5:30 – Comparing big company structure vs. small company impact7:30 – Why Dan left stability behind to bet on himself12:00 – How life stages influence career decisions in manufacturing14:00 - How adding an EOS drove positive cultural change25:30 – Using data to drive smart decisions and avoid missteps32:50 – Inside Med Fab’s test of in-machine automation38:00 – Dan’s advice to anyone unsure of where they’re headed The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

Manufacturing Manager, Daniel Anglemyer, didn’t take the traditional path into manufacturing, and that’s exactly why you’ll want to hear his story.From hog barns and cage fights to union shops and now leadership at Hibshman, Daniel brings grit, humility, and a clear-eyed approach to modern manufacturing! In this episode, he opens up about how culture, not just equipment, drives real change on the shop floor.You’ll hear how personal setbacks have transformed into leadership lessons, and why identifying and empowering emerging leaders in the industry is important. Additionally, he shares how technology is supporting the creation of a team-first, process-driven operation at Hibshman, where people show up, speak up, and take ownership.If you care about building strong teams, growing future leaders, and creating a shop culture that works, this episode is for you.Show Notes01:54 — From Farming Roots to a Fourth-Generation Machinist06:17 — Losing a Job But Finding a Path10:51 — What MMA Taught Daniel About Leadership13:42 — NTMA's Emerging Leaders program 22:21 — Turning Core Values into Action26:51 — The Tools Behind Hipschman’s Smart Shop Transformation The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this episode, we talk with Christina Collette, GM of Final Frontier Manufacturing (Formerly Action Industries) in Arvada, CO. She shares her path from managing teams in banking to rolling up her sleeves on the shop floor. What pushed the shift? A love of math and a frustration with repetition that evolved into a desire for work that challenged her to think, solve, and build. Christina breaks down how she has learned to spot the right professional and cultural fit in manufacturing and what she has picked up from peers in groups like NTMA. She also shares how Final Frontier is laying down a blueprint for the modern machine shop driven by digital tools, real-time data, and process automation that supports both quality and speed.We talk about what modernization looks like across a multi-generational workforce—and how Christina went from being cautious about change to leading the charge, becoming a strong voice for progress in the industry.If you're thinking about what it takes to lead change in manufacturing, you’ll want to hear this one.Show Notes03:10 — From Banking to the Shop Floor06:40 — Why Your Processes Aren’t Scaling16:42 — The Generational Shift in Manufacturing19:34 — Start with Data, Not Dollars23:27 — Yes, Your Shop Needs Marketing28.10 — Building a Tech Stack That Drives Flow35:19 — What Christina Would Tell Her Younger Self The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

What does it mean to be CMMC 2.0 Compliant? Why does it matter, and how do manufacturers tackle it without getting lost in the weeds? Greg interviews Darren Gallop, CEO and founder of Carbide Secure, to cut through the noise on CMMC 2.0 and why starting with a self-assessment is step one. He digs into the certification process, budgeting, and tools available to support you on your journey to compliance. Plus, they clear up the confusion between NIST, ITAR, FedRAMP, and other compliance standards. Whether deep in the compliance process or just getting started, this episode gives you the insights—and the game plan—to keep your shop secure and ahead of the curve.Show Notes00:58 The Importance of Compliance to Secure DOD Contacts02:17 Current State of CMMC 2.004:36 Understanding the Requirements15:30 The Risk Your Vendors and Software Play on Compliance30:09 Real-World Examples34:32 The Hard Way Vs. The Easy Way to Compliance40:11 Preparing for Third-Party Certification50:33 Maximizing Your Odds of Success53:49 Tools and Resources for Compliance The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we’re excited to welcome Rebekah Collogan, a seasoned operations leader with years of experience in optimizing production, scaling teams, and driving continuous improvement on the shop floor. Rebekah shares her journey into manufacturing, her challenges in streamlining operations, and her strategies for boosting efficiency and eliminating bottlenecks. She embodies the idea that manufacturing success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. We are honored to have Rebekah as our first female guest on the podcast, and we hope she will be the first of many women in manufacturing to share their stories on the show. She offers a unique and invaluable perspective on leadership and problem-solving, and she is enthusiastic about the power of real-time data in making strategic decisions. She explores the significance of visibility on the shop floor, the role of automation in minimizing downtime, and how modern manufacturers can stay competitive without introducing unnecessary complexity. This episode is filled with actionable insights on scaling your shop, enhancing productivity, and embracing the future of manufacturing.SHOW NOTES(1:19) Rebekah's background in manufacturing and journey into leadership.(3:54) Early Challenges & Lessons in Scaling Manufacturing(10:30) Providing Solutions and Making Customer’s Lives Easier(15:45) Identifying & Eliminating Bottlenecks(22:00) Leading Change & Building a Culture of Continuous Improvement(26:19) Operational Excellence & The Need For Accurate Data(35:00) Advice to a Young Rebekah The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

From a part-time job in college to becoming an equity partner in a thriving machine shop, Kody Guidry's journey is anything but conventional. In this episode, we explore how Coastal Machine is scaling operations into defense, aerospace, oil & gas, why Kody supports hiring and training inexperienced talent instead of pursuing seasoned machinists, and how developing a strong employee pipeline is just as crucial as a sales pipeline. Plus, we discuss diversifying the business, investing in tech, and building a family-oriented culture. SHOW NOTES(1:36) Kody Guidry's journey from machinist to equity partner at Coastal Machine(9:53) A family-oriented culture is a core value(12:47) The shop’s investment in technology, marketing, and workforce development(13:35) Coastal’s growth strategy includes technology and diversifying the business(17:39) Why Coastal is focusing on hiring and training green talent(18:44) The importance of having an employee pipeline—just like a sales pipeline(21:52) Kody’s advice to his younger self and what it takes to succeed in manufacturing The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Bob McGregor, President of Neo Industries, shares his journey of turning around a micro-machining company in Colleyville, TX. When Bob purchased the struggling business, he had to navigate financial setbacks and make strategic decisions, including firing unprofitable customers and even sending apology fruit baskets—ultimately leading to success in contract manufacturing.Bob's persistence and optimism shine as he discusses learning new skills, overhauling operations, and rebuilding customer trust. The conversation offers insights into the challenges and rewards of revitalizing a manufacturing company.SHOW NOTES01:22 How the fight began (The Origins of Neo Industries).06:00 Leaning on fFamily for support.09:38 What comes after the fight?10:45 Rebuilding begins with finding low-hanging fruit.13:26 Navigating COVID and defense contracts.15:48 Rebuilding trust and firing bad customers.17:35 Overcoming cultural shifts and starting over.24:32 What it means to be a Manufacturing Maverick.26:32 The zero principal & putting your customers first.28:38 When you’re ready to win, stop doing the things that cause you to lose.30:38 Making the change to contract manufacturing.40:32 What Bob would tell his younger self. The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this special year-end episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we reflect on the fantastic guests we’ve had on the show in 2024 and recap some of their best moments. This episode recaps insightful discussions with shop leaders and industry pioneers who have shared their experiences, challenges, and wisdom with Greg McHale.  Join Greg as he revisits conversations featuring some of the most influential and inspiring voices in precision manufacturing. They discuss navigating manufacturing automation and technology, building a thriving workplace culture, and becoming CMMC 2.0 compliant.And don’t forget to check out the full episodes at www.mfgmavericks.com to learn valuable lessons from those shaping the future of manufacturing!SHOW NOTES(1:38) Rob Caron, Founder of Caron Engineering(5:05) Kylan Hastreiter, Vice President of Hastreiter Industries(7:00) Mike Payne, Owner, Hill Manufacturing(9:04) Paul Van Metre, Co-Founder, Proshop ERP(11:05) Eric Van Orden, Paramount Machine Swiss Leads(14:56) Gustavo Gutierrez, Owner of GC Machining Solutions(18:29) Tony Gunn, America’s Manufacturing MC(20:14) Adam Gordon. Vice President of Operations, Tendon Manufacturing(22:43) Randal Leach, Operations Manager at Ricaurte PrecisionFULL EPISODES: It Always Starts with a Broom and a Bridgeport with Randal LeachEvolving With Your Customers Across Multiple Generations with Adam GordonTwisted Roads Make Better Stories with Tony Gunn What It Takes to Build a Business with Your Name on the Door with Rob CaronHumility, Curiosity, and Impatience - The Key Ingredients of Entrepreneurship with Gus GuttierezMaking Things Happen with Eric Van OrdenIf It Wasn’t For A Car Magazine…with Paul Van MetreDon’t Tell Me No - Tell Me How with Mike PayneFrom Hog Shed to Top Shop—The Evolution of a Family Business with Kylan Hastreiter The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Greg welcomes Randal Leach, Operations Manager at Ricaurte Precision, to discuss his journey into manufacturing, which didn’t start with love, but his frustrations turned into opportunity when he realized how much better manufacturing processes and work experiences could be with the right culture and technology! Randal and Greg discuss CMMC 2.0 compliance and what it means for companies like Ricaurte. Plus, you’ll learn why embracing modern systems can redefine what it’s like to run a "precision machining facility."SHOW NOTESRandall's Journey into Manufacturing (01:14)The Evolution of Manufacturing Technology (02:38)The Importance of Accountability and Data (06:23)Meeting Hernan and Joining Ricarte Precision (07:19)Embracing Digital Transformation to Keep Up (11:23)Preparing for CMMC 2.0 Compliance (12:44)Future Investments and Automation Using the Visibility from Machine Monitoring (21:08) Welcome Technology Onto Your Shop Floor to Improve Productivity and Make More (27:35) Randal’s Final Thoughts and Advice for Future Generations (31:46) The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

Adam Gordon is a second-generation leader at Tendon Manufacturing. The sheet metal and fabrication shop, Based in the Cleveland suburb of Warrensville Heights, was co-founded in 1988 by Michael Gordon Sr. and Greg Tench. Both are still very much involved; today, it’s a family affair. Greg’s son heads up programming/engineering, and Adam heads up Operations, working alongside his brother and brother-in-law.As you listen, you’ll hear Adam’s passion for football, and it’s clear that his years of coaching do come into play when he seeks out new employees. He looks for winning qualities that can’t be taught, like the ability to show up on time, body language, and energy. He also explains that the employees who suggest the most process improvements can climb the ladder quicker because seeing things differently helps advance the business. His strategy is working, as Tendon has doubled its employees in just a few years. From squeezing in the odd job to the craziest parts they’ve ever made. Tendon has had quite the history. SHOW NOTES:The origins of Tendon Manufacturing in the Greater Cleveland area (2:00)The switch from machining to fabrication (5:30)how industry demand (and Covid) taught the team how to pivot (6:58)What the team looks for in hiring new talent (10:06)Getting employee buy-ins with “Fix it forms” (11:29)Trying to automate to accommodate (13:49)How Tendon barters welding services for Chick-fil-A sandwiches (15:57)Your ERP doesn’t give you the full answer (18:09)What is the next level of efficiency and visibility Adam thinks Tendon needs to stay competitive? (19:44)The craziest parts they’ve ever made (23:11)A unique visit from a special guest in 2017 (25:16) The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

We’ve all heard of him, and you’ve seen him everywhere with his red microphone as he visits manufacturers and suppliers worldwide, but now you’ll get to REALLY know him on this podcast episode!America’s Manufacturing MC, Tony Gunn, shares how his internal optimism comes from many failures in life. Tony started from very humble beginnings and almost became a professional athlete, but his trajectory changed to machinist out of necessity from an early surprise in life. His passion for manufacturing and entertainment keeps Tony returning to the shop floor to capture the stories of manufacturers as Director of Global Operations for MTDCNC and the host of The Gunn Show Podcast.SHOW NOTES:Manufacturing was an accident (6:42)Money moves inspire personal growth but also a lot of stress (9:32)Tony asks himself what he really wants out of life (11:29)Coding with the best of them (12:33)Karma is a you-know-what (17:18)Pursuing happiness over financial freedom (18.33)Tony has explored the world of manufacturing in its full entity for ten years (26:00)“Media” was also an accident, and it didn’t happen overnight (31:00)Helping to expand the MTDCNC into a global brand and building his team of North American presenters (34:00) The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

On this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Greg McHale interviews Rob Caron of Caron Engineering, a true pioneer and the recipient of the 2024 M. Eugene Merchant Manufacturing Medal from ASME/SME. Rob shares his journey from unexpectedly finding himself jobless to building a company known for its groundbreaking innovations in advanced sensor and monitoring technology. Hear about how his early fascination with CNC controls and a deep desire to do things better led to the creation of Autocomp, TMAC, and even the tool ID systems that have made Caron Engineering a leader in the machine tool industry for over 35 years.Rob also shares his thoughts on building a strong company culture, meeting customer expectations no matter what, and the transition to an ESOP or employee stock-owned company.Tune in for a wealth of insights from a leader who has been on the cutting edge of manufacturing technology for over four decades. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips. Rob’s advice for shops looking to get into automation is priceless.SHOW NOTES:Rob talks about his early fascination with how CNC controls communicated with the metal parts of the machine to make a part and how it could be done better. (3:00) How chains on the door of his employer drove Rob to start his own company (6:37)The genesis of the cutting-edge Caron Engineering tools of today (AutoComp & TMAC) back in the mid-1980s (9:23)His #1 message to employees: we're going to get this job done for the customer the way we promised it. (13:38)How losing money on some jobs helped Caron make more money down the road (15:54)Leveraging great relationships with customers to get feedback on employee performance. (17:31)The pros and cons of transitioning to an ESOP company (18:54)Rob’s insights into how shops can start incorporating automation into their business in a way that makes sense (24:15)The payoff of hiring engineers to work on in-house automation projects (32:35)The advice Rob would give to the young Rob Caron three weeks before he walked up to the door with chains on it. (34:37) The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this episode, Gustavo (Gus) Gutierrez, owner of GC Machining Solutions, takes us through his incredible journey from a 15-year-old who traded coffee for training at his first manufacturing job, to buying his own shop. Gus doesn't shy away from doing the "hard stuff", including moving a shop, implementing an ERP, and is currently managing a shift from 10% medical and dental device manufacturing to 80%. Wow.Gus talks to Greg McHale about investing in education, making time for family, and the advice he gives his kids. He also shares his experiences across various roles in manufacturing, picking the right team members, building a strong company culture, and why technology is crucial to staying competitive. Gus's insights are a valuable resource for anyone in the industry.SHOW NOTES:Got bit by the manufacturing bug at 15 when he would buy coffee for people and clean their machines if they would share some knowledge (5:53)A desire to learn something new every day led him to a lot of oddball jobs, but manufacturing just kept calling his name. (11:16) Working third shift and being a full-time electrical engineering student was a challenge, How Gus got it done with the help of a tape recorder!  (13:29)Taking his daughter to IMTS starting when she was 9 really paid off in the long run (20:08)Taking a job he didn’t really want to Project Manage: moving 30 CNCs and 15 pieces of equipment. (23:39)Gus was at the top of his game as a plant manager with 325 people under him, but he wasn’t happy. So he followed a little whisper (27:55)The difference between a good employee and an engaged employee (29:28)Letting the team pick the new team members helps build a strong culture (33:20)Technology: It’s important to give people the right equipment and the right tools for success. (37:21) In medical devices, everything is critical, especially keeping the end-user top of mind (41:30)Advice to his impatient younger self: Change the glasses you use to view life, and you’ll get to this success. (45:07) The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

In this episode, Gustavo (Gus) Gutierrez, owner of GC Machining Solutions, takes us through his incredible journey from a 15-year-old who traded coffee for training at his first manufacturing job, to buying his own shop. Gus doesn't shy away from doing the "hard stuff", including moving a shop, implementing an ERP, and is currently managing a shift from 10% medical and dental device manufacturing to 80%. Wow.Gus talks to Greg McHale about investing in education, making time for family, and the advice he gives his kids. He also shares his experiences across various roles in manufacturing, picking the right team members, building a strong company culture, and why technology is crucial to staying competitive. Gus's insights are a valuable resource for anyone in the industry.SHOW NOTES:Got bit by the manufacturing bug at 15 when he would buy coffee for people and clean their machines if they would share some knowledge (5:53)A desire to learn something new everyday led him to a lot of oddball jobs, but manufacturing just kept calling his name. (11:16) Working third shift and being a full-time electrical engineering student was a challenge, How Gus got it done with the help of a tape recorder!  (13:29)Taking his daughter to IMTS starting when she was 9 really paid off in the long run (20:08)Taking a job he didn’t really want to be able to Project Manage moving 30 CNCs and 15 pcs of equipment. (23:39)Gus was at the top of his game as a plant manager with 325 people under him, but he wasn’t happy. So he followed a little whisper (27:55)The difference between a good employee and an engaged employee (29:28)Letting the team pick the new team members helps build a strong culture (33:20)Technology: It’s important to give people the right equipment, the right tools for success. (37:21) In medical devices, everything is critical, especially keeping the end-user top of mind (41:30)Advice to his impatient younger self: Change the glasses you use to view life, and you’ll get to this success. (45:07) The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

Paul Van Metre is the co-founder of ProShop ERP and a true Manufacturing Maverick. Listen in as he talks with Greg McHale about some of the serendipitous moments that completely changed the course of his life and fueled his passion for manufacturing. Some examples include how his Mom saving a car magazine got him into machining, how a random lab partner assignment on his first day of school turned into a 30+ year collaboration, and why a customer’s dream of building a basketball court for his kids helped launched ProShop ERP. Paul’s love of manufacturing and the people who work in it drives him to help make “the hardest business in the world” a little easier. It shows in the hashtag he started #ThankaMachinistShow Highlights / Skip To: Reading an article in a car magazine sparked Paul’s love for manufacturing and a move across the country (3:39) Trying to start a car company right out of college that turned into a machine shop (10:03) Advice for finding customers. Hint, it starts with a nice shirt (15:14) Diversification helped Paul’s machine shop thrive for 17 years (17:37) 9/11 and finding a path from being days away from bankruptcy back to triple-digit growth (19:52)Trying to go paperless on the shop floor when monitors weighed 50 pounds (22:03) A customer’s desire to build a basketball court in his backyard plays a pivotal role in the creation of ProShop ERP (30:59) The first software customer in 2009 was able to transform their late order list from 10 pages to less than one and turn off the old ERP after 3 weeks. (33:26) The book Paul recommends to everyone who is good at something and wants to start their own business (38:49) Why he started #ThankaMachinist (46:33) The advice he gives his younger self (49:45) Links Referenced:Datanomix: https://datanomix.io/ProShop ERP: https://proshoperp.com/ Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulvanmetre/ mfgmavericks.com: https://mfgmavericks.com The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

Greg McHale sits down to talk with Mike Payne, Owner of Hill Manufacturing about his unconventional path to becoming a shop owner. Mike was actually helping the previous owner look for a buyer when he decided to make an offer himself. After 25 years in software and private equity, Mike realized that he really liked the can-do attitude and willingness to help each other that manufacturers share. This episode explores how Mike leveraged his background in private equity and data analysis to double his shop’s size in 5 years - every five years.Bloodstains, sweat and tears (1:40)Taking the plunge and buying a shop (11:19)Why there’s a big red barn on the shop floor - and we’re talking BIG (19:29)Yay, it’s Monday. Building a great culture where people want to come to work  (21:55)Setting the standards everyone can operate within  (26:04)The technology & tools to grow the business (35:30)Don't want to be the cheapest option (41:40)Doubling the business in 5 years - every 5 years (46:22)This podcast pissed me off (48:59)Being there for each other (54:12)Links Referenced:Datanomix: https://datanomix.io/Hill Manufacturing: http://www.hill-manufacturing.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hillmfg/ mfgmavericks.com: https://mfgmavericks.com The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

Greg McHale interviews Kylan Hastreiter, Vice President of Hastreiter Industries, located in Marshfield, WI. Kylan’s parents started the shop in the late 1980s in a hog shed with one Makino LeBlond lathe. Today, they specialize in complex parts for the aerospace industry and are a driving force in introducing young people in Wisconsin to manufacturing—even creating a makerspace for students at their facility. Every kid has a machine shop in their basement, right? ( 5:11)Turning over the reins to the next generation & rebranding the business (8:13)Introducing kids to STEM as part of the long game to build up a local workforce and a thriving manufacturing industry (12:48)It’s fun to have the latest & greatest technology! (21:47)Building a culture that embraces change  (24:55)Investments that had the biggest impact (27:08)Getting two machines for free  (29:22)How Hastreiter Industries impacts Wisconsin’s cheese industry  (31:46)Predictions for the next 7 years (33:58)Kylan answers the classic  “What do you know now, that you wish you knew then” question. (37:14)Links Referenced:Datanomix: https://datanomix.io/Hastreiter Industries: https://hastreiter.industries/Shiloh Bound: https://www.shilohbound.org/C2 Makerspace: https://www.c2makerspace.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084244807677LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/c2-makerspace/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c2makerspace_marshfield/mfgmavericks.com: https://mfgmavericks.com The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

We launched Manufacturing Mavericks in Late 2023 to tell the stories of people who aren’t afraid to shake things up and stand out from the crowd. We’ve had three fabulous guests so far with many more in the pipeline for 2024:Hernan Ricaurte, President of Ricaurte Precision Inc.Jack Russel, President of ROLAR ProductsDave Capkovitz, Principal / Owner of EBITDA Growth SystemsTo close the year, here is a highlight reel of their best insights and advice for growing a business. Enjoy!Highlights:Just pick up the phone and make friends with your competitors because there’s so much work to go around. (01:03)You have to be willing to get rid of some customers. (03:19)Without your employees, you can’t make money. (04:16)The value is in shortening the cycle or reducing the wasted motion. (04:59)Put the deal right on the shop floor. (05:18)Invest in technologies that will make an impact. (07:47)Technology that talks to each other is incredibly helpful. (11:14)Invest in digital technologies early on. (12:18)You can’t scale on tribal knowledge. (13:31)Understand your ROI. (14:53)Identify your costs and rightsize your pricing. (17:34)The supervisor is NOT free. (20:17)What you need to do to meet your profit margin. (20:44)Links Referenced:mfgmavericks.com: https://mfgmavericks.comRicaurte Precision Inc.: https://www.ricaurteprecision.com/ROLAR Products: http://www.rolarproducts.com/EBITDA Growth Systems: https://ebitdagrowthsystems.com/ The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io

Serial entrepreneur Dave Capkovitz, of EBITDA Growth Systems, shares how his experiences have shaped how his company helps out manufacturers who fall into the “no man’s land” ($1-$30 million in revenue). He outlines the process his company has developed that guarantees they will double a shop’s valuation in three years. Dave attributes their tremendous success rate to getting clients the data they need to understand their revenue and costs better. Dave also provides a sneak peek into an exciting project aimed at rescuing struggling shops, and it sounds like a Netflix series in the making!Listen in and get some tips on how to improve your shop’s profitability.Highlights:Dave describes why he likes to focus on helping shops in “No Man’s Land”. (4:08)Why EBITA Growth Systems’ process for working with new clients starts with chemistry. (5:38)Being a matchmaker for machine shop owners who want to sell. (9:25)Why it’s lonely at the top—especially without this (10:23)How working in his dad’s machine shop morphed into owning landscaping, trucking & welding businesses (12:18)Life isn’t meant to be something we do alone. It’s something we should do together. (17:36)It’s all about data and understanding your costs. (19:29)“Automagically,” getting data is priceless for a production manager looking at 15 things happening simultaneously.  (30:21)Calculating the ROI of investments—a lot of people get it wrong. (31:06)Why paying taxes is a good thing. (34:17)Money-back guarantee to double the valuation of your shop in three years. (37:14)Preview of Shop Rescue—Trying to turn a shop around in 6 months. (39:36)Links Referenced:EBITDA Growth Systems: https://ebitdagrowthsystems.com/ The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.Simple machine and data connectivity, handled by usData that makes sense on day oneNo Operator Input™ means zero burden on your team for data entryProduct Tracks built for actual shop floor behaviorStay connected to your shop floor with the Datanomix Mobile AppKick-Ass Coaching that walks the shop floor with your team and keeps you winningBest-in-class partnerships and integrationsThe Datanomix Community built on real relationships and real winsMountains of success stories with manufacturers just like youEvery customer starts with our Pilot ProgramLearn more at www.datanomix.io