Tim and Caleb discuss the challenges of hiring and retaining employees in the metal fabrication industry, particularly at high-mix, high-volume fab shops.

Caleb talks about how his company has found success by hiring people without prior fabrication experience and training them in-house and focusing on creating a collaborative, positive work environment with clear processes and systems to reduce stress. They also talk about the fact people need livable wages, and without that, workers are going to continue to move from shop to shop.

Tim and Caleb also talk about the benefits of cross-training shop floor employees in software development and equipment operation as well as the importance of building a strong, engaged team to support business growth and success.

Email Tim and Caleb at podcast@fmamfg.org with any comments or questions. Learn more about the Pipe + Tube Conference.

Tim and Caleb discuss cost and time management in metal fabrication and job shop operations. They talk lean manufacturing, cash flow, margins, different approaches to cost accounting, and the importance of managing overhead costs. The conversation also touches on topics such as inventory, direct costs, remnant management, and the use of automation in the fabrication process.

They reference two books on the topic: Rebirth of American Industry: A Study of Lean Management by William H. Waddell and Norman Bodek as well as The Monetary Value of Time: Why Traditional Accounting Systems Make Customers Wait by Joyce Warnacut.

Email Tim and Caleb at podcast@fmamfg.org with any comments or questions. Learn more about The Fabricator's Tech Summit.

Tim and Caleb discuss the evolution of software in the metal fabrication industry and how AI tools have greatly improved the coding experience. Also in this episode of Next-Gen Metal Fab, they discuss the potential for AI to assist operators in identifying and fixing problems in real-time, as well as the possibility of non-software professionals learning coding with the help of AI tools. They also touch on the importance of data aggregation and the potential for AI to optimize processes and provide accurate cost estimates. Tim and Caleb also emphasizes the transformative potential of AI in the industry and the cost-saving benefits it can bring.

Email Tim and Caleb at podcast@fmamfg.org with any comments or questions. Learn more about The Fabricator's Tech Summit.