The TechEd Podcast

• How Your Morning Coffee Could Kickstart a Student’s Career - Mike Franz, Co-Founder & Chief Innovation Officer at ShopFloor Coffee

  With coffee fueling the shop floor, can it also fuel the future of manufacturing?This week, Matt Kirchner is joined by ShopFloor Coffee Co-Founder Mike Franz as they explore the intersection of coffee, manufacturing, and workforce development. What started as a side project quickly became a nationwide movement to support technical education and career awareness in manufacturing—all through a product that shop workers already know and love.From the early morning rituals of manufacturing professionals to the power of branding that truly speaks to the industry, Mike shares how ShopFloor Coffee is brewing up more than just bold blends. With 20% of proceeds going directly to workforce initiatives, this isn’t just about coffee—it’s about investing in the next generation of makers and doers.Listen to learn:Why coffee is more than just a drink—it’s part of manufacturing cultureHow ShopFloor Coffee’s fundraising model outperforms traditional school fundraisers by putting more money back into technical education programsThe branding strategy behind blends like “Red Shop Towel” and “First Shift” that instantly resonate with manufacturersWhy Metallica is making a surprising impact on the future of technical education and workforce development (hint: it’s not just about the music)The surprising number of robotics teams in one U.S. state (hint: it beats high school hockey!)3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:1. Coffee culture runs deep in manufacturing.Early mornings, long shifts, and breakroom conversations—coffee has always fueled the shop floor. That’s why ShopFloor Coffee uses it as a bridge to workforce development, helping manufacturers invest in the next generation while enjoying a better cup of coffee.2. Workforce development has an awareness problem.Despite countless initiatives, many students and employers don’t know about the programs designed to connect them. ShopFloor Coffee is directing funding to organizations like FIRST Robotics, FAME, and Metallica's All Within My Hands foundation to help close this gap—giving educators new opportunities to introduce students to careers in manufacturing.3. Branding matters—speak the language of your audience.When manufacturers hear Red Shop Towel or First Shift, they immediately recognize something familiar. ShopFloor Coffee’s approach proves that technical education programs can better engage students by framing opportunities in ways that resonate—whether that’s through pop culture, industry traditions, or hands-on experiences.Resources in this Episode:To learn more about ShopFloor Coffee, visit: shopfloorcoffee.comRemember, 20% of all proceeds go toward workforce development!Connect with ShopFloor Coffee Online:LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  YouTube  |  InstagramWe want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

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• Robots, Leadership, and the Next Generation of Automation Talent - Mike Cicco, President & CEO of FANUC America

  What does it take to lead the world’s largest robotics and CNC company? Mike Cicco, President and CEO of FANUC America, pulls back the curtain on his journey from programming robots to driving global innovation. Recorded live at IMTS 2024, this episode is packed with insights on mentorship, leadership, and how FANUC is reshaping the future of manufacturing. Mike shares the bold moves behind FANUC’s massive growth, the game-changing scholarships empowering the next generation of talent, and how robotics education is creating endless career possibilities. If you’re ready for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes look at leadership and the future of automation, this is an episode you can’t miss!We want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

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• The AI Cure for Healthcare’s Cost Crisis - Rick Anderson, Chairman and CEO of The Hive Health

  This marks a milestone 200th episode of The TechEd Podcast! Matt Kirchner is joined by Rick Anderson, CEO of The Hive Health, to explore how transparency and technology are reshaping healthcare. Rick shares how The Hive Health uses AI and data-driven insights to negotiate fair pricing for medical devices, save providers millions of dollars, and help health systems remain viable—even in underserved communities. It’s a game-changing model that’s keeping hospitals open, providers supported, and patients cared for.This conversation highlights lessons from healthcare innovation that educators and employers can apply across industries. Learn how emerging technologies like AI and data transparency are driving cost savings and reshaping supply chains. For technical educators, the episode underscores the importance of preparing students for a future where technology and strategic decision-making are key to sustaining systems and communities.Inside this episode:Why 50% of U.S. health systems operate in the redHow The Hive Health uses AI to analyze 40M+ lines of purchasing data and uncover massive pricing gapsHow a physician-led model builds trust between administrators and providers to improve careWhat educators and employers can leverage these AI-driven approaches in their own industries3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:AI is transforming healthcare cost management: By analyzing over 40 million lines of purchasing data, The Hive Health identifies massive pricing gaps, saving health systems an average of 22% on costs. Transparent pricing is essential for sustainability: The Hive Health reveals shocking price disparities for identical medical devices, ensuring fair deals without sacrificing quality. This model of data-driven transparency has lessons for other industries like manufacturing and education, where cost efficiency and resource allocation are equally critical.Cost savings directly impact patient access: By reducing device costs and operating more efficiently, health systems can avoid closures, reinvest in innovation, and expand access to care. The result is a more resilient healthcare system that better serves patients and communities.Resources in this Episode:To learn more about The Hive Health visit: thehivehealth.comConnect with The Hive Health Online:LinkedInWe want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

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• Demystifying Nuclear Power: Recommissioning, SMRs, and a Clean Energy Future - Patrick O'Brien, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at Holtec International

  With energy consumption skyrocketing and sustainability challenges becoming more pressing, nuclear energy is once again in the spotlight.But while its potential is undeniable, there's still a lot of public misperception of nuclear. For many, the words "nuclear energy" conjure outdated fears that overlook decades of innovation, safety advancements, and the vast opportunities in nuclear power today. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Patrick O’Brien, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at Holtec International, to demystify nuclear energy and explore its transformative potential as a cornerstone of clean, sustainable power.Patrick shares insights into the nuclear "renaissance" and its critical role in balancing growing energy demands with environmental responsibility. From the recommissioning of Michigan’s Palisades Nuclear Plant to the groundbreaking possibilities of small modular reactors (SMRs), Patrick provides an insider’s perspective on cutting-edge technology, workforce opportunities, and nuclear’s future in the United States.Inside this episode:Breaking down nuclear vs. wind and solar: land usage, energy density, and why nuclear leads in efficiencyHow Holtec is rewriting history with the unprecedented recommissioning of Palisades Nuclear PlantSmall modular reactors (SMRs): the future of nuclear energy and their game-changing scalabilityHow public perception of nuclear energy is evolvingInside the nuclear workforce: training, skills, and career paths shaping the industry's future3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:Nuclear energy offers unmatched efficiency and reliability.A single nuclear plant can produce 1,000 megawatts of consistent power on a fraction of the land required by solar or wind, which would need 3,000 megawatts of capacity to achieve the same output. Nuclear’s 24/7 reliability makes it indispensable for meeting growing energy demands sustainably.Holtec International is rewriting nuclear history by recommissioning a decommissioned power plant.The Palisades Nuclear Plant in Michigan is the first facility in history to reverse a permanent shutdown order, requiring unprecedented collaboration with the NRC and innovative regulatory actions. This groundbreaking project could set a precedent for extending the lifecycle of nuclear facilities worldwide.The nuclear industry offers diverse career opportunities for every education level.From operators with high school diplomas to engineers with advanced degrees, the field provides clear pathways for growth, as seen in one worker’s rise from janitor to control room supervisor. Nuclear also sets itself apart with rigorous training programs, where operators must retrain and pass exams every six weeks to stay certified.Resources in this Episode:To learn more about Holtec International visit: holtecinternational.comLearn more about the recommissioning of Holtec Palisades in MichiganOther resources mentioned:Access the Department of EnergWe want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

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• Forget “That’s How We’ve Always Made It” and Teach the Design Freedom of 3D Printing - Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations

  When used to its full potential, additive manufacturing can revolutionize the way we design and make things. But too often, educators and manufacturers are stuck in old ways of thinking.In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner welcomes Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations, to discuss how 3D printing is advancing both industry and education. From manufacturing precise components for medical devices and aerospace to equipping students with in-demand skills, Shon explains how reliable 3D printing technology can transform outcomes in any setting.Together, Matt and Shon explore the real challenges manufacturers and educators face, including material limitations, workforce gaps, and the pitfalls of outdated thinking. They discuss how educators can move beyond cheap, unreliable 3D printers and teach students the skills needed to thrive in a world where design freedom and innovation are key. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to bring 3D printing into classrooms or manufacturing facilities the right way.What You’ll Learn:The 3 biggest challenges manufacturers face when implementing additive—and how to overcome them.The surprising ways 3D printing can reduce lead times, cut costs, and enable design flexibility.How to ensure your additive projects are successful, even if you don't have a technical expert on staff.The role of education in preparing students for careers in additive, including the essential design and software skills they’ll need.What is the make-or-break factor for 3D printing implementation?3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:Additive manufacturing thrives on design freedom but requires a shift in thinking.Many engineers approach 3D printing with traditional manufacturing mindsets (we've always made it this way). That limits the immense creative freedom additive allows. By leveraging additive’s ability to produce complex geometries and customized solutions, individuals can solve challenges that are impossible with conventional methods.Education must prioritize design skills when teaching additive manufacturing.It's time for education to move beyond tasking students with downloading a file and running a print. Employers want to know that students understand the fundamentals of design for additive, material properties, and cost analysis.Organizational culture is the key to successful adoption of 3D printing technology.Companies that embrace change, communicate across departments, and align goals with additive capabilities see greater success. Without this, even the best technology can fail to deliver value due to resistance or lack of integration.Resources in this Episode:To learn more about B9Creations technology, visit: www.b9c.comConnect with B9Creations Online:LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Connect with Shon Anderson on LinkedInWe want to hear from you! Send us a text message.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

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