Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing

E-63: From Textiles and Tobacco to Technology

AI will be a Game Changer for an Optimistic Economic Outlook for North Carolina
New technologies such as artificial intelligence will no doubt transform the state’s traditional powerhouses of textiles, tobacco, and technology.
As a new federal executive branch takes shape and establishes its policies, Dr Phil Mintz, Director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership, discusses the economic outlook for North Carolina with “The People’s Economist,” Dr. Michael Walden.
Dr. Michael L. Walden is a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University and a member of the Graduate Economics faculty with The Poole College of Management. Dr. Walden retired at the end of March 2021 and is now a Professor Emeritus. He is also an accomplished author who has published 12 books and over 300 articles and reports.
Listen to Phil and Michael as they discuss the reasons the economic outlook for North Carolina is an optimistic one, covering topics from technology to immigration and tariffs.
LINKS
NCMEP
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Dr. Michael Walden
Micheal Walden is a William Neils emeritus from North Carolina State University. He graduated from Cornell University in 1978 with a doctorate in philosophy, concentrating in consumer economics. While working at NC State University, Doctor. Walden’s role at NC State comprised teaching, research, extension responsibilities, consumer economics, economic outlook, and public policy. He is an accomplished author who has published 12 books and over 300 articles and reports.

Ep-62: Even Programmers Can Fall in Love with the Manufacturing Environment

CTI Systems Realizes the Value in Retaining Their Workforce.
CTI Systems has been locally owned and producing high-quality equipment for the electronics assembly industry for over 35 years. CTI Systems offers a wide range of products, from the most complex laser markers to depaneling routers and simple conveyors. Located in the Lee County Industrial Park, CTI Systems is a four-fold operation in the manufacturing, sales, installation, and service of automated conveyor systems. CTI equipment, used in the manufacture of a printed circuit board, is utilized in a variety of applications and industries, from the automotive and medical fields to defense and aerospace.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz sits down with Dreama Pilson, the HR manager for CTI Systems in Goldston, North Carolina. Dreama joined CTI Systems in 1996 when there were only 24 employees. Today, the workforce has grown to exceed 82 employees. Educated as a programmer, Dreama quickly shifted to the manufacturing industry because of her love of manufacturing processes and the people who “are out there making things happen.”
Listen to the conversation as Phil and Dreama discuss how CTI Systems has grown, the challenges of staffing the workforce, and the realization that the best employees are the ones they have already hired. CTI Systems has a long tenure of employees, many with 15-20 years of experience. The conversation highlights the importance of partnerships with organizations that assist in providing customizing training programs and educating the next workforce generation about the many opportunities for mechanical and electrical engineers, programmers, to machinists who manufacture the parts.
LINKS
NCMEP
CTI Systems
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Dreama Pilson
Dreama Pilson is the HR Manager at CTI Systems in Goldston, North Carolina, for over 29 years. Dreama hires and onboards with a focus on a corporate culture of “Whatever-It-Takes” that is reflected throughout the organization, beginning with top management and extending down to its professional staff of employees. Each department is an extension of the others, and every employee works as a team member to meet production deadlines.

Ep-61: A Family Tradition Inspired A Unique Business Opportunity

One woman turned a family recipe into an award-winning snack company, combining innovative branding, sustainable growth, and community support to deliver high-quality cheesy snacks and create new business opportunities.
In this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz, the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership director talks with Becca Jordan Wright, the CEO and founder of Piedmont Pennies, a gourmet cheesy snack manufacturer in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The company’s Original Sharp Cheddar Biscuit Bites recently won the small business category in the 2024 “Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina” contest sponsored by the NC Chamber. Launched in September of 2020, Piedmont Pennies sells snacks at more than 400 locations in about 35 states, in addition to online sales. Piedmont Pennies’ success has been featured in many news outlets and is an inspiring example of how family recipes and traditions can provide unique business opportunities with the right passion and commitment.
Wright shares her company’s journey, from its origins as a family recipe to its growth and expansion. Wright learned to bake the cheesy treats with her Grandbetty, using a family recipe that was a popular holiday gift. The idea to turn the recipe into a business came to her after making the snacks for her college friends and later for clients in Washington, DC. She wrote a one-page business plan and, with the opportunity to develop the business as an MBA project, she was able to put forth the necessary energy to take “Pennies to the People.”
The term used in the company’s branding, “Pinching Pennies”, was how Wright learned to ‘pinch pennies’ for holiday gifts, and was the handmade method for making the snacks before automating. Wright used to “pinch” the pennies as she placed the cheesy snacks on baking trays before baking. It also refers to the company’s bootstrapped approach and mindful scaling. The slogan “Stay Cheesin’” was introduced in 2020 to bring comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now a central part of the company’s identity.
The oven baked cheese snacks are available in original Sharp Cheddar, Parmesan & Herb, and Spicy Chipotle Cheddar and are sold online, shipping nationwide. The company utilized a byproduct of their packaging process, crumbs, to create a new product line called Penny Panko. This product line now comes in three flavors and is used in various recipes, including soups, salads, and casseroles.
The podcast conversation also touches on the importance of sustainable growth, customer-centricity, and the company’s commitment to quality and community support.
LINKS
NCMEP
Piedmont Pennies
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Becca Wright
Becca Wright launched her company “Piedmont Pennies” in 2020 for an MBA class project to help the world “Stay Cheesin” during quarantine. Three months later, she turned down a job at Meta (formally Facebook) to pursue Piedmont Pennies full-time.
Today, Pennies is 100% female owned and operated in Charlotte, NC. The team bakes, packs, and ships Pennies nationwide, with over 400 retail partners in 35 states. Pennies mission is to bake quality snacks so you can spend quality time with those you love.
Becca mission is to help business owners find their purpose and growth their businesses beyond their wildest dreams through authenticity, connection, empathy.

Ep-60: Secrets to Success

Husband and wife duo of Queen City Engineering and Design launch an in-house manufacturing company to control the development process resulting in greater flexibility, quality, shorter project lead times, and new business opportunities.
Queen City Engineering and Design’s growth from a single laptop in a spare bedroom to a 7,000-square-foot engineering design and manufacturing facility has been a remarkable journey. Rex started as an independent contractor, gradually taking on more projects. However, the turning point came when he invested in equipment to offer in-house contract manufacturing and prototyping services, which fueled steady growth. At this point, he brought in his wife, Ashley, who had experience managing the business side of operations. Reflecting on their journey, the couple shared, “We learned many lessons and made sure not to repeat the same mistakes.”
In 2020, when the COVID pandemic disrupted the economy, Queen City Engineering pivoted. They began designing sneeze guards for paratransit vehicles, providing protection from airborne pathogens. The company quickly designed, manufactured, assembled, and installed the guards to retrofit vehicles in a short timeframe, meeting an urgent need that led to nationwide business expansion. Since then, Queen City Engineering has shifted focus from sneeze guards to security barriers, even launching a separate company to support that growing side of their business.
Mintz and the Carrikers discuss the challenges of launching a new business, emphasizing the difficulties of navigating the startup phase while maintaining a balance between professional and family life. They share insights into identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities, stressing the importance of being adaptable and proactive in recognizing potential.
LINKS
NCMEP
Queen City Engineering & Design
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders, and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Ashley Carriker
Ashley Carriker, CFO/Office Manager of Queen City Engineering and Design in Concord North Carolina, is experienced in asset management, finance, and customer service Ashley manages the company’s ISO 9001 certification and is responsible for scheduling, managing incoming and outgoing jobs, ensuring strong customer relations, and addressing any issues that arise, from customer complaints to on-the-floor problems. In addition, she also handles the accounting and general business management tasks.
Rex Carriker
Rex Carriker, President of Queen City Engineering & Design is a North Carolina State University graduate with more than 14 years of extensive experience in research and development. Rex created Queen City Engineering & Design to provide turn-key engineering solutions for the complex problems encountered in modern manufacturing and in very hands-on overseeing each project and product.

Ep-59: Weaving Textile Advancements

Kings Mountain, North Carolina fabric manufacturer STI Fabrics holds up against the test of time.
In today’s industrial landscape, the demand for specialized fabrics tailored to unique applications has never been greater. From heavy-duty manufacturing to advanced technological fields, specialized fabrics ensure efficiency, safety, and innovation across various industries. These fabrics are engineered with precision to meet specific performance requirements, whether withstanding extreme temperatures, providing electrical conductivity, or offering chemical resistance. Let’s explore the fascinating world of specialized fabrics and how they revolutionize various industrial sectors.
Located in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, STI Fabrics, also known as makers of Revolution Performance Fabrics, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialized fabrics for various industrial applications. With a rich history spanning several decades, STI Fabrics has weathered the changes in the industry and emerged as a trusted provider of high-quality textile solutions. Our long-standing presence is a testament to our stability and reliability in meeting the unique needs of diverse industries.
In this episode of Clocking In, North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership director Phil Mintz sits down with Jacob Englert, senior vice president of operations and Matt Maples, senior vice president of product development. Englert graduated from Appalachian State University with a bachelor’s in Business administration and Management, and Maples has been an electrical and biological specialist in the US military.
Mintz, Englert and Maples discuss the history of STI Fabrics, the region on Kings Mountain, North Carolina, the latest in the fabric manufacturing industry and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
STI Fabrics
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Jacob Englert
Jacob Englert is the senior vice president of operations at STI Fabrics. Englert graduated from Appalachian State University with a bachelor’s in Business administration and management. He has previously worked as a process engineer.
Matt Maples
Matt Maples is the senior vice president of product development. Maples was previously an electrical and biological specialist in the US military.

Ep-58: Timber!

West Jefferson, NC-based Carolina Timberworks received the 2024 Sustainability Leadership Award.
Mass timber is a type of engineered wood product that is gaining popularity in the construction industry due to its sustainability, strength, and versatility. Unlike traditional lumber, which is typically cut from large trees, mass timber is made by laminating smaller wood pieces together to create large panels or beams. These panels can then be used as structural elements in buildings, offering a renewable alternative to concrete and steel.
Based in West Jefferson, North Carolina, Carolina Timberworks, a pioneer in the timber frame industry, stands out as a sustainability leader for its unique approach. As a designer and manufacturer of custom timber frame structures, they have crafted homes, barns, outbuildings, ‘party barns,’ and commercial structures like offices, churches, and outdoor market spaces. They have a rich 21-year history and over 350 projects completed nationwide and beyond.
On this episode of Clocking In, NCMEP director Phil Mintz talks to Carolina Timberworks founder Eric Morley. Morley graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned his MBA (Honors) from Appalachian State University in 1992. Eric is a lifetime Timber Framer’s Guild member, served on the Timber Framers Guild Board of Directors as Vice President, has served on the Timber Frame Business Council Board of Directors, is a licensed General Contractor, and teaches an AIA Continuing Education course on timber framing.
Mintz and Morley discuss the founding of Carolina Timberworks, Mass Timber, the sustainability initiatives that won Carolina Timberworks the 2024 Sustainability Leadership Award and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Carolina Timberworks
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Eric Morley
Eric Morley is the founder of Carolina Timberworks. Eric graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned his MBA (Honors) from Appalachian State University in 1992. Eric is a lifetime Timber Framer’s Guild member, served on the Timber Framers Guild Board of Directors as Vice President, has served on the Timber Frame Business Council Board of Directors, is a licensed General Contractor, and teaches an AIA Continuing Education course on timber framing.

Ep-57: Fanning Growth

Winston-Salem-based ZIEHL-ABEGG received the 2024 NCMEP Developing Markets Leadership Award.
Developing markets represent organizations experiencing rapid growth and industrialization. These markets are characterized by increasing economic activity, expanding consumer bases and significant investment opportunities. Companies and investors are drawn to developing markets due to their potential for high returns, driven by rising incomes, urbanization, and evolving infrastructure.
ZIEHL-ABEGG is a globally renowned company specializing in innovative ventilation, control, and drive technology solutions. With a rich history dating back to 1910, the organization has established itself as a leader in the field, known for its commitment to excellence, quality, and sustainability.
The company’s product portfolio includes a wide range of high-efficiency fans, motors, control systems, and drive technology solutions designed for various industrial and commercial applications. These solutions are engineered to optimize energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance overall performance. The US facility in Winston-Salem, NC, won the 2024 NCMEP Manufacturing Leadership Developing Markets Award.
In this episode of Clocking In, NCMEP director Phil Mintz talks to ZIEHL-ABEGG, Inc Vice President of Operations Jimmy Mitchell. Mitchell previously worked as the organization’s director of quality and service and operations manager. 
Mintz and Mitchell discuss the new ZIEHL-ABEGG facility in Winston-Salem, the organization’s history of innovation, how it continues to develop markets, and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Ziehl-Abegg
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Jimmy Mitchell
Jimmy Mitchell is the Vice President of Operations for Ziehl-Abegg, Inc. He has also worked as the organization’s director of quality and service and operations manager. Mitchell graduated with an associate’s degree from Surry Community College.

E-56: Revving Up for Manufacturing Excellence

Lenior, NC-based Teijin Automotive Technologies received the 2024 NCMEP Manufacturing Excellence Award.
Continuous improvement in manufacturing is a strategic approach focused on systematically enhancing production processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency. Rooted in principles like Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing, this methodology involves the relentless pursuit of incremental changes to improve quality and performance. By fostering a culture of ongoing refinement and employee involvement, manufacturers can adapt to evolving market demands, boost productivity, and maintain a competitive edge. Continuous improvement not only drives operational excellence but also cultivates innovation and resilience within the manufacturing sector.
Teijin Automotive Technologies is a compression molding manufacturer specializing in components for the automotive and transportation industry. It supplies parts for renowned companies such as GM, Chrysler, and Toyota. The organization’s “Our Way” initiative enhances standardization, fosters accountability, and boosts employee engagement. This innovative system required a deep understanding of how various business aspects intersect and impact each operational or functional area within the facility. Located in Lenoir, North Carolina, it is committed to sustainability, safety, and cutting-edge design and is revolutionizing how we think about automotive manufacturing.
On this Episode of Clocking In, NCMEP director Phil Mintz talks to Teijin Automotive’s plant manager Tracy Gray, and continuous improvement manager Ryan Biddix. Gray has been at the forefront of Teijin’s “Our Way” culture. He has been with the organization since 2014 and helped pave the way to receiving the NCMEP Manufacturing Excellence Award and AME Award for Excellence.
Biddix develops and manages new designs, projects, and processes to supply Teijin Automotive customers with the highest-quality rotationally molded products. Biddix graduated with an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering from Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Western Carolina University.
Mintz, Gray and Biddex discuss the continuous improvement initiatives that won Teijin Automotive the 2024 Continuous Improvement Leadership Award and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Teijin Automotive
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Tracy Gray
Tracy Gray is the plant manager at Teijin Automotive Technologies. Gray has been at the forefront of Teijin’s “Our Way” culture. He has been with the organization since 2014 and helped pave the way to receiving the AME Award for Excellence.
Ryan Biddix
Ryan Biddix is the continuous improvement manager for Teijin Automotive Technologies. He develops and manages new designs, projects, and processes to supply Teijin Automotive customers with the highest-quality rotationally molded products. Biddix graduated with an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering from Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Western Carolina University.

E-55: Holding Tough

Burlington, NC climbing rope manufacturer wins the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina Award.
Climbing rope is a crucial component of climbing equipment, serving as a lifeline for climbers in recreational and professional settings. They are indispensable in the climbing world, providing essential support and safety to climbers. Their design, construction and technological advancements continue to evolve, ensuring that climbers can rely on them in the most demanding environments.
FJORD, a company named for the Fjords of Norway, was incorporated in North Carolina as a small business entity in 1997. The climbing protection manufacturer based in Burlington often operates under their US & EU registered* trade name – Chafe-Pro®. Fjord won the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina Contest for the Small Business Category for their STREP, Static Rope Edge Protectors.
On this episode of Clocking In Phil Mintz sits down with the CEO and owner of Fjord, Michael Ratigan and general manager Jasmine Krsak. Ratigan has been with Fjord for over 15 years and has previously served as the Vice President. Before working at Fjord, Raigan was an English teacher in Broward County, Florida. He studied at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington where he received a bachelor’s in English and Communication studies.
Krsak has a proven track record in financial management, vendor relations, and employee productivity. She has a background in microbiology research and teaching assistance in physiology. Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with minors in Biology and Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Passionate about optimizing operational efficiency and building strong professional relationships.
Mintz, Ratigan and Krask discuss the history of Fjord, the importance of reliable climbing rope, the Coolest Thing Made in NC award and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Fjord
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Michael Ratigan
Michael Ratigan is the owner and CEO of Fjord. Ratigan has been with Fjord for over 15 years and has previously served as the Vice President. Before working at Fjord, Ratigan was an English teacher in Broward County, Florida. He studied at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington where he received a bachelor’s in English and Communication studies.
Jasmine Krsak
Jasmine Krsak is the general manager of Fjord. Krsak has a proven financial management, vendor relations, and employee productivity track record. She has a background in microbiology research and teaching assistance in physiology. Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with minors in Biology and Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Passionate about optimizing operational efficiency and building strong professional relationships.

E-54: The Importance of Prototyping Spaces for Manufacturing

Located in Durham, NC, First Flight Venture Center Hangar 6 is an NCMEP partner that focuses on the entrepreneurial and startup space.
Prototyping spaces, also known as maker spaces or innovation labs, are crucial for the advancement and success of the manufacturing industry. These specialized environments provide essential tools, resources, and collaborative opportunities that enable manufacturers to develop, test, and refine their products.
First Flight Venture’s Hangar 6 is an innovative coworking and prototyping space located in the heart of the Research Triangle Park in North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to support startups and early-stage companies by providing the tools, resources, and collaborative environment necessary to accelerate product development and bring innovative ideas to market.
On this Episode of Clocking In, NCMEP director Phil Mintz talks with First Flight’s director of programs, Emil Runge and the director of Hangar6 Ben Provan. And we are going to learn more about them and this special program.
Runge joined First Flight Venture Center in 2018 to lead its Health Security Accelerator, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services initiative to drive innovation in medical technologies. This effort aims to address health security threats and enhance daily medical care. As part of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority within the HHS, Emil’s role involves connecting the Health Security Ecosystem locally and identifying innovative solutions for BARDA’s funding. With a background in public policy and strategic initiatives, Emil has been instrumental in improving Innovation & Entrepreneurial Ecosystems for nearly two decades.
Provan has a decade-long background as co-founder and CEO of OpenDoor, a pioneering US-based co-living company that addresses urban housing challenges and the loneliness epidemic. Under his leadership, OpenDoor grew to 19 co-living properties across three markets (Bay Area, Portland, Seattle), totaling 406 units and 150,000 sqft, including the first net-zero-energy co-living development. Ben’s previous roles include leading commercialization at waste-to-biofuels startup Achor Innovations, managing business operations at Magruder Ranch, and working as a mechanical design engineer at Bose Corporation. He holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University and an MBA from Presidio Graduate School. Passionate about leveraging business and technology for positive impact, Ben is also an experienced maker with 3D printing, CNC machining, and laser cutting skills.
Mintz, Runge and Provan discuss the importance of prototyping labs, the state-of-the-art services and tools Hangar 6 provides and more. 
LINKS
NCMEP
First Flight Venture Center’s Hangar 6
ABOUT
Phil Mintz
Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.
Emil Runge
Emil Runge joined First Flight Venture Center in 2018 to lead its Health Security Accelerator, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services initiative to drive innovation in medical technologies. This effort aims to address health security threats and enhance daily medical care. As part of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority within the HHS, Emil’s role involves connecting the Health Security Ecosystem locally and identifying innovative solutions for BARDA’s funding. With a background in public policy and strategic initiatives, Emil has been instrumental in improving Innovation & Entrepreneurial Ecosystems for nearly two decades.
Ben Provan
Ben Provan has a decade-long background as co-founder and CEO of OpenDoor, a pioneering US-based co-living company that addresses urban housing challenges and the loneliness epidemic. Under his leadership, OpenDoor grew to 19 co-living properties across three markets (Bay Area, Portland, Seattle), totaling 406 units and 150,000 sqft, including the first net-zero-energy co-living development. Ben’s previous roles include leading commercialization at waste-to-biofuels startup Achor Innovations, managing business operations at Magruder Ranch, and working as a mechanical design engineer at Bose Corporation. He holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University and an MBA from Presidio Graduate School. Passionate about leveraging business and technology for positive impact, Ben is also an experienced maker with 3D printing, CNC machining, and laser cutting skills.