Where Art Meets Engineering: How Creativity Fuels Precision in Swiss Machining
George Media, VP of Operations at Tsugami America
Love the episode? Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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 precision components in medical, aerospace, and beyond. George shares insights on the role of creativity, the growing demand for Swiss machining expertise, and how technical education programs can adapt to meet industry needs.
Listen to learn:
- The surprising role of creativity in this highly-technical, precise, logical industry
- The mission behind the machine: why knowing a part's purpose can incentivize higher-quality workmanship
- The skills no machinist can ever life without - even in a high-tech, AI-driven world
- Where CNC education is falling short - and how to bring programs into 2025 and beyond
Quotable Moments:
"If you get into medical or aerospace, it's kind of interesting that you're making a part for the fuel systems, or you're making a part that's going to be in the human body somewhere, and I think that helps add a little bit more pride into your workmanship. If you understand what the part is used for, you can make better decisions on how to machine it.
"I think every good machinist is very creative person. They think differently. They think outside the box. On a Swiss machine, you can take that creativity and really flourish with it."
3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:
1. Creativity is a Crucial Competency in Modern Machining
The misconception that machining is purely technical is outdated; creativity is at the heart of solving manufacturing challenges. George Media highlights how machinists can program Swiss machines in multiple ways, tailoring tool paths and processes to optimize outcomes. This creative mindset not only improves efficiency but also makes machining a fulfilling and dynamic career for problem-solvers.
2. Swiss Machining Opens Doors to High-Demand, High-Earning Careers
Swiss machining is a specialized skill with increasing demand across industries like aerospace, medical, and automotive manufacturing. George notes that skilled professionals in this field can earn between $75,000 and $125,000 annually, with even greater potential in leadership roles. Despite the high-tech nature of the work, mastering the basics, like longhand programming, is key to advancing in this lucrative trade.
3. Technical Education Must Adapt to Industry’s Growing Needs
Technical education programs are moving beyond basic machining to include advanced methods like Swiss machining, which offers students a competitive edge. George emphasizes the importance of teaching not just the mechanics but also the why behind manufacturing processes, helping students connect their work to real-world applications. With transferable skills and growing opportunities, these programs prepare learners for lifelong success in manufacturing.
Resources in this Episode:
To learn more about Tsugami America, visit: tsugamiamerica.com
Connect with The TechEd Podcast Online:
LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
You might also like...
What our listeners are saying
The #1 podcast in TechEd
This podcast is a great resource to keep up with all the exciting changes in the world of manufacturing and technology. Get key insight from industry leaders from the Midwest and around the globe that you won’t find anywhere else. A must listen for anyone interested in how technology is changing the way businesses operate.
The pulse of Industry 4.0
This podcast has its fingers on the pulse of Industry 4.0, and Matt K. is a phenomenal guide, traversing the complexities of manufacturing and education in one forum. A+ work all around!
Compelling
I find Matt's approach to be very compelling. He brings both perspectives, industry AND education. He doesn't hold back on what he thinks is important...
New and Exciting Content With Every Episode
I really enjoy listening to this podcast when I'm driving or have a free moment. Each episode brings a new guest with a fresh and exciting perspective of both education and the workforce!
I needed this podcast back when I was in High School!
Such great content that deserves more attention at all level of education. I wish I heard some of these episodes when I was navigating my own career path. Incredible guests, with incredible messages to share. Keep up the great work!
Inspiring topics featuring inspiring leaders
I’ve listened to most of your weekly podcasts and enjoy listening to the stories and conversations that feature business and education leaders from Wisconsin. Kudos to you for creating a platform that presents ideas and success stories that are important to Career and Technical Education teachers and leaders.
Best Career and TechEd Podcast
There are a lot of education podcasts out there. This is the only one that really focuses on bringing together voices from inside AND outside education and focuses specifically on STEM and Career/Tech Ed. This is a great podcast for anyone in education and also for anyone who employs STEM or skilled-trades talent in their workforce.
Filling in Gaps
This show spotlights a large and growing aspect of education that doesn’t get enough attention. Practical and technical education is a field growing exponentially. This podcast Highlights many of the facets of this diverse field.
Fantastic Topics on the Future of Industry
These podcasts are the best for learning about current and future technology. The stories are great. We need more of these interviews.