Kayla Konieczny with Erie Bronze and Aluminum

Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Kayla Konieczny, Sales and Procurement Specialist at Erie Bronze & Aluminum about "Manufacturing careers".

Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec, a company offering ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions, and highlights the Industrial Talk Podcast's focus on industry innovations and professionals. Kayla Konieczny, from Erie Bronze, discusses her career path from the food and car industries to her current role in procurement and manufacturing. She emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and the challenges of material sourcing, particularly the volatility of prices for metals like tin and aluminum. Kayla also highlights the need for more women in manufacturing due to their attention to detail and organizational skills. The conversation concludes with a call to support programs like Penn State's METAL program to inspire the next generation of industrial leaders. Outline

Introduction to Elevotec and Industrial Talk Podcast

Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec, highlighting their ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions. Elevotec is praised for delivering streamlined processes, real ROI, and over 20 years of expertise. Scott Mackenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the celebration of industry professionals. The podcast aims to transfer industry-focused innovations and trends while highlighting key individuals.

Introduction of Kayla Konieczny and Erie Bronze

Scott Mackenzie introduces Kayla Konieczny, who is with Erie Bronze and part of the METAL program at Penn State Erie. Kayla shares her background, mentioning her three-year tenure at Erie Bronze and her role in the program. Kayla discusses her family's generational connection to Erie Bronze and her own career path. Scott Mackenzie and Kayla reminisce about their experiences at Erie Bronze, including pouring aluminum and using specialized equipment.

Kayla's Career Journey and Role at Erie Bronze

Kayla describes her career journey, moving from the food industry to the car industry and eventually to Erie Bronze. She shares her experience transitioning from a GM at Jimmy John's to an inside sales and procurement specialist at Erie Bronze. Kayla emphasizes her quick learning abilities and fascination with how things are built. Scott Mackenzie and Kayla discuss the importance of hands-on experience in manufacturing.

Kayla's Involvement in the METAL Program and AFS

Kayla explains her participation in the Metal program at Penn State Erie, which focuses on metallurgical engineering and trade apprenticeship. She highlights the hands-on nature of the program and its benefits for her career development. Kayla mentions her involvement in online courses through the American Foundry Society (AFS) and her focus on aluminum metallurgy and casting. Scott Mackenzie and Kayla discuss the importance of practical experience in manufacturing.

Kayla's Role in Procurement and Material Sourcing

Kayla describes her responsibilities in sourcing materials and handling logistics at Erie Bronze. She explains the process of weekly alloy pricing and the impact of market fluctuations on material costs. Kayla discusses the challenges of sourcing specific alloys, especially for defense and military projects. Scott Mackenzie and Kayla delve into the dynamics of material procurement, including the role of ingot makers and the impact of energy costs.

Challenges and Opportunities in Material Procurement

Kayla shares her experiences with material procurement, including the volatility of prices and the need for strategic sourcing. She discusses the importance of understanding market trends and the impact of global events on material availability. Kayla highlights the role of international suppliers and the challenges of managing costs and logistics. Scott Mackenzie and Kayla explore the potential for new sources of supply and the importance of building relationships with suppliers.

Kayla's Future Career