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The sound of automation
Manufacturers are the driving force behind Industry 4.0, and Wipfli is here to help.
Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Oct 23, 2024

Episode 49: Cybersecurity Tips for Manufacturers

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we sit down with Tom Wojcinski, partner at Wipfli, and Jim Peterson, principal solutions advisor at ConnectWise, to discuss the importance of cybersecurity for manufacturers. Listen to the episode to learn about the increase in cyberthreats due to remote work environments and the expansion of digital ecosystems, as well as best practices for improving cybersecurity in manufacturing environments.

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Sep 13, 2024

Episode 48: Manufacturing M&A Market Update

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we sit down with Colin Johnson from Wipfli Corporate Finance (WCF). Bryan and Colin provide a manufacturing M&A market update and overview of the competitive landscape. They also offer advice on how to determine if your business is ready to sell, or if you should instead focus on ways to grow your business. Listen in to learn why it's so important to define your goals and surround yourself with a well-rounded support team to help you think through your options and develop the best path forward.

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Aug 28, 2024

Episode 47: Exploring Manufacturing Opportunities with AMT

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we sit down with Mary Cecile Neville and Chris Chidzik from The Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT) to discuss what the manufacturing market looks like, where it's headed and what's to come at IMTS 2024. Listen in to learn how AMT can help manufacturers leverage new opportunities, make connections and grow their businesses.

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Jul 24, 2024

Episode 46: The Power of Purpose-Driven Businesses

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we discuss the power of purpose-driven businesses with Dirk Beveridge of We Supply America and Ashley Martin of NIBCO. Listen in to learn how businesses can be a force for good by focusing on legacy, longevity and love. We’ll share ways that family-owned business NIBCO has had a positive impact on the community and how you can too. 

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Jun 27, 2024

Episode 45: Making an Impact in North American Manufacturing

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, Bryan Powrozek sits down with Wipfli Partner Laurie Harbour to discuss how the right providers can help make a positive impact in North American manufacturing, and why industry knowledge is key. They also talk about the value of benchmarking as a path to continuous improvement. From rightsizing your business to networking with peers, listen to this episode for tips to help your small to medium-sized manufacturing business thrive.

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek May 23, 2024

Episode 44: How Economic Developers Help Manufacturers Grow

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we talk to Quentin Messer, the CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Bryan and Quentin discuss how economic developers like MEDC can help small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses grow. Listen in to learn about some of the ways MEDC attracts and retains business in Michigan and how you can leverage similar resources in your own market. 

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Apr 17, 2024

Episode 43: The Future of Manufacturing

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we discuss the future of automation with Dan Davis, Editor-in-Chief at The Fabricator. Listen in to learn about the top issues and opportunities facing manufacturers, such as workforce and automation. Dan and Bryan also talk about the importance of diversification and quickly adapting to change within your organization.

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Apr 05, 2024

Episode 42: How AI Leads to Marketing & Sales Efficiency

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we sit down with Michael Janney from Salesforce and Sean Myers from Wipfli to discuss artificial intelligence and how it can help marketing and sales teams become more efficient. Listen in to learn the difference between predictive and generative AI, and how to apply these tools in your manufacturing business to help your team work more efficiently. 

Bryan Powrozek
Bryan Powrozek Feb 29, 2024

Episode 41: Industry 4.0 in Action

In this episode of The Sound of Automation podcast, we sit down with Gary Krus, the Vice President of Business Development at HIROTEC. Bryan and Gary discuss the practical side of Industry 4.0 for manufacturers, including the importance of data collection and ERPs. Listen in to learn how to navigate the evolving Industry 4.0 technologies and prepare your organization for change.