Ed Talks explores the strategies shaping workforce development in manufacturing. Hosted by Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (https://fmamfg.org) President and CEO Ed Youdell, the podcast features candid conversations with industry leaders on attracting, developing, and retaining talent. Part of the FMA Podcast Network.
Leading a manufacturing business with sisters Lori and Traci Tapani
Sisters Lori and Traci Tapani, co-presidents of Stacy, Minn.-based Wyoming Machine (https://wyomingmachine.com/), join FMA (https://www.fmamfg.org/) President and CEO Ed Youdell to discuss leading a family-owned manufacturing business after taking over from their father, fostering a strong workplace culture, and preparing the next generation of manufacturing talent. They also discuss collaborative leadership, workforce development, automation, AI, and why manufacturers should have a stronger voice in workforce and public policy.
This episode was sponsored by AMADA America (https://www.amada.com/america/).
Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org (podcast@fmamfg.org) with any comments, questions, or suggestions.
16 Mar 2026
Advancing manufacturing technology through STEM with Andrea Scarpari
Andrea Scarpari, president and CEO of Salvagnini America (https://www.salvagninigroup.com/en-US), joins Ed Talks host Ed Youdell of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association to discuss why advancing manufacturing technology requires stronger connections to STEM education and engineering careers.
As fabrication technology becomes more automated, Scarpari argues manufacturers must create more intellectually engaging roles that allow workers to program machines, improve processes, and drive productivity.
Scarpari also discusses how Salvagnini America supports robotics programs like Lakota Robotics to inspire future engineers, how partnerships with universities help build the next generation of manufacturing talent, and where artificial intelligence may begin to play a role in fabrication technology.
Comments, questions, or sponsorship opportunities: podcast@fmamfg.org (podcast@fmamfg.org).
11 Nov 2025
Winning by putting people first with Troy Berg of Dane Manufacturing
CEO Troy Berg explains to host Ed Youdell how Dane Manufacturing prioritizes employees through training and benefits, which fosters retention and strengthens company culture in this interview.
21 Aug 2025
The innovation of metal fabrication with Bystronic's John Paul Surdo
Bystronic's John Paul Surdo and FMA's Ed Youdell discuss how advanced technologies are transforming metal fabrication and elevating the skilled workforce.
13 May 2025
Built for success: Managing fab shop culture with Nora Harding of SPM
Nora Harding, Executive VP at Special Products and Manufacturing (SPM), joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast.
SPM is a 62-year-old manufacturing company with three facilities in Texas. They were named The Fabricator's 2025 Industry Award winner (https://www.thefabricator.com/thefabricator/article/shopmanagement/leaders-at-every-level-of-a-metal-fabricating-company) and appear on the FAB 40 (https://www.thefabricator.com/fab40) list.
Harding talks about SPM's strong company culture centered around their "BUILT" principles (Best people, Urgency, Integrity, Learning, Teamwork), which have helped foster an engaged and empowered workforce.
She also talks about how the company places a strong emphasis on community involvement through programs like "Built to Serve" and "Special Wish", which provide support and resources to their employees and local community. SPM also actively engages with local schools and technical centers to promote manufacturing careers and provide educational opportunities.
Haring discusses the company's use of lean practices, automation, and commitment to continuous improvement have helped them attract and retain top talent while improving productivity and efficiency.
This episode was sponsored by AMADA America (https://www.amada.com/america/).
Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org (podcast@fmamfg.org) with any comments, questions, or suggestions.
25 Feb 2025
Quarterbacking a family-owned manufacturing business with Sarah Richards
Sarah Richards, the Visionary/CEO of Mankato, Minn.-based Jones Metal, joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell to discuss how her family-owned metal fabrication business in Mankato, Minnesota attracts, develops, and engages its workforce.
She talks about how Jones Metal has developed a strong company culture focused on values like kindness, grit, positivity, ownership, and helpfulness. This helps attract and retain talented employees.
Sarah also touches on how the company partners closely with the local technical college to develop a pipeline of skilled workers through internship and apprenticeship programs.
Sarah and Ed also talk about her being named Fabricators & Manufacturers Association's board chair, her previous life as a professional golfer, and her childhood ambition to become the first female quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings.
Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org (podcast@fmamfg.org) with any comments or questions. Learn more about FMA's foundation, SparkForce (https://www.fmamfg.org/foundation/).
5 Feb 2025
Welcome to Ed Talks, a podcast about business leadership in manufacturing
Leadership in manufacturing goes beyond the walls of the corner office. It’s seen throughout the shop floor and in the satisfaction of customers.
I’m Ed Youdell, President and CEO of Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (https://www.fmamfg.org/) and host of Ed Talks, the newest addition to the FMA Podcast Network (https://www.thefabricator.com/podcast).
Here at FMA, we believe the key to unlocking manufacturing’s full potential is through attracting, developing, and engaging the people that drive the industry forward.
Join me as I speak with business leaders about their unique approaches to workforce development and shaping the future of the industry.
Season 1 of Ed Talks drops soon on your favorite podcast platform.
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Questions about Ed Talks
Who hosts Ed Talks?
Ed Youdell host the show. Published by Fabricators and Manufacturers Association.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Ed Talks take guests?
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