Inspiring Innovation: Leaders in Manufacturing

In this episode, we welcome Brian White, the new VP of HR and Corporate Strategy at Polo Custom Products. Brian shares his unique insights into how HR can foster innovation and contribute to the manufacturing industry. Discussing his background, Brian highlights his passion as an HR professional and the pride he has observed in Polo’s employees. We touch on topics ranging from employee engagement and well-being to leveraging technology and data for HR decisions. Brian's experiences at Payless Shoes and Auburn Washburn School District bring a fresh perspective to Polo's strategy. The episode also explores practical examples of employee pride, skill development, and collaboration that underscore Polo’s team-oriented culture and continuous improvement initiatives. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the critical role HR plays in manufacturing and how it aligns with overall business strategy.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:04 Meet Brian White: New VP of HR and Corporate Strategy02:39 Insights on Manufacturing and Employee Pride06:50 The Role of HR in Fostering Innovation09:42 Talent Acquisition and Employer Branding20:42 Company Culture and Employee Well-being27:03 HR Technology and Data-Driven Decisions31:31 Skill Development and Training37:40 Strategic Planning and Future Growth42:12 The Impact of Technology and AI on HR45:41 Conclusion and FarewellResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.

Today we recap some of the best lessons we've learned on our journey through manufacturing and innovation. In this episode, we revisit the importance of building a strong company culture with insights from our CEO, Kent Lammers. We'll also discuss talent development strategies from Alan Frost, and explore crucial cybersecurity precautions with Rob Ward. Finally, we will tie everything together with an in-depth look at our manufacturing processes that we learned from Greg Brown, our plant manager in Mississippi. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in supply chain, product development, customer service, and beyond.00:00 Introduction to Inspiring Innovation Podcast01:54 Highlighting Key Lessons from Past Episodes02:04 The Importance of Company Culture05:15 Wellness Initiatives and Employee Engagement05:54 Customer Insights and Plant Tours12:05 Developing a Strong Workforce14:36 Protecting Your Business from Hackers17:01 Manufacturing Processes and Quality Assurance21:09 Conclusion and Encouragement to EngageResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.

Bridging Product Development and SalesIn this episode of Inspiring Innovation, we sit down with Ellen Kershke, a technical expert turned sales professional at Polo. Ellen shares her unique experiences and how her background in product development has benefited her current role in sales. We discuss the crossover between these fields and how it has helped Polo better serve its customers. Ellen shares stories from trade shows, strategies for managing customer relationships, and the importance of communication and understanding technical details. She also highlights the unexpected ways her product development expertise has enhanced her sales efforts, allowing her to provide tailored solutions and more effectively navigate customer issues. Tune in to learn about the critical factors in maintaining strong customer relationships, recent trends in the medical market, and the value of solution-oriented thinking in manufacturing.00:00 Introduction to Inspiring Innovation00:59 Meet Ellen Kershke: From Product Development to Sales01:46 The Anaheim Trade Show Experience04:10 Misconceptions Between Sales and Product Development07:16 Influence of Product Development on Sales Approach08:56 Polo's Unique Design Process10:29 Lessons from Product Development Applied to Sales13:23 Maintaining Strong Customer Relationships26:48 Trends in the Medical Market27:55 Final Thoughts and Wrap-UpResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.

In the second episode of our Happy Hour series, we enjoy a lively conversation with Brian Weber, the Chief Operating Officer of Polo Custom Products. Brian reflects on the company's 75-year legacy and the anticipation of future milestones. He shares insightful manufacturing stories, the impact of Polo's products out in the real world, and humorous personal anecdotes, including an early career embarrassment that turned into a lasting success. We discuss the importance of company culture, maintaining employee satisfaction, and making calculated business decisions. Cheers to more inspiring conversations and the continued success of Polo Custom Products!00:00 Introduction to the Happy Hour Podcast01:11 Reflecting on 75 Years of Polo02:22 Pride in Polo's Products03:04 Balancing Class and Fun03:47 Describing Polo with Movie Titles04:58 Corporate Culture at Polo05:35 Customer Stories and Product Impact06:53 Embarrassing Mistakes and Lessons Learned09:29 Superpowers and Logistics10:56 Pandemic Challenges and Strategic Decisions14:35 Acknowledging Leadership and Team Efforts16:14 Conclusion and Call to ActionResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.

In this episode of Inspiring Innovation, we welcome back Brian Weber, our first repeat guest and the Chief Operating Officer of Polo Custom Products. Inspired by the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast, we have a casual and fun discussion over some Busch Light, where Brian shares intriguing manufacturing stories and notable achievements. We delve into the significant success of scaling a medical product across multiple locations, and the complex logistical endeavor of moving production to the Dominican Republic. We also touch on unique product requests, the value of offshore manufacturing partners, and the heroic efforts of Polo employees during the pandemic. Join us for this special two-part episode, packed with insights and reflections on innovation in the manufacturing industry.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:03 Special Guest: Brian Weber02:07 Manufacturing Success Stories05:16 Unique Product Requests09:14 Navigating Global Manufacturing Challenges19:56 Heroes of Polo Custom Products24:09 Lessons and Mentorship29:35 Pandemic Innovations and Challenges33:59 Debunking Myths in Custom Manufacturing38:48 Conclusion and Teaser for Part TwoResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.

In this episode of Inspiring Innovation, I am thrilled to welcome Monica Pyles, a Customer Success Manager at Polo. Monica shares her incredible journey from a traumatic childhood and seven and a half years of incarceration to securing employment and thriving in a corporate role at Polo. We dive into the challenges she faced during reintegration, her remarkable personal growth, and the significant impact of second chance hiring. Monica also discusses how her past experiences have enhanced her professional skills and her ongoing efforts to support other women transitioning back into society. Additionally, we highlight Polo's proactive involvement in these life-changing initiatives and discuss the broader societal benefits of second chance hiring. Don't miss this powerful and inspiring episode!00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:10 Meet Monica Pyles: A Journey of Resilience02:44 Overcoming Challenges Post-Incarceration04:13 Professional Growth and Skills Development06:02 The Importance of Second Chance Hiring08:53 Supporting Women Transitioning from Incarceration27:50 Polo's Involvement and Community Support32:42 Advice for Rebuilding Life and Career34:23 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

In today’s episode of 'Inspiring Innovation', we delve into the crucial topic of cost savings and reduction techniques in the manufacturing sector. Our special guest, Rod Holter, brings his extensive background in aviation, quality engineering, and his transition into private equity, to the table, now flourishing as a franchise owner of Schooley Mitchell. We cover Rod's impressive career trajectory, from his early days at big names like Piper Aircraft and Cessna to his strategic move into private equity and, finally, his venture into the cost reduction consulting world with Schooley Mitchell. Rod shares valuable insights into effective strategies for negotiating better deals and leveraging data to understand cost categories, underlining the importance of being open to external consulting help for optimizing operational costs. He discusses the significant impact that saving on overhead costs can have on a company’s bottom line and future growth. This episode is packed with anecdotes, practical advice, and Rod's personal experiences in navigating cost savings across different industries, making it a must-listen for anyone in the supply chain, engineering, or anyone involved in the manufacturing sector looking to discover untapped areas for savings and reinvestment opportunities.00:00 Welcome to Inspiring Innovation: Focus on Manufacturing and Cost Reduction01:01 Meet Rod Holter: From Aviation to Private Equity01:37 Rod's Journey Through the Aviation Industry06:05 Transitioning from Manufacturing to Private Equity10:10 The Schooley Mitchell Franchise: A New Venture12:49 Exploring Cost Reduction Strategies with Schooley Mitchell18:23 The Challenges of Negotiating Vendor Pricing19:58 Leveraging Savings for Business Growth25:57 Navigating the Post-COVID Business Landscape34:19 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Schooley MitchellResources:Rod Holter on LinkedInSchooley MitchellA Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

In this enlightening episode of Inspiring Innovation, I had the pleasure of hosting Greg Brown, the seasoned Plant Manager of Polo Custom Products in Louisville, Mississippi. Greg's extensive background in manufacturing, paired with a disciplined leadership style honed in the military, has significantly contributed to the Louisville facility's success. This facility stands out for its vast square footage, comprehensive capabilities, and exceptional team spirit. During our conversation, Greg provided a fascinating overview of the facility's main manufacturing processes, including sewing, RF operation, and forming, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail and precision ingrained in every step from raw material intake to final product delivery. He proudly shared the proactive measures taken to ensure product quality and consistency, meeting ISO certification standards and customizing training programs for new hires, thereby fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Greg also discussed the tactical approaches to navigating the challenges of supply chain disruptions and maintaining on-time delivery records, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resourceful problem-solving in today's competitive landscape. Looking ahead, we explored future goals for the facility, focusing on efficiency optimization and embracing technological advancements to stay ahead in the manufacturing sector. It was truly inspiring to learn how the Louisville team's dedication and innovative strategies have set a high standard in custom manufacturing, serving a diverse range of industries with unparalleled expertise and commitment. Tune in to gain valuable insights from one of the industry's leading voices on spearheading innovation and driving success in manufacturing.00:00 Welcome to Inspiring Innovation: Meet Greg Brown01:51 Deep Dive into Manufacturing Processes at Louisville05:28 Ensuring Quality and Consistency in Manufacturing09:01 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges and Meeting Deadlines11:59 Addressing Diverse Industry Needs and Challenges13:59 Evolving Manufacturing Processes and Equipment Upgrades16:36 Investing in Employee Training and Development20:47 Cultivating a Strong Workplace Culture and Community23:51 Quality Control and Assurance Strategies27:28 Optimizing Efficiency and Productivity in Manufacturing30:56 Future Goals and Staying Competitive in the Industry32:51 Wrapping Up: Insights and Future DirectionsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

In this engaging episode of Inspiring Innovation, we have the privilege of speaking with Command Sergeant Major Stephen Blake, a distinguished veteran of the United States Army and a champion of leadership, project management, and manufacturing in the military sector. Blake shares his invaluable journey, detailing his rise through the ranks to become a Command Sergeant Major, overseeing global networks and advising on critical personnel matters including maintenance, logistics, and training. Post-retirement, his commitment to serving has seamlessly transitioned to supporting the veteran community and contributing his expertise to Polo Custom Products. Throughout our conversation, Blake imparts lessons on leadership, emphasizing the importance of being adaptable, communicative, and trustworthy. He delves into the complexities of managing projects in the manufacturing industry, especially those catering to military technical specifications, and underscores the significance of maintaining quality and fostering pride among team members. His insights extend to the strategic management of multidisciplinary teams and the challenges of meeting stringent military standards. Blake's reflections on his career, the value of trust in leadership, and the profound responsibility of caring for America's sons and daughters are both inspiring and grounding. Join us in this episode as we explore the nuances of innovation and leadership through the experienced lens of a revered military leader and industry expert.00:49 Guest Introduction: Command Sergeant Major Stephen Blake02:10 Journey to Becoming a Command Sergeant Major03:00 Inspiration and Challenges in Military Career05:36 Leadership Styles and Their Application in Manufacturing07:05 Critical Success Factors for Manufacturing Projects09:36 Managing and Aligning Multidisciplinary Teams12:09 Challenges in Meeting Military Technical Specifications15:19 Project Management Strategies for Successful Delivery21:06 Supply Chain Management for Military Grade Products23:12 Ensuring Quality in Manufacturing Process25:58 Role and Lessons as a Command Sergeant Major28:44 Closing Remarks and ReflectionsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

It’s time to dive into important aspects of custom manufacturing in the context of legal contracts and agreements. To cover this adequately, we are joined by Chris Proskey, a partner at BrownWinick Law Firm who specializes in patent, trademark and intellectual property. We will cover the importance of defining who owns the intellectual property during the custom manufacturing process. He also strongly emphasizes the importance of having well-structured agreements detailing clear responsibilities, aligned incentives and fair terms. Finally, we will navigate discussions on dispute resolution, articulating that though litigation is never desirable, there should exist a clear, amiable resolution path in agreements. Our conversation concludes with an emphasis on the importance of understanding intellectual property rights and the critical role they play in the manufacturing industry.01:06 Importance of Legal Contracts in Manufacturing02:31 Understanding Intellectual Property in Manufacturing03:27 Crafting Effective Agreements05:57 Avoiding Pitfalls in Contract Drafting12:23 Understanding and Navigating Force Majeure17:19 Intellectual Property in Development Agreements23:25 Understanding Milestones and Deliverables in Agreements25:31 The Importance of NDAs and Their Nuances32:37 Addressing Quality Issues in Manufacturing36:44 Navigating Contract Termination40:03 Resolving Disputes and Conflict Management45:00 Closing Thoughts on the Legal LandscapeResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

In this episode of Inspiring Innovation, Sean Frost talks with Carla DeShaw, a leading figure in product development and innovation. They delve into product development strategies for product engineers and technology advancements in manufacturing. Carla shares insights regarding various manufacturing processes including RF sealing, Impulse sealing, ultrasonic sealing, and thermoforming, along with the importance of material selection. They also discuss the importance of quality control and how they maintain it through various phases of production. Furthermore, Carla expresses her excitement for the potential of ultrasonic sewing machines, which promise greater efficiency and speed in the future.00:29 Introduction and Welcome00:31 Introducing the Guest: Carla DeShaw01:43 Carla DeShaw's Expertise and Role at Polo Custom Products02:22 Deep Dive into Radio Frequency Sealing04:01 Impact of RF Sealing in Real-Life Scenarios06:36 Materials Suitable for RF Sealing07:40 Exploring Impulse Sealing and Hot Air Welders11:02 Understanding Ultrasonic Sealing12:32 The Art of Sewing Lightweight Materials22:16 The Role of Thermoforming in Product Development27:56 Adding Logos to Products30:28 The Precision of Laser Cutting31:44 Quality Control in Manufacturing37:48 Staying Updated with Latest Technologies in ManufacturingResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

It’s a dangerous digital world out there, with many threats facing all businesses. In this episode, host Sean Frost is joined by Rob Ward, Polo's VP of IT, who shares his experiences in the company, on his past projects and the role IT plays in the manufacturing industry. He also provides insights into cybersecurity threats, discussing how bad actors manipulate systems and breach security walls, as well as practical tips and guidance on protecting oneself against these threats.01:17 Guest Introduction: Rob Ward03:20 Role of IT in Manufacturing03:46 The Importance of IT in Problem Solving06:22 Challenges of Cybersecurity09:17 The Reality of Cyber Attacks12:31 Understanding Social Engineering16:07 The Threat of Deepfakes24:30 Polo's Cybersecurity Measures28:07 Personal Cybersecurity TipsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom Productshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuYoMs6CLEwhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHSmo72oVaoLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Exploring Manufacturing Trends in the Defense Industry: A Conversation with Ron HouleThe episode of 'Inspiring Innovation' features Ron Huell, the founder and president of Pivot Step Consultants, who shares his extensive experience and insights about the defense industry, procurement process and innovative changes in the sector. Ron discusses his involvement with key players such as the Army National Guard, Philips Healthcare, and General Dynamics, also shedding light on his legislative affairs role at the Pentagon. The conversation delves into the current geopolitical landscape's impact on the trade industry, emphasizing the importance of organizational leadership. Huell also introduces the Gettysburg Leadership Experience, an innovative leader development program that offers experiential learning from historical leadership events. On this episode we discuss:02:01 Insights into Defense Procurement and Opportunities04:27 Ron’s Personal Connection to the Textile Industry05:47 Challenges and Opportunities in Defense and Private Industry06:35 Innovative Changes and Approaches in Defense Procurement14:21 Understanding Defense Budgets and Legislative Processes19:16 Building Relationships and Partnerships in the Defense Industry32:17 Geopolitical Landscape Impact on Trade43:07 Lessons from Gettysburg Leadership ExperienceResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Things are changing rapidly around hiring and retention of team members in a manufacturing environment.  And so I had to get my dad, Al Frost, (he’s an HR professional) on the show to walk through ways to be effective in developing and maintaining a strong workforce. On this episode we discuss:Al’s 15 minutes of fame at the Home DepotThe current hiring environmentCreative referral programsManaging remote work flexibilityGrowing your career in a manufacturing environmentBeing effective when you step into a management roleDeveloping your teamThinking strategically in your businessBridging the gap between HR and manufacturingEnsuring well-being across the organizationResources:A Plan Is Not a Strategy - YouTubeThe Five Competitive Forces That Shape Strategy (hbr.org)A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Polo Custom Products CEO Kent Lammers joins the show.  He shares with host Sean Frost how he views the building of culture and innovation at Polo and how critical those pieces are to success in manufacturing. On this episode we discuss:Kent’s Polo journeyA balance of technology and financeThe keys to a successful acquisition or divestingThe secret sauce of product developmentServing the customerDeveloping a strong cultureThe impact that any employee can makeImplementing challenging new processes to make the business betterContinuous improvementPursuing sustainabilityFollowing the roadmapAlways, always, always documentResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Host Sean Frost shares some of the experiences he’s seen at Polo Custom Products how the team comes together to deliver on its promises to customers. In doing so, we review some of the conversations we’ve been having with manufacturing experts who operate behind the scenes. On this episode we discuss:Seeing the team come togetherThe criticality of products that are madeHow the role of supply chain has been elevatedMitigating risk with suppliersWorking collaboratively with othersThe value of people in the manufacturing industryMeasuring performance and complying with regulatory requirementsMaking products that cannot afford to failAlways take a plant tourCreating success for the customerThe challenges with scalingGetting bad news early is good newsUnderstanding what success means for your customerResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Five years ago if you started discussing supply chain to someone their eyes would instantly glaze over.  But in today’s post-COVID world, everyone is struggling to keep up and it’s one of the most challenging aspects of running a successful manufacturing business.  Host Sean Frost speaks with Jennifer Fennell, Director of Supply Chain at Polo Custom Products. On this episode we discuss:Adjusting to life in CanadaStarting at Polo Custom Products as a single momGetting support from othersHow disruptions have an impact on the supply chainSupply chain is a team effortMitigating risks in an uncertain landscapeDiversification of suppliersSupply chain best practicesIdentifying challenges earlySupply chain management being taught in high schoolsAI (artificial intelligence) and the supply chainResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Polo Director of Quality, Dawn Silver, joins Sean Frost to talk about how regulations and requirements drive activity across the manufacturing.  Silver has been with Polo for nine years and has a degree in biology and a master's in science. Before Polo, she worked at a contract sterilization company in the greater Chicago land area and fulfilled multiple quality roles. She now works with a broad set of industries and regulatory bodies, such as the FDA, FAA, and different automotive standards. On this episode we discuss:00:06:00  Discussion on Regulations Across Different Industries00:08:00  Quality System Inspection Techniques, Production Part Approval Process, and Pre-Market Approval00:11:00  Quality Planning for Successful Medical Device Manufacturing00:13:00  Quality Management System at Polo00:15:00  Quality Assurance and Testing in Manufacturing00:20:00  Continuous Improvement and Retention of Associates00:22:00  Quality Initiatives at Polo Custom ProductsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Whenever someone offers you the opportunity for a plant tour, you can always learn something.  And in the case of Polo Chief Operating Officer Brian Weber, it led him down an entirely different career path. On this episode we discuss:The tour that led to a job offerWorking on and racing motorcyclesLearning about the variety of manufacturing processesBrian’s career progressionBeing the President’s advance team in CubaOpportunities to work around the worldWhat creates a successful companyThe unique position of Polo in the manufacturing industryMaintaining a high standard of qualityKey products that stand out in Brian’s mindThe collaborative effort with customersWhat the future holds for PoloResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

As a leader in the sales organization at Polo Custom Products, Lyn Lemke has had a front row seat as ideas and designs have turned into products.  She shares what it’s like to be a part of that process with host Sean Frost. On this episode we discuss:Transitioning from retail into manufacturingDifferences between industrial and medical product marketsThe satisfaction of making products that save livesMeeting regulations for various regionsDealing with challenges on the production floor and pivotingBad news earlySupply chain challengesThe value of experience in manufacturingWatching products come to lifeResources:YouTube Feature on Polo Custom ProductsBlog by Lyn: Expert RF Sealing for Medical Original Equipment Manufacturers - Polo Custom ProductsFollow us on Facebook and LinkedInLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.  For more information visit ictpod.net

Coming on April 11th, Inspiring Innovation will bring you conversations with experts in the manufacturing industry on how to bring big ideas to life. Join us every episode for a deep dive into manufacturing trends, processes, innovation, and how to be successful in the ever-changing world of manufacturing.