Six Generations of Innovation: From Traditional to Digital Manufacturing in Metal Fabrication | S01E03
Innovating Legacy: Timothy Hofmann on Modernizing a Sixth-Generation Metal Fabrication Company
In this episode of Metals in Advanced Manufacturing, host Jennifer Betts sits down with Timothy Hofmann, VP of Operations at Frank B. Clayton's Son Inc., a sixth-generation metal fabrication company.
Timothy shares the rich history of the 126-year-old company, its challenges, and the innovations under his leadership, including digital transformations, lean manufacturing principles, and advanced quoting systems.
Together, they discuss the importance of adapting to modern technologies to remain competitive in the metals industry.
IG: @fb_claytons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frank-b--claytons-sons-inc-/
Website: https://sheetmetal.parts/
Email: tim@fbclaytons.com
00:00 Introduction to Metals in Advanced Manufacturing
00:36 Overview of the Podcast Series
01:20 Introducing Timothy Hofmann
02:00 The Legacy of Frank B. Clayton's Son Inc.
02:46 Timothy's Journey in the Family Business
06:54 Innovations and Challenges in Metal Fabrication
09:31 Digital Transformation and Inventory Management
14:11 Adopting Paperless Parts for Quoting
23:54 Streamlining the Quoting Process
24:49 Challenges in Metal Fabrication Industry
27:19 Innovative Inventory Management
29:28 Digital Job Board Implementation
32:34 Customer Portal Development
37:24 Lessons from Miscommunication
41:01 Future of Manufacturing Transparency
43:25 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
Transcript