Show Notes
Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Josh Brown and Steven Fedell with Penn State University METAL Program about "Why they are passionate about the future".
Overview
The discussion highlighted the METAL program at Penn State Behrend and its role in developing hands-on manufacturing talent. Program Development
StevensaidMETALbegan about two and a half years ago and combines casting, metallurgy, materials science, and forging curriculum. Joshdescribed how the program expanded to offer five-day boot camps for course credit, including hands-on machining, robotics, forging, casting, and materials testing.
Career Paths
Joshmoved through mechanical engineering, supply chain, machining, automation, and controls before joining the program. Steventransitioned from architectural ironwork and industrial maintenance into plumbing, industrial robot programming, and engineering technology.
Workforce Challenge
Both emphasized that employers should consider motivated candidates who may not meet every requirement initially. JoshandStevenargued that internships, rotational opportunities, hands-on learning, and willingness to train can help develop capable industrial professionals. Open question: How can employers communicate manufacturing opportunities in ways that resonate with younger workers?
Outline
METAL Program
History and development of the program at Penn State Behrend. Collaboration among Penn State faculty and instructors. Expansion of curriculum into forging, casting, metallurgy, materials science, machining, and robotics. Five-day boot camps can provide one course credit and emphasize hands-on learning.
Josh’s Background
Studied mechanical engineering, supply chain management, and mechanical engineering technology. Gained experience as a student machinist and automation and controls intern. Contributed to robotics programming and curriculum development.
Steven’s Background
Trained in forged architectural ironwork and worked as a professional blacksmith. Studied industrial maintenance and later programmed industrial robots. Joined Penn State Behrend to continue developing technical and engineering skills.
Workforce Development
Employers often overlook candidates who do not match every listed qualification. Participants stressed the importance of evaluating character, initiative, integrity, and learning ability. JoshdescribedAIand search tools as useful starting points for technical research, with source verification still required.
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Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy! JOSH BROWN'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
METAL Website: https://www.metalforamerica.org/
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua~brown/
Company Website: https://behrend.psu.edu/
Company Website: https://dstllc.net/ STEVEN FEDELL'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-fedell-896945244/
Company Website: https://www.lincolnelectric.com/en/ PODCAST VIDEO:
https://youtu.be/3IDBK-RBDsw THE STRATEGIC REASON "WHY YOU NEED TO PODCAST":
OTHER GREAT INDUSTRIAL RESOURCES:
NEOM: https://www.neom.com/en-us
Hexagon: https://hexagon.com/
Arduino: https://www.arduino.cc/
Fictiv: https://www.fictiv.com/
Hitachi Vantara: https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/home.html
Industrial Marketing...
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