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

n this episode, hosts Brendan Sweeney and Michelle Samson dive into a new Trillium Data Bulletin about Ontario’s dairy product manufacturing industry and what it teaches us about the benefits and drawbacks of local supply chains. They also discuss the local cheese that makes Windsor-style pizza famous.

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In this episode, Trevor Walker, CEO of Frontier Lithium, shares how the company is building a lithium supply chain in Ontario, from mining in the Far North to processing in Thunder Bay and supplying EV battery plants. Hear the challenges of being a first mover, the role of government support, and what it takes to lead in critical minerals.

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Mitch Debora, CEO of Mosaic Manufacturing, explains how 3D printing is moving beyond prototypes to enable full-scale production. He shares how Mosaic is helping manufacturers reshore supply chains and highlights NGen-backed projects like Athletic Knit. Additive manufacturing is now faster and more flexible.

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In this episode, Mitchel Sivilotti, CEO of OmniaBio, breaks down what makes biomanufacturing both similar to and different from other types of manufacturing. He walks us through the company’s growth, from its early days at CCRM to opening a 100,000 sq. ft. facility in Hamilton. Plus, hear about the lessons learned from Toyota.

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Dennis Dussin of Alps Welding shares how his Ontario company is navigating Canada–U.S. trade tensions. He talks diversification, industry insights, and the value of peer networks. This episode is part of York Region’s The Tariff Impact video podcast series.

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Brendan Sweeney and Michelle Samson recap Hannover Messe, where Canada led as host. With 1,800 delegates, the event highlighted the country’s manufacturing potential—but what’s next? Brendan offers a starting point, and the conversation continues. Plus, the surprise NGen musical guests are revealed—and no one guessed right.

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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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