

Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast
Jacob Edmond
Welcome to Verify In Field. Your host, Jacob Edmond, CEO of DuckWorks, will be interviewing experts in the architectural millwork industry to bring you insights and knowledge about updates, techniques, and challenges in millwork. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this podcast is for you. Tune in biweekly on Wednesday for a new episode, and visit duckworksmw.com to join our growing community of millwork professionals.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 17, 2024 • 40min
From Suits to Sawdust: Jillian Klinar's Career Pivot into the Trade
Text us your feedback on the podcast!In this episode, titled "From Suits to Sawdust: Jillian Klinar's Career Pivot into the Trade," our host Jacob Edmond engages in a profound conversation with Jillian Klinar. Together, they explore Jillian's significant transition from the realm of commercial real estate to her current role as a senior product specialist at Energi. Throughout their dialogue, Jillian delves into the complexities of being a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, the pivotal impact of diversity and inclusion, the evolving landscape of technology in the trade, and the invaluable role of mentorship and education. Join us for an insightful exploration of Jillian's remarkable career pivot and gain a deeper understanding of the millwork industry.00:00 Discovered passion in trades, found new purpose.06:30 Acknowledge lack of diversity in the industry.08:11 Positive and hardworking attitude defied gender stereotypes.12:33 Embrace diverse perspectives for organizational and personal growth.15:02 Real estate background enhances millwork industry skills.18:12 Perseverance, positivity, hope, gratitude, humility, determination.21:54 Product specialist tours industry, enhances operational efficiency.25:51 Real estate experience, thick skin, knowledge valuable.28:50 Diversity in talent brings valuable perspectives.35:06 Shift towards valuing physical labor over technology.37:41 Link in show notes for easy access.https://duckworksmw.com/podcast/from-suits-to-sawdust-jillian-klinars-career-pivot-into-the-tradeShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Apr 10, 2024 • 44min
Sketching Success: Kevin Fassnacht's Path from Design to Entrepreneurship
Text us your feedback on the podcast!We dive into the captivating journey of Kevin Fassnacht, owner of Fine Point Cabinetry. Host Jacob Edmond guides us through a thought-provoking conversation as Kevin discusses his unconventional path to cabinetry, the challenges of balancing craftsmanship with profitability, and the evolving landscape of the cabinetry industry. From his use of SketchUp in design and shop drawings to his insights on the future of the industry, Kevin shares valuable experiences and perspectives for all aspiring entrepreneurs in the millwork field. So, grab your favorite cup of coffee, sit back, and join us for an enriching discussion on creativity, entrepreneurship, and the intricate world of cabinetry.00:00 Introducing Kevin Fasnacht: A Unique Journey in Cabinetry01:25 Kevin's Path from Art Major to Cabinetry Entrepreneur03:51 The Shift from Craftsman to Business Owner04:28 Exploring New Avenues: Designing and Selling Cabinetry06:18 The Evolution of a Cabinetry Business Model10:57 Embracing Outsourcing and Expanding Creative Options20:03 The Value of Understanding Every Aspect of Your Business21:01 Finding Joy and Balance in Business21:32 The Art of Juggling Multiple Projects24:05 Embracing Entrepreneurial ADD26:53 Mastering SketchUp for Design Efficiency36:41 Predictions and Constants in the Industry41:38 Connecting and Sharing Expertisehttps://duckworksmw.com/podcast/sketching-success-kevin-fassnachts-path-from-design-to-entrepreneurshipShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Apr 3, 2024 • 40min
Navigating the Talent Market: Insights from Vicky Borkowski
Text us your feedback on the podcast!In today's episode, Vicky Borkowski, CEO of Millwork Recruiting Source, returns to share her insights on how technology is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry, the impact of remote work on talent acquisition and retention, and strategies for finding new job opportunities. Vicky and host Jacob Edmond discuss the evolving dynamics of knowledge distribution within organizations, the increasing demand for remote work, and the potential benefits and challenges it presents for both employees and employers. They also explore the changing landscape of talent acquisition and provide valuable advice for individuals seeking new career prospects. Join us as we delve into these engaging topics and gain valuable insights from Vicky's wealth of experience in the world of manufacturing and recruiting.0:00 Introduction00:59 Welcome Back with Vicki Borkowski: A Dive into the Talent Marketplace02:10 The Shift Towards Remote Work in Millwork03:43 Remote Work's Impact on Engineering and Other Roles05:22 The Challenges and Opportunities of Remote Work for Employers10:08 Navigating the Talent Market: Strategies and Insights15:39 The Ripple Effects of Millwork Shop Closures on the Talent Market19:47 Embracing Remote Work: A Strategy for Future Success21:13 Effective Remote Work Practices and the Importance of Communication26:52 Advice for Job Seekers in the Millwork Industry33:28 The Future of Talent Acquisition and Retention in Millwork38:50 Closing Thoughts and Contact Informationhttps://duckworksmw.com/podcast/navigating-the-talent-market-insights-from-vicky-borkowskiShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Mar 27, 2024 • 59min
From Childhood Curiosity to Industry Innovation: Christopher Wernimont's Millwork Mission
Text us your feedback on the podcast!In this enlightening episode, guest Christopher Wernimont shares his journey from Pittsburg State's renowned Wood Tech Program to becoming a grad assistant at the University of Arkansas. Christopher emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, having engaged in internships that allowed him to run production equipment and draft real jobs, shaping his belief in learning as the primary criterion for choosing internships. He talks about his early influences, his high school's emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE), and how it led him to pursue a career in architectural millwork. The discussion navigates through the changing landscape of internships and the critical nature of mentorship in attracting and retaining young talent in the millwork industry. Furthermore, Christopher delves into adult learning theories and the impact of positive feedback in training, underscoring the need for authentic practice in learning environments. He also shares insights on the future of the millwork industry, highlighting the shift of crucial knowledge due to automation and the enduring need for a passion for craftsmanship. Christopher advocates for the millwork industry to be more competitive in offering values beyond salary to appeal to the younger workforce.https://duckworksmw.com/podcast/from-childhood-curiosity-to-industry-innovation-christopher-wernimonts-millwork-missionShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Mar 20, 2024 • 45min
Engineering Success: Insights from Schlaegle Design Build's Justin Berken
Text us your feedback on the podcast!In this episode, our host Jacob Edmond sits down with Justin Berken, engineering manager at Schlaegle Design Build, to discuss valuable insights and experiences from his successful career in the millwork industry. Justin shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of confidence and persistence in pursuing opportunities. Together, they dive into the challenges and opportunities in the millwork industry, the evolving landscape of remote work, finding and nurturing young talent, and the exciting integration of AI tools. From his early interest in 3D design to his current role leading a diverse engineering team, Justin's career journey is a testament to the drive for continuous learning and growth. Join us as we explore Justin's experiences and wisdom in engineering success within the dynamic world of millwork.0:00 Engineering Success: Insights from Schlaegle Design Build's Justin Berken00:24 Welcome and Introduction to Today's Guest01:38 Journey into Millwork: From Field Trips to Engineering Manager03:31 First Steps in the Millwork Industry: Learning and Adapting09:39 The Importance of a 3D Mindset in Millwork Engineering11:00 Transitioning to USA Millwork: Learning and Leading17:01 Embracing Remote Work and Talent Development in Millwork24:49 The Future of Talent in the Millwork Industry30:33 Mastering Remote Work: Tips and Strategies32:55 The Importance of Visiting Work Sites34:08 Balancing Remote and On-Site Work Dynamics36:15 Innovative Approaches to Talent Development and Recruitment39:54 Future Trends in the Industry: Software and AI42:05 The Evergreen Skills of Engineering43:14 Closing Thoughts and Contact Informationhttps://duckworksmw.com/podcast/engineering-success-insights-from-schlaegle-design-builds-justin-berkenShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Mar 12, 2024 • 24min
Distant Skills, Close Quarters: Navigating the Remote Engineering Dilemma
Text us your feedback on the podcast!In this episode, Jacob Edmond, CEO of DuckWorks, shares his insights and observations on the current events and trends in the millwork industry. He discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by remote engineering and the evolving dynamics between skilled engineers and millwork companies. Jacob dives into the gap between remote engineering aspirations and the practical challenges faced by the industry, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the remote work dilemma. He encourages both engineers and millwork companies to adopt a more creative and collaborative mindset in navigating this new landscape. Join us as we explore this engaging discussion and gain valuable insights into the evolving world of millwork.00:00 Industry News & Events04:39 Self-guided training yields awesome results at DuckWorks.08:09 Industry lacks formal training, remote work challenge.09:39 Challenges in managing remote engineering talent.13:42 Perception and risk are key in employment.16:41 Using technology to close skill gap feasible.20:50 Engineer self-reflection: communication, solution-oriented mindset, relationships.23:40 Conclusionhttps://duckworksmw.com/podcast/distant-skills-close-quarters-navigating-the-remote-engineering-dilemmaShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Feb 28, 2024 • 59min
Empowering Teams, Cultivating Culture: Lessons from David Stasiukaitis in Millwork
Text us your feedback on the podcast!In this episode, we sit down with David Stasiukaitis, the CEO of Low Country Case and Millwork in North Charleston, South Carolina. As a second-generation leader in the family business, David shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities within the woodworking industry.From the company's gradual leadership transition to navigating the rapidly evolving market, David discusses the need for continuous personal and professional growth, including the hiring of individuals from different generations to drive the business forward. We also explore the significance of establishing strong company culture, personal and team development, and the role of core values in driving growth.Join us as we uncover the journey of Low Country Case and Millwork, from its market focus in Charleston to the strategies employed for team development and culture building. Discover how the company's commitment to community service and employee engagement has contributed to their significant growth and success. This episode offers invaluable insights into the woodworking industry's resilience, adaptability, and the vital role of people in driving its future.https://duckworksmw.com/podcast/empowering-teams-cultivating-culture-lessons-from-david-stasiukaitis-in-millworkShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Feb 21, 2024 • 58min
Crafting Success: Joinery Coach Bruce Poling's Path to Business Excellence
Text us your feedback on the podcast!Welcome to Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast! In today's episode, host Jacob Edmond sits down with special guest Bruce Poling, the director of the Joinery Business Podcast. Bruce shares his journey from running his own cabinetry business in Canada to becoming the founder of the Joinery Coach in Australia. He discusses the challenges he faced, the importance of maximizing machinery uptime in manufacturing, and the nine foundations that every business should focus on. The conversation delves into marketing strategies, the value of niching down, the future of joinery coaching, and much more. Join us as we gain valuable insights into the world of millwork and joinery from Bruce Poling’s wealth of experience and expertise.00:00 Understanding the Core of Marketing01:24 Introducing the Guest: Bruce Polling02:42 Bruce's Journey in the Joinery Business03:51 The Importance of Business Knowledge05:38 The Turning Point: From Cabinet Making to Business Coaching11:26 The Concept of GPS in Business17:53 The Nine Foundations of a Successful Business23:52 The Importance of Customer Experience27:34 The Role of Efficient Manufacturing in Business29:26 The Marketing Joint: A New Approach to Business Marketing30:32 The Importance of Conscious Marketing31:09 The Birth of the Marketing Joint31:33 Understanding the True Essence of Marketing32:37 The Difference Between Attracting and Hunting33:28 The Evolution of Marketing Strategies34:06 The Challenges of Implementing Marketing Strategies34:45 The Success of the Marketing Joint40:27 The Power of Niche Marketing47:48 The Future of the Joinery Coach and the Marketing Joint50:04 The Importance of Continuous Learning50:27 The Role of Technology in Business56:16 Conclusion: The Power of Community and Knowledge SharingShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

Feb 14, 2024 • 59min
Navigating Change in the Millwork Industry with Microvellum's David Fairbanks
Text us your feedback on the podcast!Welcome to Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast! In this episode, our host Jacob Edmond sits down with David Fairbanks, President of Microvellum and an industry expert with a passion for education and an eye for technological advancements in the millwork industry. They delve into the challenges faced by millwork businesses, the changing landscape of the industry, and the vital role of leadership in successful technological implementation. David shares his journey from environmental engineering to joining Microvellum during a tumultuous period, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving and the entrepreneurial nature of the millwork industry. Together, they explore the evolving demands of the industry and the misconceptions surrounding sales, providing valuable insights for both industry professionals and those aspiring to be part of the millwork world. Get ready for an engaging discussion that sheds light on the unique blend of craftsmanship and technology in the millwork industry.00:00 Introduction00:00 Entering the Millwork Industry01:23 The Journey to Microvellum02:32 The Challenges of a New Industry04:07 The Transition from Engineering to Business05:06 The Role of Software in Streamlining Business06:46 The Path to Microvellum07:39 The State of Microvellum Upon Arrival10:52 The Transformation of Microvellum14:08 The Role of Sales in Problem Solving23:11 Advice for Early Career Professionals29:25 The Importance of Embracing Change29:49 Insights from the Millwork Industry30:37 The Intersection of Craft and Technology31:50 Challenges in the Millwork Industry33:00 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in the Millwork Industry34:56 The Struggle with Change and Innovation35:48 The Role of Talent in Business Growth40:10 The Importance of Leadership in Change Management51:56 The Future of the Millwork Industry56:52 Closing Thoughtshttps://duckworksmw.com/podcast/navigating-change-in-the-millwork-industry-with-microvellums-david-fairbanksShare The Love:If you like Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast …Never miss an episode by subscribing via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or by RSS!

5 snips
Feb 7, 2024 • 44min
Revolutionizing Millwork through Cloud-based Software with Garen Ceva
Garen Ceva, founder of Vesta 360 and a former production manager at Microvellum, dives into how his cloud-based software is disrupting the millwork industry. He discusses its user-friendly design and seamless integration with existing platforms, enhancing efficiency from design to purchasing. Garen shares insights on the challenges he faced during development, the importance of customer feedback, and the future of Vesta 360, including innovations like augmented reality, working towards a more dynamic and responsive millwork sector.


