Making Sparks – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this episode of MakingSparks, we dive what went into a first-of-its-kind merger between two 5th generation Metal Fabrication shops: NIX® Industrial and Huncilman Sheet Metal. Hosts Casey and Matthew sit down with Parker Huncilman to unpack the strategic, emotional, and operational decisions that made this merger a win for both sides.

From growth limitations to risk mitigation, and from legacy ownership to forward-thinking leadership, this is a real-world case study in smart, respectful consolidation. 

Episode Highlights: 

[02:35] – Parker shares Huncilman’s 100+ year history and the early signs that growth was stalling.

[06:42] – Why Parker couldn’t buy the company outright—and how that opened the door to a unique merger.

[12:28] – Matthew breaks down the "not a buyout" mindset, and why shared vision mattered more than control.

[16:15] – How Parker transitioned from shop manager to partial owner—and how they made the transition so smooth.

[22:47] – The calculated risk behind the merger: how both generations protected their future.

[29:10] – What other fab shop leaders should consider if they’re facing similar growth or succession challenges.

Resources: 

Lights Out Podcast: https://makingchips.com/show/lights-out/ 
Buy the Numbers Podcast: https://makingchips.com/show/buy-the-numbers/ 
Merger Press Release: https://www.nixcompanies.com/nixindustrial-huncilman-merger/ 

 

Jake LeGrand joins us to talk about the grind, the grit, and the growth — both in the shop and online.

By day, he’s an architectural engineer. By night, he’s building a brand with a welding torch and a sketchpad. With over 19,000 followers and clients finding him through Instagram DMs, Jake is living proof that showing your work can turn into real sales — even in metal fabrication.

This episode dives into how he picked up fabrication without shop class, how social media turned into a pipeline, and what it really takes to build a following while holding down a full-time job.

Episode Highlights: 

• 02:58 – Jake LeGrand’s journey from small-town kid to sign builder in Kansas City.

• 03:37 – From engineering student to hands-on researcher with a passion for welding.

• 06:56 – How missing shop class almost derailed his career and the shift to fabrication.

• 14:26 – Turning a garage hobby into a legit business and the power of creative fabrication.

• 29:40 – Using social media, viral posts, and Instagram DMs to grow a brand and land jobs.

• 42:37 – How consistency and real-world experience drive modern manufacturing success.

 

If you’re still treating social media like a distraction, you’re missing a serious opportunity. This episode will change how you think about showing your work — and what it can bring your shop.

 

Resources: 

LeGrand MetalWorks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legrandmetalworks?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Lights Out Podcast: https://makingchips.com/show/lights-out/ 

Buy the Numbers Podcast: https://makingchips.com/show/buy-the-numbers/

 

In this special FabTech edition episode, we sat down with Jim Mayer, Founder of the Manufacturing Connector, and Mike Payne, Owner at Hill Manufacturing and the host of Buy the Numbers, to discuss the real driving force behind the industry: its people. 

From leadership lessons to celebrating the collaborative spirit of the industry, this episode dives into the human stories that make manufacturing thrive.

Episode Highlights: 

[00:00] Introduction and FabTech reflections: why the event stands out.

[03:10] Meet Jim Mayer: his journey from bartending to becoming a manufacturing storyteller.

[07:25] Collaboration over competition in manufacturing—how relationships drive success.

[12:02] Mike Payne’s journey from finance to manufacturing and the inspiration behind By the Numbers.

[15:18] Emotional intelligence and its role in leadership today.

[19:30] Closing thoughts: celebrating the people who make manufacturing extraordinary.

 

Resources Mentioned:

Jim Mayer on LinkedIn

Manufacturing Connector

Mike Payne on LinkedIn

Pacific Press for the most trusted name in custom presses

Check out Paperless Parts for Quoting

ProFab Alliance to grow & improve your shop

 

 

In this episode of MakingSparks, we sit down with Matt Bush, co-founder of Hirebotics, to explore how cobot welding is addressing one of manufacturing's biggest challenges: the labor shortage. From streamlining automation to delivering consistent weld quality, Matt shares how cobots are revolutionizing fabrication for shops of all sizes.

We also discuss the differences between cobots and traditional robots, the evolution of automation technology, and Hirebotics’ mission to make robotics simple and accessible. Whether you're a shop owner, welder, or just fascinated by innovation, this episode has something for you.

Timestamps:
[00:01:15] Meet our guest: Matt Bush of Hirebotics
[00:04:10] What makes cobot welding different and safer
[00:09:25] Addressing labor shortages with automation
[00:15:30] How Hirebotics is simplifying robotics for shops
[00:19:45] Final thoughts: Solving labor challenges with cobots

Resources Mentioned: Pacific Press for the most trusted name in custom presses & press brakes ProFab Alliance to grow & improve your shop Hirebotics
Universal Robots  

In this episode of Making Sparks, we sit down with Joshua Battles from Forge and Tripp Hudson of Machine Pilot and The Way Automation to dive into the transformative power of automation in small job shops. From laser cutting and robotic integration to making automation accessible for low-volume work, Joshua and Tripp share practical insights and real-life examples of how technology can empower employees and enhance efficiency.

We also discuss the role of automation in preserving the backbone of American manufacturing—family-owned shops and owner-operators. Tune in to learn how small changes in automation can lead to big results, without sacrificing the people who make it all happen.

If you're curious about the future of fabrication or just love hearing about cool tech, this episode is for you!

Timestamps:

• [00:03:05] Meet our guests: Joshua Battles and Tripp Hudson
• [00:06:08] The benefits of laser cutting over plasma
• [00:13:12] Making automation accessible for job shops
• [00:24:06] How automation helps preserve small-town manufacturing
• [00:32:29] Real-world success stories from the shop floor
• [00:37:05] Final thoughts: The bright future of U.S. manufacturing

Resources Mentioned:

• Forge Metal Fabrication Equipment
• Machine Pilot and The Way Automation
• Check out Paperless Parts for Quoting

In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Sam Gingerich, a 21-year-old shop manager at Wertzbaugher Services, to talk about the unique challenges of leading a team in the metal fabrication and trailer repair industry. Sam shares his story of growing from a technician into a leadership role, navigating the complexities of managing peers, and balancing modern techniques with old-school craftsmanship.

They dive into the importance of patience and problem-solving, the rewards of delivering high-quality work, and how Sam bridges generational gaps with his team to keep the shop running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or a young leader stepping into a new role, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration straight from the shop floor.

Episode Breakdown:
[0:00] Introduction to Making Sparks
[3:55] Sam’s journey to becoming shop manager
[9:42] Managing peers and building team trust
[14:18] Old-school techniques meet modern tools
[20:11] Lessons in patience and resilience
[26:00] Advice for young leaders in metal fabrication

Resources Mentioned:
ProFab Alliance
Paperless Parts

In this episode of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Noah Dell, president of Champion Bridge, to explore the journey of a 150-year-old company embracing the future. Noah shares his experience taking over the family business, from updating old-school processes to integrating a brand-new Python beam line that’s transforming their fabrication capabilities.

They cover the challenges of preserving legacy while adopting new tech, the nuances of capital investment, and why even an "old-school" business can feel like a startup. Noah also reveals his strategies for navigating the changing labor market, implementing digital tools, and steering growth while keeping the spirit of a family business alive. If you're in manufacturing, fabrication, or simply curious about modernizing a legacy, this episode is packed with insights for you.

Episode Breakdown:

• [0:00] Introduction to Making Sparks
• [5:04] Noah’s journey into Champion Bridge
• [10:11] Legacy and new leadership at Champion Bridge
• [15:08] Installing the Python beam line: challenges and transformations
• [20:22] Capital investment decisions and future-proofing the shop
• [25:14] Going paperless: digital processes for efficiency
• [30:00] Labor market shifts, hiring challenges, and growth plans

Resources Mentioned: 

ProFab Alliance grow and improve your business
Check out Paperless Parts for estimating and quoting

Curious about what sets American manufacturing apart? In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with leaders from Pacific Press to uncover what it takes to be a standout in today’s competitive landscape. From their deep-rooted history to their hands-on approach to quality, Pacific Press’s story is a testament to American craftsmanship and innovation.

The hosts and guests explore the significance of manufacturing in the United States, discussing everything from maintaining competitive advantages to embracing modern advancements like automation. They also dig into Pacific Press’s rebranding journey and what it means for their future. If you’re passionate about American manufacturing or want to hear how a company can maintain its edge for decades, this episode is a must-listen!

Breakdown of the Episode:

[0:00] Introduction: Welcoming Pacific Press to MakingSparks
[2:45] The history and heritage of Pacific Press
[7:10] Manufacturing advantages of staying in the U.S.
[10:30] Pacific Press’s rebranding and what it symbolizes
[13:25] Embracing change: Automation and retrofitting old machines
[18:00] A family tradition: The personal stories behind the team
[21:40] Customer stories and standing out in a competitive market
[25:20] The impact of partnerships and collaborations
[28:30] Closing remarks and a dad joke by Casey Voelker

Resources Mentioned:

Pacific Press
Multi Press
ProFab Alliance

Curious about leadership and growth in manufacturing? In this episode of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Jim Stratman to discuss leadership strategies, culture, and business development in the plastics industry. Jim shares his 32-year journey building his company, from starting with a $5,000 credit card to achieving a private equity exit and remaining a leader in his industry.

They explore topics like creating value, preparing for a business sale, and the importance of a strong culture to keep employees engaged. Jim also discusses managing growth, strategic acquisitions, and maintaining a sense of family in a growing company. If you're interested in leadership, business strategy, and scaling a successful manufacturing business, tune in!

Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction to Episode
[2:00] Jim's early business journey
[6:00] Growing a company with private equity
[10:00] Culture and leadership
[15:00] Preparing for business growth
[20:00] Advice for business leaders

Resources Mentioned:
Paperless Parts
ProFab Alliance

Curious about leadership and growth in metal fabrication? In this episode of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Jeff Salyer from Wysong Manufacturing to discuss the importance of culture, leadership, and business strategy in the fabrication industry. Jeff shares his journey from law enforcement to marketing, and how Wysong has increased profits by 45% during an unpredictable year.

They dive into the power of custom press brakes, the role of automation in American manufacturing, and why it's essential to lean into company culture for success. If you're interested in insights on leadership, automation, and setting your business apart in today’s competitive market, tune in!

Breakdown of the Episode:
[0:00] Introduction to Episode
[2:40] Jeff’s journey to Wysong
[3:05] Introduction to Wysong Manufacturing
[6:00] Jeff's Transition from Law Enforcement to Marketing
[8:05] ProFab Alliance Spark of Knowledge
[10:30] Culture in the workplace
[13:10] Custom Press Brakes
[18:30] Marketing Strategies
[26:27] Future of Wysong
[28:56] Automation
[31:01] Advice for Industry Leaders

Resources Mentioned:

Paperless Parts
ProFab Alliance