Industrial Talk Media

Industrial Talk is onsite at Hexagon LIVE and talking to Dilraj Kahai and Eric Shufelt with 21Tech about "Data is gold and key to success".

Scott Mackenzie hosts an industrial podcast featuring Dilraj and Eric from 21 Tech, discussing asset management and AI solutions. They highlight the challenges of integrating AI into asset management due to incomplete and dirty data. 21 Tech's approach involves developing AI point solutions to automate processes and clean data incrementally, making it more manageable for clients. They focus on public sector industries like transit, utilities, and public works, offering pre-built solutions to expand market reach. Eric Shufelt emphasizes the importance of understanding client needs and processes to ensure successful implementations and continuous improvement of systems.

Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott Mackenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and trends.
Scott welcomes the audience and highlights the importance of the industrial sector, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and data.
Scott introduces the guests, Dilraj and Eric, from 21 Tech, and praises their contributions to the industry.
The podcast aims to celebrate industry professionals and their contributions to solving daily problems.
Introduction of Guests and Initial Discussion
Scott Mackenzie introduces Dilraj and Eric, highlighting their roles and contributions to the industry.
Dilraj introduces Eric Schmidt, Vice President of Professional Services at 21 Tech, as a brilliant mind in asset management.
Dilraj and Eric discuss the progress and changes in the industry since their last conversation.
Scott Mackenzie refers to the current industrial landscape as an "industrial Renaissance," indicating the rapid advancements and changes.
Challenges in Asset Management and AI Integration
Dilraj discusses the challenges companies face in integrating AI into asset management, particularly the issue of incomplete and dirty data.
21 Tech has developed AI solutions to automate processes and clean up data, making it more efficient and reliable.
Scott Mackenzie and Dilraj discuss the importance of clean data in making informed decisions and avoiding bad decisions based on dirty data.
21 Tech's AI solutions help automate data entry and ensure pristine data, saving time and improving efficiency.
Addressing Historical Data and Incremental AI Solutions
Dilraj explains how 21 Tech addresses the issue of historical data, either by starting clean from now or using AI to clean up old data.
The AI solutions provide incremental steps to clean data, making the process less overwhelming and more manageable.
Scott Mackenzie and Dilraj discuss the importance of having clean data for accurate insights and decision-making.
21 Tech's approach helps organizations incrementally improve their data quality without overwhelming them with the entire task at once.
IChallenges in the Utility Sector
Scott Mackenzie and Dilraj discuss the challenges faced by the utility sector, including aging infrastructure, demand for power, and the need for smart grids.
Dilraj highlights the efficiency and operational challenges faced by utilities, particularly in power generation and water utilities.
21 Tech's solutions help utilities improve operational efficiency and manage diverse power sources, addressing specific problems like underground storage tanks.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of low-risk solutions and operational efficiency in the utility sector.
AI and Data Management in Transit Agencies
Dilraj discusses the use of AI in transit agencies, including the use of iPhones to monitor rail tracks and improve maintenance efficiency.
The AI solutions help transit agencies save money and improve maintenance processes, making them more efficient and reliable.
Scott Mackenzie and Dilraj discuss the gap between technology advancements and user adoption, emphasizing the need for incremental steps.
21 Tech's approach helps organizations bridge this gap by providing manageable and consumable solutions.
Introduction of Eric Shufelt and Professional Services
Eric Shufelt introduces himself, highlighting his 25-year experience in the industry and his role at 21 Tech.
Eric explains the concept of professional services, focusing on business process understanding and consultation.
The professional services team at 21 Tech combines industry experience and product knowledge to provide tailored solutions.
Eric emphasizes the importance of understanding organizational objectives and aligning solutions to meet these goals.
Meeting Client Needs and Implementation Strategies

DILRAJ KAHAI'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dilraj-kahai-1082333/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/21tech/
Company Website: https://21tech.com/
ERIC SHUFELT'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-shufelt-258b185/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2025 and talking to Joe Anderson, Chief Operating Officer at ReliabilityX about "Reliability is all about the people".

At the Xcelerate 2024 conference in Austin, Texas, Scott Mackenzie and Joe Anderson discussed the importance of empathy and human connection in leadership. Joe, co-founder and COO of Reliability X, emphasized the need for leaders to treat employees with respect and invest in their development. He highlighted the challenges of organizational instability and the necessity of designating a champion for sustainable success. Joe shared a case where a successful pilot line was disrupted due to lack of investment in people. They also touched on the skilled trade shortage, the need for better PR in promoting trades, and the impact of educational systems on career choices.

Action Items
[ ] Connect with Joe Anderson on LinkedIn
[ ] Reach out to Joe Anderson via email
Outline
Accelerate 2024 Conference Introduction
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast and welcomes listeners to the Accelerate 2024 conference in Austin, Texas.
Scott highlights the conference's focus on celebrating industrial professionals who are bold, brave, innovative, and collaborative.
Joe Anderson is introduced as a positive and passionate industry professional who will be part of the conversation.
Scott and Joe discuss the conference's theme of integrating technology with people, emphasizing empathy and leadership.
Leadership and Empathy in Industrial Settings
Joe Anderson discusses the importance of empathy in leadership, noting that leaders often treat employees like numbers rather than human beings.
Joe shares his experience of touring plants where senior leaders fail to acknowledge workers, which negatively impacts morale and retention.
Scott mentions a study by GE that showed improved production when management paid attention to frontline workers.
Joe emphasizes that showing care and acknowledgment can significantly improve employee morale and reduce mistakes.
Introduction to Reliability X
Joe Anderson introduces himself as the co-founder and COO of Reliability X, a company that helps organizations become highly profitable by developing people.
Scott praises Reliability X's reputation in asset management and technology.
Joe explains that Reliability X focuses on the human element, emphasizing the importance of developing people rather than relying on technology alone.
Scott and Joe discuss the common pitfall of relying too heavily on technology without considering the human element.
Challenges in Organizational Stability
Joe highlights the issue of instability in companies due to frequent management changes, which hinders the development of sustainable practices.
Joe explains that his business model is to develop champions within organizations to ensure long-term success.
Scott asks for an example of a successful implementation of Reliability X's methods, and Joe shares a story about a client who initially did not designate a champion.
Joe describes how the client's employees revolted when they were moved to other lines, highlighting the importance of investing in people.
The Role of Champions in Organizational Success
Joe discusses the importance of selecting the right champion for Reliability X's programs, noting that not everyone may be suitable.
Scott and Joe talk about the process of identifying and developing champions within organizations.
Joe shares his experience of turning around plants and the challenges of getting organizations to adopt successful practices.
Joe mentions that seven out of seven plants he turned around were sold by the company, which highlights the lack of long-term commitment to successful practices.
Future Outlook and Skilled Trade Shortage
Joe expresses cautious optimism about the future, noting that the industry is moving too fast and leaving many behind.
Joe discusses the skilled trade shortage and the need to promote trades as a viable career path.
Scott and Joe agree that the industry's PR is poor, and the university system is biased towards promoting college degrees over trade skills.
Joe shares an exercise he did at a conference, where only a few participants were pushing their kids towards trade careers.
Education and Training in the Industrial Sector
Scott shares his experience as a PLC instructor at a technical college, noting the lack of reinforcement of training in the field.
Joe discusses the shift in perception towards trade jobs in the 70s and 80s, which has led to a negative view of trades among young people.
Joe mentions a survey by McKinley that showed 80% of 16 to 25-year-olds view trade jobs as undesirable.

JOE ANDERSON'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-anderson-b06a5653/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reliabilityx/posts/?feedView=all
Company Website: https://reliabilityx.com/

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Industrial Talk is talking to James Soto, CEO at Industrial Strength Marketing about "Manufacturing resources for manufacturing success".

Scott Mackenzie hosts James Soto on the Industrial Talk Podcast to discuss the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). Soto highlights the MEP's role in supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers through resources like Lean Six Sigma and addressing skilled labor gaps. He emphasizes the MEP's importance in reshoring and nearshoring efforts and its collaboration with universities and advanced manufacturing institutes. Soto notes funding challenges and the need for continued support to maintain the MEP's impact. He advocates for manufacturers to engage with the MEP for efficiency, funding, and innovation, stressing the network's irreplaceable value.

Action Items
[ ] Explore the MEP national network and find the center closest to your manufacturing business to understand the resources and services they offer.
[ ] Advocate for continued funding and support of the MEP program by contacting your local representatives.
[ ] Reach out to James Soto on LinkedIn to learn more about the MEP program and how to get involved.
Outline
Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast
Scott introduces James Soto, a returning guest, and mentions their previous collaborations.
Scott emphasizes the importance of amplifying one's message and being aggressive in communication.
James Soto's Background and Passion for Manufacturing
Scott MacKenzie praises James Soto's contributions to the manufacturing industry and his active presence on LinkedIn.
James Soto expresses his love for manufacturing and acknowledges the excitement and uncertainty in the industry.
Scott and James discuss the fluid nature of the manufacturing industry and the importance of reshoring and nearshoring.
James highlights the role of people in manufacturing and their potential to change the world for the better.
Introduction to the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)
James Soto provides an overview of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) and its centers across the country.
He explains the MEP's affiliation with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and its focus on advanced manufacturing.
James shares his involvement with the MEP in launching Manufacturing Day and its efforts to attract the next generation of manufacturing workers.
He emphasizes the MEP's role in meeting with manufacturers, especially small and medium-sized ones, to help them grow and create jobs.
Challenges and Threats to the MEP
James discusses the funding challenges and threats to the MEP, including the uncertainty around procurement and economic impact.
He mentions the efforts to reverse defunding and the importance of telling the MEP's story to encourage representatives to fight for funding.
Scott MacKenzie simplifies the premise for manufacturers, emphasizing the importance of the MEP as a resource for introducing new technologies and ensuring a resilient manufacturing business.
James explains the MEP's prioritization process based on the distinct nature of different manufacturing environments and the need to fill specific needs.
The Role of the MEP in Supporting Manufacturers
James highlights the MEP's support, community, and expertise in helping manufacturers run more efficiently and address funding issues.
He discusses the MEP's role in providing services like Lean Six Sigma and addressing generational issues in small manufacturers.
James emphasizes the importance of the MEP's network and connections, especially in rural areas and remote locations.
Scott and James discuss the regulatory environment and its impact on manufacturers, highlighting the need for clarity and accurate insights.
The Importance of Community and Networking in Manufacturing
James stresses the importance of community and networking in manufacturing, emphasizing the role of the MEP in providing support and resources.
He discusses the challenges of the regulatory environment and the need for clarity and accurate insights for manufacturers.
James highlights the MEP's role in promoting manufacturing and providing case studies and stories to help manufacturers understand the impact of policies and tariffs.
Scott and James discuss the importance of collaboration and innovation in the manufacturing industry and the role of the MEP in facilitating these efforts.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Scott MacKenzie emphasizes the importance of connecting with James Soto and the MEP for support and resources.

JAMES SOTO'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamessoto/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/industrial-strength-marketing
Company Website: https://industrialstrengthmarketing.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Maura Nespoli, Vice President at Prysmian about "Cabling solution for energy transition".

Scott Mackenzie interviews Maura Nespoli, VP of Sales and Renewable and Sustainable Solutions at Prysmian, a leading cable industry company. Maura discusses Prisma's role in the energy transition, focusing on solar and wind farm solutions. She highlights the company's innovative technologies, such as the eatery X technology, which can reduce energy losses by 30% and CO2 emissions by 25%. Maura emphasizes the importance of digitalization in data centers and the need for sustainable practices in cable manufacturing. She also notes the significant demand for cables in the US, particularly in the data center market, and the challenges of meeting this demand while maintaining efficiency and sustainability.

Action Items
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Connect with Maura on LinkedIn to learn more about Prysmian's sustainable cable solutions.
[ ] Explore opportunities to leverage existing infrastructure and optimize efficiency rather than just building new transmission lines.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the importance of industry professionals and their contributions.
Scott mentions the sponsorship by Siemens and encourages listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
The podcast is broadcasting live from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, where industry professionals gather to discuss utilities, transmission, and distribution.
Introduction of Maura Nespoli and Her Role
Scott introduces Maura Nespoli, who is in the hot seat for the interview.
Maura confirms her attendance at the conference and mentions she is from Kentucky, not Milan.
Scott and Maura discuss their experiences with bourbon, with Maura expressing her uncertainty about it.
Maura provides a brief background about her company, Prisma, which is leading the cable industry.
Maura's Background and Role at Prysmian
Maura shares that she is from Italy and has been working in the cable industry for seven years.
She explains her role as VP of Sales and Renewable and Sustainable Solutions at Prysmian.
Maura elaborates on the importance of the cable industry in the energy transition, focusing on solar and wind farm solutions.
She discusses the company's focus on innovation, digitalization, and sustainability, including reducing CO2 emissions and promoting recyclability.
Digitalization and Innovation in the Cable Industry
Maura explains how digitalization plays a key role in the data center market, which is growing rapidly.
She describes the combination of large cables needed in data centers and those related to digitalization.
Scott and Maura discuss the various types of cables Prysmian deals with, including transmission, distribution, and specialty cables.
Maura highlights the importance of innovation in keeping up with the fast-paced market and the company's efforts to stay ahead.
Sustainability and Innovation in Cable Manufacturing
Maura discusses the company's approach to sustainability, including reducing CO2 emissions and promoting recyclability.
She explains the role of R&D in building cables that are more sustainable and efficient.
Maura introduces the company's eatery X technology, which can increase ampacity by 25% and reduce energy losses by 30%.
She emphasizes the combination of technology and raw materials to achieve significant reductions in energy losses and CO2 emissions.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Cable Industry
Scott and Maura discuss the challenges of meeting the growing demand for cables, especially in the data center market.
Maura mentions the US Energy Department's requirement for 47,000 miles of new transmission lines to meet energy demand.
They compare the demand in the US with that in Europe, noting the significant difference in the data center market.
Maura highlights the importance of innovation in leveraging existing infrastructure and meeting the growing demand for cables.
Future of the Cable Industry and Contact Information
Scott asks Maura about the future of the cable industry and the role of innovation in meeting the growing demand.
Maura emphasizes the need for innovation and the potential to work with existing infrastructure to meet the demand.
Scott inquires about the best way to contact Maura, and she mentions her presence on LinkedIn.
Scott concludes the interview by highlighting Maura's impressive background and encouraging listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn.

MAURA NESPOLI'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maura-nespoli-gemba-0163b24/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/prysmian/
Company Website: https://www.prysmian.com/en

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Industrial Talk is talking to Curtis Southerland, Senior Vice President at TAB Bank about "Financial Solutions for Scaling your Industrial Business".

Scott Mackenzie hosts an Industrial Talk podcast featuring Curtis Sutherland from Tab Bank, a virtual commercial bank serving small to medium-sized businesses across the U.S. since 1998. Curtis, with a background in computer programming and business development, explains Tab Bank's unique approach to lending, focusing on assets like receivables and inventory rather than cash flow. He highlights the bank's flexibility in providing customized financing solutions, especially for companies affected by tariffs and supply chain disruptions. Curtis emphasizes the importance of understanding regional business needs and the bank's responsiveness in supporting manufacturers through various economic challenges.

Action Items
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Stay informed on the latest developments in capital markets, tariffs, and other factors impacting the manufacturing industry through the Industrial News Network.
[ ] Reach out to Curtis Sutherland, Head of Business Development at TAB Bank, to discuss financing options for your business.
[ ] Explore TAB Bank's virtual banking model and how it can potentially benefit your manufacturing or industrial company.
Outline
Scott introduces Curtis Sutherland from Tab Bank, emphasizing the need for capital and financing in the industrial renaissance.
Curtis Sutherland introduces himself as the head of business development at Tab Bank, a commercial bank started in 1998 in Utah.
Curtis shares his background, starting in computer programming and transitioning to business development over 20 years.
Curtis explains Tab Bank's model, focusing on lending to small to medium-sized companies and being a virtual bank with a headquarters in Ogden.
Curtis highlights the benefits of being a virtual bank, such as lower overhead costs and the ability to serve customers nationwide.
Challenges and Opportunities of Being a Virtual Bank
Scott and Curtis discuss the challenges of deposit gathering for virtual banks and the importance of a good deposit strategy.
Curtis explains how Tab Bank has been successful in deposit gathering and the benefits of being a virtual bank.
Scott and Curtis talk about the flexibility of Tab Bank in understanding the needs of businesses across the United States.
Curtis describes the role of business development officers in specific regions and their importance in understanding local market needs.
Impact of Tariffs and Manufacturing Trends
Scott and Curtis discuss the impact of tariffs on manufacturing and the need for capital to reposition and build up inventory.
Curtis explains how Tab Bank helps companies release working capital locked up in inventory and provides financing programs.
Scott and Curtis talk about the uncertainty in the market and the optimism among companies despite the challenges.
Curtis shares an example of a well-known brand in home gym equipment considering different plans due to tariff uncertainties.
Tab Bank's Flexibility and Customized Solutions
Scott and Curtis discuss Tab Bank's flexibility compared to traditional banks, which often have strict lending mandates.
Curtis explains how Tab Bank focuses on receivables, inventory, and other assets of the company rather than just cash flow.
Scott and Curtis share an example of a bottling company struggling post-COVID and how Tab Bank helped them with financing.
Curtis highlights the importance of understanding the unique story and needs of each company to provide customized solutions.
Process of Working with Tab Bank
Scott asks about the process of working with Tab Bank for potential customers.
Curtis explains the different ways to contact Tab Bank, including the website, email, and phone calls.
Curtis describes the initial steps of learning about the company, reviewing information, and putting out a term sheet.
Scott appreciates the frictionless and painless process of working with Tab Bank.
Curtis Sutherland's Contact Information
Scott asks Curtis how potential customers can get in touch with him.
Curtis provides his email address and cell phone number, encouraging potential customers to reach out to him directly.
Scott and Curtis discuss the importance of being responsive and available for potential customers.
Scott thanks Curtis for being on the podcast and highlights the importance of having experts like Curtis on the Industrial News Network.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Scott wraps up the podcast, emphasizing the importance of having experts like Curtis Sutherland on the Industrial News Network.
Scott reiterates the importance of capital and financing in the industrial renaissance and the role of Tab Bank in providing solutions.

CURTIS SOUTHERLAND'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtissutherland/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tab-bank/
Company Website: https://www.tabbank.com/

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