Next-Gen Metal Fab

• Integrating automation with the right people in manufacturing

  In this episode of Next-Gen Metal Fab, Lance Thrailkill of All Metals Fabricating joins Tim Heston to talk about becoming the most automated job shop in America. Tim and Lance explore how the the Texas-based job shop is investing in robotic welding, automated laser cutting, punching, and panel bending, while also empowering and training its workforce to embrace change. Hear how leadership builds buy-in, communicates a clear vision, and takes a strategic approach to adding new capabilities. Plus, a look at what’s next as All Metals expands its machine shop and leans into AI and ERP automation to drive the future of manufacturing. Email Tim at [email protected] with any comments or questions. And learn more about Paperless Parts.

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• What the future holds for software development in metal fabrication

  In this episode, we explore how software, automation, and AI are transforming the metal fabrication industry, from the front office to the shop floor. Guests Caleb Chamberlain of OSH Cut and Cody Lee of Everyday Technologies share how their companies have embraced digital tools to streamline quoting, scheduling, production, and quality control. Caleb explains how OSH Cut has developed custom software solutions that eliminate manual steps and boost efficiency. He also shares his excitement about the future of AI-powered and low-code tools in enabling even more flexible, scalable systems. Cody reflects on his shop’s journey from paper-based processes to an integrated ERP and quoting system, and how this shift has improved responsiveness and visibility into operations. Together, the guests discuss how AI, automation, and digital transformation are reshaping metal fabrication, and why the future will require a balance between rapid innovation and long-term operational stability. Email Tim at [email protected] with any comments or questions. Learn more about Paperless Parts.

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• From purchase to progress: Transforming a legacy job shop

  On this episode of the Next-Gen Metal Fab podcast, Tim Heston sits down with Cody Lee for a one-on-one conversation about Cody's path the metal fabrication industry. Cody talks about how he took over Everyday Technologies, a Sidney, Ohio-based sheet metal job shop founded in 1928. Faced with an outdated ERP and quoting process, Lee implemented a new ERP system and standardized quoting. The changes improved tracking of costs, labor, and margins, driving shop floor improvements like first article inspections. Lee shares how he’s balanced legacy work with new prototype jobs, and how these upgrades created new roles for employees, shifting them from manual tasks to more analytical, high-impact work. Email Tim at [email protected] with any comments or questions.

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• Practical approaches to using AI in manufacturing and fabrication

  In this episode of the Next-Gen Metal Fab podcast, host Tim Heston is joined by Caleb Chamberlain of OSH Cut and Lance Thrailkill of All Metals Fabricating to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the metal fabrication and manufacturing industries. As tariffs and reshoring continue to stir uncertainty and volatility, Tim, Caleb, and Lance talk about how fabricators are looking for ways to stay competitive and agile. AI and automation are emerging as powerful tools, with the potential to transform everything from quoting and scheduling to sales and customer service in manufacturing. But implementation isn’t simple—many companies struggle to integrate AI meaningfully due to legacy software and processes. Caleb and Lance share real-world insights into how fabricators can overcome these hurdles and tap into AI’s potential. They also discuss how tools like ChatGPT are democratizing software development, enabling even small shops to create custom applications and make smarter, faster decisions. Email Tim at [email protected] with any comments or questions. Learn more about the 32nd Advanced Laser Applications Workshop (ALAW).

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• Understanding the impact of tariffs on metal fabrication businesses

  Tim Heston, Lance Thrailkill, Caleb Chamberlain, and Cody Lee discuss how the everchanging tariffs on imported metals have led to significant volatility and price increases, challenges for manufacturers, and domestic mills raising prices to match the tariffs rather than passing along the benefits. They explore strategies for diversifying customer bases, improving operational efficiency, and leveraging technology to streamline sales and quality processes. The conversation highlights the importance of adaptability, value-added services, and forging strong partnerships with customers in the evolving manufacturing landscape. Email Tim at [email protected] with any comments or questions. Learn more about the 2025 FMA Annual Meeting.

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