Workforce 4.0 – Details, episodes & analysis

In this conversation, Ann Wyatt interviews Ken Macken, founder of Worker Labs, discussing the evolution of manufacturing, the challenges of workforce recruitment, and the future of jobs in the industry. Ken shares insights on the need for engaging work, the importance of technology in removing mundane tasks, and the vision behind his company aimed at making robotics more accessible. He emphasizes the significance of understanding customer needs and creating products that solve real problems, while also addressing the barriers to technology adoption in manufacturing. In this conversation, Ken and Ann discuss the transformative potential of robotics and automation in manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces that require no prior training. They explore the need for a more engaged workforce and the opportunities that arise from making technology accessible to a broader audience. The discussion also highlights the significance of community collaboration and networking in driving innovation and change within the industry.

In This Episode:

-05:05: The Evolution of Manufacturing and Robotics

-10:01: Workforce Challenges and Recruitment in Manufacturing

-14:58: The Future of Jobs in Manufacturing

-19:58: Overcoming Technology Adoption Barriers

-24:50: The Vision Behind Worker Labs

-30:09: Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Manufacturing

-38:59: Empowering Robotics Through User-Friendly Interfaces

-41:06: Revolutionizing Workforce Engagement in Manufacturing

More About Ken:

Born and raised in Australia, Ken Macken has called the United States his home for some time now. As a degreed Mechanical Engineer, Ken started out in machining in manufacturing and over the past 20 years has sought to bring real solutions to manufacturing companies struggling to implement technology. That is why Ken and his CoFounder Ric started their company, Workr Labs. Workr Labs, is building Manufacturing AI that gives industrial robots the ability to learn new tasks in minutes—no coding, no cloud, just powerful software enabling smarter hardware that enables manufacturers to compete globally. To learn more about Ken, connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this conversation, Kence Anderson, Founder and CEO of Composable sits down with host, Ann Wyatt, to discusses the critical role of AI in manufacturing. From the looming retirement crisis to the critical need for preserving tribal knowledge, Kence shares why AI, machine teaching, and innovative workforce training are more essential than ever. He highlights how manufacturers can empower engineers and operators, ensure business continuity, and build a future-ready workforce. Kence shares insights on overcoming talent challenges and offers advice for tenured manufacturing executives on the best ways they can leverage AI for the future of work and advice for early career professionals navigating their paths in the industry, alike.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to Kence Anderson and Composable

-02:51: The Importance of Preserving Tribal Knowledge

-06:42: Empowering Engineers and Workforce Development

-10:40: AI in Manufacturing: Bridging the Skills Gap

-18:34: Business Continuity and Legacy in Manufacturing

-22:29: Machine Teaching: A New Approach to Training

-29:01: Overcoming Talent Challenges in Manufacturing

-36:28: Kence's Journey and Advice for Early Career Professionals

More About Kence:

As our CEO and Founder of Composabl, Kence is a pioneering autonomous AI leveraging his deep expertise in the industrial sector. With a background in mechanical engineering and a passion for teaching, Kence has authored the book, "Designing Autonomous AI," along with having developed courses for the University of Washington and the Association for Advancing Automation. Previously the Director of Autonomous AI Adoption at Microsoft and the lead customer engineer for Bonsai (acquired by Microsoft), Anderson has spearheaded the creation of over 200 autonomous AI systems for commercial applications. Anderson's unparalleled talent lies in integrating human expertise with AI principles, exemplified by the innovative multi-agent orchestration platform he has developed with the Machine Teaching Methodology as the foundation of the platform architecture. Motivated by the desire to empower the 100M industry machine engineers, Anderson and the Composabl team developed a groundbreaking no-code production-ready AI Agent Builder tool kit. This enables operators and engineers to build "Intelligent Agents" that the engineer can teach to solve nuanced and real-world problems that supersede the current capabilities of manufacturing floor automation. To learn more about Kence, connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

The future of work is electric! And in this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt welcomes Luis Narvaez, Factory Automation Marketing Specialist at Siemens, to discuss the latest advancements in industrial automation technology. Luis delves into the release of the new S7 1200 Gen 2 PLC from Siemens with enhanced features focused on safety, flexibility, and ease of use. Most importantly, Ann and Luis also unpack its impact on addressing the skills gap in the manufacturing industry. Luis also shares insights from his own career journey, underscoring the importance of networking, continued education, and curiosity. These two even manage to takl about rollercoasters, too! Tune in to learn more about how Siemens is innovating to make frontline manufacturing work more efficient and satisfying.

In This Episode:

-00:35: Meet Louis Narvaez from Siemens

-01:21: Challenges in Workforce Development

-02:52: The Role of PLCs in Manufacturing

-08:54: The Evolution of PLC Technology

-15:36: Addressing the Skills Gap

-20:01: Introducing the S7 1200 G2 PLC

-28:06: Introduction to Product Goals

-28:24: Scalability and Engineering Tools

-29:45: Training and Performance Enhancements

-31:27: Safety Features and Flexibility

-36:42: Innovative NFC Technology

-39:26: Cybersecurity Considerations

-41:23: Career Journey and Advice

-55:11: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Luis Narvaez:

Luis Narvaez is passionate about the technology that is advancing manufacturing. Whether it is IIoT-related, Cybersecurity, robotics or the latest simulation and modeling tools he is always interested in exploring how technology is improving the lives of people in manufacturing. Luis is currently the Product Manager with Siemens and a graduate of the University of Central Florida. To learn more about Luis, connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

What makes a brand memorable? And what does that have to do with not only selling a product- but recruiting top talent? On this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Emily Wilkins, Founder and CEO of Marketing Metal to discuss actionable ways that manufacturing companies can reach their target audience and their targeted talent. This conversation also touches on the importance and defining brand integrity in business, the value of networking, modern marketing strategies and even tips on how company's can leverage tools like Chat GPT for best business practices. Tune into this fun and enlightening conversation on how modern marketing strategies are not only here to tell your story, but share how rad your brand is to your customers and to talent, alike.

In This Episode:

-00:30: Meet Emily Wilkins- Marketing Rockstar

-02:33: The Importance of Brand Integrity

-06:05: Adventures at IMTS: Networking and Fun

-08:50: Marketing Strategies for Small Manufacturers

-12:36: Recruitment as a Marketing Function

-16:33: Engaging the Next Generation Workforce

-20:21: Client Interviews and Employee Stories

-21:16: Ownership and Employee Satisfaction

-22:32: Recruitment Marketing Strategies

-25:23: Leveraging Technology in Recruitment

-32:00: ADHD and Personal Productivity

-34:15: Marketing Systems and Processes

-35:25: Podcast and Trade Show Highlights

-37:37: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Emily Wilkins

Emily is the Founder and CEO of Marketing Metal and she's on a mission to help job shops crush their marketing by building them a Radical brand that’s authentic to who they are and magnetic to those they want to attract. Her process empowers them to market their businesses simply and effectively without spending a fortune or wasting countless hours on social media. Emily uses her shiny disposition and sharp wit to help manufacturers source and shape their METAL–the stuff that makes their shop magnetic to the kinds of humans that they want to have around them. She asks hard questions and goes deep with her customers so that she can not only build them a Radical brand but help them OWN it and recognize their own Radicalness. To learn more about Emily, connect with her here.

Grab your free download of her "Blueprint For A Radical Brand Message," as mentioned in this episode here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt converses with Mark Beckmann, Director of Manufacturing Industry Solutions at Microsoft, to explore the evolving role of AI in manufacturing and its transformative potential. This episode offers some great insight into practical applications of AI with a special emphasis on the concept of AI Agency as a growing trend for companies heading into 2025. Mark also discusses other big ideas such as AI democratization and adoption, AI skills for the future workforce and concerns about the longterm impact that AI will have on our everyday lives and the future of work for humans.

In This Episode:

-00:29: Mark Beckmann's Background and Role at Microsoft

-03:14: Diving into AI and Future Trends

-04:04: AI in Manufacturing and Task Automation

-07:45: AI in HR and Performance Reviews

-10:13: Career Opportunities and Skills in AI

-12:54: Prompt Engineering Explained

-17:00: AI Democratization and Business Impact

-20:34: The Ubiquity of AI in Our Lives

-21:31: AI in Manufacturing: Enhancing Efficiency

-23:25: AI's Impact Beyond Manufacturing

-26:35: AI in Healthcare: Transforming Patient Care

-28:14: The Future of AI: Opportunities and Concerns

-32:58: AI and Labor: A Symbiotic Relationship

-34:57: Agriculture and AI: Feeding the Future

-35:53: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Mark Beckmann:

As a Director, Manufacturing Industry Solutions at Microsoft, Mark works with all manufacturers to consult with them on their Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation Initiatives. In particular, helping them transform their innovation, operational excellence, supply chain, field and dealer management services to fuel their ability to grow and compete in the face of advances in technology and disruption. Mark frequently engages with and advises manufacturers on innovations related to the Internet of Things (IoT), Smart Manufacturing, Connected Products, Analytics, Artificial Intelligence and the application of these technologies to address their manufacturing challenges. Mark frequently speaks at conferences and industry events on topics in manufacturing and leads Microsoft work with the Digital Manufacturing Design and Innovation Institute. Mark has worked in the Information Technology field for 38 years as a consultant, partner manager, sales and sales management positions. To learn more about Mark, connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this highly anticipated season opener of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with Kevin Bowers, Vice President of Research at AMT, to explore the years hottest trends shaping the manufacturing landscape in 2025. This insightful discussion provides valuable perspectives for anyone in the manufacturing industry seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Join us as Kevin shares his hot takes on the impact of the CHIPS Act, the growing influence of Big Tech, sustainability in manufacturing and the potential impact that Trump era tariffs could bring to the industry at scale.

In This Episode:

-00:35: Meet Kevin Bowers from AMT

-03:53: Kevin's Career Journey

-05:52: The Role of AMT and Its Team

-11:47: Manufacturing Trends and Insights

-16:30: Leveraging Government Initiatives

-19:30: AI and Automation for SMEs

-26:01: Future of Work in Manufacturing

-30:32: Top Trends Recap for 2025

-34:48: Conclusion and Contact Information

About Kevin Bowers:

Kevin is the association's Vice President of Research: With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing across sales, operations, training, and support, he understands all aspects of our members' businesses. He also led research for industrial equipment and field services at the Technology & Services Industry Association, where they focused on benchmarking, advisory, and consulting to improve members' business outcomes. Kevin's deep-rooted industry knowledge and technical expertise, combined with his experience in actionable research, make him uniquely qualified to take our Research and Consulting team at AMT to the next level. He also serves on the board of NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills). Kevin graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Japanese and spent several years living and working in Japan. To connect with Kevin, please do so here. Also be sure the check out the amazing research that AMT is doing through their AMT Research Services and as a special bonus, we're including the link to the specific article mentioned into today's episode, "Tariffs: They're A Big Deal."

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this season finale episode of Workforce 4.0, join your host, Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Co-Founder of TW Controls, Amber Wilborne. During this light hearted and inspiring conversation, Amber shares her journey of being a bona fide girl boss and reflects on critical ways that the manufacturing industry has evolved over the past few decades. Amber also shares some impactful lessons and insights for all the aspiring baby girl bosses in this industry and encourages us all to break up with the word competition and choose collaboration instead. Overall, this is a fun and engaging conversation that highlights the value of patience, resilience and the human aspect of leadership in the manufacturing sector that you don't want to miss!

In This Episode:

-01:35: Amber's Journey in Manufacturing

-02:45: Impact of TW Controls' Educational Initiatives

-03:44: Memorable Moments and Industry Influence

-05:53: Karaoke Adventures and Personal Stories

-10:23: Challenges and Changes in Manufacturing Culture

-17:41: Mentorship and Apprenticeship Importance

-20:10: Collaboration Over Competition

-22:39: Calm Down, We're All Going to Chicago

-23:08: The Future of Work, Works Together

-23:32: Empowering Women in Manufacturing

-24:27: The Importance of Failure

-24:59: Our Stories Matter

-26:17: Starting T.W. Controls

-27:10: Ministry Work and Giving Back

-30:16: Leadership and Philanthropy

-37:51: Advice for Future Generations

-40:33: Connecting with Amber

-43:30: Season Finale and Farewell

More About Amber Wilborne:

Amber and Tim have owned and operated TW Controls LLC since 2006. Both work with manufacturing companies offering training and education for the industry. Their company has worked in a variety of industries to improve access to clean water and sanitation, increase production of medical equipment, and improve skills to support manufacturing in the United States.

Amber is involved in Rotary International helping her community and doing work internationally. Her and Tim, as well as their children, have served alongside each other since 2015. Amber and Tim have witnessed new wells being dug, maintenance on wells, helping with clean water and sanitation needs, as well helping with mothers and children in developing countries.

Amber loves her manufacturing and Rotary community and will continue to serve in whatever capacity she is able to. Connect with Amber Wilborne here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

Raise your hand if you've ever felt victimized by job boards and boring job descriptions! We know a certain recruiter that sure has and on this episode of Workforce 4.0, join Ann Wyatt as she sits down with Alison Danielsen, CEO of Tallo, to discuss the platform's innovative approach to connecting job seekers and students with career opportunities. They delve into the unique data structure of Tallo, its user-friendly interface, and its focus on early talent aged 13 to 30. During the conversation, Allison also shares her own career journey, success stories and partnerships in manufacturing and workforce development agencies and breaking down workforce data. The conversation touches on challenges in awareness and exploration among young people and the evolving landscape of manufacturing careers.

In This Episode:

-02:19: Alison's Background and Tallo's Mission

-04:23: Simplifying Job Descriptions and Skills Matching

-07:30: Engaging Young Talent: Interests and Assessments

-11:54: The Evolution and Future of Tallo

-17:25: The Importance of Skills-Based Hiring

-28:12: Leveraging Data for Workforce Development

-35:53: Closing Remarks and Contact Information

More About Allison Danielsen:

Allison's experience as a mentor and small business consultant has shown her the value of one-on-one support. Her experience leading large teams and initiatives has shown her the power of influencing outcomes at scale. Trajectories can change when even small interventions are delivered widely. That's why she's energized by the opportunity to help millions of young people discover and explore career paths, learn and earn meaningful credentials, and make connections to good jobs through a digital platform that brings all stakeholders to the table. Learn more about Tallo and connect with Allison here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

What valuable insights can be gained from "people data?" In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host, Ann Wyatt, sits down with the DE&I and Cultural Strategist of Philly Shipyard, Sophie Bierly, to take a closer look at how diversity in manufacturing is effecting everything from the products that we make to the people that buy them. Join them as they discuss the challenges of capturing and leveraging people data including employee and caregiving support. And be sure to stick around for the deep dive into exploring recruiting and retention strategies- highlighting the need for community engagement and flexibility in the workplace. Lastly, Sophie underscores the importance of transparency and honest communication in building a supportive and innovative work environment. Packed with insights and ideas, this episode provides practical go-to advice for businesses looking to implement effective DEI strategies and leveraging people data to enhance workforce performance and satisfaction.

In This Episode:

-01:08: Diving into DEI and People Data

-08:55: The Importance of Caregiver Support

-14:23: Challenges in Manufacturing Flexibility

-18:38: Recruitment Strategies and Community Engagement

-21:58: The Value of DEI in the Workforce

-36:10: Future Predictions for Workforce and Flexibility

-41:03: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Sophie Bierly:

Sophie Bierly is dedicated to empowering historically marginalized and underrepresented communities at work. As DEI and Culture Strategist at Philly Shipyard, her work is driven by elevating employees’ voices and collaborating with inter-organizational stakeholders. In her previous work, Sophie worked for the Kim Center for Social Balance, conducting workforce equity research and consulting with businesses across industries at the regional scale, creating the first ever LEAPS Report on Workplace Equity at the Regional level, with San Diego County. Sophie has a passion for using data to demonstrate the need and impact of DEI at workplaces. To learn more about Sophie, connect with her here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

From working his way up in a machine shop out of high school to advising companies on the best methods for training their workforce for the era of Industry 4.0, this week's guest on Workforce 4.0 has done it all! Join host, Ann Wyatt, as she sits down with the Executive Director of NIMS, Montez King to share his passion for workforce development in manufacturing. During this interview, Montez shares his background and his own career journey, best practices for preserving tribal knowledge and the role of data and metrics in the training of your frontline workforce. Throughout the conversation, Montez emphasizes the need for dynamic and technology-driven training frameworks to address skill gaps and ensure sustainable growth in the manufacturing industry. We even learn about Montez's personal journey from "journey person" to gaining national (and parental attention) through a magazine feature. You don't want to miss this special episode of Workforce 4.0.

In This Episode:

-03:23: Montez's Journey: From Apprentice to Expert

-05:29: The Value of Hands-On Experience

-17:06: Overcoming the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

-19:52: Understanding Tribal Knowledge

-21:07: Documenting Processes vs. Tribal Knowledge

-22:18: Dynamic and Smart Technology in Training

-25:48: The Role of Data in Training Decisions

-29:29: Challenges in Training Implementation

-38:34: The Importance of Company Culture in Training

-41:07: Conclusion and Contact Information

More About Montez:

As Executive Director of NIMS, Montez leads the transformation of outdated training approaches, including osmosis training where employers simply expect new employees to soak in knowledge from their co-workers. His goal, instead, is to teach companies to change their cultures, establish credibility and erase complexity gaps in learning. Prior to joining NIMS, Montez led the training function for one of the world's largest OEM automotive parts manufacturers and served as a machinist apprentice at a major energy company. To learn more about Montez, connect with him here.

The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:

Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.