Jason got to take a tour of an Amazon Fulfillment Center and he’s here to share takeaways that every industrial business can benefit from.With co-host Patrick Turley, Jason breaks down Amazon’s use of computer vision, edge computing, and digital twins and what it can teach us about Industry 4.0.They also touch on how technology can improve workforce retention and how it can help managers make better decisions. These two bearded gentlemen’s childlike excitement about the workings of a warehouse floor will leave you with a smile and a lot to think about for your own company’s future.Resources:Connect with Jason Hehman on LinkedInConnect with Patrick Turley on LinkedInBe mesmerized by this YouTube video of the CW1000Check out this speedy Amazon worker’s video on YoutubePlay FactorioLearn more about the predictive maintenance system Amazon sells, MonitronProduced by NOVA Media

What’s virtual reality’s value for manufacturing today? In this episode we break down everything you need to know about today’s spatial computing (virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, etc.) for manufacturers.We discuss how it could speed up and standardize training. We envision how it could empower more stakeholders, including clients and maintenance teams, to provide input earlier in the design process. We also get into the difference between the spatial computing leaders (Apple, Microsoft, and Meta) and what to watch for in this space.The big takeaway: Right now manufacturers can find immediate value in spatial computing by using it as an innovation catalyst. Putting on a spatial computing headset gives new perspective to what is possible, driving teams to better digitize and organize their work. Resources:Connect with Jason Hehman on LinkedInConnect with Patrick Turley on LinkedInConnect with Ed LaFoy on LinkedInProduced by NOVA Media

What lessons can manufacturing professionals learn from Friday’s Crowdstrike catastrophe?We give an overview of what happened and what it can teach the manufacturing community about best practices in the software development process. We also explain what incident response should look like in these situations.This episode is for manufacturing executives who need to have a basic understanding of these threats, how to prevent them, and how to respond to them.

HS Inc. is a success story of a family-owned manufacturing company surviving and thriving by future-proofing itself. Today its Director of Business Development, Paul St. Louis, joins the show to tell us about their fifty-year evolution from mold maker to automation integrator. Founded in 1969 close to Detroit Michigan, HS Inc. got its start creating parts for the automotive industry. As the industry changed, HS Inc. changed too. They use their know-how to pivot towards making modular systems that could be easily adapted by a variety of industries– yes, even machines that make sheet cake. Paul walks us through how HS Inc. leveraged automation to future-proof itself and how it now does the same for its clients. Plus, stay tuned to the end for our “what we saw in AI this week” section where we discuss the Apple Intelligence announcement.Resources:Learn more at hsinc.us Connect with HS Inc. on LinkedIn and FacebookConnect with Paul St. Louis on LinkedInRead “The Best Interface is No Interface”Produced by NOVA Media

The annual Rethink Conference by the Manufacturing Leadership Council is one of the top events in the digital transformation of manufacturing. What’s discussed there is indicative of what’s likely to come for manufacturers of all shapes and sizes. Jason attended the conference and is ready to report his top three takeaways. Patrick is here to help him analyze it all. The first takeaway: Workforce development is a pain point for a lot of companies out there. Second takeaway: There is an appetite for making supply networks more resilient. Third takeaway: Increased data gathering capabilities mean leaders need to be more selective and strategic in what data they collect, analyze, and use.Jason and Patrick dive into each one to discuss solutions. They talk about how to modernize worker training without losing the critical human and cultural aspect of it. They identify standardized, interoperable data and high-quality digital twins as key to resilient supply networks. They discuss things companies should keep in mind when build their data strategy: Legal liability, clarity, and prioritization.And, as always, they end with a segment on what AI tool they checked out this week: Patrick has convinced Jason to start using Super Whisper.Resources:Learn more at ManufacturingLeadershipCouncil.comProduced by NOVA Media

Deepti Yenireddy has an incredible track record of creating tech products and platforms that change the trajectory of businesses. What’s her secret sauce? She spends 90% of her time with clients. When she’s not with a client, she and her team are in full ‘speed-to-value’ mode– getting iterations to clients to enjoy and give feedback on, within days, not months. Deepti is our guest on the show today and she’s a fountain of insight and knowledge.Currently, Deepti is the Founder of Boon, a connected AI platform transforming the trucking and logistics industry. You can tell she spends 90% of her time directly with clients because she rattles off terms like “hours of service review,” “fuel cost mapping,” and “tenders” as if she’s been working in trucking for decades. She breaks down for us where she thinks the industry is at in terms of AI adoption.Deepti’s goal is to deliver true, real-world value to all the companies that are supporting the backbone of our economy, getting them to the next level where they can actually see double-digit profit margins rather than single-digit margins. If that resonates with you, you’re going to really love this episode.Plus, Jason and Turley talk about where they’ve bumped into AI this week: Machine tending robots who can “see.”Resources:Learn more at GetBoon.aiProduced by NOVA Media

Patrick is finally back from his secret mission, so we’re here to do a group debrief about the past few episodes, tying together themes that we noticed ran throughout.We talk about AI safety, forecasting what will need to be done before enterprises are comfortable putting their data into AI tools and training models. We discuss how technology can play an important role in compliance and tracking chain of custody. And we all agree that the importance of business strategy in making tech decisions can’t be emphasized enough. We wrap up by talking about what we want to cover in the upcoming episodes, plus what AI products popped up in our lives this week. Resources:Listen to Episode 11: Unlocking AI's Potential Safely: The Strategic Approach of Bookend.ai with Ben SprecherListen to Episode 12: Green data: How Colton Griffin is transforming the cannabis supply chainListen to Episode 13: Delivery disrupted: The secret sauce for last mile efficiency with Better Trucks CTO Mike KolenoListen to the Josh Wolfe episode on the Prof G Podcast PodcastProduced by NOVA Media

Transportation is a uniquely physical business– it’s not going to be taken over by AI any time soon. But that doesn’t mean that AI or other tech innovations can’t be genuinely helpful for workers and management. Today, Chris Torrence, Chief Strategy Officer from Optym joins us to talk about how tech automation and optimization should work.We have a great conversation about how tech shouldn’t be an additional burden on operators. And, it’s not a fix for a broken process. The point of tech innovation for companies is to make everyone’s lives easier, freeing up more time to address root problems and then “go win more freight.”In order for tech to do this, it has to be chosen and implemented in a collaborative manner. We talk about how mid-management and operators need to be brought in for their input, buy-in, and feedback. Departmental silos have to come down. Change needs to be incremental, with a focus on sustainable implementation.We had a great conversation with Chris, including chatting about how his time in the Air Force shaped how he approaches things. Plus, stay tuned for our end segment on the prototyping and experimentation TXI has been doing with the new Apple Vision Pro spatial computing device. Resources:Optym website: Optym.com Connect with Chris Torrence on LinkedInProduced by NOVA Media

In this episode of the Modern Industrialist Podcast, we explore the cutting-edge of last-mile delivery with Mike Koleno, the Chief Technology Officer at Better Trucks. Mike, whose background spans financial services and technology, now leads the charge in revolutionizing logistics with Industry 4.0 innovations. Under his leadership, Better Trucks has become a beacon for technological advancements in the logistics sector, particularly focusing on the complexities of last-mile delivery—a crucial endpoint that directly impacts customer satisfaction.Throughout our discussion, Mike delves into how Better Trucks leverages real-time APIs for dynamic label creation and sophisticated routing systems designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of deliveries. Join us as we unpack the nuances of logistics innovation with Mike Koleno. From discussing the challenges of integrating new technologies to the importance of fostering a culture of innovation within Better Trucks, this episode is packed with insights into how modern solutions are reshaping traditional industries.Resources:Better Trucks website: BetterTrucks.comVestigo Tracking: vestigotracking.comConnect with Mike Koleno on LinkedInProduced by NOVA Media

Today we’re diving into the world of cannabis supply chain management with Colton Griffin, CEO of Flourish Software. With a rich history in optimizing supply chains through innovative data analytics, Colton brings to the forefront the intricacies and challenges of navigating the cannabis industry. Flourish Software stands out as a pioneer in offering technological solutions that span the entire cannabis, CBD, and hemp verticals, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and profitability amid a complex regulatory landscape. Throughout our discussion, Colton unravels the nuances of the cannabis supply chain, from the importance of seed-to-sale software to the unique state-by-state industry dynamics within the United States. He shares insightful examples of how technology has been instrumental in simplifying regulatory compliance and operational tasks, freeing up businesses to focus on their core activities. The conversation also highlights the vital role of data-driven decision-making in overcoming the industry's challenges, emphasizing Flourish Software's commitment to integrating sustainability and equity into its mission. Join us as we explore the future of cannabis operations and supply chain management with Colton Griffin. Tune in for an enlightening journey through the complexities of the cannabis supply chain and discover how Flourish Software is making a difference in creating more efficient and ethically conscious industry practices.

In this episode of the Modern Industrialist Podcast, we sit down with Ben Sprecher, the Chief Product Officer at Bookend.ai, to explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the realm of modern industry. Ben, a seasoned product leader and technology executive whose journey has traversed from Wall Street to leading a business into the arms of Google, brings a wealth of experience in harnessing AI to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by enterprise developers today. At the heart of our discussion is Bookend.ai's innovative approach to safely and simply incorporating generative AI into software systems and SaaS solutions, a topic that resonates with developers and industry leaders alike. Throughout the episode, Ben shares insightful examples that illustrate the critical role of context in shaping the outputs of generative AI, diving deep into the concept of retrieval augmented generation. Join us as we delve into the cutting-edge of AI technology, uncovering the tools and strategies that are setting the stage for the next wave of industrial innovation. From the nuances of AI deployment to the dynamic solutions offered by Bookend.ai, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone looking to leverage AI for growth, security, and innovation in the digital era.

In this episode of the Modern Industrialist Podcast, we delve into the crucial support system for startups navigating the transition from prototype to market-ready product. Our guest, Adam Rodrigues of FORGE, a nonprofit with offices across CT and MA, shares his journey and the mission of FORGE to connect innovators with local manufacturing resources. With a rich background in supply chain operations, Adam brings invaluable insights into the challenges startups face and how strategic collaborations can significantly impact their journey toward commercialization. FORGE stands as a pivotal bridge between the worlds of innovation and manufacturing, offering startups the guidance needed to make informed decisions before committing significant resources. Adam's experiences and the success stories facilitated by FORGE underscore the significance of local expertise, strategic partnerships, and the vital support systems that help bridge the gap from concept to commercial success. Tune in to uncover the pathways to innovation and the collaborative efforts driving the future of manufacturing and startup success.

In this episode of the Modern Industrialist podcast, hosts Jason Hehman and Patrick Turley speak to Zach Peña from Empirix Partners to explore the pivotal role of strategic sourcing and procurement in the era of industry 4.0. They delve into the challenges and strategies for building resilient supply chains, particularly in mission-critical infrastructure like data centers. With Zach's extensive background, including his experience in the Marine Corps and at companies like NTT and Microsoft, the conversation offers deep insights into optimizing procurement processes, ensuring supply chain resilience, and the importance of technology in industrial innovation. We conclude with reflections on the broader implications of these discussions for the future of industrial automation, AI, and smart manufacturing, highlighting the critical nature of embracing technology for sustainable growth in the industrial sector.

In this episode we're joined by Bo Guilbeault of Starbucks, a leader in IT Asset Management and Retail Infrastructure Technologies. Dive into the heart of Industry 4.0 with us as Bo shares his expertise in managing complex IT assets across Starbucks' global network. Learn about the integration of IT Asset Management with cybersecurity, financial strategies, and sustainability efforts. Bo also discusses the future of asset management, highlighting the impact of technologies like AI and IoT. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and business strategy in today's fast-evolving industrial landscape. Join us for a blend of insights and innovation with one of the leading minds in IT Asset Management.

In this episode we dive into the world of cybersecurity with renowned experts Dr. Michael Powell and Aslam Sherule from The National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE). They chat with Jason and Turley about the evolving cyber threat landscape in the US, discussing the role of AI, critical changes in cybersecurity paradigms, and pragmatic strategies tailored specifically for the manufacturing and logistics sectors. Part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, NCCoE collaborates with industry, government, and academia to create practical cybersecurity solutions for businesses. Using standards and available technology, they develop adaptable models that address pressing security challenges and protect the nation’s critical infrastructure from attacks. Join us to learn practical steps to secure complex IT systems and how to avoid cyber risks at your own organization.

TXI recently had the opportunity to attend the 'Smart Manufacturing Showcase' presented at MxD, a collaborative event by IMEC Illinois and CESMII in Chicago. It was an insightful gathering, bringing together industry leaders and innovators in the manufacturing space. With the current labor challenges and a skills gap that's projected to result in almost 2 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, it's clear that we need to rethink how smart manufacturing technologies are applied. Other topics include 3D printing, digital manufacturing, cybersecurity, and more. Tune in!

Jason and Turley interview the team behind Tangler Wrangler about manufacturing, 3D printing, EVs, and what it's like forming a startup company in grad school. David Lyke, President and Chief Engineer and Lauren Barrera Reny, COO discuss how they met and brought their product for EV owners to market - a one-piece plastic cord wrap designed to make storing and transporting an electric vehicle’s mobile charging cord easy, safe, and convenient.

Join hosts Jason and Turley as they unravel the latest breakthroughs in the age of Industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence. In this episode, the dynamic duo shares insights from attending Applied Intelligence Live! Austin 2023, a new amalgamation of the IoT World and AI Summit conferences. We explore the main themes of the show, including wireless connectivity, quantum computing, smart cities, and the intriguing concept of digital twins. With notable industry giants like Shell, AT&T, Google, Nvidia, and John Deere taking the stage, the conference provided a diverse and enriching agenda. Stay at the forefront of innovation – tune in to The Modern Industrialist podcast for an insider's perspective on the future of technology!

In this episode, Jason is joined by Jeff Yin, VP of Technology at Motorcity Systems. They discuss upgrading 30-year-old transportation software in the trucking industry. Motorcity and TXI partnered to develop the ROLLER app, which improves dispatch-to-driver communications with advanced messaging capabilities and the sharing of scanned documents all in one integrated app. Regular guest Turley returns to the program to take a deep dive into the modern product strategy, where technical challenges related to data integration play a significant role alongside aesthetics and usability.

In episode 2 of the Modern Industrialist, Jason Hehman and co-host Turley delve into predictive maintenance options in the world of Industry 4.0. Tune in as they explore the foundations of predictive maintenance and discover how organizations use IoT sensor data to monitor system components and predict maintenance needs, ultimately saving money and reducing equipment downtime. We'll also cover the importance of diverse data sources and how computer vision can reveal hidden problems.