Ed Talks

Advancing manufacturing technology through STEM with Andrea Scarpari

Andrea Scarpari, president and CEO of Salvagnini America [https://www.salvagninigroup.com/en-US], joins Ed Talks host Ed Youdell of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association to discuss why advancing manufacturing technology requires stronger connections to STEM education and engineering careers. As fabrication technology becomes more automated, Scarpari argues manufacturers must create more intellectually engaging roles that allow workers to program machines, improve processes, and drive productivity. Scarpari also discusses how Salvagnini America supports robotics programs like Lakota Robotics to inspire future engineers, how partnerships with universities help build the next generation of manufacturing talent, and where artificial intelligence may begin to play a role in fabrication technology. Comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities: podcast@fmamfg.org [podcast@fmamfg.org].

Winning by putting people first with Troy Berg of Dane Manufacturing

In this episode of Ed Talks, host Ed Youdell talks with Troy F. Berg, president and CEO of Dane Manufacturing [https://www.danemfg.com/], about what it really means to put employees first. Troy shares how Dane’s “employees come first” philosophy drives retention, performance, and culture—through competitive wages, great benefits, and continuous opportunities for growth. He discusses the company’s on-site Dane Academy, where employees receive hands-on technical and professional training designed to help them advance throughout their careers. The conversation also touches on community engagement, including how Dane supports local charities and encourages employees to give back through volunteering. Troy closes with insights on the critical role of manufacturing and metal fabrication in the U.S. economy—and why he’s more excited than ever about the industry’s future. Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org [podcast@fmamfg.org] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

The innovation of metal fabrication with Bystronic's John Paul Surdo

John Paul Surdo, President of Americas for Bystronic [https://bystronic.com/usa/en-us], joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast. They chat about the strides that the metal fabrication industry has made is recent years by implementing advanced technologies like automation, robotics, and AI, and how that raised the bar on the sector's skilled workforce. They also talk about what it means to be a leader in the metal fabrication industry, how FABTECH [https://www.fabtechexpo.com/] reflects the advancements the sector has made, navigating changes in current supply chain landscape, and the importance of attracting younger generations into the workforce through facility tours and hands-on learning in manufacturing camps like SparkForce [https://www.fmamfg.org/foundation/camps]. Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org [podcast@fmamfg.org] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

Built for success: Managing fab shop culture with Nora Harding of SPM

Nora Harding, Executive VP at Special Products and Manufacturing (SPM), joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast. SPM is a 62-year-old manufacturing company with three facilities in Texas. They were named The Fabricator's 2025 Industry Award winner [https://www.thefabricator.com/thefabricator/article/shopmanagement/leaders-at-every-level-of-a-metal-fabricating-company] and appear on the FAB 40 [https://www.thefabricator.com/fab40] list. Harding talks about SPM's strong company culture centered around their "BUILT" principles (Best people, Urgency, Integrity, Learning, Teamwork), which have helped foster an engaged and empowered workforce. She also talks about how the company places a strong emphasis on community involvement through programs like "Built to Serve" and "Special Wish", which provide support and resources to their employees and local community. SPM also actively engages with local schools and technical centers to promote manufacturing careers and provide educational opportunities. Haring discusses the company's use of lean practices, automation, and commitment to continuous improvement have helped them attract and retain top talent while improving productivity and efficiency. This episode was sponsored by AMADA America [https://www.amada.com/america/]. Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org [podcast@fmamfg.org] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

Quarterbacking a family-owned manufacturing business with Sarah Richards

Sarah Richards, the Visionary/CEO of Mankato, Minn.-based Jones Metal, joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell to discuss how her family-owned metal fabrication business in Mankato, Minnesota attracts, develops, and engages its workforce. She talks about how Jones Metal has developed a strong company culture focused on values like kindness, grit, positivity, ownership, and helpfulness. This helps attract and retain talented employees. Sarah also touches on how the company partners closely with the local technical college to develop a pipeline of skilled workers through internship and apprenticeship programs. Sarah and Ed also talk about her being named Fabricators & Manufacturers Association's board chair, her previous life as a professional golfer, and her childhood ambition to become the first female quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings. Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org [podcast@fmamfg.org] with any comments or questions. Learn more about FMA's foundation, SparkForce [https://www.fmamfg.org/foundation/].