Shows
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-66: From Classroom to Continuous Improvement: Clifton Dial’s Journey in Manufacturing LeadershipFrom Classroom to Continuous Improvement: Clifton Dial’s Journey in Manufacturing Leadership.
In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Phil Mintz sits down with Dr. Clifton Dial, Operations Manager at WePack Logistics in Laurinburg, North Carolina. From a start in biology and education to a leadership role in manufacturing, Dr. Dial shares his unconventional career path and how his passion for leadership development and continuous improvement ultimately led him to WePack.
WePack Logistics, a 2025 NC Manufacturing Leadership Award winner for Continuous Improvement, specializes in contract packaging, display assembly, and co-manufacturing services fo...2025-07-1521 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-65: Building the North Carolina Textile WorkforceGilden in Sanford, North Carolina, Changes Corporate Culture.
North Carolina is the home to some of the world’s largest apparel manufacturers. In this episode of Clocking In, we are fortunate to learn more about Gilden, a leader in textiles for over 40 years, with 30 locations and more than 45,000 employees in over 12 countries.
Gildan is one of the world’s largest vertically integrated manufacturers of apparel. Their activewear, underwear, socks, and legwear products are sold in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America to wholesale distributors, screen printers, and embellishers, as well as to retailers and dire...2025-06-1309 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-64: The SBA is boosting small manufacturers Made in America.The U.S. Small Business Administration’s New Focus on Manufacturing
In this episode of Clocking In, NCMEP Director Phil Mintz speaks with U.S. Small Business Administration leaders Lisa Shimkat, Mike Arriola, and Dan Piche about the new Made in America Manufacturing Initiative. The initiative aims to strengthen small manufacturers through reduced regulations, tailored loan programs, and workforce development.
The conversation highlights the SBA’s renewed, hands-on approach—including plant tours and roundtables—to better understand and serve small manufacturers’ needs nationwide.
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NCMEP
U.S. Small Business Administra...2025-05-1315 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-63: From Textiles and Tobacco to TechnologyAI will be a Game Changer for an Optimistic Economic Outlook for North Carolina
New technologies such as artificial intelligence will no doubt transform the state’s traditional powerhouses of textiles, tobacco, and technology.
As a new federal executive branch takes shape and establishes its policies, Dr Phil Mintz, Director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership, discusses the economic outlook for North Carolina with “The People’s Economist,” Dr. Michael Walden.
Dr. Michael L. Walden is a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University and a member o...2025-03-1331 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingEp-62: Even Programmers Can Fall in Love with the Manufacturing EnvironmentCTI Systems Realizes the Value in Retaining Their Workforce.
CTI Systems has been locally owned and producing high-quality equipment for the electronics assembly industry for over 35 years. CTI Systems offers a wide range of products, from the most complex laser markers to depaneling routers and simple conveyors. Located in the Lee County Industrial Park, CTI Systems is a four-fold operation in the manufacturing, sales, installation, and service of automated conveyor systems. CTI equipment, used in the manufacture of a printed circuit board, is utilized in a variety of applications and industries, from the automotive and medical fields...2025-02-0508 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingEp-61: A Family Tradition Inspired A Unique Business OpportunityOne woman turned a family recipe into an award-winning snack company, combining innovative branding, sustainable growth, and community support to deliver high-quality cheesy snacks and create new business opportunities.
In this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz, the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership director talks with Becca Jordan Wright, the CEO and founder of Piedmont Pennies, a gourmet cheesy snack manufacturer in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The company’s Original Sharp Cheddar Biscuit Bites recently won the small business category in the 2024 “Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina” contest sponsored by the NC Chamber. Launched in Septem...2024-11-2125 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingEp-60: Secrets to SuccessHusband and wife duo of Queen City Engineering and Design launch an in-house manufacturing company to control the development process resulting in greater flexibility, quality, shorter project lead times, and new business opportunities.
Queen City Engineering and Design’s growth from a single laptop in a spare bedroom to a 7,000-square-foot engineering design and manufacturing facility has been a remarkable journey. Rex started as an independent contractor, gradually taking on more projects. However, the turning point came when he invested in equipment to offer in-house contract manufacturing and prototyping services, which fueled steady growth. At this point, he...2024-10-2231 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingEp-59: Weaving Textile AdvancementsKings Mountain, North Carolina fabric manufacturer STI Fabrics holds up against the test of time.
In today’s industrial landscape, the demand for specialized fabrics tailored to unique applications has never been greater. From heavy-duty manufacturing to advanced technological fields, specialized fabrics ensure efficiency, safety, and innovation across various industries. These fabrics are engineered with precision to meet specific performance requirements, whether withstanding extreme temperatures, providing electrical conductivity, or offering chemical resistance. Let’s explore the fascinating world of specialized fabrics and how they revolutionize various industrial sectors.
Located in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, STI Fabr...2024-09-1213 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingEp-58: Timber!West Jefferson, NC-based Carolina Timberworks received the 2024 Sustainability Leadership Award.
Mass timber is a type of engineered wood product that is gaining popularity in the construction industry due to its sustainability, strength, and versatility. Unlike traditional lumber, which is typically cut from large trees, mass timber is made by laminating smaller wood pieces together to create large panels or beams. These panels can then be used as structural elements in buildings, offering a renewable alternative to concrete and steel.
Based in West Jefferson, North Carolina, Carolina Timberworks, a pioneer in the timber frame industry, stands...2024-08-1521 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingEp-57: Fanning GrowthWinston-Salem-based ZIEHL-ABEGG received the 2024 NCMEP Developing Markets Leadership Award.
Developing markets represent organizations experiencing rapid growth and industrialization. These markets are characterized by increasing economic activity, expanding consumer bases and significant investment opportunities. Companies and investors are drawn to developing markets due to their potential for high returns, driven by rising incomes, urbanization, and evolving infrastructure.
ZIEHL-ABEGG is a globally renowned company specializing in innovative ventilation, control, and drive technology solutions. With a rich history dating back to 1910, the organization has established itself as a leader in the field, known for its commitment to excellence...2024-07-1711 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-56: Revving Up for Manufacturing ExcellenceLenior, NC-based Teijin Automotive Technologies received the 2024 NCMEP Manufacturing Excellence Award.
Continuous improvement in manufacturing is a strategic approach focused on systematically enhancing production processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency. Rooted in principles like Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing, this methodology involves the relentless pursuit of incremental changes to improve quality and performance. By fostering a culture of ongoing refinement and employee involvement, manufacturers can adapt to evolving market demands, boost productivity, and maintain a competitive edge. Continuous improvement not only drives operational excellence but also cultivates innovation and resilience within the manufacturing sector.
Teijin Automotive...2024-06-2809 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-55: Holding ToughBurlington, NC climbing rope manufacturer wins the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina Award.
Climbing rope is a crucial component of climbing equipment, serving as a lifeline for climbers in recreational and professional settings. They are indispensable in the climbing world, providing essential support and safety to climbers. Their design, construction and technological advancements continue to evolve, ensuring that climbers can rely on them in the most demanding environments.
FJORD, a company named for the Fjords of Norway, was incorporated in North Carolina as a small business entity in 1997. The climbing protection manufacturer based in...2024-06-1516 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-54: The Importance of Prototyping Spaces for ManufacturingLocated in Durham, NC, First Flight Venture Center Hangar 6 is an NCMEP partner that focuses on the entrepreneurial and startup space.
Prototyping spaces, also known as maker spaces or innovation labs, are crucial for the advancement and success of the manufacturing industry. These specialized environments provide essential tools, resources, and collaborative opportunities that enable manufacturers to develop, test, and refine their products.
First Flight Venture’s Hangar 6 is an innovative coworking and prototyping space located in the heart of the Research Triangle Park in North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to support startups and ea...2024-05-2923 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-53: From Pharmaceuticals to Biotech: How North Carolina is Leading the Way in BiomanufacturingThe Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) BioWork program trains students for a career with biomanufacturing organizations like Pfizer.
Home to more than 700 life science companies North Carolina currently ranks third in the nation for biotechnology. With its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment, the state has become a hotspot for companies looking to establish or expand their biomanufacturing operations.
BioWork is a state-wide certificate program offered by Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) that can lead to an entry-level position as a process technician. Students will learn the foundational skills needed for a career...2024-04-2610 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-52: Community Catalysts: Inside North Carolina's Community College SystemNCMEP Partner, North Carolina Community College System, brings accessible customized training for businesses and individuals to counties across North Carolina.
Community colleges hold immense importance in the educational landscape, serving as accessible gateways to higher education for diverse students. These institutions are vital in providing affordable and flexible educational and training opportunities, allowing individuals to pursue academic and vocational paths. Community colleges like those in the North Carolina Community College System also serve as crucial platforms for career development, offering practical skills and certifications that align with local workforce needs.
The mission of the North...2024-04-1619 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-51: Brick by BrickNorth Carolina-founded brick manufacturer Triangle Brick Company, produces hundreds of millions of bricks yearly to build America.
Bricks have been a reliable and versatile construction material for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to modern cities, bricks have stood the test of time and are integral to our built environment. But have you ever stopped to think about how they are made?
With North Carolina roots dating back to 1959, Triangle Brick is one of the country’s most highly automated brick manufacturers and has plants in Wadesboro and Moncure, North Carolina and Clay County, Texas. In...2024-04-0311 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-50: Forging the FutureThe Sanford, North Carolina Bharat Forge facility continues to play a crucial role as the production of electric vehicles increases.
The art of forging has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It has been a fundamental practice in human civilization, from early techniques to modern advancements, contributing to the development of society and technological advancements.
As a technology and engineering-driven development partner and one of the global leaders in metal forming Bharat Forge serves several sectors including automotive, railways, aerospace, marine, oil & gas, power, construction and mining. Being the world’s largest fo...2024-02-2910 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-49: From Idea to RealityStanza Machinery owner’s experience paved the way for a successful industrial finishing manufacturer.
Have you ever wondered how products get their shiny and durable finishes? The answer lies in the process of industrial finishing. From furniture to cars, industrial finishing plays a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and durability of various objects.
In Charlotte, NC, Stanza Machinery provides industrial finishing solutions and technical services for the metal, wood, and plastics industries. The organization specializes in coating and finishing systems for moldings, cabinet doors, extrusions, tubing, flooring, and flat surfaces in metal, wood, and gl...2024-01-2913 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-48: When Style and Consciousness CollideBurlington, North Carolina sustainable t-shirt manufacturer, TS Designs, works with natural fibers and earth-friendly printing. Always grown and made in the USA.
Have you ever wondered about the story behind the clothes you wear? How are they made and what impact do they have on the environment? TS Designs is a company that aims to revolutionize the textile industry by creating high-quality, sustainable and eco-friendly clothing.
In a world where fast fashion dominates, TS Designs takes a different approach. They believe in creating products that are stylish and comfortable and have a positive impact on...2024-01-0219 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-47: Loud and Clear: The Manufacturing of Military Communication EquipmentAberdeen, North Carolina military communications manufacturer looks to grow in the industry.
Military communications play a crucial role in the success of military operations. From strategizing and planning to executing missions, clear and reliable communication is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of military personnel. Over the years, advancements in technology have revolutionized military communications, enabling faster and more secure transmission of information.
Located in Aberdeen, North Carolina, DISCO32 is an American manufacturer and retailer specializing in cutting-edge solutions for tactical communicators, enabling professional users with a wide range of push-to-talk devices a...2023-12-1209 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-46: Fostering Growth and InnovationThe Manufacturing Solutions Center has grown to be a primer business incubator host.
With its roots in hosiery and furniture development and testing, the Manufacturing Solutions Center is part of Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC, working to have a positive economic impact on their community, the region, and the entire country. The organization works with traditional manufacturers and manufacturing start-ups, helping to solve problems and move companies forward. The mission of the Manufacturing Solutions Center is to help US manufacturers develop and grow their businesses. Over the last ten years, MSC has served over 3,200 customers...2023-12-0722 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-45: Safeguarding the Human BodyGreenhill Anti-Ballistics Corporation looks to revolutionize how we think about blunt force trauma prevention.
In today’s fast-paced world, innovation is the key to success. Companies and individuals constantly seek new ways to disrupt the status quo and create breakthroughs. One of these breakthroughs is the Force Disruption Platform. The Force Disruption Platform is a powerful tool to drastically reduce the impact of blunt force trauma on the head and body.
Greenhill Anti-Ballistics Corporation is a nanotechnology materials company based in Davidson, North Carolina. Founded in 2008, the organization has been working for over 20 years developing it...2023-11-0724 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-44: Investing In The CommunityAs Emerging Technology Institute grows, the organization remains committed to helping its community flourish with them.
From a simple request to creating a drone testing center, James Freeman has built the Emerging Technology Institute in Red Springs, North Carolina. Despite airspace restrictions, Freeman’s vision has flourished into a development center with a mission to improve the community. What began as one man’s mission is now a full-fledged technology research testing center.
Emerging Technology Institute (ETI) is an organization out of Red Springs, NC that develops, tests, and integrates emerging technologies including Unmanned Aerial Syst...2023-10-0212 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-43: Carrying On a LegacyAfter three generations the Burlington-based electrical supply organization Southland Electrical continues to flourish.
Generational business refers to passing down a business from one generation to the next. This tradition has been prevalent for centuries, with family businesses as the backbone of economies worldwide.
Southland Electrical Supply Company is a second-generation family-owned business based in Burlington, North Carolina, founded in 1987. Southland distributes, rebuilds and customizes electrical supply products. Southland takes pride in delivering quality service and dependable products through six regional offices throughout the southeastern United States.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil...2023-09-0612 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-42: Electricity, Water and Gas, Oh My!: How a Non-Profit is Making Sure Energy Companies Treat NC Manufacturers EquitablyCarolina Utility Customer Association (CUCA) provides a platform for customers to voice their concerns and works towards ensuring fair and affordable utility rates.
Manufacturing facilities require a significant amount of energy to operate, from lighting and heating to powering machinery. These utility bills can add up quickly and significantly impact the cost of the products being produced. But did you know there’s representation for North Carolina manufacturers who fall victim to unnecessary utility fees and charges?
The Carolina Utility Customers Association (CUCA) was established in 1983 to legally represent and protect member interests in energy is...2023-08-0117 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-41: Catching Up with KetchieConcord, NC manufacturer is making waves in the advanced manufacturing world.
Have you ever wondered how complex machinery and equipment are built with such precision? The answer lies in the manufacturing of high precision parts. These parts are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of various industries, from aerospace to medical equipment.
Ketchie Inc., a Concord, North Carolina full-service precision CNC machine shop, has grown since its formation in 1947 from a textile job shop serving the local mills to a woman-owned, third-generation, ISO-certified corporation operating advanced CNC equipment. The company offers supply solutions to government...2023-07-0519 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-40: Redefining Culture - Wieland CopperDavide Varze and Markus Rusznyak tell the story of how they helped transform Wieland Copper’s Pine Hall, NC plant.
What does it take to create a safe and productive workplace? Is it just about having the right equipment and procedures in place or is there something more to it?
The modern workplace is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opportunities. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of workplace safety, leadership, and culture in driving success and ensuring employee well-being. Wieland Copper Products in Pine Hall, NC explored the ke...2023-06-0517 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-39: Ready for Impact: How EDPNC Is Keeping North Carolina CompetitiveSince 2015, the EDPNC has helped North Carolina win more than 500 recruitment and expansion projects, resulting in 67,000 new jobs and $14 billion in announced new investments across the state.
Economic development has been a driving force behind human progress for centuries. From the first agricultural revolution to the technological advancements of the 21st century, economic development has enabled societies to improve their living standards and promote social welfare.
The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) is a North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP) partner focused on recruiting new businesses to the state, supporting the needs of...2023-05-1114 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-38 A Sturdy Solution - BeachBUBGreensboro, NC manufacturer beachBUB has worked to revolutionize beach umbrella safety.
We all consider going to the beach an opportunity for a relaxing experience. Still, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 2,800 beachgoers ended up in the emergency room because of beach umbrella injuries between 2010 and 2018. Our focus in this episode is on a North Carolina business that aims to decrease that number to zero.
Established in 2013, beachBUB© is a family-owned manufacturer based out of Greensboro, NC, producing all-in-one beach umbrellas and umbrella accessories. Their patented umbrella base folds up to the s...2023-04-0626 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-37: When One Door Closes…Lillington, NC-based security door manufacturer Boon Edam, strives to make buildings safer with “smart doors.”
There has been a lot of discussion around the cybersecurity of organizations and while cybersecurity should be taken seriously, so should the physical security of your organization. If entryway security isn’t taken seriously, people could easily access sensitive data, cause damage to company property or harm the organization’s workers and patrons.
Boon Edam is an entry solutions manufacturer that has evolved from that first wooden revolving door into a mini-multinational organization that conceptualizes, engineers, designs, manufactures and installs a range...2023-02-0313 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-36 Smart Textile Technology: The Future of FabricationNC State University Industry Expansion Solutions’ (IES) North Carolina Defense Manufacturing Community Support Program (NC DMCSP), creates opportunities for smart textile innovators.
As our lives become ever connected through smart phones, tablets and other devices, the way we interact has changed dramatically and that even applies to textiles. Textiles come in a wide variety of forms, from clothing to bedding to household items. Smart textiles include the next generation of wearable technologies. They combine textile design with advanced sensing capabilities. This new class of materials promises to revolutionize the future of wearable computing.
In 2021, the Dep...2023-01-0420 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-35: Well Oiled MachineSanford, North Carolina-based company emerges as one of North Carolina’s leading precision machined components manufacturers.
Precision machining is a manufacturing technique where parts or components are cut into precise shapes using high-speed cutting tools such as drills, lathes, milling machines and other types of machine tools. The term ‘precision’ refers to the exactness of the final shape produced by these processes.
JMC Tool & Machine Co. is an ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016 certified leader in providing precision machined components and assemblies to a wide variety of industries including aerospace, medical, and industrial. JMC serves regional and global...2022-12-0118 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-34: Educating The Workforce of the FutureCentral Carolina Community College strives to teach relevant skills needed in today’s technology and artificially intelligent-driven workforce.
Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) is an annual national event, coordinated by The National Association of Manufacturers and The Manufacturing Institute, on the first Friday of Manufacturing Month – October. It’s a day designated to highlight manufacturing careers and their impact on our lives.
On Manufacturing Day 2022, Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) opened the doors of its newly established E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center for an interactive event. Manufacturers and students participated in education and networ...2022-11-0118 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-33: Strengthening Workplace Attraction and RetentionDr. Jenni Harris discusses the value the North Carolina Department of Commerce - Workforce Solutions Division provides to North Carolina workers.
North Carolina has long been a great place to live and raise a family. The state ranks high in quality of life, economic opportunity, and educational attainment. Despite these positive trends, North Carolina continues to lag behind neighboring states regarding employment rates.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of July 2022, North Carolina was ranked 28th in unemployment, with 3.4% of North Carolinians unemployed. Despite being 28th in unemployment, North Carolina ranks 8...2022-10-1022 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-32: Protecting Those Who Protect UsYoungsville-based manufacturer Sirchie Corp works to transform law enforcement equipment.
Law enforcement officers are often required to carry out their duties in dangerous situations. They provide surveilance, investigate crimes, and suppoet security at public events and must be prepared at all times.
There are various types of law enforcement support equipment. These include riot gear, body armor, firearms, and vehicles along with evidence processing materials and secure storage devices. These items are essential for keeping the peace and ensuring safety. One North Carolina manufacturer works diligently to create the equipment that officers and detectives need t...2022-10-1020 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-31: Putting Customer Success Before ProfitAn Asheville, North Carolina-based business boasts a 60% rate of repeat customers because of their excellent customer relations.
How often do you hear companies talk about customer success? You’d be surprised to learn that customer success is a relatively new concept.
Customer success is a term that describes the relationship between customers and businesses. The goal is to provide exceptional service and support to customers and ensure they continue returning for future purchases. North Carolina organization, Quis Machinery, has put this concept into action dedicated to putting its customer’s best interests first.
Locat...2022-08-0217 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-30: Threading the Needle of QualityBurlington, North Carolina-based fabrics manufacturer, Fairystone Fabrics, has earned its reputation for technical expertise.
North Carolina has long been known for its textile production. From the early days of cotton production through the Civil War era, North Carolina was a major producer of textiles. Today, North Carolina produces over half of the nation’s cotton and more than 40 percent of the nation’s woolen fabric. The state also produces more than 50 percent of the nation‘s rayon fabric and 25 percent of the nation‟s linen fabric. Fairystone Fabrics has been a part of contributing to North Carolina’s booming f...2022-07-0109 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-29: Community Colleges Provide a Pathway to Business SuccessLocal community colleges are built to provide North Carolina businesses with sustainable solutions.
In 1957, the North Carolina General Assembly adopted the first Community College Act and provided funding for community colleges. By 1966, there were 43 institutions with 28,250 full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollments. In 1969, there were 54 institutions with 59,329 FTE. The system had grown very rapidly, exceeding ten percent annually nearly every year until the late 1970s. The number of colleges has not increased since Brunswick Community College became the 58th in 1978. The North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) through its Customized Training Program is one of the ten partners of t...2022-06-2710 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-28: East Carolina University Strives to Help North Carolina Businesses Excel
North Carolina Manufacturing Extensionship partner, East Carolina University strives to assist businesses across North Carolina.
Founded in 1907, East Carolina University (ECU) has made quite the name for itself. According to U.S. News and World Report’s 2021 best-ranked colleges, ECU is one of the top five public universities in North Carolina. East Carolina University isn’t only helping North Carolina businesses by cultivating educated and talented young people for the workforce, they also offer continuous improvement services to everyday manufacturers in all 100 North Carolina counties.
East Carolina University is a member of the North Carolina Manuf...2022-06-1313 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-27: Breathing Easy with Bleep SleepChapel Hill-based CPAP manufacturer Bleep Sleep is a breath of fresh air in the CPAP industry.
CPAP masks have been a long-standing nightmare for sleep apnea patients. Many CPAP masks on the market tend to leak, are too loud and can even result in the breaking of hair and bald spots due to headgear. On this episode of clocking in, I talked to a CPAP manufacturer who — through innovation — has eliminated many of the problems that are stereotypically associated with CPAP masks.
Established in 2019, CPAP manufacturer, Bleep Sleep is based out of Chapel Hill, North Carol...2022-04-1126 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-26: Economic Check-Up with Dr. WaldenRetired William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and extension economist Dr. Walden discusses the current supply chain and workforce issues.
Dr. Michael Walden
The pandemic has put the economy into a tailspin, leaving supply chain disturbances, workforce vacancies, and spiked inflation in its wake. But what is exactly going on and how long will it last? We’re speaking to a regular guest— economist Dr. Michael Walden, to make sense of current events.
Dr. Walden is a retired William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and extension economist at North Carolina State University and a member of t...2021-11-1221 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-25: Providing a Beneficial Thread for a Dependable WorkforceLaurinburg, NC-based industrial thread manufacturer Service Thread is working hard for the people who work for them.
Service Thread
According to a recent Gartner study of employees from across the U.S., only 13 percent of employees are largely satisfied with their work experiences. Additionally, nearly half (46 percent of employees) are largely dissatisfied with their work experiences. With the current labor crisis, many organizations are scrambling to find ways to appeal to the modern American workforce. On this episode of “Clocking In”, we speak with a manufacturer who invests in their employees and attracts talent in an unconventional way...2021-09-2731 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-24: Medical Stockings with a Higher StandardElastic Therapy, Inc., a compression wear manufacturer located in Asheboro, NC, strives to maintain its niche dominance in the hosiery industry.
Elastic Therapy, Inc.
It may come as no surprise that a state with a rich textile history also has deep roots in the hosiery industry. According to IBIS World, North Carolina leads the nation in the state with the most hosiery manufacturing mills with 64 mills as of 2021. On this episode of Clocking In, we’re sitting down with a hosiery manufacturer in Randolph county that is paving the way in compression wear.
Established in As...2021-08-2521 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-23: Textiles Continues to Evolve as a Powerful NC IndustryThe NC State University Wilson College of Textiles uses modern technology to take textile manufacturing into the future.
NC State University Wilson College of Textiles
What does the healthcare, fashion, defense and advanced material industry have in common? They all utilize textiles as a way to invent. Long gone are the days where the word “textile” exclusively refers to woven fabric. Heart valves, cells and organs and vein grafts are now being created with the use of textiles. Institutions like the NC State University Wilson College of Textiles use cutting-edge technologies to discover innovative uses for textiles.
2021-07-1321 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-22: Turning Students into Project Engineers of the FutureNCMEP partner, North Carolina A&T State University collaborates with NC manufacturers to cultivate the engineers of tomorrow.
North Carolina A&T State University
Industrial engineers are professional problem solvers. Their role in manufacturing is to find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. In this episode of Clocking In, we sit down with a North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership partner working to connect promising industrial engineering students with NC manufacturers.
The Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University is well known for its innovative research, transformational teaching, learning...2021-07-1219 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-21: Manufacturing is the Family BusinessA second-generation family business located in Charlotte, NC, is keeping the family legacy alive.
Tropical Foods
Family businesses are great. They can help transfer family values, grow leaders, strengthen inter-generational bonds and they’re also a large part of the American economy. According to the Family Business Alliance, family enterprises employ 63% of the U.S. workforce. In addition, 75% of all new jobs are generated by family businesses. In this episode of Clocking In, we’re highlighting a second-generation family business that shows no signs of slowing down.
Tropical Foods is a woman-owned family food manufacturer base...2021-05-1121 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-20: Navigating Opportunities Between Furniture and Protective GownsHigh Point furniture manufacturer, Custom Contract Furnishings, pivots to making gowns to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
Custom Contract Furnishings
According to AARP, the leisure and hospitality industry was the hardest hit by the pandemic. Our guest, whose business has been focused on supplying a booming hospitality industry, saw three months’ worth of orders dry up—virtually—overnight in March 2020. In this episode, we speak with a leader from Custom Contract Furnishings about how they discovered how to utilize their talents and technology to create a competitive protective gown solution for the healthcare industry.
Custom Contrac...2021-04-138h 14
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-19: Engineering the Tissue Industry With TechnologySpindale North Carolina tissue manufacturer, Cardinal Tissue, works overtime to aid the tissue shortage.
Cardinal Tissue
The pandemic caused a sudden surge in hoarding. As a result of people buying tissue in bulk and manufacturers not being able to keep up with the demand, toilet paper became one of the many products that was hard to find during the pandemic. Today I’m talking to a North Carolina tissue manufacturer that rose to the challenge to get tissue back on grocery store shelves.
Founded in 2018, Cardinal Tissue is a specialized contract tissue manufacturer located in Sp...2021-03-0522 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-18: Award Winning Distillery Lends a HandA distillery in Statesville, NC, uses their equipment to produce highly sought-after hand sanitizer.
Southern Distilling Company
Baking flour, paper towels, bicycles and canning jars. What do all these things have in common? They were all scarce at one point during the pandemic. Another item that was really hard to find on market shelves early in the pandemic and came recommended as a means to slow down the spread of COVID-19 was hand sanitizer. In this interview, I talk to one of the hundreds of distilleries who answered the call to assist with the extreme hand sanitizer...2021-02-0927 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-17: Industrial Solutions Lab Helps Manufacturers Solve for SolutionsNCMEP Partner, UNC Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, collaborates with North Carolina industries to develop solutions
UNC Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab
No one likes to waste time, especially manufacturers. If there is a more efficient and faster way to conduct operations, manufacturers want in. This is why the Industrial Solutions Lab at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC) works hand-in-hand with NC manufacturers to create processes that make them more productive.
The UNC Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab is one of the nine partners that make up the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). The...2021-01-1223 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-16: Precision PrototypingDurham-based NCMEP partner, Hangar6, is working to assist North Carolina manufacturing in achieving their product design goals.
Hangar6
Imagine you manufacture a product advertised to help install doorknobs. Customers order the product, but there’s a major problem. It doesn’t work. Embarrassingly, you recall the product and your organization’s customer loyalty suffers. You do a deep dive and track all your product’s defects back to the fact you missed steps in the prototyping and testing process. This is why prototyping is so important. Proof that a product works as intended in the form of...2020-12-0818 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-15: Checking the Pulse of the Economy with Dr. WaldenDr. Michael Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and extension economist, discusses how the economy and jobs have been affected by the pandemic.
Dr. Michael Walden
The pandemic has done a number on our economy. The shut down necessary to stem the spread of COVID-19 caused the economy to recede and led to massive layoffs. To dissect the status of the economy, the manufacturing industry and the possible track to recovery, we're talking to someone we had on the podcast a year ago under different circumstances—economist Dr. Michael Walden.
Dr. Walden is a...2020-11-1019 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-14: Revving Up Manufacturing SolutionsMooresville, North Carolina manufacturer, Roush Yates, continuously strives for the competitive advantage.
Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions
Automotive racing is a lot like manufacturing. The team with the best crew, finest parts and most skilled driver often has a competitive advantage. Just like the manufacturer with the best workforce, equipment and leadership has a one-up on their competition. No one knows this better than a manufacturing company that was created to initially support a world-class race engine company that would compete at the highest levels of the motorsports industry, Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions.
In...2020-10-1323 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-13: Switching On ManufacturingRaleigh-based electronic switch manufacturer, Electroswitch Electronic Products, strives for quality and innovation.
Electroswitch Electronic Products
In business, flexibility is a strength, especially in times of uncertainty. The range of standard and custom products our next guest can design and produce has helped his company find their way through the pandemic. We talk with a manufacturer who takes pride in its product line’s versatility and quality.
In this installment of Clocking In, I sit down with Kyle Martin, the vice president and general manager of Electroswitch Electronic Products. Kyle’s experience covers a broa...2020-09-0819 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-12: Molding The Future of ManufacturingThe award-winning injection molding manufacturer in Greensboro, NC, Core Technology, continues to expand despite the pandemic.
Core Technology Molding Corporation
The pandemic has brought an abrupt end to the last 10 years of business and economic growth in the United States, resulting in many manufacturers suffering short and long-term damage. In spite of the situation, we talk with a North Carolina manufacturer that has found opportunities in the face of this adversity.
In this segment of Clocking In, I sit down with Geoff Foster, CEO, president and founder of Core Technology Molding Corporation. Foster...2020-08-1121 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-11: The Job ManufacturerIn this episode, we talk to someone whose mission it is to help create jobs for North Carolina.
NC State’s Office of External Affairs, Partnerships and Economic Development
Jobs are the foundation of any thriving economy. When people have jobs, they get paid. When they get paid, they spend money. When they spend money, it bolsters the economy. This is precisely why organizations like NC State’s Office of External Affairs, Partnerships and Economic Development (EAPED) are so vital.
EAPED is instrumental in positioning the university as one of the top public rese...2020-07-1425 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-10: Cultivating SolutionsMertek Solutions founder Jerry Pedley combines his love for mechanics, work ethic and turns it into a thriving business.
Mertek Solutions
According to Gallup, 70% of Americans view the American Dream as personally achievable. Our next Clocking In guest was a farm boy from Iowa who worked his way through the manufacturing industry and created a prosperous business in which he’s proud to go to every day. He is a manifestation of that dream, showing it is achievable to anyone.
In this interview, I sat down with Jerry Pedley, president and founder of Mertek So...2020-06-0817 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-09: North Carolina Business in the Era of COVID-19In this uncertain time, Ben Kinney from Business North Carolina helps shed light on the current business climate in North Carolina.
Business North Carolina
According to North Carolina’s Small Business and Technology Development Center, there are 179,773 employer businesses in North Carolina. 98.1% of them are small businesses. As of March 24, 2020, many of those businesses were deemed “non-essential” and had to temporarily close to limit the spread of COVID-19. This has resulted in mass layoffs and some businesses are facing the threat of having to permanently close their doors.
For this interview, I sat down with B...2020-05-1224 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-08: Fetching DesignsA small start-up that began in the home of Alisha Navarro, transforms into one of the most respected dog accessory manufacturers in the pet industry.
2 Hounds Design
There are almost 90 million dogs currently owned in the US. As dogs have become a more integral part of American life, their owners have sought more quality and variety in their little friend’s accessories. Our next Clocking In guest invested just $500 dollars into starting a company that could supply this new demand.
I had the pleasure of interviewing founder and president of 2 Hounds Designs, Alisha Navarro an...2020-04-1423 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-07: A North Carolina "Basement" Success StoryWhat started as an engineer’s basement invention has grown into one of the world’s most in-demand pressure regulators.
Equilibar
Pressure control technologies are an integral part of many products and industries. They assist in supplying important operations with the appropriate amount of fluid or gas.Our next guest’s valves and regulators have been dubbed gold standard within pressure control technology manufacturing.
I sat down and talked with Jeff Jennings, inventor, founder and president of Equilibar. Jeff founded the company in 2007. What started in his basement grew into a company whose produc...2020-03-1021 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-06: Taking Aerospace Manufacturing to New HeightsFounded by an ex-Navy pilot, VX Aerospace strives to be more than an aerospace manufacturer
VX Aerospace
Dynamic composites are extremely useful in the advancement of the aerospace industry. The use of composites can reduce the weight of aerospace vehicles up to 20 to 50%. They have a high thermal stability and are resistant to fatigue and corrosion. With the ever growing demand within the industry for something state-of-the-art, it is vital that aerospace manufacturers be both adaptable and innovative.
VX Aerospace is a dynamic, advanced composites design and manufacturing company located in Morganton, North Carolina...2020-02-1118 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-05: Going With the FlowGoing 50 years strong, Hoffer Flow Controls hopes to maintain their influence across a broad array of industries
Hoffer Flow Controls
Measurements make a difference. The wrong measurement of fluids could make or break a product or operation. In your home, a flow meter determines the difference between a $50 water bill and a $250 water bill. In the aerospace industry, a flow meter determines whether a space shuttle receives enough rocket fuel to launch into outer space.
Hoffer Flow Controls is a flow meter manufacturer in Elizabeth City, North Carolina less than an hour’s drive aw...2020-01-1422 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-04: Stepping Outside the BoxManufacturing packaging in the era of online shopping
Virtually every item we receive comes in a package... whether it’s a brand new computer, clothes you ordered online or food you bought last minute for dinner. Probably most of us put little or no thought into where the packaging is actually manufactured and how it’s made.
Package Craft, located in the sleepy town of Bethel, North Carolina, specializes in manufacturing packaging for various businesses and organizations locally and across the nation. Founded in the 1980s with the help of an economic grant from the town...2019-12-1128 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-03E: Clocking In with IES, Partner of NCMEPNorth Carolina State University Industry Expansion Solutions (IES)
Established in 1995, the North Carolina Manufacturing Partnership (NCMEP) is the official representative of the MEP Network in the State of North Carolina. The purpose of the partnership is to enhance the productivity, innovative capacity and technological performance of North Carolina based manufacturing firms.
Our mission, at NCMEP, is to help small and mid-sized manufacturers achieve their performance. Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, we provide solutions and services that help organizations all around our great state.
I got the chance to sit down with a...2019-12-1108 minClocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-03D: Clocking In with NCCCS, Partner of NCMEPNorth Carolina Community College System (NCCCS)
Established in 1995, the North Carolina Manufacturing Partnership (NCMEP) is the official representative of the MEP Network in the State of North Carolina. The purpose of the partnership is to enhance the productivity, innovative capacity and technological performance of North Carolina based manufacturing firms.
Our mission, at NCMEP, is to help small and mid-sized manufacturers achieve their performance. Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, we provide solutions and services that help organizations all around our great state.
I got the chance to sit down with a few of...2019-12-1113 minClocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-03C: Clocking In with PCE, Partner of NCMEPPolymers Center of Excellence (PCE)
Established in 1995, the North Carolina Manufacturing Partnership (NCMEP) is the official representative of the MEP Network in the State of North Carolina. The purpose of the partnership is to enhance the productivity, innovative capacity and technological performance of North Carolina based manufacturing firms.
Our mission, at NCMEP, is to help small and mid-sized manufacturers achieve their performance. Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, we provide solutions and services that help organizations all around our great state.
I got the chance to sit down with a few of NCMEP’s...2019-12-1110 minClocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-03B: Clocking In with MSC, Partner of NCMEPManufacturing Solutions Center (MSC)
Established in 1995, the North Carolina Manufacturing Partnership (NCMEP) is the official representative of the MEP Network in the State of North Carolina. The purpose of the partnership is to enhance the productivity, innovative capacity and technological performance of North Carolina based manufacturing firms.
Our mission, at NCMEP, is to help small and mid-sized manufacturers achieve their performance. Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, we provide solutions and services that help organizations all around our great state.
I got the chance to sit down with a few of NCMEP’s pa...2019-12-1111 minClocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-03A: Clocking In with EDPNC, Partner of NCMEPEconomic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC)
Established in 1995, the North Carolina Manufacturing Partnership (NCMEP) is the official representative of the MEP Network in the State of North Carolina. The purpose of the partnership is to enhance the productivity, innovative capacity and technological performance of North Carolina based manufacturing firms.
Our mission, at NCMEP, is to help small and mid-sized manufacturers achieve their performance. Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, we provide solutions and services that help organizations all around our great state.
I got the chance to sit down with a few...2019-12-1109 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-02C: Supporting Those Who Defend UsA service disabled veteran owned company manufactures and supplies the military with unique vehicles
Carolina Growler, a father and son business founded by a veteran, has an important mission: Ensure the US military has safe, appropriate and high-performance forms of transportation. It is their utmost priority.
In 2004, Carolina Growler was awarded a contract to produce over 600 Internally Transported Vehicles (ITVs), Light Attack Vehicles (LAVs). In 2011, Carolina Growler was awarded a $50 million dollar grant from the US government to assist in manufacturing specialized vehicles for the military. Their modified vehicles have been on display in Center...2019-11-2512 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-02B: Recreating Camping for the 21st CenturyA NC camping gear manufacturer is looking to create cutting edge camping supplies for 21st century campers.
At SylvanSport, “originality” is the name of the game. National Geographic Adventure dubbed their Go Camping Trailer the “Coolest.Camper. Ever.” Founded in 2004, SylvanSport wanted to make outdoor adventure accessible to everyone. They have reinvented the pop-up camper and that product has become one of the best constructed camping and gear trailers on the market.
Through the years, SylvanSport has been awarded the #1 RV for Outdoor Adventure; Men’s Journal Gear of the Year; Internal Aluminium Design Extrusion Grand Priz...2019-11-2511 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-S-02A: Keeping North Carolina's Textile Industry AliveA FABRIC MANUFACTURER HOPES TO EXPAND ON NORTH CAROLINA’S TEXTILE RICH PAST
Their values are: “Quality, innovation and reliability” and since Fairystone Fabrics has been in business for a little more than 50 years, I’d say they’ve executed their values well. Fairystone Fabrics is a textile manufacturer located in Burlington, North Carolina.
Fairystone Fabrics takes pride in taking care of their human workforce. The organization currently has 55 employees that have been with them for over 10 years, that’s a 47% retention rate.
Fairystone Fabrics specializes in tricot warping, knitting and sueding. The company’s ma...2019-11-2518 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-03: Cashion Fishing Rods Angling To Improve Your Fishing GameDiscover how a North Carolina fishing rod manufacturer is hoping to take the fishing rod industry by storm.
The economy was rough after Matthew Cashion graduated from Virginia Tech in 2009. With a doctorate in chemistry and concentration in advanced materials science, he was having no luck finding full-time employment.
Frustrated and unemployed Matthew received a $2,000 loan from his father and decided to put it all on the line and start a fishing rod business in Stanford, NC. He called the new startup Cashion Fishing Rods. He then used his knowledge of chemistry and advanced materials...2019-11-1228 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-Special-01: The State of the North Carolina Economy for ManufacturingA sit-down interview with economist, Dr. Michael Walden to discuss the current and future condition of North Carolina manufacturing
When people talk about the general economy and the economics surrounding the manufacturing industry, we may get lost in all the technical and jargon-riddled analysis. We want answers, but due to the variable nature of the economy and especially the manufacturing industry, that might not be so easy. But what we can do is talk to someone who can simplify the most complicated economic concepts and current events. That’s why I sat down with the guy who ha...2019-10-2928 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-02: Tri-County Industries Fosters Strong Work Discipline, Sense of Worth and InclusionRocky Mount based Tri-County Industries works to enhance the lives of people who are disabled or disadvantaged through work assessment, job training and placement. The organization has been in business for more than 50 years and touches the lives of many in their community.
Tri-County Industries is a unique blend of private enterprise, government funding and local volunteers working together since 1966. Its philosophy of rehabilitation is to help people develop a strong work discipline and a sense of self-worth while obtaining hands-on job experience in a realistic work environment.
We helped Tri-County Industries with a Lean...2019-10-0824 min
Clocking In: Voices of NC ManufacturingE-01: Not Your Grandmother’s Formica Laminate!Find out how one NC manufacturing company is helping architects and interior designers make a statement with their trend-setting designs.
Laminate is no longer your grandmother's gold fleck formica countertops. There is one innovative North Carolina company helping you change the way you think about laminates, one solution at a time.
ATI Laminates is a family-owned and operated manufacturing facility located in Greensboro, North Carolina. They are maniacally focused on developing innovative surfaces for the hospitality, retail, healthcare, and institutional markets.
We had helped the company with their certified management system a while...2019-09-0330 min
Turf's Up RadioEpisode 89: Warren Gorowitz, VP of Ewing Irrigation, Inducted into Green Industry Hall of FameWarren Gorowitz, Vice President of Sustainability at Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply, shares insight he’s gained by being in the landscape industry for more than 22 years. Water conservation and landscape sustainability are hot topics on this week's "Traffic on the Turf" with Michael Bright. Listen to Warren as he discusses the biggest advantages for landscape professionals when pairing Ewing Irrigation and Mirimichi Green products together. Warren touches on where the market is headed by preserving one of the world’s most precious resources – water. Have you always wanted to incorporate sustainability into your business but don’t know whe...2017-09-2654 minTurf's Up RadioEpisode 89: Warren Gorowitz, VP of Ewing Irrigation, Inducted into Green Industry Hall of FameWarren Gorowitz, Vice President of Sustainability at Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply, shares insight he’s gained by being in the landscape industry for more than 22 years. Water conservation and landscape sustainability are hot topics on this week's "Traffic on the Turf" with Michael Bright. Listen to Warren as he discusses the biggest advantages for landscape professionals when pairing Ewing Irrigation and Mirimichi Green products together. Warren touches on where the market is headed by preserving one of the world’s most precious resources – water. Have you always wanted to incorporate sustainability into your business but don’t know whe...2017-09-2654 min