The Throughput Mindset: How Automation and Culture Drive Success, Ep #11

Lights Out: Technology and Automation Podcast by MakingChips

What separates the best shops from the crowd? It’s not just the technology they use—it’s the way they think. The top manufacturing leaders aren’t content with operators who say, ‘I run a mill,’ or ‘She programs machines.’

Instead, they cultivate a culture where everyone is focused on one goal: increasing throughput. By aligning your people, resources, and technology to make your business successful, you build a team where nobody is a cog in the wheel—everyone is part of a powerful engine.

For years, many in the industry have seen robotics and automation as unnecessary expenses, asking, ‘Why invest in a $200,000 robot loading cell when I could just add another spindle?’ But what if that mindset is holding your shop back from unlocking its true potential?

By automating tasks like workpiece delivery and machine loading, you free your team to focus on high-value work, maximizing throughput and creating a culture of innovation and growth.

We’ll also explore what the machine tool dealer of the future looks like, share real-world stories of shops that made the leap into automation, and address common concerns—like how much programming experience your team really needs.

Whether you’re looking to inspire your team, adopt cutting-edge technology, or simply break free from outdated mindsets, this episode is packed with actionable advice and fresh perspectives. Tune in now to learn why throughput is more than just a metric—it’s a mindset that can transform your business.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (1:54) Get to know Lights Out Co-host Kaleb Mertz
• (4:16) Max Rothenhausler’s origin story
• (10:43) The project that Max and Kaleb are spearheading
• (14:52)The importance of automation to career longevity?
• (17:04) Why is it easier to work with the end-user instead of the dealer?
• (20:22) Overcoming the old-school mentality and adopting automation
• (25:56) How much robotic programming experience do you need?
• (28:38) What would the machine shop of the future look like?
• (31:47) How to structure the machine shop of the future
• (33:41) The industry is lacking machinists
• (37:30) Take on a new product line—or find partners?
• (44:58) Your customer will always be your best salesman

Resources & People Mentioned

• Business Moves at the Speed of Trust

Connect with Max Rothenhausler

• Connect on LinkedIn
• 21st Century Machine Tools

Connect With Lights Out

• LinkedIn
• MakingChips.com

Subscribe to Lights Out

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK