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