The Smart Factory Podcast: Powered by Catalyst Connection

ERP implementations are expensive, complex and notoriously difficult to get right. But according to Mark Engleman, the biggest factor in success often isn’t the software—it’s leadership. Drawing on more than 30 years and 1,000 ERP projects, Mark joins Matt Holjes to explore where implementations go off track, how manufacturers can better control costs and risk, and when it may be time to move beyond a legacy system. They also look ahead at how AI could reshape enterprise software—and potentially challenge the traditional ERP model altogether.

What does it take to repeatedly turn an idea into a successful business? Denise shares candid lessons from a career of launching, growing and selling companies across diverse industries. She discusses using data to identify market opportunities, learning from failure, building trusted teams and recognizing when it is time to pivot—or walk away. The conversation also explores why determination, self-awareness and a clear exit strategy are essential to defining your own future.

For more than 60 years, SKC Inc. has developed innovative solutions that help protect workers from occupational and environmental hazards. In this episode, Todd Tommaney joins guest host Tom Reed to discuss SKC’s history, family-owned culture, approach to employee development, and continued investment in technology and growth. Todd also shares how SKC used the Energy and Manufacturing in Appalachia program and grant funding through Catalyst Connection to strengthen its sales and customer support teams.

Akaash Ramakrishnan of AdSkate explains how AI simulated audiences help manufacturers test marketing campaigns, improve messaging, and make smarter marketing investments before launch.

What does it take to modernize a 100-year-old family business without losing what made it successful in the first place?

Nick Mancini Hartner of Mancini's Bakery shares how the iconic Pittsburgh bakery is blending artisan breadmaking traditions with smart manufacturing technologies to improve quality, traceability, and operational performance.

From hand-twisted loaves and family history to digital transformation, RFID tracking, and data-driven decision-making, this conversation explores how innovation can support growth while preserving authenticity.

Artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities for manufacturers to improve productivity, preserve workforce knowledge, and streamline operations without major capital investments. In this episode, Adam Marsh of Ledge discusses how manufacturers are using AI to support quality management, quoting, scheduling, contract review, and digital work instructions. The conversation explores strategies for capturing tribal knowledge before experienced workers retire, avoiding common AI implementation pitfalls, and building a practical roadmap that delivers measurable business value. Adam also shares why AI may be one of the most accessible entry points into Industry 4.0 for small and medium-sized manufacturers.

From a two-car garage welding business to a manufacturing enterprise serving defense, energy, and data center markets, Bill Polacek shares the leadership principles, workforce strategies, and community commitment that fueled JWF Industries’ growth. Learn why culture, diversification, and investing in people remain the foundation of long-term manufacturing success.

In this episode of the Smart Factory Podcast, Petra Mitchell speaks with Doug Gudenburr about the evolution of DMI Companies and the operational decisions shaping modern manufacturing growth in southwestern Pennsylvania.

Doug reflects on DMI’s origins in the Mon Valley, the development of Ductmate’s innovative HVAC technologies, and how the company expanded into digital building controls, indoor air quality systems, and energy-efficient solutions.

The steel industry has shaped western Pennsylvania for generations. Now, a new chapter may be unfolding. In this episode of the Smart Factory Podcast, Petra Mitchell speaks with Doug Dunworth about the realities facing the steel industry today, from workforce pressures and global competition to the significance of Nippon Steel’s proposed investment and what it could mean for the future of manufacturing in the region.

The conversation explores how steel remains deeply connected to supply chains, infrastructure, energy, and industrial growth across southwestern Pennsylvania. Doug also shares perspective on leadership, long-term industry cycles, and why the ne...

Ralph Hardt shares how advanced manufacturers are scaling through workforce development, automation, continuous improvement, and strategic growth across energy and aerospace markets, including why employee referrals for new hires are one of the strongest indicators of company culture and operational performance.

Most manufacturers know what they pay. Far fewer understand what it actually costs. Daniela Osio, Founder and CEO of Dalinea, unpacks one of the biggest blind spots in manufacturing today: cost visibility across the supply chain.

Adam Bird of Emerson, shares how AI and automation are reshaping industrial operations and energy systems; and what it takes to lead change inside organizations adopting new technologies.

Explore how AI is being applied inside real industrial control environments with Ovation AI. See what it takes to bring intelligence directly into operations and where it can drive measurable impact.

Learn more about Ovation AI

Tricia Staible, President of Robinson Fans, shares what it takes to operate a custom-engineered manufacturing business serving heavy industry; and her passion for the She Builds initiative, which is expanding opportunities for women in manufacturing.

Tricia Breeger, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Power Products (MEPPI), shares how the next phase of manufacturing growth is being shaped by energy, infrastructure, and the rapid expansion of AI-driven demand.

Bob Evans, founder of Cloud Wars, breaks down what the rapid acceleration of cloud and AI actually means for manufacturers on the ground.