In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, Matt sits down with David Petrich and Brendon Ralph of Machinable Innovations, joined by co-host Will Mund. The conversation covers David’s path from Air Force machining training to building Machinable Innovations, the challenges of learning the trade, buying and rebuilding used equipment, and what it takes to grow a machine shop from the ground up.

David and Brendon also share how they're leveraging AI tools throughout their business to accelerate learning, streamline workflows, and compete at a level typically reserved for much larger organizations. Their approach demonstrates how small machine shops can use modern technology to punch well above their weight class.

Whether you're a machinist, shop owner, manufacturing engineer, or someone looking to break into CNC machining, this episode offers practical insights on building skills, solving problems, embracing new technology, and creating opportunities in modern manufacturing.

We continue our conversation about what it’s like being on the distribution side of the CNC machining and manufacturing industry. It’s not all roses on this side either. In part two, Will Mund and I dive deeper into the realities of machine tool distribution, customer expectations, service challenges, applications engineering, shop relationships, and the pressure that comes with keeping manufacturing moving. A real conversation from two people who’ve lived it.

From the shop floor to the distribution side of CNC machining and manufacturing. In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, Will and I break down our backgrounds in the industry, what led us into applications, service, and sales, and why helping machine shops solve problems became our passion. Real talk on CNC machines, manufacturing culture, and the people keeping this industry moving.