Best NCMEP Podcasts (2025)

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E-68: Remanufacturing, Relationships, and Resilience: Jason Alexander of Alotech, Inc. 28:11

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3d ago28:11

28:11

In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Phil Mintz sits down with Dr. Jason Alexander, Business Development Manager at Alotech, Inc., a contract manufacturing company based in Goldston, North Carolina. Alotech’s journey—from its early roots in remanufacturing to its expansion into machining, engineering, logistics, and prod…

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E-67: A Story of Innovation and Domestic Manufacturing 21:50

1M ago21:50

21:50

By NCMEP

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E-66: From Classroom to Continuous Improvement: Clifton Dial’s Journey in Manufacturing Leadership 21:27

4M ago21:27

21:27

From Classroom to Continuous Improvement: Clifton Dial’s Journey in Manufacturing Leadership. In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Phil Mintz sits down with Dr. Clifton Dial, Operations Manager at WePack Logistics in Laurinburg, North Carolina. From a start in biology and education to a leadership role in manufacturing, …

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E-65: Building the North Carolina Textile Workforce 9:48

5M ago9:48

9:48

Gilden in Sanford, North Carolina, Changes Corporate Culture. North Carolina is the home to some of the world’s largest apparel manufacturers. In this episode of Clocking In, we are fortunate to learn more about Gilden, a leader in textiles for over 40 years, with 30 locations and more than 45,000 employees in over 12 countries. Gildan is one of th…

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E-64: The SBA is boosting small manufacturers Made in America. 15:07

6M ago15:07

15:07

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s New Focus on Manufacturing In this episode of Clocking In, NCMEP Director Phil Mintz speaks with U.S. Small Business Administration leaders Lisa Shimkat, Mike Arriola, and Dan Piche about the new Made in America Manufacturing Initiative. The initiative aims to strengthen small manufacturers through reduced r…

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E-63: From Textiles and Tobacco to Technology 31:52

8M ago31:52

31:52

AI will be a Game Changer for an Optimistic Economic Outlook for North Carolina New technologies such as artificial intelligence will no doubt transform the state’s traditional powerhouses of textiles, tobacco, and technology. As a new federal executive branch takes shape and establishes its policies, Dr Phil Mintz, Director of the North Carolina M…

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Ep-62: Even Programmers Can Fall in Love with the Manufacturing Environment 8:33

10M ago8:33

8:33

CTI Systems Realizes the Value in Retaining Their Workforce. CTI Systems has been locally owned and producing high-quality equipment for the electronics assembly industry for over 35 years. CTI Systems offers a wide range of products, from the most complex laser markers to depaneling routers and simple conveyors. Located in the Lee County Industria…

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Ep-61: A Family Tradition Inspired A Unique Business Opportunity 25:21

12M ago25:21

25:21

One woman turned a family recipe into an award-winning snack company, combining innovative branding, sustainable growth, and community support to deliver high-quality cheesy snacks and create new business opportunities. In this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz, the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership director talks with Becca Jorda…

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Ep-60: Secrets to Success 31:26

1y ago31:26

31:26

Husband and wife duo of Queen City Engineering and Design launch an in-house manufacturing company to control the development process resulting in greater flexibility, quality, shorter project lead times, and new business opportunities. Queen City Engineering and Design’s growth from a single laptop in a spare bedroom to a 7,000-square-foot enginee…

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Ep-59: Weaving Textile Advancements 13:30

1y ago13:30

13:30

Kings Mountain, North Carolina fabric manufacturer STI Fabrics holds up against the test of time. In today’s industrial landscape, the demand for specialized fabrics tailored to unique applications has never been greater. From heavy-duty manufacturing to advanced technological fields, specialized fabrics ensure efficiency, safety, and innovation ac…

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Ep-58: Timber! 21:30

1+ y ago21:30

21:30

West Jefferson, NC-based Carolina Timberworks received the 2024 Sustainability Leadership Award. Mass timber is a type of engineered wood product that is gaining popularity in the construction industry due to its sustainability, strength, and versatility. Unlike traditional lumber, which is typically cut from large trees, mass timber is made by lam…

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Ep-57: Fanning Growth 11:12

1+ y ago11:12

11:12

Winston-Salem-based ZIEHL-ABEGG received the 2024 NCMEP Developing Markets Leadership Award. Developing markets represent organizations experiencing rapid growth and industrialization. These markets are characterized by increasing economic activity, expanding consumer bases and significant investment opportunities. Companies and investors are drawn…

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E-56: Revving Up for Manufacturing Excellence 9:46

1+ y ago9:46

9:46

Lenior, NC-based Teijin Automotive Technologies received the 2024 NCMEP Manufacturing Excellence Award. Continuous improvement in manufacturing is a strategic approach focused on systematically enhancing production processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency. Rooted in principles like Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing, this methodology involve…

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E-55: Holding Tough 16:10

1+ y ago16:10

16:10

Burlington, NC climbing rope manufacturer wins the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina Award. Climbing rope is a crucial component of climbing equipment, serving as a lifeline for climbers in recreational and professional settings. They are indispensable in the climbing world, providing essential support and safety to climbers. Their design, …

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E-54: The Importance of Prototyping Spaces for Manufacturing 23:52

1+ y ago23:52

23:52

Located in Durham, NC, First Flight Venture Center Hangar 6 is an NCMEP partner that focuses on the entrepreneurial and startup space. Prototyping spaces, also known as maker spaces or innovation labs, are crucial for the advancement and success of the manufacturing industry. These specialized environments provide essential tools, resources, and co…

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E-53: From Pharmaceuticals to Biotech: How North Carolina is Leading the Way in Biomanufacturing 10:46

1+ y ago10:46

10:46

The Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) BioWork program trains students for a career with biomanufacturing organizations like Pfizer. Home to more than 700 life science companies North Carolina currently ranks third in the nation for biotechnology. With its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment, the sta…

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E-52: Community Catalysts: Inside North Carolina's Community College System 19:28

1+ y ago19:28

19:28

NCMEP Partner, North Carolina Community College System, brings accessible customized training for businesses and individuals to counties across North Carolina. Community colleges hold immense importance in the educational landscape, serving as accessible gateways to higher education for diverse students. These institutions are vital in providing af…

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E-51: Brick by Brick 11:30

1+ y ago11:30

11:30

North Carolina-founded brick manufacturer Triangle Brick Company, produces hundreds of millions of bricks yearly to build America. Bricks have been a reliable and versatile construction material for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to modern cities, bricks have stood the test of time and are integral to our built environment. But have…

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E-50: Forging the Future 10:16

1+ y ago10:16

10:16

The Sanford, North Carolina Bharat Forge facility continues to play a crucial role as the production of electric vehicles increases. The art of forging has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It has been a fundamental practice in human civilization, from early techniques to modern advancements, contributing to the development of soci…

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E-49: From Idea to Reality 13:52

2y ago13:52

13:52

Stanza Machinery owner’s experience paved the way for a successful industrial finishing manufacturer. Have you ever wondered how products get their shiny and durable finishes? The answer lies in the process of industrial finishing. From furniture to cars, industrial finishing plays a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and durability of variou…

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E-48: When Style and Consciousness Collide 19:43

2y ago19:43

19:43

Burlington, North Carolina sustainable t-shirt manufacturer, TS Designs, works with natural fibers and earth-friendly printing. Always grown and made in the USA. Have you ever wondered about the story behind the clothes you wear? How are they made and what impact do they have on the environment? TS Designs is a company that aims to revolutionize th…

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E-47: Loud and Clear: The Manufacturing of Military Communication Equipment 9:02

2y ago9:02

9:02

Aberdeen, North Carolina military communications manufacturer looks to grow in the industry. Military communications play a crucial role in the success of military operations. From strategizing and planning to executing missions, clear and reliable communication is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of military personnel. Over the yea…

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E-46: Fostering Growth and Innovation 22:11

2y ago22:11

22:11

The Manufacturing Solutions Center has grown to be a primer business incubator host. With its roots in hosiery and furniture development and testing, the Manufacturing Solutions Center is part of Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC, working to have a positive economic impact on their community, the region, and the entire country. The or…

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E-45: Safeguarding the Human Body 24:21

2y ago24:21

24:21

Greenhill Anti-Ballistics Corporation looks to revolutionize how we think about blunt force trauma prevention. In today’s fast-paced world, innovation is the key to success. Companies and individuals constantly seek new ways to disrupt the status quo and create breakthroughs. One of these breakthroughs is the Force Disruption Platform. The Force Di…

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E-44: Investing In The Community 12:45

2y ago12:45

12:45

As Emerging Technology Institute grows, the organization remains committed to helping its community flourish with them. From a simple request to creating a drone testing center, James Freeman has built the Emerging Technology Institute in Red Springs, North Carolina. Despite airspace restrictions, Freeman’s vision has flourished into a development …

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E-43: Carrying On a Legacy 12:36

2y ago12:36

12:36

After three generations the Burlington-based electrical supply organization Southland Electrical continues to flourish. Generational business refers to passing down a business from one generation to the next. This tradition has been prevalent for centuries, with family businesses as the backbone of economies worldwide. Southland Electrical Supply C…

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E-42: Electricity, Water and Gas, Oh My!: How a Non-Profit is Making Sure Energy Companies Treat NC Manufacturers Equitably 17:06

2+ y ago17:06

17:06

Carolina Utility Customer Association (CUCA) provides a platform for customers to voice their concerns and works towards ensuring fair and affordable utility rates. Manufacturing facilities require a significant amount of energy to operate, from lighting and heating to powering machinery. These utility bills can add up quickly and significantly imp…

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E-41: Catching Up with Ketchie 19:05

2+ y ago19:05

19:05

Concord, NC manufacturer is making waves in the advanced manufacturing world. Have you ever wondered how complex machinery and equipment are built with such precision? The answer lies in the manufacturing of high precision parts. These parts are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of various industries, from aerospace to medical equipment. Ket…

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E-40: Redefining Culture - Wieland Copper 17:16

2+ y ago17:16

17:16

Davide Varze and Markus Rusznyak tell the story of how they helped transform Wieland Copper’s Pine Hall, NC plant. What does it take to create a safe and productive workplace? Is it just about having the right equipment and procedures in place or is there something more to it? The modern workplace is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opp…

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E-39: Ready for Impact: How EDPNC Is Keeping North Carolina Competitive 14:41

2+ y ago14:41

14:41

Since 2015, the EDPNC has helped North Carolina win more than 500 recruitment and expansion projects, resulting in 67,000 new jobs and $14 billion in announced new investments across the state. Economic development has been a driving force behind human progress for centuries. From the first agricultural revolution to the technological advancements …

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E-38 A Sturdy Solution - BeachBUB 26:23

2+ y ago26:23

26:23

Greensboro, NC manufacturer beachBUB has worked to revolutionize beach umbrella safety. We all consider going to the beach an opportunity for a relaxing experience. Still, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 2,800 beachgoers ended up in the emergency room because of beach umbrella injuries between 2010 and 2018. Our focu…

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E-37: When One Door Closes… 13:32

3y ago13:32

13:32

Lillington, NC-based security door manufacturer Boon Edam, strives to make buildings safer with “smart doors.” There has been a lot of discussion around the cybersecurity of organizations and while cybersecurity should be taken seriously, so should the physical security of your organization. If entryway security isn’t taken seriously, people could …

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E-36 Smart Textile Technology: The Future of Fabrication 20:55

3y ago20:55

20:55

NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions’ (IES) North Carolina Defense Manufacturing Community Support Program (NC DMCSP), creates opportunities for smart textile innovators. As our lives become ever connected through smart phones, tablets and other devices, the way we interact has changed dramatically and that even applies to textiles. Tex…

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E-35: Well Oiled Machine 18:33

3y ago18:33

18:33

Sanford, North Carolina-based company emerges as one of North Carolina’s leading precision machined components manufacturers. Precision machining is a manufacturing technique where parts or components are cut into precise shapes using high-speed cutting tools such as drills, lathes, milling machines and other types of machine tools. The term ‘preci…

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E-34: Educating The Workforce of the Future 18:03

3y ago18:03

18:03

Central Carolina Community College strives to teach relevant skills needed in today’s technology and artificially intelligent-driven workforce. Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) is an annual national event, coordinated by The National Association of Manufacturers and The Manufacturing Institute, on the first Friday of Manufacturing Month – October. It’s …

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E-33: Strengthening Workplace Attraction and Retention 22:55

3y ago22:55

22:55

Dr. Jenni Harris discusses the value the North Carolina Department of Commerce - Workforce Solutions Division provides to North Carolina workers. North Carolina has long been a great place to live and raise a family. The state ranks high in quality of life, economic opportunity, and educational attainment. Despite these positive trends, North Carol…

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E-32: Protecting Those Who Protect Us 20:12

3y ago20:12

20:12

Youngsville-based manufacturer Sirchie Corp works to transform law enforcement equipment. Law enforcement officers are often required to carry out their duties in dangerous situations. They provide surveilance, investigate crimes, and suppoet security at public events and must be prepared at all times. There are various types of law enforcement sup…

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E-31: Putting Customer Success Before Profit 17:43

3+ y ago17:43

17:43

An Asheville, North Carolina-based business boasts a 60% rate of repeat customers because of their excellent customer relations. How often do you hear companies talk about customer success? You’d be surprised to learn that customer success is a relatively new concept. Customer success is a term that describes the relationship between customers and …

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E-30: Threading the Needle of Quality 9:53

3+ y ago9:53

9:53

Burlington, North Carolina-based fabrics manufacturer, Fairystone Fabrics, has earned its reputation for technical expertise. North Carolina has long been known for its textile production. From the early days of cotton production through the Civil War era, North Carolina was a major producer of textiles. Today, North Carolina produces over half of …

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E-29: Community Colleges Provide a Pathway to Business Success 10:47

3+ y ago10:47

10:47

Local community colleges are built to provide North Carolina businesses with sustainable solutions. In 1957, the North Carolina General Assembly adopted the first Community College Act and provided funding for community colleges. By 1966, there were 43 institutions with 28,250 full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollments. In 1969, there were 54 instituti…

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E-28: East Carolina University Strives to Help North Carolina Businesses Excel 13:27

3+ y ago13:27

13:27

North Carolina Manufacturing Extensionship partner, East Carolina University strives to assist businesses across North Carolina. Founded in 1907, East Carolina University (ECU) has made quite the name for itself. According to U.S. News and World Report’s 2021 best-ranked colleges, ECU is one of the top five public universities in North Carolina. Ea…

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E-27: Breathing Easy with Bleep Sleep 26:22

3+ y ago26:22

26:22

Chapel Hill-based CPAP manufacturer Bleep Sleep is a breath of fresh air in the CPAP industry. CPAP masks have been a long-standing nightmare for sleep apnea patients. Many CPAP masks on the market tend to leak, are too loud and can even result in the breaking of hair and bald spots due to headgear. On this episode of clocking in, I talked to a CPA…

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E-26: Economic Check-Up with Dr. Walden 21:52

4y ago21:52

21:52

Retired William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and extension economist Dr. Walden discusses the current supply chain and workforce issues. Dr. Michael Walden The pandemic has put the economy into a tailspin, leaving supply chain disturbances, workforce vacancies, and spiked inflation in its wake. But what is exactly going on and how long wil…

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E-25: Providing a Beneficial Thread for a Dependable Workforce 31:21

4y ago31:21

31:21

Laurinburg, NC-based industrial thread manufacturer Service Thread is working hard for the people who work for them. Service Thread According to a recent Gartner study of employees from across the U.S., only 13 percent of employees are largely satisfied with their work experiences. Additionally, nearly half (46 percent of employees) are largely dis…

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E-24: Medical Stockings with a Higher Standard 21:35

4y ago21:35

21:35

Elastic Therapy, Inc., a compression wear manufacturer located in Asheboro, NC, strives to maintain its niche dominance in the hosiery industry. Elastic Therapy, Inc. It may come as no surprise that a state with a rich textile history also has deep roots in the hosiery industry. According to IBIS World, North Carolina leads the nation in the state …

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E-23: Textiles Continues to Evolve as a Powerful NC Industry 21:01

4+ y ago21:01

21:01

The NC State University Wilson College of Textiles uses modern technology to take textile manufacturing into the future. NC State University Wilson College of Textiles What does the healthcare, fashion, defense and advanced material industry have in common? They all utilize textiles as a way to invent. Long gone are the days where the word “textile…

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E-22: Turning Students into Project Engineers of the Future 19:01

4+ y ago19:01

19:01

NCMEP partner, North Carolina A&T State University collaborates with NC manufacturers to cultivate the engineers of tomorrow. North Carolina A&T State University Industrial engineers are professional problem solvers. Their role in manufacturing is to find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. In this episode of Clocking In, we sit…

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E-21: Manufacturing is the Family Business 21:23

4+ y ago21:23

21:23

A second-generation family business located in Charlotte, NC, is keeping the family legacy alive. Tropical Foods Family businesses are great. They can help transfer family values, grow leaders, strengthen inter-generational bonds and they’re also a large part of the American economy. According to the Family Business Alliance, family enterprises emp…

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E-20: Navigating Opportunities Between Furniture and Protective Gowns 20:14:00

4+ y ago20:14:00

20:14:00

High Point furniture manufacturer, Custom Contract Furnishings, pivots to making gowns to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Custom Contract Furnishings According to AARP, the leisure and hospitality industry was the hardest hit by the pandemic. Our guest, whose business has been focused on supplying a booming hospitality industry, saw three months…

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E-19: Engineering the Tissue Industry With Technology 22:35

4+ y ago22:35

22:35

Spindale North Carolina tissue manufacturer, Cardinal Tissue, works overtime to aid the tissue shortage. Cardinal Tissue The pandemic caused a sudden surge in hoarding. As a result of people buying tissue in bulk and manufacturers not being able to keep up with the demand, toilet paper became one of the many products that was hard to find during th…