Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing

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.

E-45: Safeguarding the Human Body

Greenhill Anti-Ballistics Corporation looks to revolutionize how we think about blunt force trauma prevention.
In today’s fast-paced world, innovation is the key to success. Companies and individuals constantly seek new ways to disrupt the status quo and create breakthroughs. One of these breakthroughs is the Force Disruption Platform. The Force Disruption Platform is a powerful tool to drastically reduce the impact of blunt force trauma on the head and body.
Greenhill Anti-Ballistics Corporation is a nanotechnology materials company based in Davidson, North Carolina. Founded in 2008, the organization has been working for over 20 years developing its Force Disruption Platform and has received 19 patents. The company partners with the US Special Operation Command (USSOCOM) under a five-year Research and Development Agreement.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with Zach and Judy Greenhill, the COO and CEO of Greenhill Anti-Ballistics. Zach has worked as an attorney for complex commercial frauds and litigations in federal and state courts; investigations, dispositions, motions, jury and bench trials and appeals. He was also a CIA officer for eight years working covert operations and investigations. Zach graduated from Dartmouth College with an A.B. in Arabian and European History. He attended Hofstra University School of Law where he earned his Law degree.
Judy Greenhill has previously worked as a systems engineer, program manager, liaison of Asian American Affairs and chair of Chinese studies at The Dwight School. Judy wrote and directed the first diversity strategy for IBM’s Microelectronics Division and the Asian Constituency. Judy attended Wellesley College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Asian Studies.
Phil, Judy and Zach discuss the founding of Greenhill Anti-Ballistics, the development of the Force Disruption Platform, how they met and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Greenhill Anti-Ballistics
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.
Judy Greenhill
Judy Greenhill is the CEO of Greenhill Anti-Ballistics. She has previously worked as a systems engineer, program manager, liaison of Asian American Affairs and chair of Chinese studies at The Dwight School. Judy wrote and directed the first diversity strategy for IBM’s Microelectronics Division and the Asian Constituency. Judy attended Wellesley College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Asian Studies.
Zach Greenhill
Zach Greenhill is the COO of Greenville Anti-Ballistics. Zach has worked as an attorney for complex commercial frauds and litigations in federal and state courts; investigations, dispositions, motions, jury and bench trials and appeals. He was also a CIA officer for eight years working covert operations and investigations. Zach graduated from Dartmouth College with an A.B. in Arabian and European History. He attended Hofstra University School of Law where he earned his Law degree.

E-44: Investing In The Community

As Emerging Technology Institute grows, the organization remains committed to helping its community flourish with them.
From a simple request to creating a drone testing center, James Freeman has built the Emerging Technology Institute in Red Springs, North Carolina. Despite airspace restrictions, Freeman’s vision has flourished into a development center with a mission to improve the community. What began as one man’s mission is now a full-fledged technology research testing center.
Emerging Technology Institute (ETI) is an organization out of Red Springs, NC that develops, tests, and integrates emerging technologies including Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), robotics and AI with the soldier through an adaptable multi-domain training environment.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with James Freeman, founder and president of ETI. Freeman is a hands-on and experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in the aviation and aerospace industry. Freeman has earned a BS in mass communication/media studies and a MPA in health care administration/management from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. He earned his doctorate in business administration and management from Capella University.
Phil and James discuss the founding of ETI, the Defense Summit and Exhibition ETI hosted, their work with government contracts and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Emerging Technology Institute (ETI)
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.
James Freeman
James Freeman is the Emerging Technology Institute (ETI) founder and president. Freeman is a hands-on and experienced president with a demonstrated history of working in the aviation and aerospace industry. Freeman has earned a BS in mass communication/media studies and a MPA in health care administration/management from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. He earned his doctorate in business administration and management from Capella University.

E-43: Carrying On a Legacy

After three generations the Burlington-based electrical supply organization Southland Electrical continues to flourish.
Generational business refers to passing down a business from one generation to the next. This tradition has been prevalent for centuries, with family businesses as the backbone of economies worldwide.
Southland Electrical Supply Company is a second-generation family-owned business based in Burlington, North Carolina, founded in 1987. Southland distributes, rebuilds and customizes electrical supply products. Southland takes pride in delivering quality service and dependable products through six regional offices throughout the southeastern United States.
On this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with Katie Chung, the chief financial officer at Southland Electrical. With over 10 years of experience, her primary focus at Southland is to drive successful financial growth and cost management. She began working there after completing a double major in business administration and accounting at North Carolina State University. Chung also received her master’s in business administration from Elon University.
Phil and Katie discuss the founding of Southland Electrical, Southland’s journey to building a solid continuity plan, how machining has evolved since Southland’s inception and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Southland Electrical Supply 
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.
Katie Chung
Katie Chung is the chief financial officer at Southland Electrical. With over 10 years of experience, her primary focus at Southland is to drive successful financial growth and cost management. She began working there after completing a double major in business administration and accounting at North Carolina State University. Chung also received her master’s in business administration from Elon University

E-42: Electricity, Water and Gas, Oh My!: How a Non-Profit is Making Sure Energy Companies Treat NC Manufacturers Equitably

Carolina Utility Customer Association (CUCA) provides a platform for customers to voice their concerns and works towards ensuring fair and affordable utility rates.
Manufacturing facilities require a significant amount of energy to operate, from lighting and heating to powering machinery. These utility bills can add up quickly and significantly impact the cost of the products being produced. But did you know there’s representation for North Carolina manufacturers who fall victim to unnecessary utility fees and charges?
The Carolina Utility Customers Association (CUCA) was established in 1983 to legally represent and protect member interests in energy issues before regulatory, legislative & judicial bodies while ensuring an adequate, reliable supply of utility services at fair, equitable and cost-based rates.The non-profit also protects the jobs and economic output of the North Carolina industry and manufacturing. They support flexible energy policies that help industries and manufacturers achieve their corporate goals.
In this episode Phil Mintz interviews Kevin Martin, the executive director of the CUCA. Kevin has an extensive history of working in environmental quality and energy management. Before his current role, he spent five years at the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality as the Renewable Energy Program Manager and Weatherization Assistance Program Manager. Kevin has also worked at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at N.C. State University as a consultant on energy matters. He has an M.B.A. from Averett University and a B.A. from the University of Virginia.
Phil and Kevin speak about the type of advocation CUCA is involved in, the benefits of a manufacturing organization being a part of CUCA and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Carolina Utility Customers Association
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.
Kevin Martin
Kevin Martin is the executive director of the Carolina Customers Association. Kevin has an extensive history of working in environmental quality and energy management. Before his current role, he spent five years at the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality as the Renewable Energy Program Manager and Weatherization Assistance Program Manager. Kevin has also worked at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at N.C. State University as a consultant on energy matters. He has an M.B.A. from Averett University and a B.A. from the University of Virginia.

E-41: Catching Up with Ketchie

Concord, NC manufacturer is making waves in the advanced manufacturing world.
Have you ever wondered how complex machinery and equipment are built with such precision? The answer lies in the manufacturing of high precision parts. These parts are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of various industries, from aerospace to medical equipment.
Ketchie Inc., a Concord, North Carolina full-service precision CNC machine shop, has grown since its formation in 1947 from a textile job shop serving the local mills to a woman-owned, third-generation, ISO-certified corporation operating advanced CNC equipment. The company offers supply solutions to government and commercial customers in various industries, including rail, agriculture, textile, heavy machinery, industrial equipment and many specialized OEMs.
In this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with the president and owner of Ketchie, Courtney Silver. Courtney is committed to ensuring the continuation of Ketchie’s legacy. In 2015, Ketchie, Inc. received national recognition as a Certified Woman Owned and Operated Business Enterprise under Courtney’s leadership and was positioned to grow with capital investments in new equipment and technology. In January 2023, Silver was chosen to chair the National Association of Manufacturers’ Small and Medium Manufacturing Group.
Phil and Courtney discuss Ketchie’s evolution, the company’s innovative mentorship program and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Ketchie Inc.
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.
Courtney Silver
Courtney Silver is the president and owner of Ketchie. In 2015, Ketchie, Inc. received national recognition as a Certified Woman Owned and Operated Business Enterprise under Courtney’s leadership and was positioned to grow with capital investments in new equipment and technology. In January 2023, Silver was chosen to chair the National Association of Manufacturers’ Small and Medium Manufacturing Group. Courtney graduated from Michigan State University with a B.S. in supply chain management.
 

E-40: Redefining Culture - Wieland Copper

Davide Varze and Markus Rusznyak tell the story of how they helped transform Wieland Copper’s Pine Hall, NC plant.
What does it take to create a safe and productive workplace? Is it just about having the right equipment and procedures in place or is there something more to it?
The modern workplace is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opportunities. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of workplace safety, leadership, and culture in driving success and ensuring employee well-being. Wieland Copper Products in Pine Hall, NC explored the key elements of a successful workplace transformation, focusing on the crucial role of safety, leadership and culture and the organization reaped priceless benefits.
Wieland Copper Products is a leading manufacturer of copper products worldwide. The Wieland Group has operated for over 200 years and has a reputation for producing high-quality copper products in various industries. Wieland Group has had a significant impact on the copper industry. The company has been at the forefront of developing new copper alloys and production techniques that have improved the performance and durability of copper products.
In this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with the President of Wieland Copper Products Davide Varze and plant manager Markus Rusznyak of the Pine Hall, NC Wieland Copper Products plant. Davide is a global international executive with 18 years of experience in the aerospace, automotive, connectivity and metal industries. Davide got his start at Wieland Copper in 2022 when he was brought on to be the executive vice president of the Wieland Thermal Solutions North American and president of Wieland Copper Products. Markus has been employed at Wieland Group for almost 15 years, climbing up the ladder to his current position. Markus has worked as an electronics technician, planning engineer, global category manager, director of procurement in North America, operations manager and plant manager.
Phil, Davide and Markus discuss the revolutionization of Wieland Copper, how they changed workplace attitudes, how Wieland makes a difference in the Pine Hall community and more.
LINKS
NCMEP
Wieland Copper
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.
Davide Varze
Davide Varze is a global international executive with 18 years of experience in the aerospace, automotive, connectivity and metal industries. Davide got his start at Wieland Copper in 2022 when he was brought on to be the executive vice president of the Wieland Group.
Markus Rusznyak
Markus Rusznyak has been employed at Wieland Copper for almost 15 years, climbing up the ladder to his current position. Markus has worked as an electronics technician, planning engineer, global category manager, director of procurement in North America, operations manager and plant manager.