The world of machine building is a fascinating one, filled with creativity, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology. Yet, beneath the innovation lies a set of challenges that aren’t always openly discussed. From labour shortages to the intricacies of packaging machinery, the machine-building industry constantly evolves, requiring its leaders and workers to adapt and innovate. In this inaugural episode of the Machine Builder Talk podcast, hosts Colin Cartwright and Craig Henry pull back the curtain to reveal the real stories, challenges, and solutions shaping the industry.
Relationships: The Ultimate Key to Success
“Great relationships get great results,” noted Craig Henry, one of the podcast hosts, as he emphasized the importance of connections in the machine-building world. Whether it’s collaborating with team members, working with clients, or forming partnerships with suppliers, relationships are at the heart of every successful machine-building project.
Building these relationships doesn’t just make communication easier—it fosters trust and paves the way for groundbreaking innovations. The conversation highlighted how events like PMMI (Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute) become hubs for networking, where the newest in packaging technology and industry support is shared among machine builders.
Packaging Machinery: A Symphony of Complexity
Ever watched a simple yogurt pack roll off the production line? What seems straightforward is, in fact, an incredibly complex process. Colin Cartwright described his fascination with the packaging machinery that transforms flat sheets of corrugated cardboard into perfectly sealed boxes, filled and sorted with precision—all within a matter of feet.
From box folding to filling to sealing, the intricate dance of moving parts and technology is not just impressive but also critical for sustainability. “This technology allows companies to maximize shipping efficiency while reducing waste,” Colin pointed out. Machines must be fast, reliable, and adaptable to operate in diverse environments, including cooling zones and caustic food manufacturing areas. They must also meet stringent hygiene standards, such as using stainless steel components to prevent contamination.
The Labor Crisis: Solving the Skilled Worker Shortage
One of the most pressing issues in machine building today is the skilled labour shortage. With baby boomers retiring and younger workers less exposed to traditional trades, the industry faces a crisis. “We don’t have a choice anymore,” Craig explained. “We must simplify the way systems are built.”
Enter decentralized automation—a game-changing approach that reduces dependence on skilled labour by making machines easier to assemble and maintain. By using plug-and-play solutions, such as m12 connectors and remote I/O modules, machine builders can bring new workers up to speed quickly. “Imagine training someone in 15 minutes instead of months,” Colin emphasized. This transition not only saves time but also allows skilled engineers to focus on more complex tasks rather than mundane wiring.
Lessons from the Field: Stories of Triumph and Failure
What makes Machine Builder Talk unique is its focus on real-world experiences. Both hosts bring decades of experience inside manufacturing facilities, witnessing everything from stunning successes to catastrophic failures. These moments serve as critical learning opportunities for the entire community.
“One of my favourite things is asking people about the times when things went really, really badly,” Craig shared. “These stories offer lessons that can prevent others from making the same mistakes.” Whether it’s wiring errors that led to costly downtime or inefficiencies in communication, these tales highlight the importance of thorough planning and robust design practices.
Building a Community of Machine Builders
The ultimate goal of Machine Builder Talk is to create a space where machine builders, from controls technicians to C-level executives, can share their experiences, challenges, and solutions. “We want to bring the tribe together,” Colin said, referencing the importance of collective knowledge. By fostering open dialogue, the podcast aims to uncover insights that could revolutionize how machines are built and maintained.
Future episodes promise to feature industry leaders and innovators, starting with the next guest, Jonathan Darling. Known as a thought leader in automation, Jonathan will dive into topics like labor shortages and knowledge transfer. “His intellect is unmatched,” Colin teased, making it clear that this is an episode fans won’t want to miss.
What’s Next for Machine Builder Talk?
As the podcast takes off, the hosts invite listeners to become part of this growing community. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or a newcomer to the industry, Machine Builder Talk promises to offer valuable insights, practical solutions, and a sense of camaraderie. The hosts encourage everyone to visit machinebuildertalk.com for updates and to subscribe to new episodes every other Tuesday.
Conclusion: Let’s Solve These Challenges Together
The machine-building industry is at a crossroads, facing challenges like labour shortages and rapid technological advancements. Yet, as Colin and Craig have shown, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. By sharing knowledge and building a strong community, machine builders can not only overcome these hurdles but thrive in the process.
So, what challenges are you facing in your role as a machine builder? How do you think the industry can adapt to solve the labour crisis or improve efficiency? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe to Machine Builder Talk and tune in for the next episode featuring Jonathan Darling. Together, we can make it great! 🔧✨