Industrial Talk Media

Industrial Talk is talking to Clay Martin, CEO/Founder at Isla Talent about "Solutions to tap into the skilled Puerto Rico workforce".

Overview

Scott Mackenzie discusses the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress, scheduled for November 3-5, 2023, and emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity. He then introduces Clay Martin from Isla Talent, a recruiting firm based in Puerto Rico, which helps companies find skilled workers. Clay explains his process of recruiting from Puerto Rico, including auditing client needs, creating job descriptions, and ensuring quality through tests and interviews. He highlights the benefits of recruiting from Puerto Rico, such as no visa requirements and the availability of a skilled workforce. Clay's firm has placed over 500 workers in the past decade and offers a 45-day replacement guarantee.

Outline
Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress Announcement
Scott introduces the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress, emphasizing its importance for cybersecurity professionals.
The event is scheduled for November 3-5 in Barcelona, with networking opportunities and expert discussions.
Scott mentions their own participation and encourages listeners to mark their calendars.
The event aims to provide valuable insights and connections in the cybersecurity field.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott expresses gratitude to listeners and emphasizes the platform's dedication to celebrating industry success.
The conversation will focus on finding skilled individuals and creating resilient businesses in the industry.
Scott introduces Clay Martin from Isla Talent, a recruiting firm based in Puerto Rico, to discuss talent acquisition challenges.
Challenges in Finding Skilled Individuals
Scott discusses the ongoing challenge of finding skilled individuals in the industry, emphasizing the importance of people over technology.
Clay Martin introduces Isla Talent, a recruiting firm based in Puerto Rico, and its unique solution for labor shortages.
Clay shares his background, including his time in the Peace Corps and his transition to recruiting.
The conversation highlights the benefits of recruiting from Puerto Rico, including language skills and cultural fit.
Clay Martin's Recruiting Model
Clay explains the process of recruiting from Puerto Rico, including auditing client needs and creating job descriptions.
He discusses the importance of matching job requirements with the skills of potential recruits.
Clay mentions the use of word-of-mouth and social media to build a talent pool in Puerto Rico.
The conversation covers the logistics of housing and supporting recruits in the United States.
Quality Assurance and Client Consultation
Clay emphasizes the importance of quality assurance in recruiting, including testing and interviewing potential recruits.
He discusses the role of his partner in Puerto Rico in conducting welding tests and other skill assessments.
Clay explains the process of consulting with clients to ensure a smooth transition for recruits.
The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining communication and support for both clients and recruits.
Impact of Puerto Rico's Economic Conditions
Clay discusses the economic conditions in Puerto Rico, including high costs and limited resources, driving people to seek better opportunities in the United States.
He shares insights into the cultural and economic challenges faced by Puerto Ricans.
The conversation touches on the impact of tourism on Puerto Rico's economy and the resulting economic pressures.
Clay highlights the potential for recruiting from other countries in Latin America if visa issues can be resolved.
Visa and Legal Challenges
Clay explains the challenges of dealing with visas, including the H-2B visa program and its unreliability.
He discusses the costs and complexities of obtaining visas for temporary workers.
The conversation highlights the advantages of recruiting from Puerto Rico, where no visas are needed.
Clay emphasizes the importance of transparency and clear communication with clients regarding visa requirements.
Client Engagement and Support
Clay describes the typical timeline for recruiting and placing workers, ranging from one to two weeks for small groups.
He discusses the typical contract duration for recruits, usually eight to nine months.
The conversation covers the process of consulting with clients to create attractive job packages for recruits.
Clay explains his role in facilitating the transition and support for recruits, including housing and work environment assessments.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Clay shares success stories of clients who have benefited from his recruiting services, including a client who hired 100 workers.

CLAY MARTIN'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clay-martin-7788b179/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/isla-talent-recruiting-from-puerto-rico/
Company Website: https://www.recruitingpuertorico.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2026 and talking to Nisarg Shah, Maintenance/Planner Engineer at Martinrea International about "eMaint platform deployment".

Overview

Nisarg Shah, a maintenance planner at Martinrea, discussed his experiences with Fluke's eMaint software at the Xcelerate 2026 event. Initially, the challenge was getting employees to use tablets for data entry. Nisarg overcame this by daily encouragement and teaching. The next challenge was integrating eMaint with the existing email system to automate data collection. They now focus on pulling data directly from PLCs, including temperature readings and cycle counts. Nisarg highlighted the benefits of meter-based PM, which significantly reduced breakdowns. He also mentioned using acoustic imaging for leak detection, saving money on maintenance.

Outline
Fluke's Xcelerate Event Overview
Scott introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, sponsored by Fluke, highlighting the Xcelerate event in Austin, Texas.
The event featured high-energy keynotes, hands-on predictive maintenance tools, and breakthrough AI diagnostics.
Xcelerate proved to be a launch pad for smarter, faster, and more reliable operations.
Listeners are encouraged to visit fluke.com for more information.
Introduction to Nisarg Shah and His Role
Scott welcomes Nisarg Shah, a maintenance planner at Martin Rhea, a tier-one supplier to the automotive industry.
Nisarg started with Martin Rhea as a student at the University of Windsor, where he worked on deploying eMaint at the facility.
Nisarg has been with the company for four years, and the company has been in operation for about 30 years.
The company specializes in stamping and welding, and Nisarg is responsible for implementing and managing eMaint.
Challenges and Implementation of eMaint
Nisarg faced challenges in getting employees to use tablets for data entry, as they were not tech-savvy.
The initial challenge was convincing employees to enter data accurately, which was previously done via email.
Nisarg addressed the issue by continuously teaching and pushing employees to enter data correctly.
The company needed a better way to manage assets and prevent breakdowns, leading to the implementation of eMaint.
Integration and Data Collection
Nisarg discusses the next challenge of integrating eMaint with the existing email system to collect better data.
The goal is to get direct data from the PLCs instead of manual data entry.
The company is currently working on integrating temperature readings, cycle counts, and PM calendars.
Plans include installing vibration sensors and thermocouples on a new 3000-ton press to collect more comprehensive data.
Impact of AI and Advanced Technologies
Nisarg is impressed by the AI version of eMaint , which can build on existing data to provide more accurate predictions.
AI can help in quickly accessing manuals and specific pages, reducing the need to scour through lengthy documents.
The company is also using acoustic imaging to detect leaks, saving money on maintenance.
Nisarg highlights the benefits of using AI and advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency and reduce downtime.
Benefits of Meter-Based PM
Nisarg emphasizes the effectiveness of meter-based PM, which helps in predicting and preventing breakdowns.
Meter-based PM allows for better data collection and analysis, leading to improved asset management.
The company has seen significant improvements in reliability and reduced downtime by using meter-based PM.
Nisarg recommends integrating all assets with eMaint to achieve even better results.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Nisarg shares his contact information, inviting listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn.
Scott thanks Nisarg for sharing his experiences and insights on the podcast.
The podcast wraps up with a reminder to visit fluke.com for more information on Fluke's solutions and services.
Speaker 1 encourages listeners to tell their industrial stories and stay engaged with the Industrial Talk podcast.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

NISARG SHAH'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nisarg-shah-475395128/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/martinreainternational/
Company Website: https://www.martinrea.com/

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Industrial Talk is talking to Kabrina Ashley, Consultant at Onramp Consulting about "The High Performer's Paradox and Dilbert Effect ".

Overview

The conversation highlights the importance of the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress from November 3-5, 2023, and the need for cybersecurity professionals to attend. The discussion then shifts to the Industrial Talk Podcast, celebrating industry professionals and addressing the "high performers paradox" and the "Dilbert effect." Kabrina Ashley from On Ramp Consulting discusses her background in leadership and training, emphasizing the need for soft skills and the challenges of retaining high performers. She advocates for better leadership practices, work-life balance, and continuous training to improve organizational performance and employee retention.

Outline
Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress Announcement
Scott emphasizes the importance of attending the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress from November 3 to 5.
The event is organized by Farah and promises networking with top cybersecurity professionals.
Scott mentions their own participation and encourages listeners to mark their calendars.
The event is highlighted as a must-attend for anyone serious about cybersecurity.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott welcomes listeners, celebrating industry professionals for their boldness and innovation.
The podcast aims to highlight the contributions of industry professionals and their daily problem-solving efforts.
Scott introduces the guest, Kabrina Ashley, and mentions the importance of filling out a form to help tell the story.
Discussion on High Performers Paradox and Dilbert Effect
Scott introduces the topic of high performers paradox and Dilbert effect, expressing interest in the conversation.
The conversation focuses on how organizations mishandle their most capable people.
Scott emphasizes the importance of not mishandling capable people and offers solutions on Industrial Talk.
The segment includes a reminder about the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress and the need for cybersecurity awareness.
Kabrina Ashley's Background and Consulting Journey
Scott and Kabrina Ashley discuss her background, including her time at Disney and her transition to consulting.
Kabrina shares her experience creating a curriculum for guests with disabilities at Disney.
She explains her transition to writing curriculum for various businesses and her focus on leadership studies.
The conversation touches on the importance of soft skills and the challenges of teaching them.
The Importance of Soft Skills and AI Integration
Kabrina explains the historical context of hard and soft skills, emphasizing the need for soft skills.
She discusses the impact of AI on communication and the importance of maintaining human interaction.
The conversation highlights the challenges of integrating AI without losing the human touch.
Kabrina shares her approach to teaching AI skills while maintaining soft skills training.
Challenges of High Performers and Organizational Culture
Kabrina discusses the challenges of high performers being overburdened and the impact on organizational culture.
She explains the concept of the S curve and the importance of promoting high performers.
The conversation touches on the impact of high performers leaving and the loss of tribal knowledge.
Kabrina emphasizes the need for companies to create better work-life balance and training opportunities.
Strategies for Retaining High Performers
Kabrina outlines strategies for retaining high performers, including better training and work-life balance.
She discusses the importance of recognizing and promoting high performers.
The conversation highlights the financial impact of losing high performers and the need for better retention strategies.
Kabrina shares her approach to conducting audits and secret shopper-style evaluations to identify issues.
The Role of Leadership in High Performers Retention
Kabrina emphasizes the role of leadership in retaining high performers and creating a positive work environment.
She discusses the importance of leaders being sensitive to the needs and cues of their team members.
The conversation highlights the challenges of leadership transitions and the need for training and support.
Kabrina shares her experience with the Aligned Leadership Lab and the importance of personal branding.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Scott wraps up the conversation, emphasizing the importance of retaining high performers and the role of Industrial Talk.
The segment includes reminders about the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress and the importance of cybersecurity.
Scott encourages listeners to connect with Kabrina and take advantage of her resources.

KABRINA ASHLEYS' CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabrina-ashley/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kabrina-ashley
Company Website: https://kabrinaashley.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Kai Li, Production Manager at Mean Well USA about "Power solutions for manufacturing".

Overview

Kai Li, Product Manager at Mean Well USA, discussed the company's role as a leading power supply manufacturer with over 15,000 standard SKUs. Mean Well specializes in industrial equipment, medical devices, and LED lighting, emphasizing reliability and smaller, higher-protection power supplies. The company has a subsidiary in Kansas City dedicated to providing turnkey solutions. Li highlighted Mean Well's adaptability, driven by a robust R&D team and long-term supplier relationships. The company is transitioning to a solutions provider, focusing on sustainability and AI-driven power demands. Li also mentioned Mean Well's extensive training programs for distributors and their reliance on a global distribution network for over 70% of sales.

Outline
MD&M West and Industrial Talk Introduction
Scott introduces the episode of Industrial Talk, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, highlighting the innovation and energy at the event.

Scott thanks listeners for tuning in and celebrates industry professionals who solve problems and innovate daily.
Scott mentions the importance of MDNM West and the role of Informa and News and Brews in telling the story of manufacturers.
Introduction of Kai Li and Mean Well
Scott introduces Kai Li, the product manager at Mean Well USA, and invites him to share his background.
Kai Li explains his role at Mean Well, mentioning his 10-year tenure and transition from field applications engineer to product manager.
Kai Li highlights Mean Well's expertise in power supplies and their role as a hidden champion in the industry.
Kai Li discusses the company's focus on solving customer issues by understanding market needs and providing tailored solutions.
Mean Well's Market Position and Solutions
Kai Li elaborates on Mean Well's market position as a leading power supply manufacturer, serving various industries including industrial equipment, medical devices, and LED lighting.
He explains the company's strategy of providing comprehensive solutions rather than just components, through their subsidiary, Mean Well Power Solutions.
Kai Li details the company's approach to developing products based on customer feedback and market trends.
He mentions the creation of a subsidiary in Kansas City, Missouri, to focus on providing turnkey solutions for customers.
Manufacturing and Market Adaptation
Scott inquires about Mean Well's ability to stay nimble and adapt to market changes.
Kai Li attributes the company's adaptability to a strong R&D team and a large portfolio of standard SKUs, with plans to add 15% new SKUs annually.
He discusses the impact of emerging technologies like gallium nitride and silicon carbide on Mean Well's product development.
Kai Li emphasizes the importance of long-term relationships with suppliers and customers in maintaining a steady supply chain.
Future of Power Electronics and Sustainability
Kai Li predicts a bright future for power electronics, driven by advancements in AI and other revolutionary technologies.
He highlights Mean Well's active participation in power electronics conferences to stay updated with the latest trends.
Kai Li discusses the company's transformation from a component supplier to a solutions provider, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He mentions the importance of maintaining a broad market focus to cater to various industries and customer needs.
Distributor Relationships and Training
Kai Li explains Mean Well's strategy of hosting training sessions and events for distributors to keep them informed about new products and applications.
He details the company's efforts to educate distributors through webinars, technical seminars, and direct interactions with the product and technical teams.
Kai Li emphasizes the importance of a strong distribution network, with over 260 distributors worldwide, in driving sales and market penetration.
He highlights the bi-directional communication between Mean Well and its distributors to gather market feedback and improve product offerings.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Scott asks Kai Li about his excitement for the future of Mean Well and the company's sustainability initiatives.
Kai Li reiterates the importance of sustainability and Mean Well's transformation into the Sustainable Development Group.
Scott provides contact information for Kai Li, including his LinkedIn profile and Mean Well's website, to encourage listeners to reach out for more information.
Scott wraps up the podcast, encouraging listeners to attend MD&M West and highlighting the importance of storytelling and marketing in the industrial sector.

KAI LI'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kai-li-725419113/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mean-well-usa-inc-/
Company Website: https://www.meanwellusa.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Victor Okhuysen, Professor with Cal Poly Pomona about "Strengthening the future of manufacturing".

Overview

Scott Mackenzie from Industrial Talk discusses the importance of training the next generation of industrial leaders with Victor Okhuysen from Cal Poly Pomona. The Penn State Erie campus hosts the METAL program, which aims to inspire and educate students in metallurgy and manufacturing. Victor, a principal investigator, highlights the program's hands-on approach, including boot camps and workshops, to expose students to potential careers. The program has conducted four boot camps and ten workshops, using a system called Foundry in a Box. Victor emphasizes the need for skilled workers in an increasingly automated industry and the role of community colleges in providing relevant training.

Outline
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast and IRISS Technologies
Scott Mackenzie introduces himself and the Industrial Talk podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and innovations.
Scott highlights IRISS Technologies, a global leader in electrical maintenance safety, and their patented infrared and ultrasonic inspection windows.
IRISS Technologies' solutions help in detecting issues early, boosting reliability, and protecting workers from unplanned failures.
Scott encourages listeners to learn more about IRISS Technologies at their website.
Introduction to the METAL Program and Victor Okhuysen
Scott welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk podcast and highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
Scott introduces the METAL program at Penn State Erie, an acronym for Metallurgical Engineering Trade Apprenticeship Learning.
Victor Okhuysen from Cal Poly Pomona is introduced as a key figure in the METAL program, focusing on exchanging ideas to improve curriculum and delivery.
Victor explains his role as a principal investigator at Cal Poly Pomona, working on a curriculum developed by Penn State.
Discussion on the Importance of Training the Next Generation
Scott and Victor discuss the critical need for training the next generation of industrial leaders.
Victor emphasizes the importance of having a trained workforce despite advancements in automation.
Scott shares his personal experience of being inspired by educational films about manufacturing during his childhood.
Victor explains the current state of manufacturing, noting the increase in automation and efficiency, and the need for skilled workers.
Victor's Background and the METAL Program at Cal Poly Pomona
Victor provides a brief overview of his background, including his role as a professor at Cal Poly Pomona and his expertise in metal casting and manufacturing.
Scott praises the quality of instructors in the METAL program, noting their extensive experience and passion for their fields.
Victor explains the purpose of the METAL program, which is to expose students to potential careers in metallurgy and related fields.
The program includes boot camps and workshops, using a system called Foundry in a Box to engage students in hands-on activities.
Challenges and Opportunities in Manufacturing Education
Scott and Victor discuss the challenges of keeping up with the rapid changes in manufacturing technology.
Victor highlights the need for continuous training and education to maintain professional currency.
Scott emphasizes the importance of employers investing in their workforce to stay competitive.
Victor mentions the issue of skilled workers leaving for better opportunities, which can be a challenge for employers.
The Role of Community Colleges and Apprenticeship Programs
Scott and Victor discuss the role of community colleges in providing manufacturing education and training.
Victor explains that community colleges offer programs in welding, machining, and metallurgical technician, among others.
Scott shares his positive experience with an apprenticeship program, which provided hands-on training and real-life education.
Victor notes the decline in apprenticeship programs and the need for individuals to be proactive in pursuing their career goals.
The Importance of Hands-On Training in Manufacturing
Scott and Victor discuss the importance of hands-on training in manufacturing education.
Victor shares an example of a boot camp where students were given the opportunity to pour their own molds, providing a valuable hands-on experience.
Scott emphasizes the need for students to see and experience the practical aspects of manufacturing to understand its importance.
Victor highlights the benefits of hands-on training in making students more knowledgeable and skilled.

VICTOR OKHUYSEN'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
METAL Website: https://www.metalforamerica.org/
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-okhuysen-26bb0423/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/school/cal-poly-pomona/
Company Website: https://www.cpp.edu/

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