Speaking of 5 Mistakes We See Shops Make Over and Over
Carli Kistler-Miller, Harry Centa and David Wynn discuss five common mistakes that are repeatedly see precision machining shops make while also looking at how shops can make better decisions, protect profitability and build more resilient operations.
Carli Kistler-Miller, Harry Centa and David Wynn have a discussion about brass drops and the useful opportunities they can create in precision machining shops. This conversation looks at how leftover brass material can be managed, repurposed, or recovered for value, while also encouraging shops to think more intentionally about the small pieces of material already on the floor..
Speaking of Supply Chain Technology with Michael Vay
Carli Kistler-Miller, Harry Centa and David Wynn are joined by Michael Vay of Kirk Precision to dive into how PMPA members can use technology to strengthen and streamline the supply chain. The conversation focuses on how better data, digital tools, and connected processes can help shops improve visibility, responsiveness, and decision-making.
Earli Kistler-Miller and David Wynn are joined by Johnny Freeze of HORN USA to discuss how PMPA members collaborated to address the industry’s move away from leaded steel. They dive into the process of a blind study at TajMac-USA in Indianapolis, where Nucor, Eastern Oil Company, Horn USA, TajMac-USA and Dr. Julius Schoop from the University of Kentucky tested NuCut 1215 against other free-machining materials on the market.
Carli Kistler-Miller and David Wynn are joined by Johnny Freeze of HORN USA as he shares how his unconventional path led him into the world of custom cutting tools. Johnny reflects on the value of PMPA involvement, relationship building, and supplier knowledge helping manufacturers adapt and succeed.
Emily Riley and David Wynn are joined by Bill Cox of Cox Manufacturing as he shares reflections from his career in precision machining and the story of Cox Manufacturing’s growth, resilience and continued commitment to solving difficult manufacturing challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of learning from peers, investing in people and using PMPA resources to strengthen both individual leaders and member companies.
Talking Business Part 15 + Captain’s Log with Special Guest John Detterbeck
Carli Kistler-Miller, Emily Riley, and David Wynn are joined by John Detterbeck for the finale of our 15 part special limited series where John shares lessons learned in his life in the precision machining industry.
PMPA’s Carli Kistler-Miller and David Wynn are joined by Tracy Nichols for a conversation about the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and what they mean for precision machining businesses. They deep dive on how export controls can apply not only to parts, but also to drawings, technical data, documentation, and interactions with foreign affiliates or personnel. This episode shows why ITAR compliance is often more complex than many shops expect and where common misunderstandings can create risk. It is a valuable listen for manufacturers working on defense-related projects or trying to better understand their responsibilities under export control regulations.
Carli Kistler-Miller and David Wynn are joined by Miles Free to dive into G-code and why it remains the foundation of CNC programming and machining success. The discussion explores how programmers and machinists use G-code to control movement, improve accuracy, troubleshoot issues, and turn design intent into finished parts in our precision machining shops..
Carli Kistler-Miller and David Wynn are joined by Miles Free to explore the growing challenge of steel scrap contamination and why it matters more than ever. With the U.S. relying heavily on recycled materials, hidden elements like copper and tin are threatening steel quality and limiting performance. We break down the Department of Energy’s $155 million initiative to tackle this issue and what it means for the future of steelmaking.
