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.
Nora Harding, Executive VP at Special Products and Manufacturing (SPM), joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast.
SPM is a 62-year-old manufacturing company with three facilities in Texas. They were named The Fabricator’s 2025 Industry Award winner and appear on the FAB 40 list.
Harding talks about SPM’s strong company culture centered around their “BUILT” principles (Best people, Urgency, Integrity, Learning, Teamwork), which have helped foster an engaged and empowered workforce.
She also talks about how the company places a strong emphasis on community involvement through programs like “Built to Serve” and “Special Wish”, which provide support and resources to their employees and local community. SPM also actively engages with local schools and technical centers to promote manufacturing careers and provide educational opportunities.
Haring discusses the company’s use of lean practices, automation, and commitment to continuous improvement have helped them attract and retain top talent while improving productivity and efficiency.
This episode was sponsored by AMADA America.
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