Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing

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.

E-53: From Pharmaceuticals to Biotech: How North Carolina is Leading the Way in Biomanufacturing

The Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) BioWork program trains students for a career with biomanufacturing organizations like Pfizer.
Home to more than 700 life science companies North Carolina currently ranks third in the nation for biotechnology. With its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment, the state has become a hotspot for companies looking to establish or expand their biomanufacturing operations.
BioWork is a state-wide certificate program offered by Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) that can lead to an entry-level position as a process technician. Students will learn the foundational skills needed for a career with a biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing company. The program is designed to cater to various student backgrounds and career goals.
Pfizer’s presence in North Carolina has brought about advancements in medical science and has played a crucial role in boosting the state’s economy. By investing in research facilities, creating job opportunities, and collaborating with local organizations, Pfizer has established itself as a key player in the pharmaceutical industry within the region.
On this episode of Clocking in Dr. Lisa Smelser and Tracy Schoolcraft join us. Dr. Smelser is the Biotechnology Department chair. She also received the CCCC Excellence in Advising Award in 2021. Dr. Smelser earned her bachelor’s in biology from Central Michigan University, a master’s in biotechnology and immunology and a doctorate in the same concentration from Ball State University. Tracy Schoolcraft is the plant engineering lead for the Pfizer plant in North Carolina.
Listen to Phil, Lisa and Tracy as they discuss the need for individuals trained in biomanufacturing careers, why the BioWork program is in place, what it takes to work at a biomanufacturing organization like Pfizer and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
BioWork
Pfizer
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. Lisa Smelser
Dr. Lisa Smelser is the Biotechnology Department chair at Central Carolina Community College. She also received the CCCC Excellence in Advising Award in 2021. Dr. Smelser earned her bachelor’s in biology from Central Michigan University, a master’s in biotechnology and immunology and a doctorate in the same concentration from Ball State University.
Tracy Schoolcraft
Tracy Schoolcraft is the plant engineering lead for the Pfizer plant in North Carolina.

E-52: Community Catalysts: Inside North Carolina's Community College System

NCMEP Partner, North Carolina Community College System, brings accessible customized training for businesses and individuals to counties across North Carolina.
Community colleges hold immense importance in the educational landscape, serving as accessible gateways to higher education for diverse students. These institutions are vital in providing affordable and flexible educational and training opportunities, allowing individuals to pursue academic and vocational paths. Community colleges like those in the North Carolina Community College System also serve as crucial platforms for career development, offering practical skills and certifications that align with local workforce needs.
The mission of the North Carolina Community College System is to open the door to high-quality, accessible educational opportunities that minimize barriers to post-secondary education, maximize student success, develop a globally and multi-culturally competent workforce, and improve the lives and well-being of individuals by providing education, training, economic development support and services that improve the quality of life. The economic development mission of the community college system often goes unnoticed but remains a vital part of the infrastructure of North Carolina’s workforce and industries. We focus on this aspect as we speak with John Loyack.
On this episode of Clocking In, NCMEP director Phil Mintz sits down with the vice president of economic development at NCCCS, John Loyack. Loyack has experience in the healthcare industry, where they worked as the Director of Product Management at MercuryMD / Thomson Reuters. John has a strong background in international marketing and business development. He holds an MBA in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management and obtained a BA in Economics and Spanish from Gettysburg College.
Listen to Phil and John as they discuss how NCCCS aids in economic development, how North Carolina Community College caters to the current needs of the workforce and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
NC Community College System
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.
John Loyack
John Loyack is the NC Community College System’s vice president of economic development. Before working with the NC Community College system, he worked as the Online Partner Director at IBT Online. From 2014 to 2022, John served as the Vice President of Global Business Services at the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. He has also worked as the Director of International Trade at the International Trade Division of the NC Department of Commerce from 2011 to 2014. John has experience in the healthcare industry, where they worked as the Director of Product Management at MercuryMD / Thomson Reuters. John has a strong background in international marketing and business development. He holds an MBA in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management and obtained a BA in Economics and Spanish from Gettysburg College.

E-51: Brick by Brick

North Carolina-founded brick manufacturer Triangle Brick Company, produces hundreds of millions of bricks yearly to build America.
Bricks have been a reliable and versatile construction material for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to modern cities, bricks have stood the test of time and are integral to our built environment. But have you ever stopped to think about how they are made?
With North Carolina roots dating back to 1959, Triangle Brick is one of the country’s most highly automated brick manufacturers and has plants in Wadesboro and Moncure, North Carolina and Clay County, Texas. In addition, their plants feature some of the world’s highest-capacity industrial robots for their entire process, from end to end.
Christy Miceli is the director of human resources for Triangle Brick. Miceli has more than 15 years of experience in human resources including employee relations, talent acquisition, succession planning and organizational development.
Listen to Phil and Christy as they discuss why brick is important, Christy’s journey to Triangle Brick, how Triangle Brick came to be and how bricks are made and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Triangle Brick
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.
Christy Miceli
Christy Miceli the director of human resources. Miceli has more than 15 years of experience in human resources including employee relations, talent acquisition, succession planning and organizational development.

E-50: Forging the Future

The Sanford, North Carolina Bharat Forge facility continues to play a crucial role as the production of electric vehicles increases.
The art of forging has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It has been a fundamental practice in human civilization, from early techniques to modern advancements, contributing to the development of society and technological advancements.
As a technology and engineering-driven development partner and one of the global leaders in metal forming Bharat Forge serves several sectors including automotive, railways, aerospace, marine, oil & gas, power, construction and mining. Being the world’s largest forging company, they have a transcontinental presence across ten manufacturing locations across India, Germany, Sweden, France and North America.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil Mintz sits down with Bharat Forge machining manager at the Sanford, North Carolina facility, Casey Schaffer. Schaffer is skilled in process, project, quality, and manufacturing engineering with a demonstrated history of working in the renewable, environmental, automotive, off-highway & firearm industries. Schaffer earned his bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from NC State University.  
Listen to Phil and Casey as they discuss Casey’s journey to Bharat Forge, how Bharat Forge ended up in Sanford, North Carolina, how Bharat Forge is involved in the electric vehicle industry and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Bharat Forge
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.
Casey Schaffer
Casey Schaffer is the machining manager at the Bharat Forge’s Sanford, North Carolina facility. Schaffer is skilled in process, project, quality, and manufacturing engineering with a demonstrated history of working in the renewable, environmental, automotive, off-highway & firearm industries. Schaffer earned his bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from NC State University. 

E-49: From Idea to Reality

Stanza Machinery owner’s experience paved the way for a successful industrial finishing manufacturer.
Have you ever wondered how products get their shiny and durable finishes? The answer lies in the process of industrial finishing. From furniture to cars, industrial finishing plays a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and durability of various objects.
In Charlotte, NC, Stanza Machinery provides industrial finishing solutions and technical services for the metal, wood, and plastics industries. The organization specializes in coating and finishing systems for moldings, cabinet doors, extrusions, tubing, flooring, and flat surfaces in metal, wood, and glass. Our extensive range of equipment includes vacuum coaters, profile Sanders, UV ovens, IR curing, molding sprayers, roll coaters, LED curing, wire brush machines and denibbers. 
Founded by Jack DeSarno in 2005, Jack De Sarno has been President at Stanza Machinery for over 16 years. He has steadily grown the organization since its inception in 2005 by utilizing solid business relationships and recognizing the transformative power of human creativity.
In this episode of Clocking In, Phil and Jack discuss the experience that led to the creation of Stanza Machinery, how his career change started the organization, how Stanza is getting involved in the defense industry and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Stanza Machinery
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.
Jack DeSarno
Jack DeSarno has been President at Stanza Machinery for over 16 years. He has steadily grown the organization since its inception in 2005 by utilizing solid business relationships and recognizing the transformative power of human creativity.

E-48: When Style and Consciousness Collide

Burlington, North Carolina sustainable t-shirt manufacturer, TS Designs, works with natural fibers and earth-friendly printing. Always grown and made in the USA.
Have you ever wondered about the story behind the clothes you wear? How are they made and what impact do they have on the environment? TS Designs is a company that aims to revolutionize the textile industry by creating high-quality, sustainable and eco-friendly clothing.
In a world where fast fashion dominates, TS Designs takes a different approach. They believe in creating products that are stylish and comfortable and have a positive impact on the planet. With a focus on transparency and sustainability, TS Designs is changing how we think about clothing.Based in Burlington, North Carolina, TS Designs is a custom t-shirt manufacturer and printer focused on creating domestic and sustainably made shirts for environmentally and socially conscious businesses and organizations. Founded in 1978, the company has worked with organizations such as Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Polo and GAP, until NAFTA was passed in 1994 and almost all apparel manufacturers moved overseas.
Today, under the leadership of CEO and President Eric Henry, TS Designs sets the bar for corporate responsibility by cultivating responsible clothing with completely transparent supply chains. Eric Henry is recognized widely for championing sustainability and supporting local farmers and mill workers. Eric says, “We have set out to make the highest quality and most sustainable t-shirts in the marketplace.”
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil and Henry discuss the history of TS Designs, how they’re working with the defense industry, the importance of sustainability in fashion and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
TS Designs
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 Henry
Eric Henry is CEO of TS Designs in Burlington, NC which manufactures the highest quality printed apparel in a domestic, transparent, and trackable supply chain. He’s been in business for over 40 years and has seen the apparel industry transition from primarily domestic to today, where over 97% of clothing is produced overseas. Eric Henry is on a mission to radically change the apparel industry for the good of the people and our planet.

E-47: Loud and Clear: The Manufacturing of Military Communication Equipment

Aberdeen, North Carolina military communications manufacturer looks to grow in the industry.
Military communications play a crucial role in the success of military operations. From strategizing and planning to executing missions, clear and reliable communication is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of military personnel. Over the years, advancements in technology have revolutionized military communications, enabling faster and more secure transmission of information.
 
Located in Aberdeen, North Carolina, DISCO32 is an American manufacturer and retailer specializing in cutting-edge solutions for tactical communicators, enabling professional users with a wide range of push-to-talk devices and accompanying accessories for two-way radios.On this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with Will Kidd the sales manager at DISCO32. Kidd works to generate leads, build and maintain relations, negotiate and close deals and provide after-sales support.
Phil and Will discuss the military culture behind DISCO32, how DISCO32 grows its market using Instagram, founder Josh Bronson’s invention ‘DISCUS’ – a stand-alone device engineered to work with any communication headset and more
LINKS
NCMEP
DISCO32
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.
Will Kidd
Will Kidd is the sales manager at DISCO32. Kidd works to generate leads, build and maintain relations, negotiate and close deals and provide after-sales support.

E-46: Fostering Growth and Innovation

The Manufacturing Solutions Center has grown to be a primer business incubator host.
With its roots in hosiery and furniture development and testing, the Manufacturing Solutions Center is part of Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC, working to have a positive economic impact on their community, the region, and the entire country. The organization works with traditional manufacturers and manufacturing start-ups, helping to solve problems and move companies forward. The mission of the Manufacturing Solutions Center is to help US manufacturers develop and grow their businesses. Over the last ten years, MSC has served over 3,200 customers nationwide and has helped create or retain 234 jobs, generating $24 million in sales and $1.3 million in cost savings. The Manufacturing Solutions Center is a long-time program member of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (or NCMEP) network.
Jeff Neuville is the director of the Manufacturing Solutions Center. Jeff previously served at the Small Business Center at Catawba County Community College. In 2021, Jeff was recognized as NC Small Business Center Director of the Year. He earned a bachelor’s in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MBA with a focus in operations from the University of Maryland.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil and Jeff discuss the Manufacturing Solutions Center Business Incubator, the new 75,000 sq foot MSC II building, services the Manufacturing Solutions Center provides and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Manufacturing Solutions Center
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.
Jeff Neuville
Jeff Neuville is the director of the Manufacturing Solutions Center. Jeff previously served at the Small Business Center at Catawba County Community College. In 2021, Jeff was recognized as NC Small Business Center Director of the Year. He earned a bachelor’s in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MBA with a focus in operations from the University of Maryland.