EMC Factory Focus Podcast

EMC Factory Focus Podcast – Episode 9 | Mahler Machining: What it Takes to Grow in Today’s Manufacturing Landscape

In this episode of the EMC Factory Focus Podcast, host Jason Bates sits down with Nik Paukkunen, Director and Co-Owner of Mahler Machining, alongside EMC’s David Munro. Nik shares the story behind acquiring a 45-year-old machining business and doubling its size in just a few short years. From navigating the complexities of CNC machining to building a strong workplace culture and retaining top talent, Nik gives an inside look at what it really takes to grow in today’s manufacturing landscape. The conversation dives into: *  Why manufacturing is a smart long-term bet (even in an AI-driven world)  *  The realities of scaling a skilled trades workforce  *  How culture, training, and process drive retention and performance  *  The role of certifications like ISO 9001 and AS9100 in unlocking new markets  *  Lean improvements that actually move the needle  *  Where AI is already saving time and where it’s headed next  Nik also shares his perspective on tariffs, Canadian supply chains, and why aerospace and defence are major opportunities moving forward. Whether you’re a manufacturer, industry leader, or someone thinking about acquiring a business, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience from the shop floor to the boardroom. More about Mahler Machining: Nik Paukkunen [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nik-paukkunen-0b278144/] is the Co-Owner and Director of Mahler Machining [https://mahler-machining.com/], a precision CNC manufacturer based in British Columbia that he acquired alongside partner Aaron Kennedy [https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-kennedy-b6925320/] in 2022 with a vision to grow and modernize Canadian manufacturing.  Building on Mahler’s 40+ year history, Mahler operates over 20 CNC machines across three shifts, supported by a fully digital ERP system (ProShop) and integrated quality systems. The company is AS9100 and ISO 9001 certified and known for reliable prototyping through production for OEMs. Capabilities include turning, milling, 5-axis, and 7 axis machining capabilities with a strong focus on repeatability, traceability, and on time delivery. Mahler serves customers across aerospace and defence, energy, medical, deep-sea submersibles, and industrial technology, and continues to invest in automation, digital workflows, and scalable production systems to support long term customer growth. Brought to you by EMC, Canada's largest manufacturing consortium.

EMC Factory Focus Podcast – Episode 8 | Dorigo Systems: Building Canada’s Electronics Manufacturing Future

In this episode of the EMC Factory Focus Podcast, host Jason Bates sits down with Derek Mossman and Richard Cheng from Dorigo Systems, a leading Canadian electronics manufacturer based in Burnaby, BC. With nearly 40 years of experience, Dorigo supports OEMs across North America with everything from PCB assembly and rapid prototyping to full box builds, testing, and fulfillment, specializing in high-reliability, high-complexity products for industries like medical, aerospace, and defence. The conversation explores how shifting global trade and geopolitics are driving more companies to manufacture in Canada, why low-to-medium volume, high-value production is Canada’s sweet spot, and how Dorigo’s purpose-built facility and deep technical expertise give customers a competitive edge. Joined by EMC's David Munro, the episode also looks at the future of Canadian manufacturing, emerging opportunities in defence and aerospace, and what innovation and AI really mean on the factory floor. About Dorigo Systems: Dorigo Systems is a trusted electronics manufacturing partner serving customers across North America. We support original equipment manufacturers with printed circuit board assembly, electronic prototyping, conformal coating, and turnkey box build assembly. With supply chain expertise and resources to manage the entire production process, Dorigo Systems helps you stay agile, scalable, and responsive to evolving market demands. Brought to you by EMC, Canada's largest manufacturing consortium.

EMC Factory Focus Podcast – Episode 7: How Pay-for-Performance (PFP) Training Transforms Manufacturing Workforces

Host Jason Bates and EMC President JP Giroux lead a roundtable with three valued EMC member companies to discuss the impact and sustainability of the Pay-for-Performance (PFP) training model. Hear from Canplas Industries, The Gund Company, and Fluidconcepts as they share how PFP funding motivates training investment, supports continuous learning, and drives productivity on the shop floor. A must-listen for anyone focused on workforce development and closing the manufacturing skills gap. About the PFP Pathway Program: The Pay-for-Performance (PFP) Pathway is a Future Skills Centre–funded initiative testing how incentive-based funding can encourage small and medium-sized enterprises to invest more intentionally in employee training. Working with nearly 80 employers across manufacturing, food processing, the bioeconomy, and environmental sectors, the program requires companies to pay upfront for training and receive up to 70% reimbursement upon completing milestones designed to strengthen long-term training capacity. Early findings show that PFP helps employers maximize their training budgets, adopt more strategic planning, and involve leadership in aligning skill development with business needs. Insights from the program aim to inform future workforce strategies, including potential cost-sharing approaches for emerging skills such as AI literacy, manufacturing skilled trades and green competencies. Special Thanks: Thank you to our partners—Food Processing Skills Canada, BioTalent Canada, ECO Canada, Future Skills Centre, and the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation (SRDC)—for their support and collaboration. For more information on the PFP Pathway Program, please contact aedwards@emccanada.org  Brought to you by EMC, Canada's largest manufacturing consortium.

EMC Factory Focus Podcast – Episode 6: Productivity, Supply Chains, and the Road Ahead with Special Guest Matt Weller (EMC)

In this episode of EMC's Factory Focus podcast, host Jason Bates sits down with Matt Weller, EMC's Senior Advisor for Supply Chain and Productivity, to unpack the critical challenges and opportunities facing Canadian manufacturing today. From national productivity decline and global trade disruptions to the rise of AI and the potential of low-volume, high-value production, this episode explores why Canada's manufacturing sector must rethink its approach. Matt offers strategic insights on reindustrialization, the effectiveness versus efficiency debate, and the creation of domestic supply chain ecosystems. Brought to you by EMC, Canada's largest manufacturing consortium.

EMC Factory Focus Podcast: Episode 5 – AI and the Future of Manufacturing with John Galbraith (The Data Integrators)

In this episode of EMC [https://emccanada.org/]'s Factory Focus Podcast, host Jason Bates sits down with John Galbraith from The Data Integrators to explore the transformative role of AI in manufacturing. They dive into digital transformation and why many manufacturers struggle to make software work for them. John shares insights on common challenges, practical AI applications on the shop floor, and how companies can start their AI journey without breaking the bank.  Tune in now to discover how AI is reshaping the industry and why embracing it is key to staying competitive! More About John Galbraith: John Galbraith is a Data Operations Specialist with expertise in driving efficiency and innovation through digitization, automation and artificial intelligence. He excels in applying practical solutions to optimize workflows, improve decision-making, and deliver measurable results in dynamic environments. With a passion for empowering businesses, John provides AI training to manufacturers across Canada, helping organizations unlock technology's potential for growth and sustainability. Outside of work, he is dedicated to mentorship and community-building, fostering positive change through local initiatives and eco-conscious projects. Brought to you by EMC, Canada's largest manufacturing consortium.