Ben Carlson - Mach 1 Mechatronics Academy

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons talks with Ben Carlson, Founder and CEO of Mach 1 Mechatronics Academy. Ben shares how Mach 1 trains students to be truly day‑one ready for manufacturing jobs through hands-on learning—building, repairing, and troubleshooting real machines just as they would on the shop floor. Mach 1’s culture is built on loyalty, integrity, and hard work. Students range from recent high school graduates to employees sent by their companies to upskill. Everyone leaves with real-world experience and the confidence to step directly into a manufacturing career. With a 100% job placement rate, Mach 1 shows what’s possible when students get practical training and the right mindset. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gfL1A3Yu2tA @peter parsons  @ben carlson  @Mach 1 Mechatronics Academy @Promess  #ManufacturingUnscripted #ManufacturingCareers #Mach1Mechatronics #SkillsTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #ManufacturingJobs #Mechatronics #TechnicalTraining #Upskilling #FutureOfManufacturing #DayOneReady 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons dives into the world of cybersecurity with Jonathon Hard, Founder, President, and CEO of H2L Solutions. Jonathon shares how he built H2L from the ground up, driven by determination and a refusal to fail, and how the company now helps protect critical systems across government and industrial environments. He talks openly about the challenges that shaped H2L’s growth, including the frustration many customers feel when faced with strict cybersecurity requirements and tight compliance deadlines. Jonathon also breaks down the true cost of cybersecurity — not just financially, but in time, resources, and organizational change — when navigating government regulations and industry standards. This episode offers an honest look at what it takes to tackle complex cyber challenges while building a mission-driven company with long-term resilience.  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pe0sYgx_MUI  @peter parsons @Jonathan H.  @H2L Solutions Inc. @Promess  #ManufacturingUnscripted #Cybersecurity #IndustrialSecurity #H2LSolutions #ManufacturingIT #ComplianceStandards #CMMC #SmartManufacturing #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast #DefenseIndustry 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons is joined by Amir Haramaty, Co-Founder and President of aiOla, to talk about how voice-driven AI is changing the way manufacturers collect and use data on the shop floor. Amir explains how aiOla turns everyday speech into structured, usable data — essentially giving manufacturing systems the ability to “listen.” By capturing information in real time and fitting directly into existing workflows, the technology helps eliminate manual data entry, shorten process times, and improve overall efficiency without disrupting operations. The conversation also explores how aiOla adapts to each company’s specific processes and has already delivered measurable results across a wide range of real-world applications. Peter and Amir wrap up by discussing the importance of using accurate data to support better decision-making and manage risk in today’s fast-moving manufacturing environments. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p91Pdm70N30  @peter parsons @Amir Haramaty  @aiOla @Promess  #ManufacturingUnscripted #VoiceAI #aiOla #AIinManufacturing #SmartManufacturing #DigitalTransformation #ManufacturingTechnology #Industry40 #ShopFloorInnovation #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons welcomes back Chris McMahon, Sales Manager at ANDRITZ Schuler North America in Canton, Michigan, to talk about what’s new at Schuler — including the company’s recent transition to ANDRITZ Schuler and the installation of their third hydroforming press. Chris explains Schuler’s role as a press manufacturer, hydroforming specialist, and tooling supplier, and why hydroforming remains a powerful solution for creating complex, high-strength parts with strong consistency and repeatability. He also shares some of the tradeoffs manufacturers need to consider, including longer cycle times and higher upfront costs. The conversation also touches on Chris’s experience selling both parts and dies, how Schuler supports customers across the full production process, and what he’s seeing in the market right now. While he’s encouraged by new vehicle programs and growing product activity, he also shares thoughtful concerns about how suppliers will navigate the changing manufacturing landscape. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KWCcIW5ksu0  @peter parsons @Chris McMahon  @ANDRITZ Schuler North America @Promess  #ManufacturingUnscripted #Hydroforming #ANDRITZSchuler #MetalForming #ManufacturingTechnology #AutomotiveManufacturing #ToolingAndDies #ManufacturingTrends #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Jason Rolland from Carbon to explore the evolving world of 3D printing and advanced materials. The conversation dives into the different types of materials used in additive manufacturing, including how Carbon mixes materials using UV liquid resins to create highly specialized, production-ready parts. Peter and Jason also discuss the development process behind 3D printing — not just from a technology standpoint, but from a learning and growth perspective. Jason shares how Carbon approaches innovation by developing solutions alongside customers, ensuring real-world applications drive product advancement. The episode wraps with a look at Carbon’s unique business model, including their subscription-based approach and how they partner with contract manufacturers to scale production. This conversation offers valuable insight for manufacturers interested in additive manufacturing, material science, and new ways to bring advanced technology to market.  Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYOOA58YcZ0  @peter parsons @Jason Rolland  #ManufacturingUnscripted #3DPrinting #AdditiveManufacturing #Carbon3D #AdvancedMaterials #UVResins #ManufacturingInnovation #SmartManufacturing #DigitalManufacturing #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Nelson Bruton, President of Manufacturing Chats, to discuss the growing role of chat bots in manufacturing websites and digital strategy. Nelson and Peter explore why chat bots are becoming an important tool for manufacturers, how they can improve customer engagement, and where companies need to be careful not to lose the human touch. They dive into finding the “sweet spot” — giving chat bots enough information to be useful without removing meaningful human interaction from the sales and support process. The conversation also covers who the ideal customer is for chat bots, where they add the most value, and how manufacturers can use them to better qualify leads, answer questions faster, and enhance the overall website experience.  Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYOOA58YcZ0  @peter parsons @nelson bruton  #ManufacturingUnscripted #ChatBotsInManufacturing #ManufacturingChats #DigitalManufacturing #ManufacturingMarketing #AIinManufacturing #CustomerExperience #SmartManufacturing #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons is joined by John Krause to recap the major manufacturing tradeshows of 2025 and share what the industry can look forward to in 2026. The conversation takes a closer look at The Assembly Show 2025, including insights from conversations with exhibitors who submitted Product of the Year entries and the innovations that stood out on the show floor. Peter and John discuss key themes that emerged throughout the event, including the growing role of robotics, increased collaboration between manufacturers and technology partners, and the steady introduction of new technologies aimed at improving efficiency and flexibility. They also dive into booth strategy — from booth location and layout to attire and branding — and how these details impact engagement and visibility at tradeshows. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in manufacturing events, sales, marketing, or technology, offering practical takeaways and a forward-looking perspective on where the industry is headed in 2026. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0eRpfKgQoY @peter parsons @John Krause #ManufacturingUnscripted #TradeShowRecap #AssemblyShow #ManufacturingEvents #RoboticsInManufacturing #ManufacturingTechnology #IndustryTrends #PeterParsons #JohnKrause #ManufacturingPodcast #SmartManufacturing #ManufacturingMarketing

In Part 2 of Manufacturing Unscripted’s year-end reflection, host Peter Parsons revisits more standout conversations from across the season — diving deeper into the themes of leadership, personal growth, and the evolving role of technology in manufacturing. Peter starts with a conversation with Edward Stockline from Promess, exploring the value of non-tangible success metrics and how personal growth can fuel company growth. Next, he highlights his discussion with Ryan Lillibridge about empowering employees by placing them in roles where they feel confident, capable, and set up to grow as individuals. The focus then shifts to innovation, as Peter revisits his conversation with Matthew Rall about the development of the Promess H-Series Press and how new technology continues to redefine the shop floor. He also revisits insights from Patrick Byrne on the fast-moving world of AI and its growing impact on manufacturing, and Clark Dressen’s perspective on current industry trends shaping the future of digital manufacturing. This episode ties together a year of inspiring conversations and lessons — reminding us that growth, innovation, and people are at the heart of every great manufacturing story. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76Iu-5bXI7M  @peter parsons  #ManufacturingUnscripted #YearInReview #ManufacturingPodcast #PeterParsons #LeadershipInManufacturing #PromessInc #ManufacturingInnovation #AIinManufacturing #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #SmartManufacturing 

In this special episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons revisits some of his favorite conversations from the year — highlighting key insights from industry leaders and innovators shaping the future of manufacturing. Peter starts with Alex Koves from Mar-Kov, discussing the accuracy and evolving role of AI in manufacturing. Then, he revisits his talk with Ed Garstkiewicz on the importance of connectivity between devices and systems in modern production environments. Next, Peter shares a clip from John Lytle, President of Promess, who dives into innovation and the importance of setting meaningful goals. The reflection continues with Patrick Byrne, exploring how to best learn about and keep up with the rapid advancement of AI, followed by Daniel Joseph Barry, who emphasizes making meaningful changes in manufacturing at the pace of the industry itself. This episode captures the year’s biggest themes — technology, innovation, connectivity, and growth — and celebrates the conversations that continue to drive manufacturing forward.  Stay tuned for Part 2 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkdMKEStR2w  @peter parsons 

Former President of Promess Incorporated, Glenn Nausley joins Peter to discuss how his role has transitioned as John Lytle has taken over as President. Peter and Glenn also discuss how the industry is shifting with the incoming of AI and what Promess is doing to embrace this new era. Other topics discussed include: new technologies, small batch manufacturing, and the future of the industry.Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/QJjXkupCmr4@Glenn Nausley@Peter Parsons@Promess