The People Behind the Sparks

In this special FabTech edition episode, we sat down with Jim Mayer, Founder of the Manufacturing Connector, and Mike Payne, Owner at Hill Manufacturing and the host of Buy the Numbers, to discuss the real driving force behind the industry: its people.

From leadership lessons to celebrating the collaborative spirit of the industry, this episode dives into the human stories that make manufacturing thrive.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:00] Introduction and FabTech reflections: why the event stands out.
• [03:10] Meet Jim Mayer: his journey from bartending to becoming a manufacturing storyteller.
• [07:25] Collaboration over competition in manufacturing—how relationships drive success.
• [12:02] Mike Payne’s journey from finance to manufacturing and the inspiration behind By the Numbers.
• [15:18] Emotional intelligence and its role in leadership today.
• [19:30] Closing thoughts: celebrating the people who make manufacturing extraordinary.

Resources Mentioned:

• Jim Mayer on LinkedIn
• Manufacturing Connector
• Mike Payne on LinkedIn
• Pacific Press for the most trusted name in custom presses
• Check out Paperless Parts for Quoting
• ProFab Alliance to grow & improve your shop