Ed Talks
Ed Talks
Podcast Description
Ed Talks dives into the strategies and insights that drive workforce development in manufacturing. Hosted by Fabricators and Manufacturers Association President and CEO Ed Youdell, this podcast features candid conversations with business leaders who are shaping the future of the industry.
From innovative training programs to employee engagement strategies, Ed Talks explores how manufacturers can attract, develop, and retain top talent to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Ed Talks is a production of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association and part of the FMA Podcast Network.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into topics such as innovative training programs, employee engagement strategies, and attracting and retaining talent within the manufacturing sector. Episodes feature discussions like the one with Sarah Richards, CEO of Jones Metal, focusing on company culture and collaboration with technical colleges to create apprenticeship pipelines.

Ed Talks dives into the strategies and insights that drive workforce development in manufacturing. Hosted by Fabricators and Manufacturers Association President and CEO Ed Youdell, this podcast features candid conversations with business leaders who are shaping the future of the industry.
From innovative training programs to employee engagement strategies, Ed Talks explores how manufacturers can attract, develop, and retain top talent to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Ed Talks is a production of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association and part of the FMA Podcast Network.
In this episode of Ed Talks, host Ed Youdell talks with Troy F. Berg, president and CEO of Dane Manufacturing, about what it really means to put employees first.
Troy shares how Dane’s “employees come first” philosophy drives retention, performance, and culture—through competitive wages, great benefits, and continuous opportunities for growth. He discusses the company’s on-site Dane Academy, where employees receive hands-on technical and professional training designed to help them advance throughout their careers.
The conversation also touches on community engagement, including how Dane supports local charities and encourages employees to give back through volunteering.
Troy closes with insights on the critical role of manufacturing and metal fabrication in the U.S. economy—and why he’s more excited than ever about the industry’s future.
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