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E816 – Future of Automotive Manufacturing, Josh Forquer, KIRCHHOFF Automotive

In this episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, hosts Dean Phillips [https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanphillipslinksystems/] welcomes Josh Forquer [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-forquer-b656211/], Chief Technical Officer at KIRCHHOFF Automotive [https://www.linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive/], to explore the forces shaping the next five years of metalforming and automotive manufacturing. Josh shares how a 241‑year‑old family-owned company approaches long‑term strategy in an era defined by disruption. From workforce shortages to chip crises, he explains that the industry hasn't seen a "normal year" in quite some time, noting that the future hinges on people, product and place. In the episode they discuss: * Attracting and developing the next-generation workforce, including modernizing shop‑floor experiences and using intuitive technologies to support training. * Process innovation that drives product quality, such as guided assembly tools that help new operators build with confidence. * Strategic collaboration with customers, including KIRCHHOFF's 18‑month development effort to produce parts in Gen 3 steel after a major OEM identified the need. * Diversification and resilience, from balancing customer portfolios to preparing for supply-chain shifts, tariffs and equipment contingencies. Josh also reflects on the importance of sticking to a clear core strategy while still branching out enough to mitigate risk in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. About the Guest: Josh Forquer, Chief Technology Officer, KIRCHHOFF Automotive As Chief Technology Officer at KIRCHHOFF Automotive, Josh Forquer contributes to delivering complex components for passenger and commercial vehicle markets. With extensive expertise in manufacturing and contract negotiation, Josh supports the organization in addressing technical challenges and meeting customer needs. With more than 20 years in the metalforming sector, Josh has developed strong skills in team leadership and fostering innovation. Collaborating with R&D and operations teams, Josh focuses on advancing new products and processes that align with market trends and enhance KIRCHHOFF's competitive position. His mission remains centered on creating value and driving growth in the automotive industry.

E815 – Press Technology, Productivity Trends and the Future of Forming, George Morant, Autokiniton

George Moran, senior press and hydraulics specialist at Autokiniton, joins the podcast to break down the real-world trends shaping the next five years of press technology, including why OEMs are returning to link-motion mechanical presses, where servo presses fall short in day-to-day production, and how hot stamping continues to evolve for crash structures and high-strength components. He also shares insights on hydraulic press maintenance, oven technology and the importance of diagnostics in high-volume hot-stamping operations. Whether you're in stamping, automation or plant leadership, this episode offers a grounded, practical look at the future of forming. About the Guest: George Moran, Senior Press and Hydraulics Specialist, Autokiniton George Moran has more than 21 years of experience in the metalforming industry, spanning from mining, steel production, forming and forging, to end product. George has worked in various roles and locations, including as a director of press shop and general assembly at VINFAST, a leading automaker in Vietnam. George is passionate about learning new technologies and applying them to solve complex challenges in the metalforming industry.

E814 - Building Manufacturing's Future Workforce, Chris Zuzick, Vice President, Waukesha Metal Products

Join host Dean Phillips as he sits down with Chris Zuzick, vice president at Waukesha Metal Products, to explore the future of metalforming and fabrication. Chris shares his vision for the next five years of manufacturing, emphasizing the critical importance of workforce development, AI integration, and the growing role of fabrication in providing nimble, value-added services to customers. Drawing from his unique career journey—from hands-on manufacturing to investment banking and back—Chris offers insider perspectives on what makes manufacturing companies successful. He discusses how Waukesha Metal Products approaches fabrication as a "cradle to grave" partner for customers, helping them navigate product development through flexible processes before scaling to full production stamping. The conversation dives deep into workforce challenges and solutions, with Chris making a compelling case that companies need to stop "recruiting" and start "selling" the value of manufacturing careers. He emphasizes that workforce development should be treated as a leadership function, not just an HR checkbox, and that every person in an organization plays a role in attracting and developing talent. Chris also addresses the rising cost of education and how manufacturing offers viable, debt-free career paths for the next generation. About the Guest: Chris Zuzick Chris Zuzick is vice president of Waukesha Metal Products (WMP) and has been with WMP since 2016. He has more than 36 years of experience in various areas including manufacturing, investment banking, private equity, education, youth sports and various communication organizations. Chris is results-orientated and has a track record of building effective teams with empathy to grow, achieve success, maximize results, drive results and provide a roadmap for success for all members of the team. Waukesha Metal Products has more than 50 years of experience in high-quality precision metal stamping, metal fabrication, component assembly, and tool and die manufacturing. An agile, reliable provider of full-service solutions for its customers, WMP has operations located in Sussex, WI, Grafton, WI, and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Chris is an active PMA member, currently serving on the PMA finance committee and as PMA's 2025 vice chair and treasurer.

E813 - The Future Is Now: AI, Automation and Manufacturing with Stephanie Lowry of Dayton Rogers

In this episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, host Dean Phillips welcomes Stephanie Lowry, CEO of Dayton Rogers, for an in-depth discussion on how technology is reshaping the manufacturing landscape. Stephanie shares her outlook for the next five years—emphasizing that now is the time for manufacturers to prepare for 2030, as AI, robotics and automation rapidly transform the shop floor. She highlights how AI-driven machine learning and preventive maintenance models are improving efficiency, quality and uptime, while servo press technology and energy-efficient systems are driving the next wave of innovation in metalforming. Dean and Stephanie also discuss: * How affordable robotics and AI integration are changing plant operations. * The evolving role of human workers in automated environments. * Why schools and training programs must adapt to teach next-generation manufacturing skills. * Stephanie's personal journey from receptionist to CEO, and how curiosity and continuous learning shaped her career. * The vital role of the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) in advocacy, networking and industry collaboration. From her firsthand experience at Dayton Rogers to insights on the industry's future, Stephanie thinks embracing change and technology is key to thriving in the next decade of manufacturing. About the Guest: Stephanie Lowry Stephanie Lowry is the CEO of Dayton Rogers Mfg., a metal stamping and fabrication company with four divisions across Minnesota, Ohio, Texas and South Carolina. Celebrating 15 years with the company in May 2025, she has held diverse leadership roles, including General Manager, Director of HR and Executive Director of Sales. Stephanie is a recognized voice in the manufacturing sector, with features in publications including MetalForming Magazine, and appearances on the City of Columbia Economic Development Broadcast. She's also a frequent speaker at school events, championing the industry's future. Further solidifying her expertise, Stephanie serves as Vice Chair for the Precision Metal Forming Association's Southeastern District. She holds a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology from Strayer University.

E812 - Building the Future Workforce, Mike Lauber, CEO, TucsoMFG

In this episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, host Dean Phillips welcomes Mike Lauber, CEO of TuscoMFG, for a forward-looking conversation about what lies ahead for American manufacturing. Mike shares insights on the industry's most pressing challenges such as attracting and retaining a new generation of workers, navigating global supply chains, and staying ahead of rapid automation and AI adoption. He also highlights how Tusco is taking action locally, partnering with nearby schools, creating hands-on opportunities for students, and redefining what a manufacturing career looks like in 2025 and beyond. The discussion touches on: • The changing workforce mindset and why flexibility, culture and purpose now matter as much as pay. • Smart automation and AI tools that empower people instead of replacing them. • The impact of reshoring, trade policy and evolving markets such as EVs, data centers and power generation. • The value of collaboration within the manufacturing community and why competition doesn't have to mean isolation. It's an engaging, optimistic look at where manufacturing is headed and how leaders like Mike are proving that making things still matters in America. About the Guest: Mike Lauber, CEO, TuscoMFG Mike Lauber is the CEO of TuscoMFG, a company founded in 1949 that designs, engineers, and produces a variety of fabricated metal products used in retail advertising, gaming, conveyance and various industrial applications. Mike holds a BA in Economics from the College of Wooster and MBA from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College. He serves as chair of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation, as a member of the College of Wooster Board of Trustees, and on the board of MAGNET, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) that serves small- and medium-sized manufacturers in 22 Northeast Ohio counties.