Matthew Bishop with VATIT STREAM

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Matt Bishop, Head of Global Sales at VATIT STREAM about “International Logistics Compliance”.

The Industrial Talk podcast, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, features Scott Mackenzie discussing the importance of industrial innovation and celebrating industry professionals. At MD&M West in Anaheim, California, Scott interviews Matthew Bishop, the head of sales at VATIT STREAM, a company specializing in VAT efficiency and logistics compliance. Bishop explains how VATIT STREAM helps manufacturers navigate tariffs and VAT, particularly for medical manufacturers, by setting up foreign entities and handling logistics. They discuss the complexities of international trade, the importance of compliance, and the benefits of their services in simplifying global shipments. Bishop also shares his experience attending the conference and the challenges of international travel.

Mehdi Kargar with Maxterial

Industrial Talk is talking to Mehdi Kargar, CEO/Co-Founder at Maxterial, Inc. about “Innovative coating platform that significantly reduces corrosion”.

Mehdi Kargar, founder of Maxterial, discussed the company’s innovative coatings that replace hexavalent chromium, which is being phased out due to health and environmental risks. Maxterial’s coating, tested in steel mills and hydraulic systems, offers superior durability, reducing downtime by up to 50% and improving energy efficiency by four times. The coating is manufactured using standard electrodeposition processes and existing chemical suppliers. Maxterial aims to create a scalable, cost-effective solution that meets regulatory deadlines and enhances industrial efficiency. The company’s strategy includes building trust and partnerships.

Kayla Konieczny with Erie Bronze and Aluminum

Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Kayla Konieczny, Sales and Procurement Specialist at Erie Bronze & Aluminum about “Manufacturing careers”.

Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec, a company offering ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions, and highlights the Industrial Talk Podcast’s focus on industry innovations and professionals. Kayla Konieczny, from Erie Bronze, discusses her career path from the food and car industries to her current role in procurement and manufacturing. She emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and the challenges of material sourcing, particularly the volatility of prices for metals like tin and aluminum. Kayla also highlights the need for more women in manufacturing due to their attention to detail and organizational skills. The conversation concludes with a call to support programs like Penn State’s METAL program to inspire the next generation of industrial leaders.

Scott Kraemer with Xact Metal

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Scott Kraemer, Senior Sales Manager at Xact Metal about “Evolution of Additive Manufacturing”.

Scott Kraemer, a seasoned manufacturing professional with over 35 years of experience, discusses his company, Xact Metal, which specializes in affordable 3D printing of metal parts. Xact Metal’s printers, made in the USA, are priced around $160,000 and can handle various materials like stainless steel, Inconel, and titanium. Kraemer emphasizes the importance of educating the youth about manufacturing careers and the potential of 3D printing to revolutionize industries, particularly in tooling and medical applications. He also highlights the company’s nimbleness in adapting to industry needs, such as printing with sub-15 micron powders for intricate details.

Kai Li with Mean Well USA

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

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.