Best Mechatronics Podcasts (2025)

1
How to Build & Grow an Industry-Aligned CTE Program - Maroun Nehme, Director of Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics at BPHS 45:54

8d ago45:54

45:54

Host Matt Kirchner sits down with Maroun Nehme, Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics teacher at Buena Park High School in California. Maroun has built one of the most impressive high school mechatronics & robotics programs in the country—complete with a structured 3-year pathway, hands-on labs, and SACA and FANUC certifications that prepare students …

1
Rebuilding Higher Education Around Solving Real-World Problems - Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning at Worcester Polytechnic Institute 40:02

1d ago40:02

40:02

What happens when a university rethinks the whole higher ed model rebuilds it around hands-on, project-based learning? Matt Kirchner dives into the bold model pioneered by Worcester Polytechnic Institute with Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning. A biochemist turned curriculum innovator, Kris has spent nearly two dec…

1
Inside the Bipartisan Push for America’s Skilled Workforce - U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin 24:36

15d ago24:36

24:36

How do we build bipartisan momentum to support the future of CTE? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a national leader and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus. Drawing from her personal upbringing in a STEM-focused household and her decades …

1
From the Shop Floor to the Fast Lane: How Racing, Technical Skills and Workforce Strategy Collide - Justin Mondeik, Owner & Driver at Mondeik Racing 36:45

22d ago36:45

36:45

By day, Justin Mondeik applies his technical skills in engineering; by night and weekend, he races Super Late Model cars. From racing snowmobiles at age four to competing just one level below NASCAR, Justin has built a career on technical skill, hands-on passion, and relentless drive. In this episode, he shares how a technical education prepared hi…

1
Changing Tariffs Will Impact Technical Education—Here’s What to Do About It 38:21

29d ago38:21

38:21

What do tariffs have to do with technical education? A lot more than you might think. As U.S. trade policy shifts, it’s not just manufacturers who will feel the effects—STEM and technical education programs will too. From rising equipment costs to a surge in demand for skilled talent, today’s tariff decisions could reshape how we train tomorrow’s w…

1
AI Regulation Can Wait—But Education Reform Can’t - State Senator Julian Bradley 52:50

1M ago52:50

52:50

State Senator Julian Bradley joins Matt Kirchner for a wide-ranging conversation on how policymakers should be thinking about AI, energy, and education. Bradley explains why his committee chose not to recommend regulation of AI, how this move differs from other states, and how artificial intelligence could help solve workforce shortages in critical…

1
The 50/50 University Model that Leaves Grads with 2.5 Years of Work Experience and $75k - Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University 41:53

1M ago41:53

41:53

Is the traditional university model failing today’s students—and the industries that depend on them? Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University, shares a bold, workforce-driven vision for higher education. From co-op rotations that give students 2.5 years of paid, professional experience before graduation, to integrating trends like arti…

1
Microsoft, the Packers, and the Venture Firm Betting on Midwest Innovation - Jill Enos, Managing Partner of TitletownTech 48:59

2M ago48:59

48:59

What happens when a legendary NFL team partners with a tech giant to fuel regional innovation? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Jill Enos, Managing Partner at TitletownTech — the one-of-a-kind venture firm backed by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft. Jill unpacks how TitletownTech is redefining early-stage …

1
The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship for STEM Students - Joe Tanner and Curtis Althaus, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation 35:29

2M ago35:29

35:29

The right mentor can totally change the college and career trajectory of a student. Today, we're exploring the power of mentorships through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Join former NASA astronaut Joe Tanner and current Astronaut Scholar Curtis Althaus as they dive into the powerful, and often overlooked, role mentorship plays in building t…

1
What Rising Tariffs Mean for Companies, Workers, and the Future of Trade - John Murphy, SVP & Head of International at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 43:28

2M ago43:28

43:28

With tariffs back in the spotlight, what’s their real impact on trade, business, and jobs? Are they a necessary tool for protecting American industry, or do they do more harm than good? This week, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Murphy, Senior Vice President, Head of International for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, to break down the complex w…

1
The Athlete’s Mindset in the Classroom: The Power of Confidence, Goal-Setting and Positivity in STEM - Kathy Meyers, Teacher at Corner Canyon High School 41:50

2M ago41:50

41:50

Why do so many students (and adults) believe they “just aren’t good at math”? How can educators shift that mindset and build confidence in STEM learning? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Kathy Meyers, a veteran high school teacher who blends sports psychology with math instruction to help students overcome se…

1
Baseball’s Infamous Scandal Inspired Its Biggest Tech Breakthrough...And Changed the Game Forever - John Hankins, Co-Inventor & Owner of PitchCom 44:53

3M ago44:53

44:53

With sign-stealing scandals shaking Major League Baseball, the game needed a solution. Enter PitchCom, the cutting-edge communication technology that’s changing the way baseball is played. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Hankins, co-inventor and owner of PitchCom, to unpack the surprising origins of the…

1
The Right Idea, The Right Founder: How Undercapitalized Entrepreneurs are Getting Their Shot - Jennifer Abele & Raquel Filmanowicz, Managing Partners at VC 414 44:34

3M ago44:34

44:34

Venture capital is the engine behind many of the world’s most innovative startups—but only 2% of VC funding goes to women-led businesses. Why does this gap exist, and how do we fix it? This week Matt sits down with Jennifer Abele and Raquel Filmanowicz, Founders and Managing Partners of VC 414, a firm dedicated to funding women, minority, veteran, …

1
Can U.S. Manufacturing Keep Its Edge? What it Will Take to Compete Globally in 2025 - Congresswoman Haley Stevens 38:20

3M ago38:20

38:20

How does the U.S. stay competitive in manufacturing, EVs, and AI while protecting innovation and growing the workforce? Manufacturing has always been the backbone of Michigan’s economy, and few people understand this better than Congresswoman Haley Stevens. Representing Michigan’s 11th District, she has spent her career championing industrial polic…

1
The AI Degree Built to Solve Real-World Problems - Dr. John Walz, President of MSOE 45:22

3M ago45:22

45:22

What does it take to be a true pioneer in artificial intelligence education? The Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) didn’t just see AI coming—they got out in front of it. Dr. John Walz, President of MSOE, joins The TechEd Podcast to discuss how his institution became one of the first in the nation to offer a baccalaureate degree in AI and how i…

1
How Your Morning Coffee Could Kickstart a Student’s Career - Mike Franz, Co-Founder & Chief Innovation Officer at ShopFloor Coffee 45:22

4M ago45:22

45:22

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 ca…

1
Resilience, Revolution, and Reflection 1:18:55

4M ago1:18:55

1:18:55

Talk to us! 🎙️ We're Back! The first episode of our new season is finally here, and it's packed with heartfelt conversations and powerful reflections! We kicked things off by addressing our struggle with consistency (yes, we admit it!) and shared our exciting new plan to keep The Castronics Podcast alive and thriving. Then, we dived into a deeply m…

1
Robots, Leadership, and the Next Generation of Automation Talent - Mike Cicco, President & CEO of FANUC America 28:20

4M ago28:20

28:20

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 manuf…

1
The AI Cure for Healthcare’s Cost Crisis - Rick Anderson, Chairman and CEO of The Hive Health 50:29

4M ago50:29

50:29

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 hel…

1
Demystifying Nuclear Power: Recommissioning, SMRs, and a Clean Energy Future - Patrick O'Brien, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at Holtec International 43:40

4M ago43:40

43:40

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,…

1
Forget “That’s How We’ve Always Made It” and Teach the Design Freedom of 3D Printing - Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations 46:27

4M ago46:27

46:27

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 edu…

1
13 Predictions for Technical Education in 2025 49:05

5M ago49:05

49:05

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time for our annual predictions episode! What trends will shape technical education, industry, and workforce development in the year to come? This week, Matt dives into the most pressing topics for 2025: from AI in education, to economic and workforce trends, to new technologies to keep an eye on. With 13 predictions …

1
'Twas the Night Before TechEd Christmas 5:09

5M ago5:09

5:09

'Twas the night before Christmas, And STEM and TechEd Had closed up their classrooms, a long break ahead. The students all home not shedding a tear That school was on hold till the start of next year. Quiet the trainers pneumatics, hydraulics No action on systems to learn mechatronics. The robots all homed, depowered and sleeping Routers and mills …

1
When Science Fiction Becomes Reality: AI, XR and the Path to the Singularity - Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at Institute for the Future 43:14

5M ago43:14

43:14

Are we ready for a world where AI and technology shape every corner of our lives? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at the Institute for the Future, to explore how technology is transforming the way we communicate, collaborate, and connect. From the breakthroughs o…

1
Advanced Manufacturing Breakthroughs to "Solve the Big Problems" - Bill Peter, Director for Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory 50:58

5M ago50:58

50:58

Ready to hear some of the most cutting-edge advancements in 3D printing, bio-materials and smart systems? Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Bill Peter, Director of Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). From large-scale 3D printing to the use of bio-based materials, Dr. Peter is leading initiatives that are redefining the po…

1
Made in America: The Economic and Workforce Benefits of Reshoring Manufacturing - Harry Moser, Founder of the Reshoring Initiative 46:56

6M ago46:56

46:56

With U.S. manufacturing facing a potential shortfall of 7.5 million skilled workers, how can we bring jobs back and build the workforce to sustain them? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative, to explore the critical intersection of reshoring manufactur…

1
Time, Tea, or Temper Control? 53:52

6M ago53:52

53:52

Talk to us! In this special bonus episode marking the end of the season, we sat down to discuss a mix of relatable and thought-provoking topics! From navigating mental health challenges to the importance of organizing your time and planning ahead, we covered it all. We debated the pros and cons of cooking at home versus eating out, talked about the…

1
Where Art Meets Engineering: How Creativity Fuels Precision in Swiss Machining - George Media, VP of Operations at Tsugami America 34:35

6M ago34:35

34:35

Is creativity the most underrated skill in machining? This week, Matt dives deep into the world of Swiss machining with George Media, Vice President of Operations for Tsugami America. They explore how this innovative machining method, originally designed for crafting intricate watch parts, has evolved into a versatile tool for manufacturing precisi…

1
Beyond the Buzz: The Real State of Artificial Intelligence, and 9 Insights To Move Us Forward 44:41

6M ago44:41

44:41

From boardrooms to classrooms, AI is making waves—but what do organizational leaders really think of artificial intelligence? In this episode, host Matt Kirchner goes beyond the buzzwords to share real data and insights from a groundbreaking research report on artificial intelligence. From industry leaders to educators, discover what people at the …

1
How to Attract and Support Diverse Talent in Manufacturing - Mariana Cogan, Chief Marketing Officer of Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence 38:32

6M ago38:32

38:32

With 600,000 job openings in manufacturing, could women be the solution to closing the talent gap? Host Matt Kirchner dives into this question with Mariana Cogan, Chief Marketing Officer at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. Mariana brings a unique global perspective to workforce development and shares her strategies for making manufacturing a mor…

1
The State of Additive Manufacturing: Trends, Markets and Tech - Dayton Horvath, Director of Emerging Technology at AMT 37:02

7M ago37:02

37:02

Additive manufacturing (AM) is reshaping industries from aerospace to consumer goods with unprecedented speed. Dayton Horvath, Director of Emerging Technology at AMT, joins us to break down the key trends, market shifts, and cutting-edge technologies that are defining AM today. What’s fueling the industry’s rapid evolution, and where are the bigges…

1
Human Skills Amplified by Automation and AI - J. Craig McAtee, CEO & Executive Director of NCATC 34:51

7M ago34:51

34:51

What if the future of work isn’t about replacing people, but amplifying their potential? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Matt Kirchner sits down with J. Craig McAtee, CEO and Executive Director of the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC). Craig, a national thought leader in technical education, discusses why amplifying h…

1
AI in Action: Use Cases, Data and Workforce Trends - Featuring a Live Panel Discussion with AI Leaders 44:52

7M ago44:52

44:52

What’s driving AI transformation in industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing? In this live panel, top AI leaders reveal the use cases that are making the biggest impact, the data challenges they’re overcoming, and the workforce shifts we can’t ignore. Recorded live at an AI and the Workforce event, this panel discussion brings together AI…

1
AI, 'Glocal' Manufacturing, and the Infinite Industrial Revolution - Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA 50:48

7M ago50:48

50:48

What does the future of manufacturing look like? Just ask the U.S. CEO of the #1 automation provider in the world. In this high-profile episode, Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA, joins us to discuss the latest innovations shaping global manufacturing. Siemens, a leader in automation and digital technologies, is driving advancements through digit…

1
Your Playbook for Engaging Manufacturing’s Next Generation of Creators - Drew "The MFG" Crowe 46:23

8M ago46:23

46:23

In this episode, we're talking to you—educators and employers—about how to engage and inspire the next generation of manufacturing talent. Manufacturing doesn’t just need workers; it needs what Drew Crowe calls “blue collar ballers”—young people who see the industry as more than a job, but a mission worth pursuing. Drew "The MFG" Crowe is making wa…

1
Why Not Me? Elevating Every Woman in Manufacturing - Allison Roberts Grealis, Founder and President of WiM 44:38

8M ago44:38

44:38

"Why not me?" is a question every woman in manufacturing should be asking—and this episode gives them the answer. Join Matt Kirchner as he sits down with Allison Roberts Grealis, Founder and President of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), for a conversation about breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women at every stage of their manufacturin…

1
From the Moon to Mars: NASA's Artemis Program and the Future of Space Exploration - Dr. Sharon Cobb, NASA Space Launch System 39:50

8M ago39:50

39:50

Get an inside look at NASA’s plans to return to the Moon, build a sustainable presence, and prepare for the first human mission to Mars—powered by the most advanced rocket technology ever created. This week we sat down with Dr. Sharon Cobb, Associate Program Manager for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), to discover NASA's next endeavors in space ex…

1
AI for Every Manufacturer: Predict Failures & Boost Productivity with the Data You Already Have - Nitin Ranjan, Founder & CEO of Golgix 44:51

8M ago44:51

44:51

Unlock the power of AI in manufacturing with practical insights that could save your plant thousands—without the need for a data science team. This week, we sat down with Nitin Ranjan, Founder and CEO of Golgix, to explore the game-changing role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Nitin reveals how Golgix is breaking down the barriers to A…

1
Powering Today's High-Tech Welding Workforce - Dave Lambert, Group President of Miller Electric 57:57

8M ago57:57

57:57

Get ready for a deep dive into the world of welding with the leader of an iconic brand in welding...Miller Electric! Dave Lambert, Group President of Miller Electric gives us an update on the state of the welding industry, the future of manufacturing, and the evolving workforce needs. With nearly a century of innovation under its belt, Miller Elect…

1
Inside Narcos, Painkiller and the Rise of Streaming - Eric Newman, Executive Producer 44:27

9M ago44:27

44:27

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about the opioid crisis, drug addiction, and related legal issues, which may be sensitive for some listeners. From producing hit series like Narcos and Painkiller to working with Hollywood legends, Eric Newman gives us the inside scoop on the evolving world of entertainment and the technology that …

1
How Wisconsin Became a Tech Magnet - Dale Kooyenga, President of MMAC 44:42

9M ago44:42

44:42

This week Matt sits down with Dale Kooyenga, President of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC). We discuss the transformative investments happening in Southeast Wisconsin, particularly Microsoft's $3.3 billion project, and the critical role technology plays in today's economy. Dale also shares insights into the importance of ed…

1
How Microsoft’s $3.3 Billion Data Center is Driving AI Innovation - Mary Snapp, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Microsoft 1:03:18

9M ago1:03:18

1:03:18

Microsoft is making waves in the Midwest with a game-changing $3.3 billion investment in a state-of-the-art data center in Wisconsin. This initiative is not just about expanding infrastructure; it's about positioning the region as a leader in artificial intelligence and data innovation. In this episode, we sit down with Mary Snapp, Microsoft's Vice…

1
The Future of Healthcare: New Technologies and Big Data are Saving More Lives - Dr. Ajay Sahajpal, Advocate Aurora Health 46:06

9M ago46:06

46:06

This episode dives into the world of healthcare, where cutting-edge technology and human compassion intersect in profound ways. We sat down with Dr. Ajay Sahajpal, the Medical Director of Abdominal Transplant and Hepatobiliary Program at Advocate Aurora Health. Dr. Sahajpal shares his remarkable journey from Prince Edward Island to leading life-sav…

1
The Data Science Institute that's Researching Real-World Applications for an AI-Fueled Future - Dr. Purush Papatla, Co-Director of NMDSI 49:32

10M ago49:32

49:32

In this episode, Dr. Purush Papatla, Co-Director of the Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute (NMDSI), explores the cutting-edge world of data science and artificial intelligence. NMDSI, a collaboration between Northwestern Mutual, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University, is pushing the boundaries of AI applications to s…

1
Books & Bioscience: The PhD Experience 58:29

10M ago58:29

58:29

Talk to us! Welcome back to The Castronics! It's been a while since we've connected with you. In this episode, join us as we sit down with Oumaima, a dedicated PHD student in bioscience. Together, we explore the intricate world of higher education, from the unique dynamics of PHD studies to Oumaima's journey in selecting a supervisor and her curren…

1
The Power of Community to Drive Innovation in Small-Town America - Greg Tehven, Co-Founder of Emerging Prairie 53:20

10M ago53:20

53:20

When communities come together in a spirit of mutual support, entrepreneurship can thrive. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Matt Kirchner sits down with Greg Tehven, co-founder of Emerging Prairie, to explore the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and tech startups. Greg shares his journey from a college graduate with a vision to becoming a pi…

1
Leo Reddy: The Diplomat Who Architected the Helsinki Accords and Helped End the Cold War 55:55

10M ago55:55

55:55

Hear the story of a true legend in career and technical education and a U.S. diplomat with an extraordinary career. From serving as a gunnery officer in the Navy to playing a pivotal role in the Cold War, Leo Reddy’s journey is nothing short of fascinating. Leo’s stories offer historical insight and practical wisdom, making this episode a must-list…

1
How Science, Tech & Human Touch Shape the Digital Customer Experience - George Hanson, Chief Digital Officer at Mattress Firm 54:18

10M ago54:18

54:18

Retail - and the whole customer journey - is evolving in this digital age. How has technology impacted our ability to anticipate and meet the needs of consumers, and how important is that face-to-face interaction in a store today? George Hanson has led retail strategy for some of the most well-known consumer brands including Under Armour, Lands' En…

1
How John Deere is Building Talent Pipelines, Right in its Local Communities - David Ottavianelli, Director of Workforce & Community Outreach 38:38

11M ago38:38

38:38

John Deere is on a mission to develop the next generation of STEM and manufacturing talent - not just for themselves, but to support businesses and entire communities surrounding their plants across the United States. Recently, John Deere conducted a study to understand the major gaps in their workforce pipeline and what they must do to ensure they…

1
The American Dream: The Remarkable Story of Allen-Bradley and Its Legacy Today - Rick Graber, President and CEO of The Bradley Foundation 38:26

11M ago38:26

38:26

Join us on a journey through history, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream! The Allen-Bradley brand is a household name in manufacturing, but the origin story of the brand, along with its lasting legacy, is a true story of the American Dream. From humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in automation, this episode dives i…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Mechatronics Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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