Machine Shop Mastery

Reaching 100 episodes is more than a milestone. It's a moment to step back and recognize what's been built together. In this special compilation episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I reflect on the most powerful ideas, lessons, and human stories that emerged from the first 99 conversations with shop owners and manufacturing leaders across the industry. When this podcast started, I thought we were chasing a simple question: what makes great shops great? What became clear over time is that we weren't really talking about machines or parts at all. We were talking about responsibility, sacrifice, leadership, and the human soul of the American economy. Over these episodes, we've heard from owners who sold their homes to save their businesses, leaders who risked everything to protect their teams, and families who carried legacies forward through loss and adversity. This episode brings together those lessons into a set of foundational pillars that show up again and again in successful shops. The power of process. The importance of culture and core values. The strategic advantage of planning. And the discipline required to build a business that doesn't rely entirely on its owner. These aren't theories. They're lived experiences shared by people who have felt the weight of ownership firsthand. You'll also hear moments of generosity, resilience, and community that rarely make it into business playbooks. Stories of competitors helping competitors, leaders choosing people over profit, and shop owners who understand that a rising tide truly lifts all boats. Together, these stories form something bigger than a highlight reel. They represent a body of collective wisdom. This episode isn't a finish line. It's a marker. A thank-you to the guests who trusted me with their stories, and to the listeners who show up every week to learn, reflect, and grow. Here are some of the best ideas from the first 99 episodes of Machine Shop Mastery. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... Compelling question or topic, written to elicit curiosity  (3:30) Scott Shortess: Process as the foundation of operational excellence (5:30) Dave Capkovitz: Trusting the process more than your gut (7:00) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders (7:25) Introducing Pillar #2: Culture and core values (8:19) Culture as something practiced daily, not written on a wall (9:35) Using values to guide hard people decisions (12:58) How culture, values, and people drive the success of a business (16:19) Why strong culture carries teams through adversity (16:53) Introducing Pillar #3: Planning as a strategic advantage (17:24) The cost of poor planning on the shop floor (21:19) Investing in planning and engineering to unlock throughput (23:49) "Sharpen the axe" thinking and why preparation pays off (25:39) Get a free custom report from Factur for real opportunities in your industry (26:43) Introducing Pillar #4: Building a business that doesn't depend on the owner (27:19) Running a shop as if it will one day be sold (29:58) Why many shops struggle with succession and exit readiness (32:08) Delegation, trust, and letting leaders emerge (40:15) Stories of sacrifice, resilience, and personal cost behind success (45:30) The human moments that drive manufacturing onward (50:11) Final reflections on leadership, legacy, and responsibility (51:36) Join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor workshop Resources & People Mentioned 1. Process is King! Serving Clients Through Process Improvements with Scott Shortess 4. The Power of Investing in People - Lessons from Jamie Spitzer 9. Going All-In on Community Engagement and Workforce Development 15. A Masterclass In Machine Shop Ownership with Aneesa Muthana 19. Building a World-Class Shop with Brad Keselowski 22. Vision and Values-Based Leadership with Eric and John from KMM Group 28. How to Delegate Yourself Out of a Job with David Hannah 35. Steep Learning Curve of a Successful Machine Shop with Dave Capkovitz 39. Caring Your Way to Success with Kody Guidry 42. Making Precision Moves in Building a Highly Successful Machine Shop 58. How to Find, Buy, & Grow a Shop with Mike Fritz Get a free custom report from Factur for real opportunities in your industry Use Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire Join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor workshop Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Some manufacturing businesses grow because of timing, technology, or market opportunity. Others endure because of values. In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Bill Cox of Cox Manufacturing, a nearly 70-year-old family business whose legacy was forged through resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to people. Bill shares the remarkable origin story of Cox Manufacturing, which began with a single Swiss machine purchased at auction in the 1950s and grew into a high-volume precision operation shipping millions of parts each week. Along the way, the company played a quiet but critical role in some of the most important moments in American history, including supplying components for the Apollo space program. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Bill recounts losing his father at just 12 years old and being thrust into the business at an age when most kids are just learning multiplication. With guidance from his mother, Bill learned to read financial statements, understand inventory, and appreciate the connection between productivity, profitability, and people. We also explore the darker chapters of the journey: customer concentration, outsourcing, bankruptcies, negative net worth, and hitting personal and professional rock bottom. Bill speaks candidly about how faith reshaped his leadership, ultimately becoming the foundation for the company's purpose: love God, love people, and advance American manufacturing. This episode is a masterclass in long-term leadership, operational discipline, and values-driven growth. Whether you're a first-generation owner or stewarding a multi-generation legacy, Bill's story is a powerful reminder that the most enduring businesses are built on more than machines. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:49) Bill Cox and the humble beginnings of Cox Manufacturing Co. (3:03) A snapshot of Cox Manufacturing Co. as it stands today (4:27) Cox Manufacturing's origin story and growth (11:06) Unlock real sales opportunities in your market with Factur (13:06) What fueled early growth and whether it was truly linear (15:04) Bill recounts losing his father and his decision to carry the business forward (17:34) Learning inventory, P&Ls, and why monthly WIP matters (18:58) Growing up in the shop and starting hands-on work at age 14 (23:07) Choosing engineering education while planning to return to the business (25:11) Early investments in multi-spindle machines and scaling for volume (27:48) Losing major customers to outsourcing and surviving the oil downturn (29:18) Hitting financial rock bottom and selling a personal home to save the business (30:00) Faith, humility, and a leadership reset during the hardest years (31:02) A pivotal CNC investment that unlocked new capabilities (32:04) Why you need to come to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop (34:09) Finding success with sales representatives and internet marketing (41:12) The evolving challenge of hiring and developing skilled machinists (42:13) Launching a registered apprenticeship program and internal training systems (43:11) Using personality profiling to place people in the right roles (45:25) Tracking value-added labor and understanding true profitability (50:55 Transparency, open-book management, and department-level accountability (52:46) Bill shares the company's purpose: love God, love people, and advance manufacturing (54:40) Advice for shop owners: don't be an island, seek peers and community (56:48) Where to learn more about Cox Manufacturing and explore shop tours (57:22) Why you need to listen to the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned Get a free custom report from Factur: Unlock Real Sales Opportunities in Your Market Register for the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop The Culture Index The Predictive Index Connect with Bill Cox Connect on LinkedIn Cox Manufacturing Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

What does a truly dialed-in machine shop look like behind the scenes? In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Jayme Rahz of Midway Swiss Turn, one of the most intentional and well-run shops I've come across. I met Jayme at the Top Shops Conference, where Midway Swiss Turn was recognized for Shop Floor Best Practices, and after this conversation, it's easy to see why. Jayme shares the full origin story of the business, which started in a garage with her father-in-law and grew into a highly automated Swiss-focused operation in Ohio. Over more than two decades, the shop has evolved from manual machining and tool and die work into a diversified, precision manufacturing business serving a wide range of industries, from aerospace and defense to oil and gas and medical. We dig deep into the decisions that shaped that evolution, including early investments in Swiss machining, hard-earned lessons from customer bankruptcies, and how risk, technology, and relationships intersect in long-term growth. Jayme offers a candid look at what it really takes to adopt new technology, build a resilient customer mix, and make automation work in a small shop environment. This conversation also explores culture, transparency, and leadership. From flexible schedules and people-first policies to data-driven quoting, machine monitoring, and ERP systems, Jayme explains how Midway Swiss Turn balances efficiency with trust. If you want an honest, behind-the-scenes look at how a Top Shop actually operates day to day, this episode is packed with practical insight. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Introduction to Jayme Rahz and why Midway Swiss Turn earned Top Shops recognition (2:41) The family origins of the business and starting in a garage (4:40) Diversification across industries and why it's a risk-management strategy, not a nice-to-have (10:23) A snapshot of the team and how roles like sales actually function in a small shop (11:05) Early hard lessons from the tool-and-die era and what forced them to adapt (15:53) Quality expectations, inspection discipline, and brand protection (16:56) The reasoning behind rebranding around Swiss turning is explained (18:35) Building a family-oriented culture, recruiting philosophy, and workforce development (22:41) Automation is discussed as a long-term stability play, not just efficiency (25:06) Systems that support automation, visibility, and decision-making are outlined (26:14) Harmoni machine monitoring and its impact on daily operations (28:35) How leadership communicates transparently during uncertainty (31:42) Unlock Real Sales Opportunities in Your Market with Factur (33:35) Margin discipline, quoting accuracy, and protecting profitability (39:32) Why hiring a machinist-turned-salesperson made sense (45:54) Managing growth and balancing it on the floor (47:19) How decisions are made around when automation actually makes sense (51:07) Jayme's advice for taking the leap and embracing automation (54:12) Making the move from a garage to 10,000 square feet (58:10) How do you ensure longevity and success (1:00:28) Where to connect with Jayme and learn more about Midway Swiss Turn (1:01:53) Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding Resources & People Mentioned Come see us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Get a free custom report from Factur: Unlock Real Sales Opportunities in Your Market Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding Harmoni Paperless Parts Mastercam Connect with Jayme Rahz MidwaySwissTurn.com Connect with Jayme on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Staying in business for decades requires more than machines, processes, and good customers.In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Bonnie and Ken Kuhn of Kuhn Tool, a multi-generation, family-owned shop in northwest Pennsylvania that has quietly endured for more than six decades. What makes this conversation special isn't just the longevity of the business, but the way Bonnie and Ken have built it together. From surviving offshoring waves and major customer losses to steadily growing from a handful of employees into a thriving operation, their story is rooted in flexibility, trust, and an unwavering commitment to people. They share how niching down, staying conservative with growth, and protecting employees through uncertain times helped them build a resilient company. We talk deeply about culture and what it really takes to create a workplace where people want to stay until retirement. Bonnie and Ken explain why respect, kindness, and genuine relationships aren't soft ideas, but strategic advantages in a demanding industry. Their stories about employee loyalty, family involvement, and moments of personal hardship reveal the human side of leadership that often gets overlooked. This episode is a powerful reminder that long-term success in manufacturing isn't driven solely by machines or technology. It's built through steady decisions, adaptability, and leaders who understand that people are not tools, they're the business. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Ken reflects on flexibility as a core requirement for small businesses (3:11) The origins of Kuhn Tool and its evolution into a highly specialized job shop (5:22) How Factur can help you fill your sales pipeline (6:30) A snapshot of the business today, including services, capabilities, and team size (9:16) What it takes to operate in a low-volume, high-mix, high-precision environment (12:10) Why niching down became a critical strategic decision (15:03) Surviving offshoring and losing major customers during industry downturns (17:59) How cold calling from the Thomas Register helped rebuild the business (22:07) The importance of being proactive instead of waiting for work to return (25:42) What it takes to build a company where people want to retire (28:13) Why respect is the foundation of long-term employee retention (28:55) Hiring challenges and using social media and referrals to attract talent (30:32) Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding  (31:43) How technology investments replaced hard-to-find toolmaker skills (33:55) Early adoption of five-axis machining and why it paid off (38:05) Leveraging waterjet technology to improve flexibility and resilience (42:23) Meaningful moments that define ownership beyond profits (44:57) Bonnie's powerful story about returning to the shop after COVID (47:54) The role of NTMA and peer groups in leadership development (52:12) Why community and shared learning matter for small business owners (55:23) Embracing technology, including AI, as just another leadership tool (59:19) Why you should head to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop  Resources & People Mentioned Get a free custom report from Factur at Facturmfg.com/chips Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding  Why you should head to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop  Connect with Bonnie and Ken Kuhn Kuhn Tool & Die Connect with Bonnie on LinkedIn Connect with Ken on LinkedIn  Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production by PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I finally sit down with Shane Grant from Machining Momentum, a guest I've been hoping to have on the show for a long time. Shane has spent the last decade building his shop from the ground up, literally starting in a backyard pole barn and growing it into a precision-focused operation that's now hitting its stride in a new industrial facility. What makes Shane's story compelling isn't just the growth, but how intentionally it happened. He shares how early exposure to machining through a family business, followed by experience in automotive, industrial, and aerospace manufacturing, gave him the technical foundation to start a shop. But once he made the leap into ownership, he quickly learned that machining skill alone isn't enough to run a successful business. We talk openly about the challenges he's faced along the way, including floods, fires, customer concentration risk, hiring struggles, and the pressure that comes with rapid growth. Shane is refreshingly honest about the emotional and mental toll of ownership, as well as the personal development work he's had to do to become a better leader for his team. One of the most eye-opening parts of this conversation is how Shane built demand for his shop. Rather than relying on a traditional sales team, he leaned into storytelling and authenticity on social media, which now drives roughly 90 percent of his incoming work. This episode is full of practical lessons, leadership insight, and hard-earned perspective for anyone building or growing a machine shop. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:46) I introduce Shane Grant, his 10-year journey, and how social media has fueled his shop's growth (2:54) Getting started in machining at 15 through a family-owned shop (10:47) When shop ownership became a real goal instead of a distant idea (13:04) How customer concentration and a bankruptcy led to the family business closing (15:25) The hard difference between being a great machinist and running a business (16:02) Using SBA resources to learn insurance, planning, and business fundamentals (18:23) A snapshot of the shop today, including machines, inspection, and a recent facility move (21:03) Building a long-term vision that goes beyond just making parts (24:27) Why leading by example on the shop floor is essential to earning trust (26:17) How personal development and self-care became leadership tools (28:28) Keeping spindles busy by turning storytelling into a sales engine (32:52) Why attending the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop is worth the investment (35:52) Hiring challenges and finding talent through local colleges (37:57) Supporting workforce development through board involvement and educator collaboration (39:29) A moment that showed how manufacturing mentorship can change a career path (43:02) Year-over-year growth, momentum, and approaching the million-dollar mark (46:29) The shift from working in the business to working on the business (48:29) Cross-training, shared responsibility, and hiring with intention to protect culture (51:55) Managing the tension between rapid growth, quality, and cash flow (54:49) Responding to floods and fires with resilience and teamwork (58:25) Why waiting for the "right time" holds shop owners back (1:00:37) Growing your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Resources & People Mentioned Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog Register for the FREE 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Connect with Shane Grant Connect on LinkedIn Machining Momentum LLC Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

One of the questions I think about constantly is what actually makes a machine shop valuable. Not just today, but five, ten, or even twenty years down the road. It's easy to point to machines, revenue, or backlog, but the real drivers of long-term value usually run much deeper. That's exactly why I wanted to sit down with Jamie Goettler, Chief Revenue Officer of BTX Precision, for this episode of Machine Shop Mastery. BTX Precision is one of the fastest-growing advanced manufacturing platforms in the country. Jamie brings a rare blend of perspectives to the conversation. With more than two decades at MSC Industrial Supply, deep experience in innovation and machining technology, and now a front-row seat to platform growth through acquisition, he understands what separates shops that simply survive from those that truly thrive. In our conversation, we dig into what BTX looks for when acquiring companies. We talk about why capability, cleanliness, people, and culture matter more than ever. We also cover the metrics that actually signal business health, including book-to-bill, customer concentration, technology adoption, and employee engagement. Jamie shares how BTX balances scale with continuity, keeping individual business units intact while supporting them with capital, leadership, and shared resources. We also explore where manufacturing is headed next. From the real inflection point happening in additive manufacturing to the growing importance of cybersecurity and CMMC compliance, this episode covers issues every shop leader needs to be thinking about right now. Whether you plan to sell your business someday or simply want to build a stronger one, this conversation offers practical insight into how sophisticated manufacturers are positioning themselves for the future. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) What separates "rare air" machine shops through advanced capability, talent, and equipment (1:35) Episode introduction and overview of BTX Precision and platform growth (3:54) Jamie Goettler's background from MSC to innovation, patents, and machining dynamics (7:26) Machining dynamics, vibration control, and their impact on throughput and profitability (8:54) IMTS 2026 Exhibitor Workshop sponsor segment and exhibitor ROI planning (12:46) Introduction to BTX Precision's acquisition strategy and advanced manufacturing focus (15:28) Capability-driven acquisitions, cross-selling, and multi-brand platform strategy (17:54) Scale of BTX Precision including employees, equipment count, and geographic footprint (18:45) BTX Match platform and improving supply chain transparency for buyers and engineers (21:15) Additive manufacturing adoption, DFAM, and the current industry inflection point (24:09) Accelerating product development and R&D through additive and hybrid manufacturing (25:32) Private equity partnership model, leadership alignment, and long-term investment mindset (29:11) Key metrics used to evaluate shop health including book-to-bill and technology adoption (32:10) Phoenix Heat Treat sponsor segment on transparency and outside processing visibility (34:51) Post-acquisition playbook focused on continuity, empowerment, and shared services (37:31) Why shop cleanliness, organization, and appearance directly impact valuation (40:19) Cybersecurity, CMMC compliance, and preparing for defense and aerospace requirements (44:04) Workholding Wisdom sponsored segment with Larry Robbins on safety, sealing, and reliability (53:43) Customer concentration risk and targeting complex, high-value work (59:42) Reshoring, manufacturing's economic multiplier, and workforce impact (1:02:54) Long-term stewardship of manufacturing, people, and community outcomes (1:04:41) Hire MFG Leaders sponsor message on recruiting and retaining manufacturing talent Resources & People Mentioned Why you need to head to the IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Why we love the honesty and transparency Phoenix Heat Treating provides Paperless Parts Check out our newest service: Hire MFG Leaders Connect with Jamie Goettler BTX Precision BTX M.A.T.C.H. Connect on LinkedIn L2 Capital Partners Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify

Some conversations stay with you long after you hit "stop" on the recorder—and my time with Gabe Draper is absolutely one of them. I've known Gabe for years, but I never fully understood the depth of the journey he endured as he attempted to take over, stabilize, and ultimately shut down the family machine shop. His story isn't just informative; it's gut-wrenching, enlightening, and, ultimately, incredibly redemptive. In this episode, Gabe walks me through the emotional roller coaster of trying to save a failing shop, the painful impact of relying too heavily on one industry, and the personal toll that comes with missing payroll, laying off loyal teammates, and breaking the news to family. He opens up about the lowest day of his life—standing in a bank beside his pregnant wife, signing loan documents just to keep the lights on. It's raw. It's honest. And it's a reality far too many shops live too close to. But this isn't a story of defeat. Gabe's experience became the crucible that forged his passion for helping job shops grow. Today, he's the CEO of Factur, a company dedicated to solving the exact problem that led to his shop's collapse: the lack of consistent, proactive sales. The contrast between where he's been and where he's landed is powerful, and it's a reminder that failure—while brutal—can become one of our greatest teachers. My hope in sharing Gabe's story is simple: to help other shop owners avoid the same painful outcomes, especially when the warning signs are subtle. This episode is a cautionary tale, a leadership lesson, and, ultimately, a story of resilience. I'm grateful Gabe trusted this community enough to tell it.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:54) Paul sets the stage: why Gabe's story matters (2:51) Gabe introduces himself and shares his manufacturing lineage (5:55) Taking over the struggling family shop (7:02) Check out the SMW catalog for effective workholding (7:45) Chasing revenue and landing major oil & gas work (10:00) Attempting DIY automation to keep up with demand (11:17) Six years of financial strain and missed payroll (13:25) Raising money and carrying the weight of debt (15:03) Slow diversification and overexposure to oil & gas (17:01) Closing the shop and the personal and professional impact (21:21) Managers launching their own shop using Gabe's equipment (23:11) The birth of Gabe's son and preparing for what becomes a disastrous auction (26:05) Facing investors, vendors, and friends with honesty (27:30) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders — and why you should use it (27:57) Selling for other shops out of necessity — the seed for Factur (29:12) How Gabe learned to sell and the fundamentals of shop sales (32:42) Why every shop must look credible online (34:07) Maximizing current customers and referrals (35:10) Networking outside the shop to drive growth (37:45) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA (38:23) Why you must always sell — especially when busy (42:04) The "valley of death" between $5M–$10M (43:58) The essential role of manufacturing (46:46) The three-legged stool: operations, finance, sales Resources & People Mentioned Check out the SMW catalog for effective workholding Why we created Hire MFG Leaders — and why you should use it Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Connect with Gabe Draper Facturmfg.com Gabe@facturmfg.com Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Buying a machine shop is never simple — and for Matt Fortner, it was a leap into the unknown. Coming from backgrounds in plumbing, industrial fittings, product development, and even scrap metal buying, Matt felt a pull to get back to "building something real." That pull led him to Progress Machining in Muskegon, Michigan — a shop he became the fifth person to attempt purchasing. Once inside, Matt quickly realized how much transformation the business needed. The shop was filled with aging machines, tribal knowledge, and 60 tons of accumulated scrap and unused tooling. Setups stretched to 12 hours, processes were inconsistent, and workflow relied heavily on memory. But instead of being overwhelmed, Matt leaned on his lean training, curiosity, and sheer persistence. He started running SMED events, reorganizing tools, improving fixtures, standardizing processes, and slowly bringing the shop into a more modern, efficient operation. In this episode, Matt shares the candid story of acquiring and rebuilding a legacy shop — from financing challenges and navigating the previous owner's quirks, to learning machining concepts from scratch, to discovering the stark difference between profit and cashflow. His journey is honest, relatable, and full of practical lessons for anyone considering buying a shop or transforming the one they lead today. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (1:04) Paul opens the episode and introduces guest Matt Fortner (2:58) Matt shares how MakingChips impacted him (5:17) Matt's background and career trajectory  (9:59) Why Matt chose to buy a machine shop (13:18) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA (14:00) How Matt found Progress Machining and his first walkthrough (15:43) Financing the purchase — ROBS program, SBA loan, personal collateral (18:00) The previous owner's negotiation stories and getting the deal closed (22:10) Shop size at purchase and the early financial picture (22:58) Hidden operational problems, decades of disorganization, aging machines, and tribal knowledge (24:56) Lean principles, 5S, and uncovering the shop's physical layout (27:27) Why we love Verdant Commercial Capital for financing  (28:20) Lack of process, preventative maintenance, and organizational structure (29:56) Job costing, categorizing expenses, professionalizing accounting (31:20) Starting to eliminate outdated machines and processes (33:01) Deep dive into SMED — mapping a 12-hour setup step-by-step (36:39) Quadrant model of technical knowledge and removing tribal barriers (40:36) Workholding Wisdom: Is setup reduction a buzzword?  (51:14) How Matt learned machining concepts as a non-machinist (52:54) Setup reduction principles and universal best practices (55:30) Buying new equipment to replace maintenance-heavy machines (59:56) Cashflow vs profitability lessons during equipment purchases (1:02:35) Big wins — consolidating operations into fewer setups with automation (1:03:16) Paul reinforces the importance of understanding cashflow in shop ownership  (1:04:36) Check out Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire  (1:05:04) How Matt tackles workforce development and hiring (1:05:50) How an MEP program helped Matt tackle a difficult problem (1:08:46) Matt's biggest piece of advice for shop owners (1:11:43) Defining company values and whether they evolve over time Resources & People Mentioned Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Why we love Verdant Commercial Capital for financing  Workholding Wisdom brought to you by SMW Autoblok Check out Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire  Connect with Matt Fortner Connect on LinkedIn Progress Machining  Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify

Over the last decade, I've watched private equity surge into the machining world — and I've seen firsthand how often the short-term flip-in-five-years strategy ends up hurting shops, people, customers, and entire supply chains. While the capital can help, the incentives often drive decisions that weaken the very businesses PE firms acquire. But every now and then, someone comes along with a model that stops you in your tracks because it actually makes sense for our industry. That someone is Mark Hillenburg, co-founder of Collective Manufacturing Group, a company built on a radically different vision: buy great machine shops and hold them forever. No flipping. No short-term targets. No cultural upheaval. Just long-term stewardship, disciplined investment, and a deep respect for the people who built these businesses in the first place. In this conversation, Mark and I dig into his incredible journey — starting a tiny shop with his father in a 700-square-foot garage, learning machining the hard way, living through major turnarounds, scaling multi-site aerospace manufacturing, and ultimately becoming disillusioned with traditional PE models. His experiences shaped a philosophy that aligns closely with the heart of American manufacturing: protect the legacy, empower the people, and build a business that lasts. We also talk about how his team is already reviving shuttered shops, empowering internal leaders, gaining trust from OEMs, and receiving deal flow from customers who don't want their critical suppliers bought by traditional PE firms. If you care about the long-term health of the machining ecosystem, you'll want to hear this one. Mark's approach gives me real hope for where this industry can go. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Mark Hillenburg's background in manufacturing (7:07) Exiting the family shop and transitioning into sales/business development roles (9:10) Rebuilding MSP Aviation during a downturn and rising to President/CEO  (13:25) Reconnecting with Matt Ritchie to pursue a new vision: Collective Manufacturing Group (22:38) Finding and acquiring the three shops they purchased (26:59) Why owners chose Collective over traditional PE buyers (32:09) Identifying "hidden gem" employees and future leaders (35:22) Culture-building and becoming an employer of choice (38:34) Collective's four-pillar stakeholder philosophy (39:00) Deal flow (48:13) What matters to Collective when it comes to PE and acquisitions  (51:50) How shops create strategic value—not just parts (53:17) Why going deep with customers beats being transactional (56:44) Collective's financial backing and long-term capital structure (58:31)) Buying three shops in nine months: challenges and lessons (59:33) Is the industry moving away from traditional PE models? Connect with Mark Hillenburg Connect on LinkedIn Collective Manufacturing Group Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

As a host, I've met hundreds of shop owners, but every once in a while, I meet someone whose story stops me in my tracks. Ty Haguewood, General Manager and CFO of Manufacturing Technologies, Inc. (MTI) and Stone Mather Designs (SMD), is one of those people. Ty didn't grow up in manufacturing—he was a finance professional who took a random tour of a machine shop six years ago and walked out forever changed. What started as curiosity became a calling. Today, Ty helps lead two growing businesses north of Albuquerque, New Mexico—one serving precision aerospace customers and the other crafting custom lighting for major franchises like Planet Fitness and Dairy Queen. In our conversation, Ty shares how he built his career from the ground up, starting in shipping and ordering tools to eventually running operations and financials for both companies. We talk about leadership, retention, culture, and the power of humility and self-awareness in business. Ty's perspective on intentional leadership, work-life balance, and developing people is something every manufacturing leader can learn from. This isn't just a story about machining—it's about purpose, people, and personal transformation. Ty's passion and discipline prove that excellence isn't something you inherit. It's something you choose, build, and refine every day. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Why Ty Haguewood represents passion and excellence in machining (3:02) You'll get honesty and transparency when you work with Phoenix Heat Treating (4:09) Learn more about Manufacturing Technologies Inc. and Stone Mather Designs (9:16) Ty's unique background and what led him to MTI and SMD (16:25) Retaining talent: Creating a culture of humanity and intentional leadership (19:35) Implementing quarterly reviews and bonuses tied to performance metrics (20:53) The impact of shifting to four 10-hour workdays on morale and productivity (22:15) Guarding culture through selective hiring and investing in loyal employees (23:50) Balancing formal systems with organic leadership (25:00) Lessons learned from overcomplicating processes and simplifying systems (27:46) The "data or people" revelation that changed MTI's approach (29:47) Ty's hiring philosophy: Culture over credentials (34:10) Scaling leadership by developing leaders beneath you (35:31) Ty's favorite success story—a McDonald's employee turned machinist (38:04) Workholding Wisdom with SMW Autoblok: Setup Reduction (48:10) Paul's KFC story and discussion on unconventional manufacturing talent (50:50) Training at MTI: shadowing, job progression, and learning by doing (55:33) Standardization, tooling, and why transparency boosts performance (59:13) Balancing data and humanity in leadership (1:01:38) Ty's challenge to leaders: Take the time to become someone worth following (1:07:04) Facing failure, learning from hardship, and rebuilding with integrity (1:09:12) Company-level challenges: losing half the staff and rebuilding stronger (1:10:53) Growth, transparency, and leadership capacity limits (1:11:52) Why authentic leadership is manufacturing's future (1:17:05) Why you should use Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire Resources & People Mentioned You'll get honesty and transparency when you work with Phoenix Heat Treating Achieve setup reduction with SMW Autoblok workholding Why you should use Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire Connect with Ty Haguewood Connect on LinkedIn Manufacturing Technologies Inc. Stone Mather Designs Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

When you've poured 46 years of your life into building a thriving precision machine shop—one that grew from a one-man garage to 50 employees, world-class equipment, and top-tier aerospace customers—you don't expect it to end with burnout. In this deeply candid episode, I sit down with Cody Sisson, a lifelong machinist who built a remarkable business through decades of grit, innovation, and commitment to excellence—only to watch it collapse under the weight of exhaustion, health crises, and a perfect storm of setbacks. Cody opens up about the early days of his shop, the thrill of landing major accounts like Honeywell and Hewlett-Packard, and the pride he took in caring for both his people and his customers. But he also shares the hidden cost of relentless drive—the long hours, delegation gone wrong, and emotional fatigue that slowly drained his passion for the work he once loved. This conversation isn't just about loss—it's about lessons. Cody now dedicates his time to helping other shop owners recognize the warning signs of burnout and put systems in place before it's too late. His honesty offers a powerful reminder that even the strongest leaders can fall when they ignore their own limits. If you've ever felt stretched thin as a shop owner or wondered what happens when the drive that built your business turns into the very thing that destroys it, this episode is one you can't afford to miss. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:52) The rise and fall of Cody's 46-year-old aerospace machine shop (3:13) Cody's trajectory from fascination with engines to building his own machine shop (9:37) Cody took the leap and started his own shop with just a few manual machines (10:44) Check out Verdant Commercial Capital for a true partner in your corner (13:37) Landing his first major customers and growing through word-of-mouth and persistence (16:07) Surviving the 1983 recession and pivoting to new industries (18:14) Buying an abandoned farm and rebuilding the business from scratch (18:50) Rapid growth to 50 employees and early adoption of CNC technology (23:05) Embracing concurrent engineering and "dying on the sword" for customers (25:35) Building a culture where employees loved to work—and introducing a 4-day workweek (26:57) Implementing DCD (later Epicor) ERP and custom shop-floor tracking in 1994 (29:02) Meet me at the EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event! (33:00) Lessons from hiring the wrong leaders and trusting too easily (38:56) Buying and renovating a dream facility and investing in new equipment (41:16) Living through a quarter-million-dollar mill-run mistake  (42:51) Navigating bankruptcy and a double cancer diagnosis  (44:25) Catastrophic misquotes and lost margins that sealed the company's fate (46:28) The decision to shut down—and organizing a job fair to protect his employees (47:43) Processing the grief of losing a business you've built your entire life (49:02) Cody's reflections on burnout, fear, and the mental toll of ownership (50:30) How Cody is helping other shop owners recognize and prevent burnout (59:30) Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina Resources & People Mentioned Check out Verdant Commercial Capital for a true partner in your corner Get a discount for EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event: DYV25MC Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina Connect with Cody Sisson Sisson Performance Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this powerful and deeply candid conversation, I sat down with Mark Heston, who first appeared on Episode 51 to share his story of buying and rebuilding an aerospace machine shop specializing in landing-gear components. At that time, the business was on an upward trajectory — improving culture, repricing work, and investing in growth. But behind the scenes, hidden challenges were forming that would ultimately lead to an unexpected and difficult ending. In this follow-up episode, Mark opens up about what happened next—the liquidity crisis, the missteps in financial due diligence, and the sequence of events that forced him and his partners to file for bankruptcy and sell the company through a Chapter 11 restructuring. He speaks with transparency about what went wrong, what he learned, and what he wishes every buyer, seller, and operator in manufacturing would know before it's too late. Together, we explore critical lessons in capitalization, cash-flow management, financial literacy, and the danger of relying on inaccurate numbers. Mark emphasizes the difference between profitability and liquidity—how a shop can look successful on paper but suffocate in reality when cash conversion cycles stretch too far. He also shares why "trust but verify" should be every acquirer's mantra when reviewing a seller's books. This is not a story of failure. It's a story of brutal honesty, hard-earned wisdom, and resilience. For anyone buying, running, or selling a machine shop, this episode is required listening. It's a reminder that the toughest conversations often teach the most valuable lessons. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:53) revisiting Mark's original episode and the shop's turnaround story (3:47) Buying a $7–8 million aerospace landing-gear machine shop in New Jersey (5:06) The dark, difficult realities of machine shop ownership (6:13) Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog to leverage RASRAM  (7:38) The two biggest challenges: Unreliable financial data and under-capitalization (9:45) Liquidity vs. profitability — "cash is oxygen" for any machine shop (13:25) Doing due diligence right: Stress-testing scenarios and working capital needs (15:40) The danger of leverage (and when debt turns into a liability) (17:11) The importance of hiring a trained eye to validate what you're seeing (19:08) Focus on the fixing the balance sheet before anything else (22:19) Customer cancellations, Boeing delays, and a bad material batch (25:08) How one wrong material spec halted production (27:17) Don't let outside processing keep you awake at night (30:01) Why attention to detail in inspection and receiving matter (32:05) Capitalization and line-of-credit lessons (34:36) Growth, pricing decisions, and the danger of being too cautious (36:30) Job costing challenges and why small shops often fly blind (39:20) When small-business financials mislead (tax tactics and poor data)  (41:21) The sale, Chapter 11 process, restructuring and new ownership  (44:21) Employee retention and operations continuing (44:47) Workholding Wisdom: SMW Autoblok's flexible, automation-ready workholding (51:10) A reminder why cashflow is king in any market—even thriving ones (55:42) What to think about (and do) if you're planning on selling your business (1:01:26) Make sure you're not emotionally attached to buying a business  (1:07:00) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders to help you find your next leaders Resources & People Mentioned Episode #11 Episode #51 with Mark Episode #64 with Jereme Rodgers Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog to leverage RASRAM  Get the transparency you need from outside processors at Phoenix Heat Treating Use Hire MFG Leaders to help you find your next leaders Connect with Mark Heston Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

I've admired John Saunders for a long time. Most of you probably know him as the force behind the NYC CNC YouTube channel, the Business of Machining podcast, and of course, Saunders Machine Works. John has been creating content, teaching, and inspiring machinists since long before it was "cool" to do so online. In fact, he's one of the first people I think of when someone says they learned machining from YouTube. When we sat down for this conversation, I wanted to go deeper than the usual "how'd you get started" story. We talked about the real journey of moving from hobbyist to entrepreneur, how he built a thriving fixture plate and workholding company in Ohio, and—what I think many shop owners will appreciate—how he's structured his business so he can actually step away for weeks at a time without things falling apart. John shares how his early projects, like designing a better rifle target during college, taught him hard lessons about product development and manufacturing. He explains the tools, machines, and workflows that make Saunders Machine Works tick today, from automated horizontals to Willman lathes, and why he's thinking hard about one-piece flow and robotics. We also dive into how he developed his famous training classes, why lean manufacturing and clear processes matter more than ever, and how he balances all of this with family, passion projects, and building a humanoid robot—yes, Johnny Five—from scratch. This episode is full of insights for anyone running a shop or dreaming about launching their own product line. If you've ever wanted to peek inside the mind of one of the most generous and innovative creators in our industry, this conversation is for you.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Introducing John Saunders and his career journey in manufacturing (7:13) Why we love the transparency of Phoenix Heat Treating (8:20) Starting NYC CNC YouTube channel and sharing his learning journey publicly (13:50) Turning the tables: How we feel about ChatGPT sharing our content (16:20) Launching Saunders Machine Works and creating fixture plates and mod vises (21:38) Building a custom ERP to manage thousands of SKUs and empower employees (23:22) Evolving production with horizontals, Willman machines, and one-piece flow thinking (29:15) See me at EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event  (31:58) Developing a team culture where machinists program their own parts (35:45) Internships and high school programs as a pipeline for skilled talent (37:48) The story behind John's famous training classes and why they are paused for now (45:17) Balancing entrepreneurship with personal life and creative pursuits (48:36) Building Johnny Five the robot and why passion projects keep him motivated (53:14) Lessons in lean thinking and creating processes that make work easier for everyone (55:46) Advice for contract manufacturers who want to develop their own product line (1:02:31) Why Verdant Commercial Capital is a true partner in your business Resources & People Mentioned Revisionist History Podcast Why we love the transparency of Phoenix Heat Treating See me at EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event  Verdant Commercial Capital  Toolpath  Connect with John Saunders Saunders Machine Works Connect on LinkedIn Follow on Instagram NYC CNC YouTube The Business of Machining Podcast Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

When I think about the shops that inspire me most, it's the ones that balance cutting-edge technology with a deep investment in people. That's exactly why I loved sitting down with Steve and Eric Van Orden of Paramount Machine in Salt Lake City, Utah. Steve started Paramount back in 1995 with nothing more than a manual mill and a garage shop. Fast forward nearly three decades, and the company has grown into a 75-person operation with more than 30 machines, including palletized horizontals, multi-spindle lathes, and 5-axis mills. What impressed me most, though, wasn't the equipment—it was the culture they've built. Both Steve and Eric share how Paramount has become a place where careers are built, young machinists thrive, and innovation is driven by a team that truly feels ownership in the business. With 35% of their workforce under 30 and several families working side by side, it's clear this is more than just a machine shop—it's a community. In our conversation, we dig into the early days of Paramount, the lessons learned along the way, and the practical strategies they're using now to keep growing in a space- and talent-constrained world. Most of all, we explore what it takes to build a business that can make a lasting impact—on people, families, and future generations. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:15) "RASRAM" and the 7 habits of effective workholding (1:35) Meet the guests: Steve and Eric Van Orden of Paramount Machine (3:26) How Steve founded the company in 1995 in a garage with manual equipment (4:26) Early growth, partnerships, and moving into a rented building (8:00) Transitioning from partnerships to solo leadership (9:03) Current snapshot of the business and its growth trajectory (10:49) How their workforce development program works (15:54) Collaborating with the NTMA and other local initiatives (16:22) Mentorship and on-the-job training models (17:20) Eric's journey: From unsure beginnings to leading operations (21:00) How Paramount encourages team ownership and decentralized leadership (22:23) Flexibility in work hours, overtime, and PTO (24:47) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA (25:25) Letting each cell own their workflow (26:29) Embracing software, digitization, and writing custom internal tools (29:08) Transparency with finances and learning from losses without blame (33:22) Profitability, continuous improvement, and capacity optimization (35:44) Overcoming space constraints and driving efficiency with smarter equipment (39:36) Tracking KPIs, spotting bottlenecks, and using software to stay ahead (42:52) Strategic decisions that fueled growth: hiring, trust, and investing in technology (45:51) Legacy and impact: changing lives and building a multi-generational business (49:55) Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina! Resources & People Mentioned Level up your workholding with SMW Autoblok Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina! Connect with Eric and Steve Van Orden Paramount Machine Steve Van Orden Eric Van Orden Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production by PODCAST FAST TRACK

When I think about inspiring stories of resilience and vision in the world of manufacturing, Sam Thevanayagam's journey is one that stands out. In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Sam, the founder of Parts Life Inc. and the leader behind Deval Lifecycle, to unpack his incredible path from Sri Lanka to Philadelphia, from downsizing his home to fund his dream, to acquiring a bankrupt business and transforming it into a thriving, mission-driven company employing nearly 200 people. What struck me most about Sam is not just his sharp business acumen or the bold risks he's taken—it's the way he flips the traditional narrative. Instead of using people to build a business, he uses his business to build people. From brewing oatmeal for his team to helping nearly 30 employees buy their first homes, Sam has built a culture of empowerment, grace, and second chances. His deep belief in redemption and workforce development has shaped his companies into places where lives are transformed as much as parts. We also dive into the strategic side of running a high-mix, low-volume shop that supports the defense industry. Sam shares how he navigated workforce shortages by launching his own in-house machining institute, how he invests in quality through systems and prevention, and why he believes visibility and trust with customers are just as important as making parts. This episode is packed with lessons about leadership, perseverance, and what it means to align a business with purpose. Whether you're running a small shop or scaling a growing organization, Sam's story will leave you thinking differently about the role of a manufacturer in today's world.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:20) Why Verdant Commercial Capital is a true partner (1:35) Sam's inspiring journey from Sri Lanka to the U.S. and early career in manufacturing (5:17) Lessons from failure and turning point through education in operations and inventory control (8:37) Starting Parts Life during the 2008 recession and pivoting into defense (10:03) Solving obsolescence challenges with creativity and engineering detective work (12:00) Early defense contracts that scaled Parts Life from survival to rapid growth (13:37) Buying Deval Lifecycle out of bankruptcy—risk, faith, and a courtroom battle (17:18) Building trust with employees, union challenges, and creating a culture of flexibility (21:59) Using business to build people—minorities, refugees, second chances, and transformed lives (24:33) Creativity before capital: oatmeal breakfasts, benevolence funds, and home ownership programs (27:57) Find unrivaled transparency and customer service with Phoenix Heat Treating  (29:39) Workforce challenges and launching an in-house machining and welding institute (31:53) Investing in supervisor training, quality systems, and the "Four Absolutes of Quality" (33:54) Learn more about their in-house machining and welding institute (37:55) Measuring the cost of nonconformance in dollars and tying it back to empowerment (40:38) Advice for shops seeking to enter the defense industry (47:56) Strategic acquisitions and diversifying across the lifecycle of defense programs (50:30) Building customer trust through visibility, communication, and systems (52:43) Advice for early-stage companies: Find mentors, work on constraints, and scale wisely (57:52) The future of subtractive machining versus additive manufacturing in defense (1:01:00) Closing reflections and how to connect with Sam and his companies (1:01:46) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen Resources & People Mentioned Why Verdant Commercial Capital is a true partner Find unrivaled transparency and customer service with Phoenix Heat Treating  The Mystery of Capital Neighborliness: Love Like Jesus. Cross Dividing Lines. Transform Your Community. Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen Connect with Sam Thevanayagam Connect on LinkedIn Parts Life Inc. Deval Lifecycle Support Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

What happens when two people with a shared vision for community, craftsmanship, and legacy decide to take the leap into shop ownership? For Scott and his wife, the answer is Delaware Metals. In this inspiring conversation, Scott Bruneau shares how he and his wife purchased a decades-old, well-run machine shop—not as a quick flip, but as a long-term investment in American manufacturing, their team, and their community.  With over 20 years in the industry himself, Scott knew the road ahead would be demanding. But armed with a clear "why," a strong culture-first mindset, and a willingness to learn from both successes and mistakes, he's been steering Delaware Metals into new markets, upgrading capabilities, and building a younger, highly skilled workforce. We cover everything from the buying process and financing tips, to shop layout improvements, training strategies, and the reality of recruiting in today's tight labor market. Scott also opens up about the importance of open-book leadership—sharing the numbers, empowering the team, and making sure everyone understands their role in the shop's growth. Whether you're dreaming about buying your first shop, preparing to sell yours, or simply looking for leadership inspiration, Scott's story is packed with actionable wisdom. This is about buying a machine shop for all the right reasons—and building a business that lasts. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Preserving legacy knowledge after a veteran retires (0:21) Register for Top Shops 2025 and get 20% off  (1:254) Learn about Scott Bruneau and Delaware Metals (6:30) Shop snapshot: size, equipment, and niche in small, precise, handheld parts (8:35) Relationship with the previous owner, his exit, and the strong foundation they inherited (10:02) Certifications, ERP transition, equipment investments, and workflow reorganization (11:57) Diversifying the customer base and expanding into aerospace with industry partners (15:14) Building a team of subject matter experts and fostering a culture of shared knowledge (19:46) Recruiting strategies, lean manufacturing introduction, and reorganization into cells with cross-training (25:33) Quality management approach and gaining team buy-in for process improvements (30:14) Check out SMW Autoblok's massive catalog at SMWAutoblok.com (31:27) Closing the gap between office and shop floor through visible, hands-on leadership (34:21) Lessons from the buying process: financing, due diligence, and structuring the deal (40:21) Transparency with the team on costs, profitability, and impact on benefits (42:06) Career development through reviews, training opportunities, and goal setting (44:59) Biggest challenges: recruiting, assessing technical skills, and hiring for culture fit (49:06) Bringing in younger talent, mentorship, and patience in skill development  (54:17) Real-life example: Software experience versus machining experience  (56:37) The big decisions that are moving the company forward  (1:01:16) Future proof your shop by listening to Lights Out Resources & People Mentioned Register for Top Shops 2025 and get 20% off  Check out SMW Autoblok's massive catalog Connect with Scott Bruneau Delaware Metals Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

What if the next frontier of manufacturing leadership isn't on the shop floor—but in the hearts and minds of your people? In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, Paul sits down with Dana Gruber, third-generation owner and president of ATCO Tool & Manufacturing. Dana didn't grow up on the machines—she came from a career in cosmetology—but found herself drawn back into the family business with a mission that goes beyond precision parts: Creating an emotionally safe and psychologically aware workplace. From investing in cutting-edge technology like 3D metal printing to redefining what leadership looks like in a male-dominated industry, Dana is helping transform not just her shop in Meadville, PA—but the way we think about what it means to lead. She opens up about her personal healing journey, the emotional baggage many team members bring into the shop, and how building trust, vulnerability, and open communication has changed the game for her employees. This episode is a refreshing departure from the traditional "just make chips" mindset. Dana's story is raw, thoughtful, and surprisingly practical. Whether you're skeptical of "soft skills" or actively searching for ways to build a stronger team culture, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about what truly powers a great machine shop. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (1:19) Learn more about Dana Gruber and Actco Tool (9:42) What Actco Tool looks like today (and why) (11:38) Dana's core mission: creating an emotionally safe, people-first culture (13:09) How her leadership style is received by long-time employees (15:22) The emotional wounds many workers carry and why awareness matters (18:44) Examples of workplace conflict and the importance of conscious leadership (21:56) Check out Verdant Commercial Capital for a true partner in your corner (22:35) Receptiveness to changes in the environment (26:40) Sales and marketing efforts to grow the additive side of the business (30:10 Diversifying into aerospace, dental, automotive, and even Hollywood (33:32) Dana's approach to open-book leadership and financial transparency (34:28) Key roles on her management team—and her search for a purpose-driven COO (36:24) Continuous improvement through emotional growth and team alignment (38:05) Biggest recent challenge: learning the limits of shop capacity (45:58) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Resources & People Mentioned Partner with Verdant Commercial Capital Manufacturer & Business Association  MakingChips Machine Shop MBA The Manufacturing Culture Podcast Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Connect with Dana Gruber Actco Tool TikTok Dana@AtcoTool.com Connect on LinkedIn  Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sat down with Barry Walter Jr., and I have to say—this one lit me up. Barry's a machine shop leader who brings heart, humility, and a whole lot of wisdom to the mic. From rebuilding a multi-generational business to designing a culture where "shit flows uphill" (his words!), Barry has transformed a plumbing parts OEM into an 8-figure, high-mix/low-volume powerhouse with 37 team members, 15 CNC lathes, and a customer service model that makes his buyers the heroes. What struck me most is how intentional Barry is—not just with his machines or his marketing, but with how he leads. From rigorous multi-stage hiring to monthly team celebrations to offering PTO in exchange for nonprofit volunteering, Barry's built a workplace that lives out its core values every single day. Family first. Serve others. Made in America matters. And yes—work should be fulfilling. We also dive into the financial roadblocks that nearly brought the company to its knees and how Barry led the turnaround through culture, cost discipline, and strategic pricing. You'll also hear how he's passing the torch to the next generation—with three of his kids now working in the business—and why he replaced third-party sales reps with his own son, who now makes 60+ customer visits per week across the western U.S. This episode is packed with lessons on leadership, lean operations, OEM manufacturing, and building a resilient business that people actually want to work for. I think you're going to love this conversation as much as I did.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:10) Grow your top and bottom-line with CLA (1:20) Barry's podcast obsession and love for the machining community (3:20) The origin story: From Navy machinist to garage startup (7:00?) Surviving multiple failed business partnerships before the family took over (9:34) Barry's journey from psych hospital worker to screw machine operator (10:51) Growing to 15 CNC lathes and 37 team members—still hiring (14:00) Taking over the business from his father in 2015 (18:33) Creating a workplace culture of trust, transparency, and ownership (21:00) What makes the culture at Barry E Walter Sr Co different (24:19) The financial reckoning: Working with EBITDA Growth Systems to level up operations (29:28) Building a national B2B customer base and using tech like HubSpot + MapMyCustomer (34:17) Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration (35:28) Competitive edge: responsiveness, service, and American-made value (39:10) Impact of cultural change on employee retention and buy-in (41:09) Their 3-4 step hiring process, including "spousal interviews" and cultural fit (45:51) Final core value: Work should be fulfilling (48:09) In-house machinist training: from programming to tool grinding (55:22) Acquiring businesses to build their portfolio (1:00:18) The power of storytelling, shared values, and servant leadership (1:04:16) Recruit the right leaders for your shop with Hire MFG Leaders Resources & People Mentioned Top Shops 2025 The 3-Gun Show EntreLeadership Total Money Makeover EBITDA Growth Systems HubSpot MapMyCustomers ProKeep app Start with Why Connect with Barry Walter Jr.  Barry E. Walter Sr. Company Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Every once in a while, I sit down with a guest who reminds me exactly why I started this podcast in the first place. That was the case with Kelly Denison, the second-generation owner of Continental Machine Company in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Kelly is the kind of leader who sees his machine shop not just as a business—but as a vehicle for opportunity, growth, and purpose. In our conversation, we talked about what it means to carry forward a legacy. Kelly's dad bought the business in 2000, and by 2020, Kelly had earned his way into full ownership—not by entitlement, but by doing every job in the shop. From janitor to programmer to accountant, he worked his way up and built a deep understanding of what it takes to run a shop. But what struck me most was his mindset. Kelly isn't just making precision parts—he's making machinists. He's building careers, instilling pride, and leading with heart. From funding a church in Costa Rica to mentoring his team toward mastery, Kelly is proving that shop ownership can be both profitable and profoundly meaningful. If you've ever wrestled with succession, struggled with ISO as a "quality burden," or wondered how to build a values-driven culture that retains talent, this episode is for you. It's packed with humility, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom. I walked away inspired—and I know you will too. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Why shop owners are part of a special brotherhood (0:10) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA (1:22) Reflecting on my conversation with Kelly (3:46) The history of Continental Machine (and Kelly's role) (6:20) Overview of today's team and customer base (8:00) Building out ISO and shifting to a true business system (11:50) Why five-axis milling transformed their workflow (14:24) Turning a QMS into a business-wide tool (18:27) Why shop owners shouldn't try to do it all alone (20:00) Lessons from a diverse mastermind group (23:34) The myth of the technician-turned-entrepreneur (24:53) Kelly's side business and what it taught him about ownership (26:56) Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration! (29:21) Recruiting through trade schools and investing in people/career growth (33:30) The mindset shift from making parts to making machinists (35:19) Kelly's "why" and the role of faith and philanthropy (37:15) Making parts that save lives—and being proud of it (40:57) Navigating the emotional side of family business succession (45:38) Kelly's proudest moment: building components for defense systems (49:00) Final reflections on pride, purpose, and what it means to lead a shop (50:25) Three reasons to check out Buy the Numbers Resources & People Mentioned The E-Myth Revisited Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration! Connect with Kelly Denison Continental Machining Company Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram   Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

What would you do if your very first CNC machine didn't even power on? For most people, that's where the story would end. But for Rhys Andersen, it was just the beginning. In this episode, I sit down with one of the most determined shop owners I've ever interviewed. Rhys is the founder of Method Manufacturing in Austin, Texas — and his journey into precision machining is anything but conventional. From wildland firefighting to architecture school to a series of trial-by-fire business ventures, Rhys took the long road to building a thriving aerospace and defense machine shop. You'll hear how he bootstrapped his first massive bed mill (without even knowing if it worked), taught himself CNC machining, and slowly transformed a one-machine operation into a fully cross-trained, process-driven company with advanced 5-axis automation.  We dig into how relationships opened doors to major aerospace work, the real challenges of hiring and developing talent, and how Method's unique approach to systems and autonomy allows his team to perform at a high level — without sacrificing their personal lives. This conversation is full of practical lessons for any shop owner trying to scale, build processes that actually work, and free themselves from being the "best machinist in the shop." Rhys's story is proof that grit, humility, and systems thinking can take you further than raw skill alone.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:20) Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration! (2:57) Rhys's background: growing up in fabrication and firefighting (5:19) The first business failure and how it led to starting Method (9:06) Learning how to machine and going full-time after losing his oilfield job (11:27) The mindset of perseverance and problem solving (12:37) Buying a machine that was stored in a barn (and fixing it up) (15:12) What Rhy's business looks like present day (17:17) Breaking into aerospace: Patience, persistence, and building trust (23:16) Lessons learned from hiring mistakes and building a strong team (27:40) Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP (28:53) Creating a culture of extreme autonomy and flexible schedules (31:21) Cross-training machinists and eliminating single points of failure (34:14) Using Fulcrum to capture tribal knowledge and improve processes (36:58) Changing the perception of machining as a high-tech, creative career (41:07) Why shop owners need to get out of the shop and network (45:14) The challenge of scaling: building systems that don't rely on you (47:25) Investing in automation to enable growth and better work-life balance (50:47) Why investing in branding, photos, and professional image matters (54:30) Bringing anodizing in-house to control quality and reduce headaches (56:34) What is your entry into the market? (58:35) Why you need to Listen to the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned Fulcrum Austin Regional Manufacturing Association Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration! The Lights Out podcast Connect with Rhys Andersen Method Mfg Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK