Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Making Sparks
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| Preparing for a Merger: Hard Decisions to Preserve Legacy in the Fab Shop | Part 1 | 07 May 2025 | 00:35:04 | |
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/
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| How To Turn Influence into Metal Fabrication Sales | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:38:54 | |
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:
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/
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| The People Behind the Sparks | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:21:57 | |
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: Pacific Press for the most trusted name in custom presses Check out Paperless Parts for Quoting ProFab Alliance to grow & improve your shop
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| Solving Labor Shortages with Cobots | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:23:42 | |
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 | |||
| Empowering Small Shops with Automation | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:40:02 | |
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:
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| Bridging Generations in the Shop | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:28:10 | |
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: Resources Mentioned: | |||
| New Leadership Takes Over 150 Year Old Steel Fabrication Company | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:51:42 | |
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:
Resources Mentioned: ProFab Alliance grow and improve your business | |||
| American-Made Excellence: Craftsmanship and Innovation at Pacific Press | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:18:42 | |
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 Resources Mentioned: Pacific Press | |||
| Why It's Okay to Tell Your Employees You Love Them | 23 Oct 2024 | 00:47:42 | |
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 Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Insights on Achieving High Growth Despite Challenges | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:35:44 | |
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: Resources Mentioned: Paperless Parts | |||
| From Wantrepreneur to Metal Industry Leader with Jeff Matuszak | 25 Sep 2024 | 00:46:45 | |
Looking to break into the fabrication industry or curious about the leap from corporate life to business ownership? In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix chat with Jeff Matuszak, a former finance executive who transitioned into owning a successful fabrication shop. Jeff shares how he navigated the jump from corporate boardrooms to running Carolina Metal and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From overcoming initial hurdles to embracing automation, Jeff opens up about the realities of scaling a small business in the fabrication world. They discuss the importance of smart investments, adapting to market changes, and the value of networking in an ever-evolving industry. If you're looking for inspiration or practical advice on managing a fabrication business, this episode has plenty to offer. Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction to MakingSparks Resources Mentioned:
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| Navigating a Sales Downturn | 16 Sep 2024 | 00:33:40 | |
Curious about to navigate a sales downtown in industrial manufacturing? In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix dive into the power of leveraging CRM systems like Pipedrive to drive business growth. They share their journey of customizing Pipedrive to fit their needs. The hosts also discuss the challenges of navigating economic downturns, offering practical advice on keeping teams engaged and business development efforts strong during slow times. If you're looking for actionable insights on data-driven strategies and maintaining momentum in tough markets, this episode is for you! Breakdown of the Episode: [0:00] Introduction: Data-driven strategies in business
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| The Quiet Cut That's Loudly Threatening Small Manufacturing | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:35:09 | |
Most small manufacturers don’t realize they’re being quietly supported by one of the most impactful public-private partnerships in the country. The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) has long been the hidden backbone behind training programs, grant facilitation, process improvements, and critical tech upgrades for shops across the U.S. But recent Federal decisions to defund these programs—without clear communication or reasoning—have sparked confusion and alarm among industry insiders. In this episode, a passionate roundtable of manufacturers and advocates reveals just how deeply the MEPs have shaped their businesses, supported workforce development, and opened doors to opportunity they couldn’t have accessed alone. From AR-integrated quoting tools to automation investment guidance, these stories show a clear economic impact that extends far beyond individual shops—right into the health of local communities and the national manufacturing strategy. If you're just hearing about MEPs now, you're not alone—but you are at risk. This conversation lays out what’s at stake, why it matters, and what you can do right now to help save a resource that quietly powers tens of thousands of manufacturers nationwide. YouTube: https://youtu.be/WNjevmTNUu4 VideoAsk: https://www.videoask.com/fiyvfkcdd | |||
| Utilizing Marketing Strategies in Industrial and Manufacturing Businesses | 21 Aug 2024 | 00:39:17 | |
Did you know that the way you're marketing right now could be your secret weapon for massive growth? In this eye-opening episode of MakingSparks, we dive deep with Alissa Paik, an expert in leveraging existing marketing efforts combined with new opportunities to improve your brand perception and marketing results. Alissa shares invaluable insights on why doubling down on your current strategies might be the key to unlocking your brand's full potential. Join Casey Voelker, Matthew Nix, and Alissa Paik as they explore real-world examples and actionable tips that can transform your approach to marketing. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or simply curious about optimizing your efforts, this episode is packed with knowledge that could redefine your strategy. | |||
| Using LinkedIn to Drive Leads for Your Manufacturing Business with Preston Hadley | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:37:24 | |
There are over 1 billion users on LinkedIn worldwide, 200 million of which are in the United States. Manufacturing is one of the largest industry segments represented on LinkedIn. Interestingly, LinkedIn is rewarding people who create content and share it on their platform. Why? It’s simple—they need more content. It’s time for manufacturing and fabrication businesses to take advantage of these facts. But how? In this episode of MakingSparks, Preston Hadley—the President & Founder of Envision Automation & Controls—shares how his content strategy on LinkedIn not only grew his following but transformed his business. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| What’s Keeping You Up at Night? An Update from Matthew and Casey | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:23:55 | |
What’s keeping you up at night? What are you excited about? It’s important to reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly. Why? First and foremost, to learn from our mistakes. But secondly, to embrace gratitude. Even despite challenges and setbacks, there’s always room for gratefulness and thankfulness. So in this episode of MakingSparks, Casey and I sit down to discuss the challenges we’re facing and exciting changes happening in our businesses. We also share why we don’t let worry consume us and instead, practice gratitude. – Matthew Nix Segments
Have questions? Want to be a guest? Reach out to us on LinkedIn! We’d love to hear from you. Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips | |||
| How Do We Get More Women in Welding? | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:38:03 | |
Did you know that only about 6% of welders are women? Women bring a much-needed perspective and expertise to the table. So how do we get more women in welding? NIX has actively been trying to recruit, hire, and retain more women. In this episode of MakingSparks, we sit down with Tori Guzman and Aubree Beyer to hear what they think we can do—or continue doing—to draw more female interest to the welding industry. Listen to learn what you can do to change the welding workforce. – Casey Voelker Segments
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| Oklahoma Meets Indiana - A Manufacturing Chat with Mike Payne Part 1 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:37:41 | |
Mike Payne has spent the last 20+ years deeply entrenched in the M&A process with dozens of companies throughout Oklahoma. Early in his career, he realized he loved the world of manufacturing. He also learned that he enjoyed operating a business. He was just waiting for the right opportunity to unfold. Then it happened: Six years ago, Mike was able to purchase Hill Manufacturing. In this episode of MakingSparks, we chat with Mike about his work in the M&A space, why he made acquisitions close to home, and what led to his passion for manufacturing. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Why Numbers are Important for Your Manufacturing Business | Mike Payne Part 2 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:41:04 | |
You need to know the “numbers” in your business. Every business owner needs to know that they’re making enough to pay their employees, make and deliver their products, and grow the business. That’s just good business. Non-financial metrics are important, too. A successful business has to focus on quality, safety, customer service, on-time delivery, retention, and even culture. Because if your culture is dialed in, the numbers will prove it. We take a deep look at the different numbers that are important for a manufacturing business to know in this part 2 episode of MakingSparks with Mike Payne. Also, listen to the end for a BIG announcement. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Staying Connected through Your Front Line Leaders Part 2 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:29:56 | |
How can leadership remain connected to what’s happening on the shop floor? At Nix, we’ve found a creative way to bridge a gap that many businesses experience. We’ve implemented a program that allows our front line to address problems and propose solutions so that their everyday real-world problems are being fixed. Dakota Hunt and Jack Henry Hagan return to share how this program has positively impacted them and the business. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Growing Shop Floor Front Line Leaders Part 1 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:27:06 | |
How do we recruit more young talent to fabrication? How do we navigate rapid growth balanced with training and development? How do we help develop young talent into our future leaders? These are just a few questions we wrestle with in this episode of MakingSparks with special guests Dakota Hunt and Jack Henry Hagan. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Manufacturing Precision and Processes with BWXT GM Nate Foote | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:38:14 | |
BWXT Mount Vernon produces components for naval nuclear reactors, used in submarines and aircraft carriers. Their sprawling facility is home to CNC machine tools and sophisticated welding and heat-treating equipment. In this episode of MakingSparks, General Manager Nate Foote shares more about their commitment to processes, their recruiting practices, and why the work they do is incredibly important. – Casey Segments
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| How Technology Drives Innovation on the Other Side of Metalworking Nation | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:44:01 | |
What are the pros and cons of plasma cutters vs. water jets vs. lasers? How does cutting with nitrogen differ from cutting with oxygen? How is technology driving innovation in fabrication? R.J. Reed and Brendon DiVincenzo join us in this episode of MakingSparks to cover all things lasers and fabrication. Because if you’re not MakingSparks with the right tool, you’re not making money. BAM! – Nick Segments
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| How to Reach the Next Generation in Trades | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:41:54 | |
Nush Ahmed, better known as 'Miss Swiss' joins us to discuss her journey in the machining world, her massive growth through social media, and how she is encouraging the next generation to give the Manufacturing Industry a shot. Episode Highlights: 05:30 - Introduction to MakingSparks + Nush If you want your shop to grow in the upcoming years, this next generation is the key to that - You don't want to miss this episode!
Nush's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nushrata/
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| Expanding and Transitioning a Family Business in Manufacturing with Joe Patterson | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:44:50 | |
Every family business that’s growing and expanding runs into some challenges. From navigating tough conversations with family to determining a centralized versus decentralized model, there are numerous things to consider. Joe Patterson’s family business overcame the challenges that came their way and expanded globally. However, they had lofty goals for the business and ultimately needed more capital to realize those goals. Joe shares how they expanded their family business and why they sold the majority of their shares to private equity in this episode of MakingSparks. Listen to learn how you can help your family business make sparks, grow, and make money. Segments
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| Embracing the Family Aspect of Business with Tad Dickel Part 2 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:34:58 | |
Communication with your family? How do you foster open communication in difficult conversations? Running a family business is full of unique challenges—and successes—that many other businesses don’t have to think about. But navigating those challenges doesn’t have to be difficult. Tad Dickel returns in this episode of MakingSparks to cover it all. – Matthew Nix If you missed part 1, go back and listen HERE. Segments
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| Navigating a Family Business in Manufacturing with Tad Dickel Part 1 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:30:15 | |
Nix Companies is a fifth-generation family business in an industry that's predominantly privately held and family-owned. Family-owned businesses are the fabric of our economy. Today’s guest on MakingSparks, Tad Dickel, is a Leadership & Strategy Consultant with a special interest in family-owned businesses. He helps them with everything from governance to succession planning. Tad shares why having difficult conversations with family early can make a profound impact on the long-term generational success of the business. He also covers how to have those conversations. Don’t miss this one! – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Why Should a Manufacturing Leader Come to FabTech? | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:30:40 | |
What is FabTech? Why should anyone in welding, fabrication, metal forming, or finishing attend FabTech? They not only hold seminars and have booths and exhibitors to visit. You won’t only learn about trends in technology and meet with potential suppliers. Most importantly, you’ll be able to network. In this episode of MakingSparks recorded live at FabTech 2023, we interview a couple of people we met at FabTech whose careers were positively impacted because they showed up. Don’t miss it. – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Part 2: Tactics and Strategies to Use for Recruiting in Manufacturing | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:40:46 | |
Recruiting in manufacturing can be difficult. Many students are taught the traditional “Graduate high school and go to college for four years” mentality. While there’s nothing wrong with taking that route, how do we capture the attention of young talent? How do we make them see the career trajectory available in welding or fabrication? Lindsey Nix and Angela Kirlin share some actionable tactics and strategies in this episode of MakingSparks! – Matthew Nix Segments
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| Part 1: Embracing Culture to Recruit Top Talent in Fabrication and Manufacturing | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:30:14 | |
Most mom-and-pop shops don’t have to worry about recruiting, hiring, and retaining talent until they decide they want to grow. When you find yourself needing to recruit and hire talent, where do you start? Start with your core values. Your company needs core values and a clear mission and vision to hire the right people, build the right culture, and retain your team long-term. Lindsey Nix and Angela Kirlin weigh in on what it takes to recruit top talent in this episode of MakingSparks. Segments
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| The Launch of MakingSparks with Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:18:13 | |
MakingSparks has officially arrived! Matthew Nix and I, Casey Voelker, are here to speak to the welding and fabrication industry. And just like MakingChips, we want to equip and inspire while attracting the next generation. Everyone will have some takeaways from MakingSparks. In this episode, Matthew shares more about Nix Companies and their explosive growth over the last 20 years. We’ll also cover what you can expect from MakingSparks, who should listen, and give you a sneak peek at our next episode. – Casey Segments
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| What Fuels the World's Largest Metal Fabrication Projects | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:45:25 | |
In this episode of MakingSparks, we sit down with John King, owner of JK Welding, whose story of grit, perseverance, and passion for the trade embodies the spirit of metal fabrication. From starting as a janitor in a welding shop to running a thriving Texas-based business known for tackling massive, unique projects—like the world’s largest wind chime and a pirate ship for a Royal Caribbean cruise line in the Bahamas—John shares the culture and mindset that have fueled his success.
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| How to Fix Your Quoting Process Before it Kills Your Shop | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:42:47 | |
Most fabrication shops struggle with quoting—whether it’s using outdated spreadsheets, clunky ERP systems, or just not having the time to do it right. In this episode, we sit down with Jason Ray, CEO and co-founder of Paperless Parts, to talk about how modern software can make quoting faster, more accurate, and actually help your shop make more money. Jason breaks down why so many shops have ERP trauma, how to fix broken quoting workflows, and why AI isn’t the magic bullet everyone thinks it is. He also shares insights on the massive reshoring wave happening in US manufacturing and what it means for fabricators trying to scale. Episode Highlights:[00:00:47] Why Shops Hate ERP and Software Implementations – Jason explains why so many fabricators have PTSD from bad ERP rollouts and how to avoid the same mistakes. [00:05:55] The Real Goal of Quoting – It’s not just about winning jobs—it’s about quoting efficiently, pricing correctly, and protecting your margins. [00:12:08] How Paperless Parts is Changing the Game – Why their quoting software is built to integrate with your workflow, not replace your team. [00:23:06] The Reshoring Boom and What It Means for Fabricators – Trillions of dollars in work are coming back to the U.S.—but only the most prepared shops will benefit. [00:27:03] Triage Your Quotes or Get Buried – How leading shops are prioritizing the right jobs instead of wasting time on low-value RFQs. [00:30:10] AI in Manufacturing – The right and wrong ways to use AI in quoting, plus the security risks no one’s talking about. This episode is a must-listen for metal fabrication leaders looking to streamline their front office, improve quoting accuracy, and position their shop for growth. Resources: 🔧 Simplify your quoting process with Paperless Parts: https://www.paperlessparts.com/
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| How Weld.com is Bringing Welding Education Online | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:34:43 | |
In this episode, Casey and Matthew sit down with Beau Wigington from Weld.com to explore how digital content is reshaping welding education and career growth. Beau shares his journey from being a musician to becoming a full-time content creator in the welding industry. They dive into the impact of social media, YouTube, and online learning in making welding knowledge more accessible than ever. Episode Highlights:[00:00:47] Beau’s Journey to Weld.com – From a career in music to discovering welding during the pandemic and competing in a welding competition that changed everything. [00:05:55] How Weld.com Helps Welders Learn and Grow – The platform’s role in providing high-quality welding education, from beginner tips to advanced techniques. [00:12:08] Expanding the Perception of Welding Careers – Why many people misunderstand the opportunities in welding and how Weld.com is showcasing exciting career paths. [00:23:06] The Power of Social Media in Welding Education – How YouTube and digital content are replacing old-school methods of learning the trade. [00:27:03] Weld.com’s New Direction – Taking education on the road by filming inside real shops and job sites to show welding in action. [00:30:10] Why Every Fabricator Should Be Creating Content – How shops can use digital media to attract talent, land customers, and grow their business. This episode is packed with insights on the future of welding education and how digital platforms are transforming the trade. Whether you're a fabricator, shop owner, or welding enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable takeaways on leveraging content for business and career growth. Resources:
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| How to Streamline Metal Sales | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:18:19 | |
In this episode, Matthew and Casey sit down with Lee from Bryzos to dive into how the company is reshaping the steel pricing landscape and offering innovative solutions to fabricators. They dive into the word of instant pricing and streamlined procurement in the metal industry.
Episode Highlights:
This episode is packed with industry insights, real-world examples, and actionable strategies for fabricators and steel buyers alike. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in metal fabrication, this conversation with the tools to revolutionize your approach to buying and selling steel.
Resources: Simplify your quoting process with the #1 quoting and collaboration software for manufacturers: https://www.paperlessparts.com Trusted for over 75 years, Pacific Press delivers high-quality hydraulic presses, press bakes, and shears tailored for the metal fabrication industry. Explore solutions: https://www.pacific-press.com/ Enhance your leadership and business operations with resources from ProFab Alliance: https://www.profaballiance.com/ Instant Steel Pricing with Bryzos: https://www.bryzos.com/
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| How to Leverage Conferences and Tradeshows to Grow Your Fabrication Business | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:28:40 | |
In this special FABTECH edition of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Nick Goellner and Mike Payne to explore the value of conferences like FABTECH for driving business growth, building relationships, and planning for the future of metal fabrication. 🎙 Episode Highlights: [0:28] Why building relationships at FABTECH is more than just networking—it's planting seeds for long-term success. Packed with practical advice and real-world stories, this episode is a must-listen for fabricators, business leaders, and anyone looking to spark new growth in the metalworking industry. Tune in now to discover how to make the most of Tradeshows! Resources:
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| Crafting Metal and Breaking Barriers with Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stork | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:45:46 | |
In this special FABTECH edition of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with two incredible guests, Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stotk, to dive into the artistry, resilience, and transformative power of welding. 🎙 Episode Highlights: 🔹 [2:00] Meet Barbie and Sarah, two trailblazing welding artists turning raw metal into breathtaking sculptures. This episode is packed with personal stories, empowering lessons, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a welder, a creator, or just someone looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you motivated to spark your own creativity. Resources | |||