Made in America with Ari Santiago

Special guests: Pedro Soto, President of both Hygrade Precision Technologies and the Aerospace Component Manufacturers (ACM) 0:30-13:36 Michael Forrest, VP, Forrest Machine 13:37-22:14 Jeff Whittaker, President, American Cladding Technologies 22:15-27:57 Colin Cooper, Chief Manufacturing Officer, CT DECD 27:58-47:13 Recorded live from the ACM Aerospace Alley Tradeshow, the fantastic guests on this episodes talk about the state of manufacturing in CT today, including the true benefits of an organization like ACM. They speak about their hopes for the future as they watch over 1500 students talking to over 100 companies and organizations representing the manufacturing industry in CT at the tradeshow. This episode culminates with a short interview with Colin Cooper, the newly installed Chief Manufacturing Officer for our state. Colin talks about the interconnectedness of the manufacturing industry in CT, the state's focus on Workforce Development, and his optimism for the current administration and his own new ro

Ron Angelo, President and CEO of Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology has an incredible vision for the future of both CCAT and manufacturing in our region. His pride in Connecticut's manufacturing outlook is clear and contagious. Listen to this fast-paced, super-insightful podcast episode to find out what CCAT is up to in the areas of technology, workforce development, incumbent worker training, bringing CT manufacturing together for a brighter future and so much more. Find out what CCAT can do to help your small manufacturing business improve processes and use technology to carry you into the future.   Ron Angelo, President and CEO, Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. Ron's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-angelo-2432242a/ CCAT LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ccat/ CCAT Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CTCenterforAdvancedTech/ CCAT website: www.ccat.us   Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct Website: https://www.gettingyouconnected.c

Most of our guests to-date have been from small to mid-sized manufacturing companies that are family or local owned. But, what happens to a family business when it can no longer stay "in the family". David Philbrick from MW Industries/Economy Spring discovered first-hand and tells the tale! This is a great success story about family, culture, growth, and investments. It's a different story than most, but then again, so is Dave's story! Dave Philbrick started in Manufacturing completely by accident. He shares his fun story and how it was the catalyst for a fantastic career in and a lifelong passion for manufacturing. Join Ari and Dave as they cover the importance of doing what you love, mentoring, and being part of your community.  David Philbrick, Tech Sales Business Development, MW Industries/Economy Spring: Dave's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-philbrick-2ba9a312/ Dave's email: dphilbrick@mw-ind.com MW Industries LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mw-industries-inc-/ MW Industries Facebo

What's a "Marc-ism"? On this episode of the Made in America podcast, Ari talks to Marc Nemeth, President of Jonal Laboratories and we get a glimpse into his list of "Marc-isms" - fantastic sayings and euphemisms that he uses regularly to guide his business! With years of manufacturing experience in his 2nd generation family business, Marc has an incredible depth of knowledge in working with OEMS, adopting his customers problems, making big decisions, and staying in front of the wave. But there was one idea Marc and Ari kept returning to that was the key lesson - the importance and ability to ignore 'the numbers' (whether that's ROI or bottom line) if what you're doing is right for the customer and right for the future of the company.   Ari and Marc also discuss the specifics of building your footprint before you need it, developing business relationships, hiring the right people and helping out in the community. Marc Nemeth, Jonal Laboratories Website: https://www.jonal.com/ Email: mnemeth@jonal.com LinkedIn:

This episode focuses on one of CT's greatest manufacturing dilemmas, workforce development, with a member of the community who is working to help find solutions, Bill Villano, President of Workforce Alliance. Workforce Alliance's "Skill Up for Manufacturing" program is a 5-week solution designed to quickly channel people into entry-level manufacturing jobs by providing the fundamentals that employers need.  Ari and Bill discuss all about workforce development in CT: where we've been, where we are now, the models we are developing within the state, and successful models being used outside of our state. They talk a lot about what employers can do to help and how the education system could help to foster more interest in manufacturing. This episode covers a lot of ground! Bill encourages employers to reach out, and outline their needs so Workforce Alliance and other constituents can develop the best programs that truly solve the needs of those companies seeking workers! Bill Villano, President, Workforce Allianc

This is why we started the Made in America podcast…episodes like this that provide incredible value to anyone who listens! Westminster Tool has quickly become known throughout CT for their incredibly forward thinking solution to workforce development and business in general: focus on growing your people and the rest will take care of itself! Ray Coombs, President of Westminster Tool, describes how this change started, what they've done, the investments they've made, and how it has made and continues to make them a stronger company. Ray and Ari discuss every aspect of Westminster's employee growth strategy: emotional intelligence, culture, core values, Westminster Academy, individual growth plans and more. Learn about Westminster Tool's improvement teams and how the entire company spends 45 minutes every day working on the business. In between these nuggets of gold, Ray tells personal stories he calls "electric fence" moments - moments that change the way you think about things forever. This episode makes you

There is not much we don't cover in this interview with Jamison Scott, VP of Air Handling Systems and Executive Director of the New Haven Manufacturer's Association. Jamie talks about Air Handling Systems as a family business - where they came from and where they're going. He talks about some of the great things they've done with their technology and marketing, the importance they place on customer service, and how they retain a younger workforce. Jamie has so much respect and belief in the incredible value of trade organizations that he even became the Executive Director of the New Haven Manufacturer's Association! Jamie walks us through the role of the NHMA in the CT manufacturing community and his passion for working together to solve some of the biggest problems facing it.       Jamison Scott, Air Handling Systems Air Handling Systems Website: https://airhand.com/ Email: jscott@airhand.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamison-scott-5bab2a2/ Phone: 203.389.9595 New Haven Manufacturer's Association

This incredible interview covers so much manufacturing ground! Glenn Ford, President of Phoenix Manufacturing has an incredible background in and knowledge of the aerospace industry. Ari and Glenn talk about the history of precision machining, the capabilities of CT's aerospace valley, and the importance of globalization to small aerospace. Then they move on to ways to improve your company, from uncovering your core values, to developing company culture, to recruiting and training talent.   Ari and Glenn have an in-depth discussion on the state of the manufacturing community in CT and the importance of bringing all constituents together to do incredible things. They discuss some of the great things happening to improve workforce development, as well as some ideas that may further the cause.     A great episode with an energetic and positive guest! Glenn Ford is a powerhouse in the industry who is helping to drive CT manufacturing forward!   Glenn Ford, Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. Website: https://wnpinc.com/

Willington Nameplate has done incredible work changing with the times to keep their business in the forefront of manufacturing. In this episode, Brett Greene, President of Willington Nameplate, talks to Ari about their successful efforts to rebrand the company and modernize its marketing. They also discuss the company's search for continuous growth in areas like recruitment, employee growth, and  communication.    Brett discusses his own unique career development and how he began to focus on working with people. His goal for the company is to all move in one direction, learn from each other, and keep growing. A thread that is unique to this podcast is Ari and Brett's discussion about company acquisitions. Brett talks about Willington Nameplate's strategic approach, what each acquisition has brought to the company, and what they are looking for in the future. Brett Greene: Willington Nameplate Website: https://wnpinc.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-greene-0903849/ Phone: 877-967-4743 Ari Santi

Severine Zygmont, President of OPM Biomedical, has the passion, curiosity and patience required to be a great leader. In today's episode of Made in America with Ari Santiago, Severine dives into her own background, the history of Oxford Performance Materials (OPM), and the innovations that have brought OPM to the forefront of medical manufacturing technology. On top of that, Severine shares her clear excitement and passion for the technology and manufacturing communities in CT. She talks to Ari about the great work of organizations such as the Connecticut Technology Council and the investments of Connecticut Innovations and other state organizations which helped get OPM to where they are today. This episode covers everything from PEKK to patents and so much more in between. Learn all about the world of medical device manufacturing! Severine Zygmont: Oxford Performance Materials/OPM Biomedical Website:  http://www.oxfordpm.com/Phone: 860.698.9300 Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct Ari

Har-Conn is in the enviable position of being at the top of their game in the aerospace industry in CT! But it hasn't always been that way. Tim Backus, President/CEO of Har-Conn, talks about how they have developed, changed, and continued to not only rise, but thrive, over the years. Har-Conn has seen tremendous growth in workload that also necessitates tremendous growth in workforce. Tim talks about hiring and retention strategies; leadership development programs; the open book policy that helps to align all employees with mission and vision; and continuous improvement meetings guided by recommendations from all levels. Tim and Ari also talk about what makes CT a special place for growing an aerospace company, like the concentration of aerospace expertise, great guiding organizations like the Aerospace Components Manufacturers (ACM) and the community spirit to lift all companies together.    This episode is chock full of great ideas from a company that is thriving in today's aerospace landscape. Tim Backus,

Darius Kania, VP of Lynn Welding, has amazing clarity of purpose in everything he does. This episode is chock full of great ideas that he has successfully implemented in his own company. From Marketing to Sales to employee growth and development, Darius talks about so many lessons he's learned and improvements he's made.   Learn about the risks his family has taken and the rewards they have achieved. As an immigrant, Darius still truly believes we live in the land of opportunity. His focus is to continue to learn and grow and to bring every member of his community along with him. The pride he takes in his company and the happiness of his employees absolutely shines in this terrific interview. Darius Kania, Vice President of Lynn Welding Website: https://lynnwelding.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darius-kania-84090125/ Phone: 860.667.4400   Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct Website: https://www.gettingyouconnected.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itdtech/ LinkedIn:

This is an inspiring podcast episode that you don't want to miss! On this episode of the Made in America podcast, we've got Marty Guay, Vice President of Business Development at Stanley Black & Decker.   Marty talks about Stanley's vision of Hartford as a world epicenter of advanced manufacturing. Stanley's Manufactory 4.0 recently opened in Hartford is meant to be a hub of manufacturing technology innovation - Industry 4.0 - as well as the location of their Techstars startup accelerator.   Marty and Ari discuss the incredible manufacturing history in Hartford, coming together as a manufacturing community, and the goals Stanley has to help improve workforce development for all manufacturers in the area.   If you want to be inspired by the outlook of manufacturing in CT, definitely listen to/watch this episode!   Marty Guay: Stanley Black and Decker Marty's email: martin.guay@sbdinc.com Manufactory 4.0 website: https://www.stanleyblackanddecker.com/manufactory   Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is t

Lynda Prigodich, CEO of Atlas Stamping and Manufacturing Co, loves her work and her industry and it shows in everything she does. In this interview, Lynda shares some of the lessons she has learned while discovering how to lead her company through the ups and downs of the aerospace industry. Lynda and Ari discuss a wide range of topics from women in manufacturing to robots to recruitment and retention. Discover the programs that helped guide her, the decisions that helped shape Atlas and the pride she takes in her company. Lynda Prigodich: Atlas Stamping and Manufacturing: Lynda's email: lynda@atlasstamping.com Website: https://atlasstamping.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlas-stamping-&-manufacturing/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlasstamping/   Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct Website: https://www.gettingyouconnected.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itdtech/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/it-direct-llc Ari's LinkedIn: https://ww

According to the Harvard Business Review, only about 10% of all family businesses survive to the 3rd generation. So how did Chris Jewell, CFO and Principal of Collins and Jewell beat the statistic to not only survive but thrive? Listen to Chris's story of the growth and development of Collins and Jewell from a small boiler company in 1946 to today's 35,000 sq. ft facility for custom steel fabricating and industrial installations providing services for the likes of Electric Boat. Chris talks to Ari about his outstanding business partnership and the importance of teamwork. He gives advice to other small manufacturers on how to work with large companies like EB. He also explains why it is so important to be out in the community to promote the manufacturing industry and build the workforce development landscape in CT.    Collins and Jewell Company: Website:  https://www.collins-jewell.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collins-jewell-co-inc-17190881/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Collins-Jewell-Co-

You're going to learn a lot from this incredible interview! This episode's guest, Jason Howey, CEO of  Okay Industries, explains how everything they do is really focused on the relationship with their customers. He describes the "Okay Way", a set of pillars that help define the values, behavior, mission and vision of Okay industries. This approach to workplace culture, as well as building a "blameless culture" permeates every action and decision. In addition, Jason and Ari discuss research and development, company expansion, the modern manufacturing environment, customer driven innovation, and the need for a global presence. Subscribe to listen to every episode! Watch the podcast on YouTube Follow the podcast on Facebook OKAY Industries: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/okay-industries/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okayindustries/ Website: https://www.okayind.com/ Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct: www.gettingyouconnected.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itd

  On this podcast, Ari's guest is Paul Lavoie from Carey Manufacturing. Ari and Paul talk about so many topics including:  Paul's incredible journey to manufacturing Reshoring from China Manufacturer's recruitment secrets Growth in the "Amazon era"  And so much more! You can watch this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/itdirect151/ Follow the podcast on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/MadeinAmericaPodcast/   Carey Manufacturing: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carey-manufacturing-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareyManufacturing/ Website:  https://www.careymfg.com/ Paul's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulslavoie/   Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President and CEO of IT Direct: https://www.gettingyouconnected.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itdtech/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/it-direct-llc Ari's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asantiago104/   Podcast produced by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/     #CTManufa

On the first episode of Made in America, Ari welcomes manufacturing leader, Jeff Whittaker, President of American Cladding Technologies (ACT) in East Granby, CT. Jeff talks to Ari about his leadership journey, his love of solving problems and how ACT has worked past its initial growing pains to develop and grow after spinning off from their parent company. You can watch this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/itdirect151/ Follow the podcast on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/MadeinAmericaPodcast/ American Cladding Technologies: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-cladding-technologies/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmerCladding/ Website: https://www.americancladding.com/ Jeff's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-whittaker-46732512b/ Ari Santiago: Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct: http://www.gettingyouconnected.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/it-direct-llc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itdtech/ Ari's LinkedIn: https://www.li

We are so excited to introduce the Made in America podcast - the only podcast for manufacturers in Connecticut and Western Massachusetts  Join Ari Santiago every week as he speaks to manufacturing leaders that are thriving in their industry. Learn the secrets of their success in video or audio format! You can also watch this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/itdirect151/ Ari Santiago is the President/CEO of IT Direct - www.gettingyouconnected.com Podcast produced by Miceli Productions - www.miceliproductions.com