Bridging Generations in the Shop

In this episode of MakingSparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Sam Gingerich, a 21-year-old shop manager at Wertzbaugher Services, to talk about the unique challenges of leading a team in the metal fabrication and trailer repair industry. Sam shares his story of growing from a technician into a leadership role, navigating the complexities of managing peers, and balancing modern techniques with old-school craftsmanship.

They dive into the importance of patience and problem-solving, the rewards of delivering high-quality work, and how Sam bridges generational gaps with his team to keep the shop running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or a young leader stepping into a new role, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration straight from the shop floor.

Episode Breakdown: [0:00] Introduction to Making Sparks [3:55] Sam’s journey to becoming shop manager [9:42] Managing peers and building team trust [14:18] Old-school techniques meet modern tools [20:11] Lessons in patience and resilience [26:00] Advice for young leaders in metal fabrication

Resources Mentioned: ProFab Alliance Paperless Parts