Episode 88

88: Built to Serve, Ready to Manufacture

American manufacturing is facing a major workforce crisis—with an estimated 2.1 million jobs potentially unfilled by 2030. But what if the solution is already trained and ready? This week, Lori and Erin talk with Ben Kohler, leader of the Next Frontier Advanced Manufacturing Institute (NFAMI), about how his organization is solving two problems at once: helping veterans transition into civilian careers and filling manufacturing talent gaps.

Ben shares how NFAMI provides tuition-free, hands-on training in welding and CNC machining to veterans, military spouses, and their adult children. Based in Montana but ripe for national expansion, the program turns military discipline and technical know-how into highly sought-after manufacturing skills.

📧 Connect with Ben on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ben-kohler-25b96115

🔗 Learn more: www.nfami.org

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About the Podcast

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a BROADcast for Manufacturers
The purpose of this show is to share knowledge, have fun and bring diverse, yet important topics in the manufacturing space to the forefront.

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About your hosts

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Lori Highby

Lori Highby is a podcast host, speaker, educator, and founder of Keystone Click, a strategic digital marketing agency. Using her vast multi-industry knowledge – gained from experience and education, She has the ability to see the potential of greatness within the already established good of a business. Through strategic actionable moves, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies to micro-business owners, to achieve their marketing goals.
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Kristina Harrington

Kris Harrington is the Chief Executive Officer of GenAlpha Technologies, where she drives innovation in the B2B space by enabling manufacturers and distributors to sell their equipment and parts online. With over 20 years of experience in enhancing customer experiences for aftersales and new equipment, Kris is a respected thought leader in digital transformation. She regularly shares her insights through speaking events, blogs, and webinars, championing the future of manufacturing and distribution.
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Erin Courtenay

Erin joined ABFM during her tenure in sales at a small business that served the manufacturing sector. It was there that she was introduced to the incredible diversity of people, processes, and products that make up manufacturing. Erin has held communications and marketing roles in a variety of sectors including nonprofits, beauty and wellness, and tech. Podcasting has become her true love, where she has made lifelong connections and learned enough to earn yet another degree.