Are we ready for a world where AI and technology shape every corner of our lives? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , host Matt Kirchner sits down with Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at the Institute for the Future, to explore how technology is transforming the way we communicate, collaborate, and connect . From the breakthroughs of generative AI to the concept of the singularity, Toshi shares cutting-edge insights into whatâs next for humanityâand why curiosity might be the m...
Dec 17, 2024â˘43 minâ˘Ep. 195
Ready to hear some of the most cutting-edge advancements in 3D printing, bio-materials and smart systems? Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Bill Peter, Director of Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). From large-scale 3D printing to the use of bio-based materials, Dr. Peter is leading initiatives that are redefining the possibilities of manufacturing. He shares how ORNL is not just solving technical challenges but also reshaping the skills pipeline to meet the demands o...
Dec 10, 2024â˘51 minâ˘Ep. 194
With U.S. manufacturing facing a potential shortfall of 7.5 million skilled workers, how can we bring jobs back and build the workforce to sustain them? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , host Matt Kirchner sits down with Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative, to explore the critical intersection of reshoring manufacturing, workforce development, and technological advancement. With decades of experience in manufacturing and workforce advocacy, Harry shares actionabl...
Dec 03, 2024â˘47 minâ˘Ep. 193
Is creativity the most underrated skill in machining? This week, Matt dives deep into the world of Swiss machining with George Media, Vice President of Operations for Tsugami America. They explore how this innovative machining method, originally designed for crafting intricate watch parts, has evolved into a versatile tool for manufacturing precision components in medical, aerospace, and beyond. George shares insights on the role of creativity, the growing demand for Swiss machining expertise, a...
Nov 26, 2024â˘35 minâ˘Ep. 192
From boardrooms to classrooms, AI is making wavesâbut what do organizational leaders really think of artificial intelligence? In this episode, host Matt Kirchner goes beyond the buzzwords to share real data and insights from a groundbreaking research report on artificial intelligence. From industry leaders to educators, discover what people at the forefront of AI are saying about its impactâand learn what it takes to turn potential into progress. Packed with trends, challenges, and actionable ta...
Nov 19, 2024â˘45 minâ˘Ep. 191
With 600,000 job openings in manufacturing, could women be the solution to closing the talent gap? Host Matt Kirchner dives into this question with Mariana Cogan, Chief Marketing Officer at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. Mariana brings a unique global perspective to workforce development and shares her strategies for making manufacturing a more inclusive, appealing career path. From brand transformation to mentorship and flexible work policies, Mariana explains how manufacturers can positio...
Nov 12, 2024â˘39 minâ˘Ep. 190
Additive manufacturing (AM) is reshaping industries from aerospace to consumer goods with unprecedented speed. Dayton Horvath, Director of Emerging Technology at AMT, joins us to break down the key trends, market shifts, and cutting-edge technologies that are defining AM today. Whatâs fueling the industryâs rapid evolution, and where are the biggest opportunities? Dayton has answersâand insight you wonât want to miss. In this episode... The role of application-focused companies in driving additi...
Nov 05, 2024â˘37 minâ˘Ep. 189
What if the future of work isnât about replacing people, but amplifying their potential? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast , Matt Kirchner sits down with J. Craig McAtee, CEO and Executive Director of the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC). Craig, a national thought leader in technical education, discusses why amplifying human skills is the future of workforce development and why industry-education partnerships are more critical than ever. Broadcasting from NCATC's ann...
Oct 29, 2024â˘35 minâ˘Ep. 188
Whatâs driving AI transformation in industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing? In this live panel, top AI leaders reveal the use cases that are making the biggest impact, the data challenges theyâre overcoming, and the workforce shifts we canât ignore. Recorded live at an AI and the Workforce event, this panel discussion brings together AI experts from sectors that are leading the charge in AI adoption. From predictive healthcare algorithms to AI-powered marketing solutions and finance ...
Oct 22, 2024â˘45 minâ˘Ep. 187
What does the future of manufacturing look like? Just ask the U.S. CEO of the #1 automation provider in the world. In this high-profile episode, Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA, joins us to discuss the latest innovations shaping global manufacturing. Siemens, a leader in automation and digital technologies, is driving advancements through digital twins, AI, and more. Barbara shares how these technologies are revolutionizing industries todayânot tomorrowâand making manufacturing more accessib...
Oct 15, 2024â˘51 minâ˘Ep. 186
In this episode, we're talking to you âeducators and employersâabout how to engage and inspire the next generation of manufacturing talent. Manufacturing doesnât just need workers; it needs what Drew Crowe calls âblue collar ballersââyoung people who see the industry as more than a job, but a mission worth pursuing. Drew "The MFG" Crowe is making waves in the manufacturing world. With a fresh, modern perspective, heâs bringing a whole new energy to the industry, inspiring young people to see man...
Oct 08, 2024â˘46 minâ˘Ep. 185
"Why not me?" is a question every woman in manufacturing should be askingâand this episode gives them the answer. Join Matt Kirchner as he sits down with Allison Roberts Grealis, Founder and President of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), for a conversation about breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women at every stage of their manufacturing career. Whether youâre an entry-level operator or a CEO, WiM is committed to helping you thrive in this dynamic industry. From the creation of WiM t...
Oct 01, 2024â˘45 minâ˘Ep. 184
Get an inside look at NASAâs plans to return to the Moon, build a sustainable presence, and prepare for the first human mission to Marsâpowered by the most advanced rocket technology ever created. This week we sat down with Dr. Sharon Cobb, Associate Program Manager for NASAâs Space Launch System (SLS), to discover NASA's next endeavors in space exploration. As NASA embarks on its Artemis program, Dr. Cobb shares how this monumental initiative will pave the way for sustained lunar presence and t...
Sep 24, 2024â˘40 minâ˘Ep. 183
Unlock the power of AI in manufacturing with practical insights that could save your plant thousandsâwithout the need for a data science team. This week, we sat down with Nitin Ranjan, Founder and CEO of Golgix, to explore the game-changing role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Nitin reveals how Golgix is breaking down the barriers to AI adoption, especially for small to midsize manufacturers, by turning existing plant data into actionable insights. Discover how AI can boost producti...
Sep 17, 2024â˘45 minâ˘Ep. 182
Get ready for a deep dive into the world of welding with the leader of an iconic brand in welding...Miller Electric! Dave Lambert, Group President of Miller Electric gives us an update on the state of the welding industry, the future of manufacturing, and the evolving workforce needs. With nearly a century of innovation under its belt, Miller Electric is a household name in welding and manufacturing. Dave shares how the company stays ahead of the curve with cutting-edge technology and a steadfas...
Sep 10, 2024â˘58 minâ˘Ep. 181
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about the opioid crisis, drug addiction, and related legal issues, which may be sensitive for some listeners. From producing hit series like Narcos and Painkiller to working with Hollywood legends, Eric Newman gives us the inside scoop on the evolving world of entertainment and the technology that powers it. This is an extraordinary episode that gives you a behind-the-scenes in modern tv and film production. From the rise of streaming to the imp...
Sep 03, 2024â˘44 minâ˘Ep. 180
This week Matt sits down with Dale Kooyenga, President of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC). We discuss the transformative investments happening in Southeast Wisconsin, particularly Microsoft's $3.3 billion project, and the critical role technology plays in today's economy. Dale also shares insights into the importance of education reform, workforce development, and the convergence of technology across all sectors. This conversation delves into the intersection of busines...
Aug 27, 2024â˘45 minâ˘Ep. 179
Microsoft is making waves in the Midwest with a game-changing $3.3 billion investment in a state-of-the-art data center in Wisconsin. This initiative is not just about expanding infrastructure; it's about positioning the region as a leader in artificial intelligence and data innovation. In this episode, we sit down with Mary Snapp, Microsoft's Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, to explore how this monumental investment will transform the Midwest and the broader United States. Mary dives de...
Aug 20, 2024â˘1 hr 3 minâ˘Ep. 178
This episode dives into the world of healthcare, where cutting-edge technology and human compassion intersect in profound ways. We sat down with Dr. Ajay Sahajpal, the Medical Director of Abdominal Transplant and Hepatobiliary Program at Advocate Aurora Health. Dr. Sahajpal shares his remarkable journey from Prince Edward Island to leading life-saving advancements in transplant surgery. Ajay also offers a glimpse into the future of healthcare, where xenotransplants and 3D printing technology cou...
Aug 13, 2024â˘46 minâ˘Ep. 177
In this episode, Dr. Purush Papatla, Co-Director of the Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute (NMDSI), explores the cutting-edge world of data science and artificial intelligence. NMDSI, a collaboration between Northwestern Mutual, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University, is pushing the boundaries of AI applications to solve real-world problems. Dr. Papatla discusses the Instituteâs innovative programs and groundbreaking research projects. NMDSI is building a diverse ...
Aug 06, 2024â˘50 minâ˘Ep. 176
When communities come together in a spirit of mutual support, entrepreneurship can thrive. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Matt Kirchner sits down with Greg Tehven, co-founder of Emerging Prairie, to explore the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and tech startups. Greg shares his journey from a college graduate with a vision to becoming a pivotal force in transforming communities into thriving hubs of innovation. You'll hear about the inspiring initiatives and events that have put unexpec...
Jul 30, 2024â˘53 minâ˘Ep. 175
Hear the story of a true legend in career and technical education and a U.S. diplomat with an extraordinary career. From serving as a gunnery officer in the Navy to playing a pivotal role in the Cold War, Leo Reddyâs journey is nothing short of fascinating. Leoâs stories offer historical insight and practical wisdom, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of history, politics, and workforce development. This episode truly explores the life and legacy of Leo ...
Jul 23, 2024â˘56 minâ˘Ep. 174
Retail - and the whole customer journey - is evolving in this digital age. How has technology impacted our ability to anticipate and meet the needs of consumers, and how important is that face-to-face interaction in a store today? George Hanson has led retail strategy for some of the most well-known consumer brands including Under Armour, Lands' End and Panera. He's now the Chief Digital Officer at Mattress Firm, where he's thinking about these very questions. We sat down with George to understa...
Jul 16, 2024â˘54 minâ˘Ep. 173
John Deere is on a mission to develop the next generation of STEM and manufacturing talent - not just for themselves, but to support businesses and entire communities surrounding their plants across the United States. Recently, John Deere conducted a study to understand the major gaps in their workforce pipeline and what they must do to ensure they'll have the future workforce to keep up with demand. We sat down with David Ottavianelli, Director of Workforce and Community Outreach, to discover w...
Jul 09, 2024â˘39 minâ˘Ep. 172
Join us on a journey through history, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream! The Allen-Bradley brand is a household name in manufacturing, but the origin story of the brand, along with its lasting legacy, is a true story of the American Dream. From humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in automation, this episode dives into the innovative minds of Lynde and Harry Bradley over 100 years ago and the impact their work has today. Join us as we sit down with Rick Graber, P...
Jul 02, 2024â˘38 minâ˘Ep. 171
Does generative AI belong in the classroom? How will it impact the student experience? Better yet, how can educators leverage generative AI in instructional design and curriculum-building? Our guest, Dr. Dwayne Wood, shares his unique insights on how AI is revolutionizing instructional design and enhancing learning experiences. From the importance of maintaining the human element in AI-driven education to practical tips on integrating AI tools effectively, Dwayne provides a comprehensive look at...
Jun 25, 2024â˘50 minâ˘Ep. 170
In this exciting episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Shane Farritor, an innovator at the intersection of space exploration and medical technology. Discover how cutting-edge surgical robots are revolutionizing abdominal surgery, and paving the way for high-tech medical assistance in space. In this episode, you'll hear: How a space-enthused innovator found a niche in surgical robots How robots are being used in surgery today, and why Virtual Incision's small robots...
Jun 18, 2024â˘44 minâ˘Ep. 169
Artificial intelligence is changing our entire world, and that includes the classroom. Some are quick adopters while others are banning the technology in class. Most are trying to figure out AI's place in the classroom - how to embrace it in an ethical, safe way that enhances the student experience and improves learning outcomes. But there are some things that education is getting totally wrong about artificial intelligence. No matter what your stance on AI in the classroom is, this episode will...
Jun 11, 2024â˘32 minâ˘Ep. 168
Dr. Tabby Rabenberg, Principal at Bismarck Public Schools, discusses the critical role of self-efficacy and hands-on experiences in empowering girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. Drawing from her extensive experience in education, Tabby shares valuable insights into the importance of building confidence and providing diverse opportunities for young students, especially girls, from elementary school through high school. Through innovative programs and a holistic approach to education, Tabby a...
Jun 04, 2024â˘42 minâ˘Ep. 167
Our guest is one of education's greatest disruptors, Mike Beighley, Superintendent of Whitehall School District. Known nationwide for its groundbreaking approach to teaching Industry 4.0 with the Mobile Skills Lab, Whitehall has been at the forefront of educational innovation for years. We trace the district's journey in implementing cutting-edge technology programs, from listening to and learning from Ashley Furniture's Industry 4.0 efforts, to launching the Mobile Skills Lab, to the new and ea...
May 28, 2024â˘45 minâ˘Ep. 166
