OM Podcast #50: AI, the Workforce, and National Security

OM Podcast #50: AI, the Workforce, and National Security

In this episode, Barry Render and Misty Blessley interview Kyle Stephens, Senior Director at General Dynamics IT (GDIT), about how artificial intelligence is reshaping work in mission‑critical and national security environments. Kyle discusses how he uses AI to accelerate analysis and improve decision‑making, as well as the implications for workforce upskilling. The conversation also explores why AI security in defense goes far beyond cybersecurity and how AI is being deployed by both the U.S. and its adversaries.

OM Podcast #49: Reshoring Semiconductors

In this episode of the Heizer Render Munson OM Podcast, Barry Render speaks with Ron Piccolo, CEO of the Florida Semiconductor Engine, about why semiconductors have become a critical issue for U.S. competitiveness. Their conversation explores advanced semiconductor packaging, supply‑chain risk, and the role universities, industry, and government can play in reshoring key capabilities. Ron also shares how Florida is building a specialized ecosystem focused on high‑reliability applications in space, healthcare, and defense.

OM Podcast #48: Cold Storage, AI, and the Future of Industrial Facilities

In this episode of the OM Podcast, Barry Render and Misty Blessley speak with David Aschenbrand of Newmark about the evolving role of cold storage and temperature‑controlled facilities in today’s supply chains. The conversation explores facility design, labor challenges, automation and AI, and what the Cold Chain Index reveals about the future of operations management.

OM Podcast #47: Leadership and Continuous Improvement

In this episode, Barry Render interviews continuous improvement expert and author John Dyer to explore what real operational excellence looks like. John shares insights from 40+ years in manufacturing and consulting, discussing why continuous improvement efforts often stall, how leaders can transition from managers to coaches, and how AI will reshape team‑based problem solving. For a transcript of this podcast, visit the blog: https://operationsmanagementblog.com/category/podcast/

OM Podcast #46: Logistics, Circularity & Vertical Integration at East Penn Manufacturing

In this episode, Barry Render and Misty Blessley interview Harry Ziff, VP of Corporate Logistics at East Penn Manufacturing, one of the world’s largest lead battery producers. Harry shares insights from his 37‑year supply chain career, discusses East Penn’s broad range of battery applications, and explains how the company’s deep vertical integration and closed‑loop recycling system create efficiency, sustainability, and competitive advantage. The conversation also explores East Penn’s private fleet strategy and the intentionality behind every operational decision.