Editor David Muller sits down with Associate Editor Cary Gitter to debrief from the 2025 North American Manufacturing Research Conference and its Blue Sky Competition. He discusses this years winners, a team from the University of Georgia with its entry on “Manufacturing Empathy,” and other standouts from the competition.

In this inspiring episode, Toni Neary sits down with industry champion Clint Smith of Mastercam. From his start as a mold maintenance technician to CNC programmer and now a leader in education and workforce development, Clint shares his incredible journey and passion for shaping the next generation of manufacturing professionals.

Fresh from SkillsUSA Nationals, Clint and Toni dive into the impact of competitions like SkillsUSA, WorldSkills, and Project MFG. Clint gives an insider’s look at what it takes to mentor and support students on a global stage, why these contests matter so much to the industry, and how they build not just technical abilities—but confidence, teamwork, and resilience.

Whether you're an educator, employer, or student, this episode will leave you recharged and reminded why investing in skilled trades matters more than ever.

Editor-in-Chief Steve Plumb sits down with Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath Labs, to explore the potential of AI in manufacturing. Drawing from his experiences as a machinist, high school teacher and former Autodesk executive, Whatmough shares his thoughts on bridging the gap between design and production, creating a more connected, efficient manufacturing ecosystem through intelligent automation.

In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, Editor-in-Chief Steve Plum is joined by Meaghan Ziemba, creator and host of Mavens of Manufacturing. Their conversation covers Meaghan's background, storytelling in manufacturing, mentorship, and her passion for inspiring the next generation of manufacturing professionals.

In this episode, Lead Contributing Editor Amy Bryson sits down with Rob MacMillan, founder of PINpoint Information Systems, to unpack the complexities of transformational technology and reach the substance beyond the hype.

The SME Media editorial team discuss their recent travels covering industry events. Topics include Siemens' digital twin technology and industrial AI at Realize LIVE, and North Carolina's transformation into a bio-manufacturing hub.

Join Amy Bryson, Steve Plumb and Chris Mahar as they reflect on the 10-year journey of Smart Manufacturing magazine, discussing its evolution covering key innovations in manufacturing technology and the exciting transition to Manufacturing Engineering & Technology magazine in August.

In this episode of Manufacturing the Workforce of Tomorrow, host Toni Neary talks with Dr. Timothy Wilson, SME’s AI strategist, about what artificial intelligence really is—and what it means for your workforce. They break down the basics of AI (Narrow, General, Agentic), how tools like ChatGPT work, and how AI is already shaping everything from hiring to upskilling. Learn how organizations can use AI to uncover hidden talent, close skill gaps, and personalize employee development. Whether you’re new to AI or ready to scale, this conversation offers clear, practical insights for the future of work.