In this episode, we sit down with Mike House to talk about what culture really looks like in the workplace and why it matters more than ever in manufacturing. We explore: Why culture is about how we show up, not just what we say The biggest mistakes leaders make when trying to build strong teams What family-owned businesses often get right (and where they go wrong) How to create clarity around purpose and priorities What survival training teaches us about leadership and direction Mike has worked with everyone from founders to frontline teams, and his stories bring a fresh perspective on leadership in complex, competitive environments. If you’re trying to attract great people—or keep the good ones you’ve got—this episode is for you.
What kind of person decides to start a high-performance electric motorcycle company in Australia from scratch? In this episode, we sit down with Dennis Savic, founder of Savic Motorcycles, who’s turning childhood ambition into an engineering and manufacturing reality. We explore how Dennis went from dreaming about motorbikes at age 14 to designing modular electric bikes with bold performance specs. He shares the story of navigating startup life, building a brand named after his family, and doing it all without the deep supply chains of Europe or Asia. We talk about product strategy, lessons from his time at Ford, and what it takes to push through doubt when the odds are stacked against you. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of grit and drive it takes to build something from nothing, this one’s for you.
In this episode of Manufacturing Tech Australia, we're hosting a special "Manufacturing Tech Happy Hour," joined by our friends Ed Fuentes and Phil Seboa from the Unplugged IIoT podcast. We dive into a lively and practical conversation about what digital transformation really means for manufacturers. Together, we explore strategies for bridging the IT and OT gap, discuss the genuine impacts of AI, IoT, and digitization, and share insights on how businesses can clearly identify their goals for measurable success. Join us for candid conversations, actionable tips, and real-world examples designed to help you navigate digital transformation effectively.
In this episode of Manufacturing Tech Australia, we're joined by James Deck from Clevvi, a seasoned expert in digital transformation with over two decades of experience. James shares practical insights on overcoming common hurdles manufacturers face when leveraging data, including capturing the right data, ensuring data accuracy, and aligningdata-driven decisions with real business objectives. From eliminating data silos to the accessible technologies transforming small-to-medium manufacturing, James highlights how businesses can unlock significant productivity and profitability improvements. Discover what 'good' truly looks like when data meets manufacturing, and learn actionable steps to propel your business forward.
In this episode, we dive deep into Australia's booming MedTech sector with Zeno Helm from Schott MiniFab. Discover why Australia is uniquely positioned for advanced medical device manufacturing, how agile processes help navigate regulatory hurdles, and the exciting innovations happening right here in Melbourne. We discuss everything from diagnostic technologies to the importance of collaboration across the industry, providing practical advice for businesses looking to innovate and scale in a competitive global market.
Join Shane Williams at the Industrial Transformation 2025 event as he welcomes esteemed guests Glen, Sean, and Grant to delve into mastering rapid transformation for sustainable competitiveness. In this episode, the panel discuss brand trust, the democratisation of new technologies, practical applications of AI, and strategies for stabilizing and improving operational performance in the manufacturing sector. Listen to Grant's Ignite framework for brand growth, Sean's perspectives on standardisation, and Glen's pragmatic views on automation. A must-watch for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ultra-competitive manufacturing landscape.
In Part 3 of our CeMAT 2025 special we are back on the floor at Sydney Olympic Park talking to the innovators redefining warehouse logistics and supply chain operations. Kent Rogers from Locus Robotics shares why robots as a service is the smarter path for scalable automation. Emily Janssens and Neil Rypka from Visy and Packsize reveal how right sized packaging on demand is reducing waste and freight costs. Patrick Maley and Scott Gillies from Softeon explain how their unified WMS and WES platform is simplifying even the most complex warehouses. Jack Ellis and Ettienne Marais from Powerfleet show how AI driven safety zones and telematics are reducing forklift incidents and cutting insurance costs. If you missed CeMAT this is your front row seat to the technology transforming supply chain in Australia and beyond.
In Part 2 of our CeMAT 2025 special, we're back on the floor at Sydney Olympic Park talking to the innovators shaping the future of manufacturing and supply chain. Adam Frank from SugarCRM shares how sales teams can finally unlock ERP data for smarter selling. Michael Kemeny from KNAPP introduces AeroBOT, their flexible, high-density storage solution designed to scale with growing businesses. Megan Baker and Rebecca Angeleski from Netstock explain how better forecasting is reducing stockouts and freeing up working capital. Christian O’Regan Buckingham from AutoGenAI reveals how AI is transforming the bidding process. And Melissa Weller from Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds reminds us that people are at the heart of every operation.If you missed CeMAT, this is your front-row seat to the conversations that matter.
Recorded live from CeMAT 2025, Shane sits down with supply chain experts Lawrence Christoffelsz and Monique Donaldson to discuss profound changes manufacturers face amidst geopolitical shifts and supply chain disruptions. Discover how businesses are adapting with strategic diversification, leveraging sovereign capabilities, and utilizing digital technologies like digital twins for enhanced visibility and resilience. Get practical advice on common pitfalls, smart risk management, and effective supply chain mapping strategies that manufacturers of all sizes can implement today.
In this special bonus episode of Manufacturing Tech Australia, Shane sits down with Natalie Green and Mike Nissen from Hannover Fairs to preview CeMAT 2025 and the inaugural Industrial Transformation Australia conference. Shane explores what's new this year, including the integration of processing, packaging, and manufacturing automation under one massive roof. Mike explains why this unified approach reflects how automation is blurring industry lines, while Natalie shares insights on keynote speakers, site tours, and major partnerships like the one with GSMA around 5G and IoT. Shane also covers the return of the fan-favourite Forklift Championships, sustainability initiatives, and how attendees can get maximum value - whether they're from an SME or a global operation. Shane also previews the two live podcast panels he'll be hosting during the event. From digital supply chains to scalable automation and future-focused manufacturing, this episode offers a front-row look at one of the most anticipated events in the industrial tech calendar.
In collaboration with CeMAT and Industrial Transformation Australia 2025, we bring you a conversation with the man who coined the term “Industry 4.0”—Professor Henrik von Scheel. Henrik shares insights from decades of advising Fortune 500s and governments around the world, and lays out the eight evolutionary stages of industrial transformation. We dig into: Where Australia sits on the Industry 4.0 maturity curve How 77 mega trends are converging to reshape manufacturing Why most manufacturers already have enough technology—but lack a strategy The real value in sustainability and how to profit from it How AI, trust, and bioengineering will redefine what comes next Henrik also previews his two keynote sessions at Industrial Transformation Australia 2025 in Sydney, and explains why now is Australia’s opportunity to lead.
In this special episode, produced in partnership with CeMAT Australia 2025 and the Industrial Transformation Conference, we welcome back automation and digital transformation expert John Broadbent for a clear-eyed look at the current state of Australian manufacturing. We unpack why so many businesses are still stuck at Industry 3.0, what’s holding them back, and what it really takes to start building smarter, more connected operations. John shares lessons from decades in the field, along with success stories from companies that have embraced automation and seen real results. We also dive into leadership, data readiness, continuous improvement, and why the conversation needs to shift from shiny tech to long-term strategy. If you're serious about manufacturing transformation, this episode is full of practical insight. 🎙️ Catch John and MTA at CeMAT Australia 2025 in Sydney this July.
In this episode we chat with Nelson Bruton from Interchanges in the US to explore the modernization of sales channels in the manufacturing industry. We discuss the benefits of digital transformation, specificallyfocusing on the integration of live chat for customer interaction. The conversation highlights the growing importance of combining human touch with digital tools for effective customer engagement and lead generation. Nelson presents practical advice on implementing live chat and its significant impact on boosting conversion rates compared to automated chatbots. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of quick response times and the hybrid model of human and AI interaction to meet customer preferences and enhance the overall sales process.https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelson-bruton/
Part 2 of our AMW 2025 series dives into the digital backbone of manufacturing - from product design and simulation to warehouse intelligence and additive manufacturing.This episode highlights how Australian manufacturers are embracing software, data, and next-gen production tools to stay competitive.Hear from:Matt Schimmelbusch from Emona on the full spectrum of 3D printing—from entry-level FDM to industrial metal and carbon fiber solutionsBob Bentley from Core Additive on cost-effective pellet-based 3D printing and the evolution of production-ready additive useMark from Central Innovation on cloud PDM, DriveWorks, and Max Link integration for design-to-ERP connectivityBruce Pollock from Aspect PT on bridging ERP and the shop floor with real-time MES and OEE insightsGernot Keckeis from CAD-IT Australia on the Tulip no-code platform enabling frontline operations and digital work instructionsKeanan Granland from Monash Innovation Labs on student-driven industrial R&D and Australia’s first university-based train tech teamSebastien Bouthillette from 3DLogistiX on a 3D warehouse management system with a digital twin UI for smarter pick, pack, and shipAmit, Sean & Lenny from Hexagon on end-to-end quality control, reverse engineering, and global digital twin innovationExplore how digitisation is reshaping everything from prototyping and planning to production and performance - and why Australia’s manufacturing future is smart, connected, and ready to scale.
Part 1 of our two-part series Live from Australian Manufacturing Week 2025, showcasing how automation, workforce development, cutting-edge machinery, and diverse talent are transforming the face of Australian manufacturing. Hear firsthand from: Sam Nothnagel from Automated Solutions Australia on affordable, high-volume machine tending robots and the Teammate Tower & Maxi systems Mark Luft from Trotec Laser on mobile laser marking, cobot integration, and compliance marking Paul Gekas from Bosch Australia Manufacturing Solutions on active force compliance robotics for sanding and polishing, Bosch’s startup collaborations, and sustainable manufacturing Latinka Cubitt from Catten Industries, winner of the 2024 Victorian Female Manufacturer of the Year Award, on workforce diversity, youth engagement, and reshaping manufacturing careers Manny Valenza from Sandvik Coromant on their holistic Manufacturing Wellness framework, toolpath optimisation with Mastercam, and data-driven vending machines Samuel Kaladari from Colbotic Automation on their UR10-based cobot welding system that enables unskilled operators to produce quality welds Matthew Parsons from PlanIT on the HxGN Machine Trainer, a CNC simulator helping trainees learn safely using Siemens, Fanuc, and Heidenhain controllers Greg Hebble from Wheelchairs for Kids Australia on manufacturing fully adjustable all-terrain wheelchairs with the help of 250+ Perth-based volunteers It’s one of our most packed episodes yet—covering the innovations and people powering Australia's industrial future.
In this episode we are joined by Sharon Robertson, CEO of the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance, to explore how Australia can close the skills gap in manufacturing and build a resilient future. Sharon unpacks the four transformational pillars reshaping the industry - clean manufacturing, circular economy, digital transformation, and sovereign capability. From mentoring programs to career perception shifts, Sharon shares how the Alliance is helping employers, educators, and the next generation navigate change, capture knowledge, and elevate the sector. Whether you're battling skills shortages, planning for succession, or curious how to engage Gen Z in manufacturing careers, this one's for you.
Part 2 of our Avalon Airshow special, we continue our journey through Australia’s most exciting tech and manufacturing innovations shaping defence, aerospace, and mining. Shane and Paul catch up with four standout companies pushing the limits of what's possible: Andrew Davies from Taz Drone Solutions shares how his team went from modifying off-the-shelf drones to designing purpose-built UAVs for dangerous mining, defence, and fire management missions. Alex Reynolds from BLACK6 unpacks how their integrated learning environments use simulation, AI, and data analytics to transform training outcomes across aviation and heavy industries. Shane Rapmund from Athena AI explains how their military-grade computer vision tools are reducing operator overload in complex environments — from battlefields to surveillance operations. David Jervis from Gilmour Space talks launching Australia into orbit, with locally-designed rockets aimed at solving the growing bottleneck in satellite deployment. This episode is packed with stories of homegrown innovation, manufacturing resilience, and real-world tech applications.
In this special episode recorded live at the 2025 Avalon Airshow, we explore the latest in aerospace and manufacturing technology with four standout innovators. Brian Rajchel from Conflux Technology shares how 3D-printed heat exchangers are making aerospace systems lighter, smaller, and more efficient. Miro Miletic from MEMKO explains how additive manufacturing is helping airlines replace and certify critical cabin parts faster than ever. Lorna McLachlan from PowerJump showcases Zuken E3, a powerful digital twin solution that simplifies complex electrical systems for defense and heavy transport. And Jason Suter from Currawong Engineering gives us the rundown on their advanced motor controllers and power modules powering drones and next-gen mobility. This is Part 1 of our Avalon Airshow series—stay tuned for more from the frontline of Australian innovation.
In this episode, we sit down with robotics powerhouse Sue Keay - Chair of the Robotics Australia Board, Director of UNSW's AI Institute, and a long-time champion of Australia’s robotics and AI industries. We dig into the reality behind Australia’s slip in global robotics density rankings - and why that might be painting the wrong picture. From mining to logistics, agtech to space, Sue shares where Australia is quietly excelling and where the next wave of innovation is set to emerge. The conversation spans: Why Australia’s strength in field robotics could shape the global future of automation How AI is breaking down barriers to robotics adoption for SMEs The real impact of automation on jobs - and how to navigate it The urgent need for a national AI strategy and infrastructure plan Practical steps for businesses to kickstart their automation journey (hint: it starts with a whiteboard, not a robot) Whether you're deep in industry or just automation-curious, Sue brings clarity, insight, and optimism to a space that's moving fast.
In this special event wrap episode, we cover some of the biggest manufacturing and tech events we’ve attended recently and what’s coming up next. From the Digital Manufacturing Hub launch at Swinburne to the Avalon Airshow, AMW 2025, and the ARM Hub Propel Air Sprint, we dive into key takeaways and must-attend gatherings shaping the future of manufacturing.We also share details on how you can win free tickets to the Digital Factory Forum and announce some exciting news—Manufacturing Tech Australia is the official media partner for AMW 2025!Stay ahead of the game with this event wrap, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on the latest manufacturing tech trends.