Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

What happens when a young woman with zero machining experience gets handed the keys to two CNC mills and told, "Figure it out"? For Melissa Ramos, it became the start of a journey that's equal parts grit, creativity, community, and stubborn determination.
In this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with the founder of M95 Machining to unpack how she went from crashing machines, crying in shop bathrooms, and being dismissed in trade school… to building a respected machining brand with a massive social media following and partnerships across the industry. Melissa shares the real story behind learning CNC machining from the ground up, the pressure of working alongside her father, and the moments that nearly made her quit.
But this conversation goes far beyond tooling and G-code. It's about building a business while building confidence. Melissa opens up about the challenges of being a woman in manufacturing, the ugly side of internet criticism, and why storytelling and content creation have become just as important to her business as making parts. From balancing customer work and brand partnerships to literally moving into the shop to chase bigger goals, her story captures the modern reality of manufacturing entrepreneurship.
The episode also dives into automation, mentorship, social media, family dynamics, and Melissa's vision for creating a safe learning space for women entering the trades. Whether you're a shop owner, aspiring machinist, parent, or someone trying to carve out a path in manufacturing, this conversation is packed with honesty, perspective, and a refreshing reminder that there's no single blueprint for success in this industry.
If you've ever wondered what the next generation of manufacturing leadership looks like, this episode delivers a pretty compelling answer. 
Segments
(0:00) The MakingChips crew welcomes Melissa Ramos to MakingChips: GenCNC
(2:17) Melissa shares how her dad introduced her to CNC machining with two Haas mills
(4:33) Melissa discusses the challenges of being a woman entering manufacturing
(6:04) Melissa opens up about her negative trade school experience and being dismissed by an instructor
(8:29) How a group of classmates helped her learn programming despite lack of support
(10:01) Discovering Fusion 360 and teaching herself CAM programming
(11:56) Learn more about IMTS 2026 (and why you should join us)
(13:14) Building M95 through family connections, word of mouth, and social media
(15:52) Melissa discusses workload balance, shop growth, and finding ideal customers
(17:50) Balancing machining work with growing content partnerships and brand opportunities
(18:32) Why Melissa prefers prototype and quick-turn work over repetitive production
(19:30) Lessons learned from a difficult automation experience with a robot cell
(22:08) Melissa shares the story of meeting her boyfriend through tooling recommendations
(22:55) Paperless Parts uses secure AI to take busy work off your estimators
(24:07) The influence of Melissa's father and the family dynamic behind the business
(26:24) Why Melissa's dad originally brought machining in-house
(29:53) How social media unexpectedly transformed into a business opportunity
(32:53) Why you should listen to the Lights Out Podcast
(33:20) Melissa explains why she's moving into the shop to focus fully on growth
(37:07) Melissa reveals her vision for a women-focused manufacturing meetup and mentorship space
(38:42) Advice for young people entering manufacturing and entrepreneurship
(39:43) Where to connect with Melissa Ramos and M95 Machining online
Resources mentioned on this episode
12. Inspiring a New Generation of Female (and Male) Machinists
Learn more about IMTS 2026 (and why you should join us)
Paperless Parts uses secure AI to take busy work off your estimators
[email protected]
Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn
M95 Machining on YouTube
M95 Machining on Instagram
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What if the future of your machine shop isn't just faster spindles or more automation—but an entirely different way of making parts?
In this episode of MakingChips: Generation CNC, we sit down with David Bamforth of Renscott Manufacturing, a young entrepreneur who's not just building a shop—he's redefining what one can be. By combining CNC machining with metal additive manufacturing, David has positioned his company at the intersection of two worlds, creating a powerful competitive edge in aerospace, defense, and spaceflight.
But this didn't start with a master plan. Like many entrepreneurs, David began with curiosity, a willingness to take risks, and a mindset of figuring things out as he went. Over time, that evolved into something much more intentional: a clear strategy to move beyond being "just another job shop" and instead own the full lifecycle of complex parts—from printed blank to finished, mission-critical component.
What makes this approach so compelling is the problem it solves. Many companies can print parts. Many shops can machine them. But very few can do both well. Even fewer understand how to bridge the gap between the two. That's where Renscott has carved out its niche, simplifying supply chains, improving reliability, and creating real value for customers operating at the cutting edge.
If you've been thinking about how to differentiate your shop—or where the industry is heading next—this episode offers a clear look at why additive manufacturing isn't just a trend. For shops willing to embrace it, it's a strategic advantage.
Segments
(0:00) Light banter, missing co-host, and intro to the Gen CNC series
(1:32) Meet David Bamforth: From automotive work to aerospace, spaceflight, and defense
(4:46) Early curiosity: how tinkering and "How It's Made" shaped his path
(6:04) Engineering school, co-ops, and exposure to large-scale manufacturing
(8:32) Buying the first Haas machine and launching the business with no roadmap
(9:49) Why we love Paperless Parts for your quoting workflow 
(11:01) The "build it and they will come" philosophy—and learning the hard way
(13:55) Self-funding the business, family support, and building a leadership team
(16:49) The cool part of the Co-op that David participated in
(18:59) What formal manufacturing education did (and didn't) teach
(21:36) How additive manufacturing became a strategic differentiator
(27:13) Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding
(27:56) The long-term vision: becoming additive-first with machining support
(30:22) Real-world applications like internal cooling channels and complex geometries
(32:34) Building the additive business like a startup within the company
(34:25) Comparing labor, cost, and efficiency: additive vs. subtractive
(38:15) Automation strategy across five-axis machining and robotics
(40:02) Running an advanced shop as a young entrepreneur
(41:23) Hiring ahead of growth and building a 5-year plan
(42:41) Why you need to check out the Hennig WorkFlow
(43:35) Overcoming (or avoiding) the "young founder" credibility challenge
(46:01) Branding, culture, and connecting with modern manufacturing customers
(49:03) Advice for young entrepreneurs: experience, cash, and patience
(51:44) The importance of networking and building industry relationships
Resources mentioned on this episode
Rennscot MFG
Connect with David Bamforth on LinkedIn
Why we love Paperless Parts for your quoting workflow 
Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding
Why you need to check out the Hennig WorkFlow
NYC CNC
John Grimsmo
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What happens when global policy decisions collide with the realities of the shop floor? 
In this episode of MakingChips, the team sits down with Brennan Grignon, founder and CEO of Vantive, to unpack the hidden complexity behind supply chains that power everything from defense systems to everyday manufacturing. 
With experience advising at the highest levels of government, Brennan brings a rare perspective on how geopolitical decisions ripple all the way down to machine shops across the country.
At the heart of the conversation is a hard truth: supply chains are not as flexible as policymakers often assume. Moving production isn't like flipping a switch—it's a tangled web of materials, processes, certifications, and human expertise that can take years, not days, to shift. And yet, those decisions are being made every day, often without a full understanding of the downstream consequences.
The discussion dives deep into the structural challenges facing the defense industrial base, especially for small and mid-sized machine shops. From cash flow constraints and unfavorable payment terms to the rising cost of compliance like CMMC, many shops are being asked to shoulder burdens that simply don't make financial sense. The result? A system full of opportunity, but also friction, risk, and misaligned incentives.
Despite the challenges, there's also a sense of possibility. With advancements in digitalization, predictive modeling, and better visibility into supply chains, there's a path forward. But it will require collaboration, smarter policy, and a willingness to rethink how the entire ecosystem works, from government to primes to the shop floor.
Segments
(0:00) Setting the tone for the episode with Brennan's "dad joke" 
(1:31) Introduction to Brennan, Vantive, and her mission to solve supply chain disruption
(3:58) Brennan's background advising the Department of Defense on supply chain resilience
(9:38) Lessons from leading supply chain efforts during COVID response
(10:55) Real-world example of how geopolitical decisions impact machine shops
(15:22) The myth of "just moving production" and why it's far more complex
(17:24) The emerging requirements of CMMC certification and the effect on the DIB
(18:31) You need to come join us at IMTS 2026, September 14th-19th!
(19:27) The missing piece in procurement: why supply chain risk isn't formally measured
(22:10) Why small shops struggle to participate in the defense industrial base
(25:13) The broken incentive structure between government, primes, and suppliers
(32:10) Cash flow challenges and unfavorable payment terms for small manufacturers
(37:21) Workforce instability and the impact of inconsistent demand cycles
(38:40) Check out the Hennig WorkFlow: a 40-pallet automation system
(39:31) Risks tied to critical materials and global dependency challenges
(45:30) The looming impact of CMMC compliance on the majority of machine shops
(48:50) Practical call to action: be specific, propose solutions, and leverage trade organizations
(57:47) Can local MEPs help fund a small shop's CMMC certifications?
(59:51) Get a free report of sales opportunities in your area at FacturMFG.com/chips
(1:00:55) How Vantive is turning supply chain uncertainty into actionable data
Resources mentioned on this episode
Connect with Brennan Grignon and Vantive (and come see her at IMTS)
Jason Ray and Paperless Parts
Why AI Isn't the Answer for Quoting: The Risks of Using ChatGPT in Manufacturing
How to Fix Your Quoting Process Before it Kills Your Shop
You need to come join us at IMTS 2026, September 14th-19th!
Check out the Hennig WorkFlow: a 40-pallet automation system
Cybersecurity Requirements for DoD Contractors: A Deep Dive into CMMC with Jacob Horne
Trade organizations: NTMA, NDIA, & AMT
Oklahoma's MEP
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Sometimes the path into manufacturing isn't a straight line but more like a ricochet. That's exactly how Mark Christopher's journey began. From nearly flunking out of college to becoming a key voice at DN Solutions, Mark's story is a testament to what happens when curiosity meets opportunity. What started as a fallback plan quickly evolved into a 30-year career built on solving problems, challenging assumptions, and helping shops unlock their full potential.
In this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Mark to explore not just where he's been—but what he's seen. And when you've walked into shops from small mom-and-pop operations to aerospace giants, you start to notice patterns. One of the biggest? The shops that win aren't just buying machines—they're buying capability, flexibility, and time.
The conversation quickly shifts into one of the most important topics in modern manufacturing: automation. Not the buzzword version, but the real, boots-on-the-ground reality. The kind that helps shops run lights out, say "yes" to jobs they used to turn down, and turn spindle time into a competitive weapon. Mark breaks down how shops can justify the leap, avoid costly mistakes, and think differently about ROI.
But this isn't just about machines—it's about people. The episode highlights a powerful theme: untapped potential. Whether it's underutilized equipment or team members ready to level up, the opportunity is everywhere. The challenge is having the vision—and sometimes the courage—to act on it.
If you've ever wondered whether automation is worth it, when to make the leap, or how to build a shop that's ready for what's next… this episode delivers. Because at the end of the day, if your machines—and your people—aren't being fully utilized, you're leaving opportunity on the table.
Segments
(0:00) How machinists unknowingly shaped your childhood
(1:23) Mark's story: From "voluntold" career moves to finding passion in manufacturing
(7:41) Transition into the machine tool world and exposure to shops across North America
(10:06) Head to the DN Solutions Manufacturing Without Limits event
(11:09) Industry outlook: strong demand, workforce challenges, and the rise of automation
(13:08) Why shops hesitate on automation—and how to properly evaluate ROI
(18:36) Real-world example of using automation to unlock high-margin, expedited work
(21:33) Why we love the quality of SMW Autoblok workholding 
(22:20) Rethinking the traditional path: starting with advanced machines and automation
(25:20) Case study: how 5-axis and automation dramatically increase capability
(30:11) Paperless Parts: Scaling challenges and the importance of systems over brute force execution
(37:30) Common mistakes when investing in automation and how to avoid them
(40:20) Understanding true utilization and maximizing machine uptime
(42:03) Automation as a tool to upskill and empower employees—not replace them
(47:30) Check out the Hennig WorkFlow automation system so your shop never stops
(48:20) Growing trend toward automation-ready machines and modular shop growth
Resources mentioned on this episode
DN Solutions Manufacturing Without Limits event
Why we love the quality of SMW Autoblok workholding
Request a demo from Paperless Parts to see how they can help you scale
[email protected]
Check out the Hennig WorkFlow automation system so your shop never stops
Connect With MakingChips
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Finding skilled talent isn't the problem anymore, it's developing it. And in manufacturing, the shops that win aren't just the ones with the best machines, they're the ones connected to the right pipeline.
In this episode, we sit down with Gary Nadeau of Westfield Technical Academy, a program that has been quietly producing highly capable machinists for decades. With a structure that blends classroom learning, hands-on shop experience, and real-world co-op placements, Gary and his team have built something most regions are still trying to figure out: a reliable bridge between education and industry.
But even a program like this isn't immune to change. Gary shares how shifts in culture, attention spans, and mechanical exposure are forcing educators to rethink how they teach and engage students. From breaking projects into smaller wins to leveraging tools like 3D printing, the approach to developing talent is evolving in real time.
This conversation isn't just about one school. It's about what's possible when manufacturers and educators actually work together and what's at risk if they don't. If you're struggling to find talent, this episode might challenge you to rethink where you're looking and how involved you need to be in building the pipeline.
Segments
(0:00) Why education is a critical piece of the next generation of CNC leaders
(2:06) Introduction to Gary Nadeau and Westfield Technical Academy's legacy
(3:06) Overview of the school and how the machining program works
(9:01) Gary's personal journey into machining and teaching
(12:26) Join Nick at the DN Solutions Manufacturing Without Limits Event
(13:30) The challenge of attracting students to manufacturing programs today
(16:28) Using 3D printing and creativity to spark student interest
(17:30) Competing programs and how students choose career paths
(19:15) Why students often grow to love manufacturing once exposed to it
(22:16) Breaking curriculum into smaller wins to keep students engaged
(26:06) SMW Autoblok offers world-class workholding products 
(27:20) How machine shops can get involved and support local programs
(32:30) Curriculum alignment with real-world shop needs
(33:57) The impact of losing instructors and funding challenges
(36:21) Frustrations with education priorities and funding decisions
(40:31) Paperless Parts: The Speed of AI without the risk
(41:45) The most rewarding part: seeing students succeed in their careers
(43:26) Stories of graduates thriving in manufacturing and life
(46:15) A call to action for shops to engage with schools and build the pipeline
Resources mentioned on this episode
Join Nick at the DN Solutions Manufacturing Without Limits Event
SMW Autoblok offers world-class workholding products 
Paperless Parts: The Speed of AI without the risk
Westfield Technical Academy
[email protected]
Connect With MakingChips
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