19. The American Manufacturing Comeback: What’s Working Now with Jim Vinoski

Jim Vinoski joins CNC Underground AfterHours to share decades of experience in manufacturing, spanning engineering, leadership, writing, and advising.

Mechanical engineer, former Forbes manufacturing columnist, industry podcaster, and longtime executive, Jim breaks down the evolution of factory work, the changing nature of automation, and the critical importance of both leadership and adaptable processes. 

The conversation covers everything from early engineering surprises, navigating technology shifts like CNC and AI, to the need for upgrading work systems and training the next generation. If you’re interested in modern manufacturing, scaling your shop, or understanding the real stories behind American industry, this practical, candid discussion is for you.

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Connect with Jess on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/

Connect with Christina on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/

Connect with Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimvinoski/ 

Jim’s Substack: https://manufacturingtalks.substack.com/ 

Jim’s Website: https://www.manufacturingtalks.com/ 

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About Midwest CAM Solutions:Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support.

Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com

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00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:00 Bicycles and the Path to Engineering01:34 Early Surprises in Factory Work02:06 First Manufacturing Role02:22 Lessons in Leadership and Business03:32 Adapting to Modern Manufacturing04:47 Autonomy and Shop Culture Changes05:07 Major Shifts in Automation06:11 Hesitancy Around New Technology06:55 Embracing or Avoiding Change08:13 Falling Behind in Manufacturing09:44 Common Mistakes—Ignoring Work Systems10:40 Automation Beyond the Factory Floor12:14 Sparking Debate in Manufacturing Commentary13:01 Energy Prices and U.S. Competitiveness14:10 Trade, Offshoring, and Industrial Capacity15:07 Shipbuilding and National Security Gaps16:17 Regulation and Manufacturing Realities17:05 Does Automation Cost Jobs?18:42 Retaining High-Level Work in the U.S.19:49 What Divides Manufacturing Leaders20:38 Documenting vs. Working in the Business23:15 Systems That Enable Shop Growth25:28 Metrics That Matter: Cash Flow and More28:19 The Value of Community and Learning29:41 Creative Headlines—Communicating Manufacturing33:39 Engaging the Next Generation34:39 Audience and Intent in Writing36:38 Optimism for U.S. Manufacturing37:24 Advice for Industry Leaders and Learners39:07 Where to Follow Jim Vinoski