Developing a one-stop fabrication shop through community and automation

Cameron Adams of Laser Precision, a contract metal fabricator in the Chicago area, joins the podcast to talk about how the family-run business has grown from a small 6,000-sq.-ft. shop to a 130,000-sq.-ft facility that serves large OEMs in the heavy equipment industry. Adams describes Laser Precision as a one-stop shop by providing end-to-end processes with laser cutting, CNC machining, welding, press brake forming, and powder coating. He also discusses Laser Precision's recent acquisition by Weller Metalworks, its plans for future growth, and the trend of mergers and acquisitions in metal manufacturing. He explains that many OEMs are looking to consolidate their supplier base and work with a select few trusted suppliers, and how Laser Precision works to be on that shortlist. Adams also discusses the company's focus on workforce development and its efforts to attract and train skilled employees. He emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the manufacturing industry and the opportunities it offers. Adams also mentions the potential for AI and automation in the industry, particularly in areas such as scheduling and quoting, as well as the importance of near-shoring supply chains. At the top, the guys discuss Nuts, Bolts, & Thingamajigs summer manufacturing camps and Back to the Future. This episode is brought to you by MC Machinery Systems, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Corporation. Email us at [email protected] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.