Chris McMahon – ANDRITZ Schuler North America

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

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Ryan Lillibridge, Vice President at Mission Design and Automation, to explore the intersection of engineering education and workplace innovation. Ryan shares his insights on the value of asking questions, building confidence to speak up, and how a willingness to embrace change can fuel company growth. The episode also tackles the challenges for integrators when it comes to meeting customer deadlines and supplying them with the best solution. Whether you're a student, engineer, or industry leader, this episode offers practical wisdom and inspiration for driving progress in manufacturing.   Watch on Youtube --> https://youtu.be/rBLAeqVazR8@Ryan Lillibridge @Peter Parsons  @Promess @Mission Design and Automation 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Clark Dressen, Chief Technology Officer at MxD, to talk about the future of digital manufacturing and innovation. With over 30 years of leadership in the industry, Clark brings a wealth of experience in advancing manufacturing through information technology. Clark shares how MxD is helping accelerate the adoption of digital manufacturing technologies across the U.S. while addressing one of the industry’s biggest challenges: implementing new technology without disrupting current operations. The conversation explores automation, innovation, and the role of AI in transforming manufacturing systems, all through the lens of Clark’s extensive background leading global teams and driving large-scale digital initiatives. Whether you’re interested in the intersection of IT and manufacturing, or curious about how AI and digital tools are shaping the future of production, this episode offers deep insights from one of the industry’s most experienced leaders.  Watch on Youtube --> https://youtu.be/AsYMZ7J-5oA  @clark dressen @Peter Parsons @Promess  #ManufacturingUnscripted #DigitalManufacturing #SmartManufacturing #MxD #AIinManufacturing #AutomationInnovation #ManufacturingPodcast #PeterParsons #ClarkDressen #FutureOfManufacturing #Industry40 #Industry50 

In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons talks with Ryan Hamze, Director at ISG, about the exciting transition the manufacturing industry is making from Industry 3.0 into the worlds of Industry 4.0 and 5.0. Ryan shares his optimistic perspective on how emerging technologies are shaping the future of manufacturing and why now is such a pivotal moment for the industry. The conversation covers the role of AI in manufacturing systems, including how it may transform jobs, processes, and the overall workforce. Ryan also highlights the successes — and struggles — companies face as they navigate the leap from outdated systems into advanced, digitally connected operations. If you’re curious about the future of manufacturing, the impact of AI, or what career opportunities lie ahead as the industry evolves, this episode is packed with insight you won’t want to miss.  Watch on Youtube --> https://youtu.be/WgtQRH628CE  @Ryan Hamze @Peter Parsons  @Promess  #ManufacturingUnscripted #Industry40 #Industry50 #SmartManufacturing #AIinManufacturing #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #ManufacturingCareers #PeterParsons #RyanHamze #ManufacturingPodcast