In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer welcomes Jared Reining, a skilled machinist and entrepreneur, who shares his journey into the world of manufacturing. Jared discusses his early experiences in the trade, starting from a casual job in his uncle's machine shop to becoming a proficient machinist at PharmaMed Automation. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and the value of networking within the industry, highlighting how his career path has been shaped by various roles and responsibilities over the years. Jared also reflects on the pride that comes from creating tangible products and the therapeutic aspects of machining, which he finds deeply fulfilling.

The conversation delves into the culture of manufacturing, the significance of mentorship, and the need for skilled tradespeople to embrace their roles in a rapidly evolving industry. Jared shares insights on the future of manufacturing, advocating for smaller, high-performance shops that can maintain quality while keeping costs low. He also touches on the mental health challenges faced by tradespeople and expresses a desire to support his peers through potential future endeavors in therapy. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the machinist's life, the pride in craftsmanship, and the importance of community in the manufacturing sector.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jared Reining
06:40 Defining Manufacturing Culture
08:02 Jared's Journey into Machining
14:45 Working at PharmaMed Automation
17:56 The Difference Between Job Shop and PharmaMed Work
19:28 Mistakes Young Machinists Make
23:40 Networking and Building Connections
26:59 The Pride of Craftsmanship
30:51 Exploring Mental Health in Manufacturing
35:05 The Future of Skilled Trades

Jared Reining | Be Weird, Go First