Making it in Ontario: The Official Podcast of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing

Mandeep Rehal from OCI highlights why manufacturers should attend DiscoveryX on April 16-17 in Toronto. It will feature top speakers, networking, investor meetings, and an advanced manufacturing zone, it’s a key event for those looking to stay ahead in the industry.

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Michael Lalonde, CEO of Innovative Group, shares his journey from account manager to leader of Innovative Automation and RoboTape. He talks about branding custom machines, navigating massive trade fairs, and what first-time exhibitors should know. Plus, one last guess at NGen’s surprise musical guest!

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Greta Cutulenco, CEO of Acerta Analytics, discusses how AI is transforming manufacturing by shifting from preventative maintenance to predictive quality. She also talks about tech adoption challenges in Canada, the benefits of being in Waterloo Region, and her excitement for Hannover Messe, including a guest prediction.

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Avidbots has grown from a small startup to a global leader in autonomous cleaning robots. Co-Founder & CTO Pablo Molina discusses their journey, Canada’s slow robotics adoption, and efforts to drive industry growth. He also previews Avidbots' plans for Hannover Messe 2025 and shares thoughts on the rumoured musical act for NGen’s reception.

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NordSpace CEO Rahul Goel shares the company’s vision for a responsive space launch system, the advantages of York Region, and the role of Canadian supply chains. As part of our Hannover Messe countdown, he also discusses industrial partnerships and has some fun guessing who’ll perform at NGen’s reception.

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Virtualware is expanding extended reality in manufacturing. Michael Rosas, VP General Manager, discusses adoption challenges and solutions. He introduces Battery Boost, a training initiative with InvestWE to prepare workers for NextStar Energy’s battery plant before construction. Plus, preview Virtualware’s Hannover Messe showcase.

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St. Thomas, ON, is becoming a manufacturing powerhouse. Sean Dyke, CEO of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation, shares how the city landed PowerCo’s $7B EV battery plant and supports Formet Industries, Canada’s largest auto parts facility. Learn how smart planning drives major investments.

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This episode revisits key insights from the Trillium Network’s Automotive Trade Data Bulletin. It covers where Canadian-made cars are sold, where Canada’s vehicles come from, and the movement of auto parts across the border.

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As Trump’s first week ends, the tariff question remains uncertain. This episode explores how Canada’s manufacturing industries depend on trade. Using Trillium Network data, we reveal the most and least exposed sectors and what these differences mean for the future of Canadian manufacturing.

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Rob Wildeboer is the Executive Chair of Vaughan-based Martinrea International. As we enter what’s sure to be a dynamic year for politics and industry, Rob shares frank opinions on trade & tariffs, geopolitics, the transition to EVs, lessons learned from past crises, and why he’s still bullish about automotive.

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For the season finale of Making it in Ontario, Ben Whitney, President of Armo Tool and Chair of Trillium’s board, shares his take on the season’s top ideas. As a hands-on manufacturer, Ben evaluates their practicality for SMEs, discusses leading a family business, and highlights his efforts to inspire the next generation in manufacturing.

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Season 10 of Making it in Ontario wraps up as 2024 ends. This special episode revisits the year’s top insights from advanced manufacturing leaders on electrification, automation, talent, and job quality. Hear from voices like NGen, Toyota, CME, and others as they discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry.

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