John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik with Hirata

The conversation features Scott Mackenzie from the Industrial Talk podcast, discussing the MD&M West event with John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik from Hirata. John celebrates his 50th year in the industry and highlights Hirata's 50-year history, starting with handcarts and evolving into a company specializing in automation and robotic solutions. Michael shares his background in manufacturing and automated testing. They discuss Hirata's diverse clientele, including automotive, electronics, and medical devices, and their focus on long-term customer relationships. Hirata's expertise in automation and predictive maintenance is emphasized, along with their integration of robots and systems for efficient manufacturing.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk

• Scott introduces the episode of Industrial Talk, sponsored by MD&M West and the News and Brews team.
• Speaker 2, Scott Mackenzie, is introduced as the host, dedicated to highlighting industry innovations and professionals.
• Scott thanks the audience for their support and celebrates industry professionals for their contributions to industrial innovation.
• Scott mentions the importance of MD&M West and encourages listeners to attend the event in 2027.

Introduction of John and Michael

• Scott introduces John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik, playing a light-hearted game with their names.
• John and Michael engage in a brief comedic exchange about their names.
• Scott appreciates John's Seinfeld reference and asks about their experiences at MD&M West.
• John shares his long-term involvement with the event, having attended for 21 years and reflecting on the changes over the years.

John's Background and Experience

• John discusses his 50 years in the industry, his work with industrial laser systems, and his transition to Hirata 12 years ago.
• John highlights the unique experience of working for a Japanese company and the diverse projects Hirata has undertaken.
• Scott and John discuss the challenges of transitioning to a larger company and the importance of long-term customer relationships.
• John provides an overview of Hirata's history, starting with handcarts and evolving into a company with a diverse customer base.

Michael's Background and Hirata's Market Presence

• Michael shares his background in manufacturing, starting as a manufacturing engineer and transitioning to automated testing and assembly solutions.
• Michael discusses his role at Hirata as the applications director for North America.
• John and Michael reflect on their shared experience at Hirata and the company's diverse market presence.
• John provides details about Hirata's involvement in various sectors, including automotive, electronics, semiconductors, and medical devices.

Hirata's Solutions and Automation Capabilities

• John explains Hirata's focus on automation and their ability to provide fully integrated solutions for manufacturing problems.
• Michael discusses Hirata's tray stocker solution, developed with their European division, and its application in the US market.
• John elaborates on Hirata's manufacturing of robots and their use in various markets, particularly in Asia.
• Michael emphasizes Hirata's expertise in integrating robots into automated assembly solutions and their diverse experience in different industries.

Challenges and Opportunities in Manufacturing

• John and Michael discuss the challenges of rising labor costs and the benefits of investing in automation.
• John highlights the importance of predictive maintenance and the role of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 in driving innovation.
• Michael explains Hirata's approach to supporting customers with self-sufficient solutions and their commitment to long-term customer relationships.
• John and Michael discuss the importance of continuous improvement and the evolving needs of the manufacturing industry.

Hirata's Customer Support and Future Plans

• John and Michael emphasize Hirata's commitment to customer support and their ability to provide comprehensive solutions.
• Michael provides contact information for Hirata and encourages potential customers to reach out for more information.
• John humorously considers his potential as a contestant on Jeopardy, highlighting his extensive knowledge.
• Scott thanks John and Michael for their participation and encourages listeners to attend MD&M West in 2027.

Conclusion and Call to Action

• Scott wraps up the episode, thanking John and Michael for their insights and contributions.
• Scott encourages listeners to reach out to Hirata for manufacturing solutions and to attend MD&M West in 2027.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of customer-centric conversations and the role of Industrial Talk in supporting industry professionals.
• The episode concludes with a reminder to be bold, brave, and innovative in solving manufacturing challenges.