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
Paperless Parts

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