In this episode of Ed Talks, host Ed Youdell talks with Troy F. Berg, president and CEO of Dane Manufacturing, about what it really means to put employees first.

Troy shares how Dane’s “employees come first” philosophy drives retention, performance, and culture—through competitive wages, great benefits, and continuous opportunities for growth. He discusses the company’s on-site Dane Academy, where employees receive hands-on technical and professional training designed to help them advance throughout their careers.

The conversation also touches on community engagement, including how Dane supports local charities and encourages employees to give back through volunteering.

Troy closes with insights on the critical role of manufacturing and metal fabrication in the U.S. economy—and why he’s more excited than ever about the industry’s future.

Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

John Paul Surdo, President of Americas for Bystronic, joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast.

They chat about the strides that the metal fabrication industry has made is recent years by implementing advanced technologies like automation, robotics, and AI, and how that raised the bar on the sector's skilled workforce.

They also talk about what it means to be a leader in the metal fabrication industry, how FABTECH reflects the advancements the sector has made, navigating changes in current supply chain landscape, and the importance of attracting younger generations into the workforce through facility tours and hands-on learning in manufacturing camps like SparkForce.

Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

Nora Harding, Executive VP at Special Products and Manufacturing (SPM), joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast.

SPM is a 62-year-old manufacturing company with three facilities in Texas. They were named The Fabricator's 2025 Industry Award winner and appear on the FAB 40 list.

Harding talks about SPM's strong company culture centered around their "BUILT" principles (Best people, Urgency, Integrity, Learning, Teamwork), which have helped foster an engaged and empowered workforce.

She also talks about how the company places a strong emphasis on community involvement through programs like "Built to Serve" and "Special Wish", which provide support and resources to their employees and local community. SPM also actively engages with local schools and technical centers to promote manufacturing careers and provide educational opportunities.

Haring discusses the company's use of lean practices, automation, and commitment to continuous improvement have helped them attract and retain top talent while improving productivity and efficiency.

This episode was sponsored by AMADA America.

Email us at podcast@fmamfg.org with any comments, questions, or suggestions.