Episodes
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.From boardrooms to classrooms, AI is making waves—but what do organizational leaders really think of artificial intelligence?In this episode, host Matt Kirchner goes beyond the buzzwords to share real data and insights from a groundbreaking research report on artificial intelligence. From industry leaders to educators, discover what people at the forefront of AI are saying about its impact—and learn what it takes to turn potential into progress...
Published 11/19/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.With 600,000 job openings in manufacturing, could women be the solution to closing the talent gap?Host Matt Kirchner dives into this question with Mariana Cogan, Chief Marketing Officer at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. Mariana brings a unique global perspective to workforce development and shares her strategies for making manufacturing a more inclusive, appealing career path.From brand transformation to mentorship and flexible work polici...
Published 11/12/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Additive manufacturing (AM) is reshaping industries from aerospace to consumer goods with unprecedented speed. Dayton Horvath, Director of Emerging Technology at AMT, joins us to break down the key trends, market shifts, and cutting-edge technologies that are defining AM today. What’s fueling the industry’s rapid evolution, and where are the biggest opportunities? Dayton has answers—and insight you won’t want to miss.In this episode...The role ...
Published 11/05/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.What if the future of work isn’t about replacing people, but amplifying their potential? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Matt Kirchner sits down with J. Craig McAtee, CEO and Executive Director of the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC).Craig, a national thought leader in technical education, discusses why amplifying human skills is the future of workforce development and why industry-education partnerships are...
Published 10/29/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.What’s driving AI transformation in industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing? In this live panel, top AI leaders reveal the use cases that are making the biggest impact, the data challenges they’re overcoming, and the workforce shifts we can’t ignore.Recorded live at an AI and the Workforce event, this panel discussion brings together AI experts from sectors that are leading the charge in AI adoption. From predictive healthcare algori...
Published 10/22/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.What does the future of manufacturing look like? Just ask the U.S. CEO of the #1 automation provider in the world.In this high-profile episode, Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA, joins us to discuss the latest innovations shaping global manufacturing. Siemens, a leader in automation and digital technologies, is driving advancements through digital twins, AI, and more. Barbara shares how these technologies are revolutionizing industries today—...
Published 10/15/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.In this episode, we're talking to you—educators and employers—about how to engage and inspire the next generation of manufacturing talent. Manufacturing doesn’t just need workers; it needs what Drew Crowe calls “blue collar ballers”—young people who see the industry as more than a job, but a mission worth pursuing.Drew "The MFG" Crowe is making waves in the manufacturing world. With a fresh, modern perspective, he’s bringing a whole new energy ...
Published 10/08/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message."Why not me?" is a question every woman in manufacturing should be asking—and this episode gives them the answer.Join Matt Kirchner as he sits down with Allison Roberts Grealis, Founder and President of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), for a conversation about breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women at every stage of their manufacturing career. Whether you’re an entry-level operator or a CEO, WiM is committed to helping you thrive i...
Published 10/01/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Get an inside look at NASA’s plans to return to the Moon, build a sustainable presence, and prepare for the first human mission to Mars—powered by the most advanced rocket technology ever created.This week we sat down with Dr. Sharon Cobb, Associate Program Manager for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), to discover NASA's next endeavors in space exploration. As NASA embarks on its Artemis program, Dr. Cobb shares how this monumental initiative w...
Published 09/24/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Unlock the power of AI in manufacturing with practical insights that could save your plant thousands—without the need for a data science team.This week, we sat down with Nitin Ranjan, Founder and CEO of Golgix, to explore the game-changing role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Nitin reveals how Golgix is breaking down the barriers to AI adoption, especially for small to midsize manufacturers, by turning existing plant data into acti...
Published 09/17/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Get ready for a deep dive into the world of welding with the leader of an iconic brand in welding...Miller Electric!Dave Lambert, Group President of Miller Electric gives us an update on the state of the welding industry, the future of manufacturing, and the evolving workforce needs. With nearly a century of innovation under its belt, Miller Electric is a household name in welding and manufacturing. Dave shares how the company stays ahead of th...
Published 09/10/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about the opioid crisis, drug addiction, and related legal issues, which may be sensitive for some listeners.From producing hit series like Narcos and Painkiller to working with Hollywood legends, Eric Newman gives us the inside scoop on the evolving world of entertainment and the technology that powers it.This is an extraordinary episode that gives you a behind-the-scenes in modern tv and film...
Published 09/03/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.This week Matt sits down with Dale Kooyenga, President of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC). We discuss the transformative investments happening in Southeast Wisconsin, particularly Microsoft's $3.3 billion project, and the critical role technology plays in today's economy. Dale also shares insights into the importance of education reform, workforce development, and the convergence of technology across all sectors.T...
Published 08/27/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Microsoft is making waves in the Midwest with a game-changing $3.3 billion investment in a state-of-the-art data center in Wisconsin. This initiative is not just about expanding infrastructure; it's about positioning the region as a leader in artificial intelligence and data innovation. In this episode, we sit down with Mary Snapp, Microsoft's Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, to explore how this monumental investment will transform...
Published 08/20/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.This episode dives into the world of healthcare, where cutting-edge technology and human compassion intersect in profound ways.We sat down with Dr. Ajay Sahajpal, the Medical Director of Abdominal Transplant and Hepatobiliary Program at Advocate Aurora Health. Dr. Sahajpal shares his remarkable journey from Prince Edward Island to leading life-saving advancements in transplant surgery.Ajay also offers a glimpse into the future of healthcare, wh...
Published 08/13/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.In this episode, Dr. Purush Papatla, Co-Director of the Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute (NMDSI), explores the cutting-edge world of data science and artificial intelligence. NMDSI, a collaboration between Northwestern Mutual, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University, is pushing the boundaries of AI applications to solve real-world problems.Dr. Papatla discusses the Institute’s innovative programs and groundbreak...
Published 08/06/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.When communities come together in a spirit of mutual support, entrepreneurship can thrive.In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Matt Kirchner sits down with Greg Tehven, co-founder of Emerging Prairie, to explore the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and tech startups. Greg shares his journey from a college graduate with a vision to becoming a pivotal force in transforming communities into thriving hubs of innovation. You'll hear about the ins...
Published 07/30/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Hear the story of a true legend in career and technical education and a U.S. diplomat with an extraordinary career.From serving as a gunnery officer in the Navy to playing a pivotal role in the Cold War, Leo Reddy’s journey is nothing short of fascinating. Leo’s stories offer historical insight and practical wisdom, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of history, politics, and workforce development.This ...
Published 07/23/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Retail - and the whole customer journey - is evolving in this digital age. How has technology impacted our ability to anticipate and meet the needs of consumers, and how important is that face-to-face interaction in a store today?George Hanson has led retail strategy for some of the most well-known consumer brands including Under Armour, Lands' End and Panera. He's now the Chief Digital Officer at Mattress Firm, where he's thinking about these ...
Published 07/16/24
We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.John Deere is on a mission to develop the next generation of STEM and manufacturing talent - not just for themselves, but to support businesses and entire communities surrounding their plants across the United States.Recently, John Deere conducted a study to understand the major gaps in their workforce pipeline and what they must do to ensure they'll have the future workforce to keep up with demand. We sat down with David Ottavianelli, Director...
Published 07/09/24
Join us on a journey through history, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream!The Allen-Bradley brand is a household name in manufacturing, but the origin story of the brand, along with its lasting legacy, is a true story of the American Dream. From humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in automation, this episode dives into the innovative minds of Lynde and Harry Bradley over 100 years ago and the impact their work has today.Join us as we sit down with Rick Graber, ...
Published 07/02/24
Does generative AI belong in the classroom? How will it impact the student experience?Better yet, how can educators leverage generative AI in instructional design and curriculum-building?Our guest, Dr. Dwayne Wood, shares his unique insights on how AI is revolutionizing instructional design and enhancing learning experiences. From the importance of maintaining the human element in AI-driven education to practical tips on integrating AI tools effectively, Dwayne provides a comprehensive look a...
Published 06/25/24
In this exciting episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Shane Farritor, an innovator at the intersection of space exploration and medical technology. Discover how cutting-edge surgical robots are revolutionizing abdominal surgery, and paving the way for high-tech medical assistance in space.In this episode, you'll hear:How a space-enthused innovator found a niche in surgical robotsHow robots are being used in surgery today, and why Virtual Incision's small robots...
Published 06/18/24
Artificial intelligence is changing our entire world, and that includes the classroom. Some are quick adopters while others are banning the technology in class. Most are trying to figure out AI's place in the classroom - how to embrace it in an ethical, safe way that enhances the student experience and improves learning outcomes.But there are some things that education is getting totally wrong about artificial intelligence. No matter what your stance on AI in the classroom is, this episode wi...
Published 06/11/24