Industrial Talk Media

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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Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Justin Semas, Senior Sales Engineering with Arrow Engine and Compression Company about "Market Power Demand".

Overview

Justin Semas from Arrow Engine Company discussed their recent acquisition by IES, a holding company focusing on power generation and infrastructure. Arrow aims to expand its offerings from 10 kW to 1 MW natural gas and propane engines for both prime and standby power. They emphasize multi-fuel capabilities, including propane in vapor and liquid forms, and natural gas. Arrow's engines are known for their durability, with a 12-year unlimited hour warranty for prime use. They also highlighted their vendor network for maintenance and support. The company targets both large-scale data centers and remote locations with small power nodes.

Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk
Scott welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their contributions.
The podcast is broadcasting live from PowerGen in San Antonio, Texas, focusing on power generation.
Scott introduces Justin Semas from Aero Engine Company, noting his previous appearances on the podcast.
Justin Semas's Background and Role at Arrow
Justin Semas shares his background, mentioning his transition from applications engineering to sales at Arrow.
Justin explains his current focus on sales and understanding the market better.
Scott and Justin discuss the involvement of the Propane Council and other sponsors of Industrial Talk.
Justin provides an overview of Arrow's recent acquisition by IES, a holding company with significant capital investment.
Arrow's Growth and Market Focus
Justin outlines Arrow's growth strategy, aiming to offer natural gas and propane engines from 10 kW to 1 MW.
The company plans to target both prime and standby power generation markets.
Justin emphasizes the importance of data centers and the need for reliable power sources in remote locations.
Arrow's multi-fuel engine capabilities, including propane, natural gas, and biofuel, are highlighted.
Engine Manufacturing and Warranty Policies
Justin discusses Arrow's manufacturing processes, including custom-engineered applications and stock engines.
The company offers a 12-year unlimited hour warranty for prime use engines and extended warranties for EPA-compliant equipment.
Justin explains the maintenance intervals and the role of vendors in providing on-ground support.
Arrow's warranty policy includes major overhauls at specific hour intervals, ensuring long-term reliability.
Future Outlook and Market Trends
Justin predicts a future divide in the power market, with a focus on high-horsepower and small-kw ranges.
The conversation touches on the challenges of managing power demand in remote locations.
Justin highlights the importance of having durable, low-maintenance engines for remote applications.
The discussion concludes with Justin providing contact information for listeners interested in Arrow's products and services.

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!

JUSTIN SEMAS' CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-semas-mba-1bb0b2a3/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arrow-engine-company/
Company Website: http://www.arrowengine.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Octave Live and talking to Tobias Pforr, Principal Business Strategist at Octave about "Unleashing technology to improve the utility markets.

Overview

Tobias Pforr discussed his role at Octave, a company focused on network intelligence systems for utilities. He highlighted the importance of accurate asset documentation and the challenges of managing dynamic elements like weather and electric vehicle consumption. Pforr emphasized the need for clean, high-quality data to ensure system resilience and actionable insights. He shared his background in utility operations and innovation, including his experience with a Swiss utility and the establishment of a startup incubator. Pforr also touched on the regulatory complexities and the evolving demands on utilities, stressing the importance of managing complexity and maintaining system reliability.

Outline
Barcelona Cyber Security Congress Announcement
Scott introduces the Barcelona Cyber Security 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.
Contact information for the event is available on Industrial Talk.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their contributions.
The podcast is broadcasting live from Octave Live in Austin, Texas, featuring various industry guests.
Scott introduces Tobias Pforr, who has a challenging last name to pronounce.
Tobias Pforr's Background and Role
Tobias Pforr explains his name origin and its French and German roots.
Tobias shares his experience with Hexagon, joining in 2022 and working with laser scanners and asset management.
He discusses his transition to the enterprise software division and his current role at Octave.
Tobias highlights his background in industrial engineering, MBA, and new business development.
Challenges in the Utility Space
Tobias describes his experience working at a utility in Switzerland, focusing on corporate development and innovation.
He discusses the challenges utilities face, including energy price fluctuations, regulatory requirements, and market dynamics.
Tobias mentions the startup incubator he established within the utility to foster innovation.
He explains his role at Octave, focusing on networks and services, and the importance of understanding customer problems.
Octave's Solutions for Utilities
Tobias explains Octave's strong documentation solution, emphasizing the importance of accurate data.
He discusses the transformation of network information systems (NIS) into network intelligence systems.
Octave's solution helps utilities manage dynamic elements like weather, production surpluses, and electric vehicle consumption.
Tobias highlights the need for actionable insights to keep the system resilient and functioning.
Data Quality and Real-Time Updates
Scott and Tobias discuss the challenges of maintaining accurate data in utilities.
Tobias suggests using mobile devices to check the accuracy of asset locations in real-time.
He emphasizes the importance of continuous data cleaning and validation during daily operations.
Tobias shares personal experiences with operators and grid owners to illustrate the need for high-quality data.
Impact of Storms and System Resilience
Scott and Tobias discuss the impact of storms on utility systems and the need for real-time updates.
Tobias explains the importance of prioritizing challenges and focusing on core value in utility operations.
He highlights the role of documentation in ensuring system resilience and managing dynamic elements.
Tobias emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach between developers and users to create effective solutions.
Future of Utilities and Regulatory Requirements
Scott and Tobias discuss the future of utilities, emphasizing the increasing complexity and regulatory requirements.
Tobias explains the importance of managing complexity and ensuring system reliability.
He highlights the challenges of remote work and the need for digital skills in utility operations.
Tobias discusses the role of technology in helping utilities navigate regulatory requirements and maintain system resilience.
Octave's Role in Utility Modernization
Tobias explains Octave's role in helping utilities modernize their systems and manage dynamic environments.
He discusses the importance of documentation and data quality in ensuring system reliability.
Tobias highlights the need for a collaborative approach between developers and users to create effective solutions.

TOBIAS PFORR'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobias-pforr/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/octaveintelligence/
Company Website: https://www.octave.com/

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Industrial Talk is talking to Angeley Mullins, Founder and CEO at Aetheris Ventures about "Blistering pace of Technology and Industrial Impact".

Overview

The conversation highlights the importance of the Barcelona Cyber Security Congress from November 3-5, 2023, and features an interview with Angeley Mullins, a seasoned tech professional from Berlin. Angeley discusses her extensive experience scaling companies, including Amazon, GoDaddy, and Intuit, and emphasizes the critical role of AI in transforming industries. She warns of potential AI-related risks, such as the AI bubble and the AI apocalypse, and stresses the need for leaders to balance AI tools with critical thinking and human interaction. The discussion also touches on the future of education and the importance of maintaining social connections in a technologically advanced world.

Outline
Barcelona Cyber Security Congress Announcement
Scott introduces the Barcelona Cyber Security 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 is promoted on Industrial Talk, where Speaker 1 will be broadcasting and discussing cybersecurity.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott reiterates the podcast's mission to celebrate industry professionals and their contributions.
The conversation with Angeley Mullins from Germany is introduced, focusing on technology and its applications in industry.
Scott expresses excitement about the fast-paced changes in the industry and the importance of storytelling.
Angeley Mullins' Background and Expertise
Scott introduces Angeley Mullins, detailing her experience in scaling tech companies and her current role as CEO of Aetheris Ventures.
Angeley shares her background, including her work with Amazon, GoDaddy, and Intuit, and her various leadership roles.
The discussion touches on the challenges and strategies of scaling companies, from early-stage startups to growth-stage companies.
Angeley explains the importance of finding product-market fit and scaling it effectively.
Scaling Companies and Cultural Differences
Angeley discusses the different stages of scaling companies, from early-stage growth to IPOs.
She shares her experience at Amazon, where they scaled a division from zero to $1 billion in 18 months.
The conversation highlights cultural differences between the U.S. and Germany in handling failures and risks.
Angeley emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and adapting quickly, using examples from the tech industry.
The Role of AI in Industry
Angeley and Scott discuss the impact of AI on various industries, including healthcare and transportation.
They explore the potential of AI to change the way people live and work, as well as the risks of an AI bubble.
The conversation touches on the ethical considerations of AI, including the potential for an AI apocalypse.
Angeley shares her thoughts on the future of work and the importance of human interaction in a world dominated by AI.
The Impact of AI on Human Interaction
Angeley and Scott discuss the potential for AI to replace human jobs and the importance of human connection.
They explore the concept of human authenticity becoming a luxury in a world dominated by AI.
The conversation highlights the need for critical thinking and the challenges of relying too heavily on AI tools.
Angeley emphasizes the importance of leaders developing strategies that integrate AI with human expertise.
The Future of Education and AI
Angeley discusses the future of education, predicting a shift towards more personalized and democratized learning.
She highlights the importance of critical thinking and the need to rethink traditional education models.
The conversation touches on the role of AI in making education more accessible and efficient.
Angeley emphasizes the need for diversity in AI councils and the importance of collecting knowledge from different generations.
The Importance of Leadership and Team Building
Angeley and Scott discuss the role of leaders in selecting the right tech stacks and developing effective teams.
They highlight the importance of critical thinking and the need for leaders to focus on strategy rather than just tools.
The conversation touches on the challenges of building cohesive teams and the importance of hiring individuals with the right heart and passion.
Angeley emphasizes the need for leaders to balance AI tools with human expertise and critical thinking.
The Role of AI in Enhancing Human Potential
Angeley and Scott discuss the potential of AI to enhance human potential and improve quality of life.

ANGELEY MULLINS' CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angeleymullins/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aetherisventures/
Company Website: https://angeleymullins.org/

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