What does PMPA leadership in modern manufacturing really look like? In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we sit down with Brian Adams, President of the Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA), for a candid and wide-ranging conversation, recorded live at Datanomix HQ in Nashua, NH.
Brian shares his personal journey from sweeping the shop floor at his family business to eventually leading PMPA at the national level. One handwritten letter to his uncle set the course for a lifelong career in precision manufacturing, and Brian has carried that legacy forward with humility, heart, and a focus on people.
We dive into the evolution of the industry, the pressing need for skilled talent, and how PMPA’s mission of “Better Together” continues to shape shop culture across the country. As Brian puts it, true PMPA leadership in modern manufacturing means investing in relationships, education, and the next generation of craftsmen and women.
Show Notes:
(01:27) – Starting on the Shop Floor
(04:23) – The Classic Broom & The Bridgeport
(14:08) – Succession and Second-Generation Leadership
(15:46) – Why PMPA Matters
(17:20) – Adopting Technology to Stay Competitive
(19:45) – Advice for the Next Generation
The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?
It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.
Learn more at www.datanomix.io
In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we're heading to Salt Lake City to talk with Steve Van Orden and Eric Van Orden —father and son leaders at Paramount Machine. Steve started the company in the family garage with a manual lathe and a bold vision. Now, Eric is helping lead the next chapter of growth with a focus on automation, people-first culture, and smart investments in technology.
Eric opens up about why his dad made him start at the bottom and how that decision shaped his leadership style. From sweeping the shop floor to now helping run a 70-person team, Eric shares his perspective on generational transitions, developing trust within the team, and what it takes to modernize without losing your core.
Together, Steve and Eric talk about the balancing act of family and business, the turning points in Paramount’s growth, and why listening to employees is a competitive advantage.
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to grow a shop across decades and do it with heart, humility, and smarts—this one’s for you.
Show Notes:
2:20 — The garage days: How Paramount started with a manual lathe and a vision
4:03 — Why Eric started with a broom, not a title
7:43 — Choosing the shop over law school
10:43 — Why Steve invests based on employee feedback
14:25 — Betting on Swiss machines changed the game
19:25 — Developing new talent without a programming department
23:30 — Navigating the tension and trust of a family business
37:39 — Datanomix's positive change on Paramount's culture
The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?
It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.
Learn more at www.datanomix.io
What happens when you decide to bet on yourself and back it up with clear goals, data, and follow-through?
In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Greg sits down with Dan Plath, VP of Operations at MedFab Precision Solutions, to talk about what it means to take ownership of your career and your company’s future. Dan shares how he went from being a bored student to driving cultural and operational change on the shop floor. One meeting, metric, and mindset shift at a time.
They explore why trusting yourself is only part of the equation and how pairing that drive with data and the right technologies creates real momentum. Dan shares his mindset on automation, the tools he’s using to unlock more from his team, and why embracing change is the key to staying competitive.
You’ll also hear how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) is helping MedFab align every part of the business, from leadership to the shop floor, and how data is driving smarter decisions, clearer priorities, and continuous improvement at every level.
Highlights:
The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?
It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.
Learn more at www.datanomix.io
Manufacturing Manager, Daniel Anglemyer, didn’t take the traditional path into manufacturing, and that’s exactly why you’ll want to hear his story.
From hog barns and cage fights to union shops and now leadership at Hibshman, Daniel brings grit, humility, and a clear-eyed approach to modern manufacturing! In this episode, he opens up about how culture, not just equipment, drives real change on the shop floor.
You’ll hear how personal setbacks have transformed into leadership lessons, and why identifying and empowering emerging leaders in the industry is important. Additionally, he shares how technology is supporting the creation of a team-first, process-driven operation at Hibshman, where people show up, speak up, and take ownership.
If you care about building strong teams, growing future leaders, and creating a shop culture that works, this episode is for you.
Show Notes
01:54 — From Farming Roots to a Fourth-Generation Machinist
06:17 — Losing a Job But Finding a Path
10:51 — What MMA Taught Daniel About Leadership
13:42 — NTMA's Emerging Leaders program
22:21 — Turning Core Values into Action
26:51 — The Tools Behind Hipschman’s Smart Shop Transformation
Learn more:
In this episode, we talk with Christina Collette, GM of Final Frontier Manufacturing (Formerly Action Industries) in Arvada, CO. She shares her path from managing teams in banking to rolling up her sleeves on the shop floor. What pushed the shift? A love of math and a frustration with repetition that evolved into a desire for work that challenged her to think, solve, and build.
Christina breaks down how she has learned to spot the right professional and cultural fit in manufacturing and what she has picked up from peers in groups like NTMA. She also shares how Final Frontier is laying down a blueprint for the modern machine shop driven by digital tools, real-time data, and process automation that supports both quality and speed.
We talk about what modernization looks like across a multi-generational workforce—and how Christina went from being cautious about change to leading the charge, becoming a strong voice for progress in the industry.
If you're thinking about what it takes to lead change in manufacturing, you’ll want to hear this one.
Show Notes
03:10 — From Banking to the Shop Floor
06:40 — Why Your Processes Aren’t Scaling
16:42 — The Generational Shift in Manufacturing
19:34 — Start with Data, Not Dollars
23:27 — Yes, Your Shop Needs Marketing
28.10 — Building a Tech Stack That Drives Flow
35:19 — What Christina Would Tell Her Younger Self
Learn more:
What does it mean to be CMMC 2.0 Compliant? Why does it matter, and how do manufacturers tackle it without getting lost in the weeds? Greg interviews Darren Gallop, CEO and founder of Carbide Secure, to cut through the noise on CMMC 2.0 and why starting with a self-assessment is step one. He digs into the certification process, budgeting, and tools available to support you on your journey to compliance. Plus, they clear up the confusion between NIST, ITAR, FedRAMP, and other compliance standards.
Whether deep in the compliance process or just getting started, this episode gives you the insights—and the game plan—to keep your shop secure and ahead of the curve.
Show Notes
00:58 The Importance of Compliance to Secure DOD Contacts
02:17 Current State of CMMC 2.0
04:36 Understanding the Requirements
15:30 The Risk Your Vendors and Software Play on Compliance
30:09 Real-World Examples
34:32 The Hard Way Vs. The Easy Way to Compliance
40:11 Preparing for Third-Party Certification
50:33 Maximizing Your Odds of Success
53:49 Tools and Resources for Compliance
Learn more:
In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we’re excited to welcome Rebekah Collogan, a seasoned operations leader with years of experience in optimizing production, scaling teams, and driving continuous improvement on the shop floor. Rebekah shares her journey into manufacturing, her challenges in streamlining operations, and her strategies for boosting efficiency and eliminating bottlenecks. She embodies the idea that manufacturing success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter.
We are honored to have Rebekah as our first female guest on the podcast, and we hope she will be the first of many women in manufacturing to share their stories on the show. She offers a unique and invaluable perspective on leadership and problem-solving, and she is enthusiastic about the power of real-time data in making strategic decisions. She explores the significance of visibility on the shop floor, the role of automation in minimizing downtime, and how modern manufacturers can stay competitive without introducing unnecessary complexity.
This episode is filled with actionable insights on scaling your shop, enhancing productivity, and embracing the future of manufacturing.
SHOW NOTES
From a part-time job in college to becoming an equity partner in a thriving machine shop, Kody Guidry's journey is anything but conventional. In this episode, we explore how Coastal Machine is scaling operations into defense, aerospace, oil & gas, why Kody supports hiring and training inexperienced talent instead of pursuing seasoned machinists, and how developing a strong employee pipeline is just as crucial as a sales pipeline. Plus, we discuss diversifying the business, investing in tech, and building a family-oriented culture.
SHOW NOTES
In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Bob McGregor, President of Neo Industries, shares his journey of turning around a micro-machining company in Colleyville, TX. When Bob purchased the struggling business, he had to navigate financial setbacks and make strategic decisions, including firing unprofitable customers and even sending apology fruit baskets—ultimately leading to success in contract manufacturing.
Bob's persistence and optimism shine as he discusses learning new skills, overhauling operations, and rebuilding customer trust. The conversation offers insights into the challenges and rewards of revitalizing a manufacturing company.
SHOW NOTES
In this special year-end episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we reflect on the fantastic guests we’ve had on the show in 2024 and recap some of their best moments. This episode recaps insightful discussions with shop leaders and industry pioneers who have shared their experiences, challenges, and wisdom with Greg McHale.
Join Greg as he revisits conversations featuring some of the most influential and inspiring voices in precision manufacturing. They discuss navigating manufacturing automation and technology, building a thriving workplace culture, and becoming CMMC 2.0 compliant.
And don’t forget to check out the full episodes at www.mfgmavericks.com to learn valuable lessons from those shaping the future of manufacturing!
SHOW NOTES
FULL EPISODES:
In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Greg welcomes Randal Leach, Operations Manager at Ricaurte Precision, to discuss his journey into manufacturing, which didn’t start with love, but his frustrations turned into opportunity when he realized how much better manufacturing processes and work experiences could be with the right culture and technology! Randal and Greg discuss CMMC 2.0 compliance and what it means for companies like Ricaurte. Plus, you’ll learn why embracing modern systems can redefine what it’s like to run a "precision machining facility."
SHOW NOTES
Adam Gordon is a second-generation leader at Tendon Manufacturing. The sheet metal and fabrication shop, Based in the Cleveland suburb of Warrensville Heights, was co-founded in 1988 by Michael Gordon Sr. and Greg Tench. Both are still very much involved; today, it’s a family affair. Greg’s son heads up programming/engineering, and Adam heads up Operations, working alongside his brother and brother-in-law.
As you listen, you’ll hear Adam’s passion for football, and it’s clear that his years of coaching do come into play when he seeks out new employees. He looks for winning qualities that can’t be taught, like the ability to show up on time, body language, and energy.
He also explains that the employees who suggest the most process improvements can climb the ladder quicker because seeing things differently helps advance the business. His strategy is working, as Tendon has doubled its employees in just a few years.
From squeezing in the odd job to the craziest parts they’ve ever made. Tendon has had quite the history.
SHOW NOTES:
We’ve all heard of him, and you’ve seen him everywhere with his red microphone as he visits manufacturers and suppliers worldwide, but now you’ll get to REALLY know him on this podcast episode!
America’s Manufacturing MC, Tony Gunn, shares how his internal optimism comes from many failures in life. Tony started from very humble beginnings and almost became a professional athlete, but his trajectory changed to machinist out of necessity from an early surprise in life. His passion for manufacturing and entertainment keeps Tony returning to the shop floor to capture the stories of manufacturers as Director of Global Operations for MTDCNC and the host of The Gunn Show Podcast.
SHOW NOTES:
On this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, Greg McHale interviews Rob Caron of Caron Engineering, a true pioneer and the recipient of the 2024 M. Eugene Merchant Manufacturing Medal from ASME/SME. Rob shares his journey from unexpectedly finding himself jobless to building a company known for its groundbreaking innovations in advanced sensor and monitoring technology. Hear about how his early fascination with CNC controls and a deep desire to do things better led to the creation of Autocomp, TMAC, and even the tool ID systems that have made Caron Engineering a leader in the machine tool industry for over 35 years.
Rob also shares his thoughts on building a strong company culture, meeting customer expectations no matter what, and the transition to an ESOP or employee stock-owned company.
Tune in for a wealth of insights from a leader who has been on the cutting edge of manufacturing technology for over four decades. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips. Rob’s advice for shops looking to get into automation is priceless.
SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, Gustavo (Gus) Gutierrez, owner of GC Machining Solutions, takes us through his incredible journey from a 15-year-old who traded coffee for training at his first manufacturing job, to buying his own shop. Gus doesn't shy away from doing the "hard stuff", including moving a shop, implementing an ERP, and is currently managing a shift from 10% medical and dental device manufacturing to 80%. Wow.
Gus talks to Greg McHale about investing in education, making time for family, and the advice he gives his kids. He also shares his experiences across various roles in manufacturing, picking the right team members, building a strong company culture, and why technology is crucial to staying competitive. Gus's insights are a valuable resource for anyone in the industry.
SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, Gustavo (Gus) Gutierrez, owner of GC Machining Solutions, takes us through his incredible journey from a 15-year-old who traded coffee for training at his first manufacturing job, to buying his own shop. Gus doesn't shy away from doing the "hard stuff", including moving a shop, implementing an ERP, and is currently managing a shift from 10% medical and dental device manufacturing to 80%. Wow.
Gus talks to Greg McHale about investing in education, making time for family, and the advice he gives his kids. He also shares his experiences across various roles in manufacturing, picking the right team members, building a strong company culture, and why technology is crucial to staying competitive. Gus's insights are a valuable resource for anyone in the industry.
SHOW NOTES:
Paul Van Metre is the co-founder of ProShop ERP and a true Manufacturing Maverick. Listen in as he talks with Greg McHale about some of the serendipitous moments that completely changed the course of his life and fueled his passion for manufacturing. Some examples include how his Mom saving a car magazine got him into machining, how a random lab partner assignment on his first day of school turned into a 30+ year collaboration, and why a customer’s dream of building a basketball court for his kids helped launched ProShop ERP. Paul’s love of manufacturing and the people who work in it drives him to help make “the hardest business in the world” a little easier. It shows in the hashtag he started #ThankaMachinist
Show Highlights / Skip To:
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Greg McHale sits down to talk with Mike Payne, Owner of Hill Manufacturing about his unconventional path to becoming a shop owner. Mike was actually helping the previous owner look for a buyer when he decided to make an offer himself. After 25 years in software and private equity, Mike realized that he really liked the can-do attitude and willingness to help each other that manufacturers share. This episode explores how Mike leveraged his background in private equity and data analysis to double his shop’s size in 5 years - every five years.
Links Referenced:
Greg McHale interviews Kylan Hastreiter, Vice President of Hastreiter Industries, located in Marshfield, WI. Kylan’s parents started the shop in the late 1980s in a hog shed with one Makino LeBlond lathe. Today, they specialize in complex parts for the aerospace industry and are a driving force in introducing young people in Wisconsin to manufacturing—even creating a makerspace for students at their facility.
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We launched Manufacturing Mavericks in Late 2023 to tell the stories of people who aren’t afraid to shake things up and stand out from the crowd. We’ve had three fabulous guests so far with many more in the pipeline for 2024:
To close the year, here is a highlight reel of their best insights and advice for growing a business. Enjoy!
Highlights:
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