Episode 9: Systems Thinking: The Key to Unlocking Manufacturing Potential with Ben Linville-Engler​

In this insightful episode of the AMCC podcast, Matt delves into a conversation with Ben Linville-Engler, a systems leader who significantly contributed to Massachusetts’ manufacturing response during the COVID-19 crisis. Ben shares his journey from MIT to the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, emphasizing the power of systems thinking in addressing complex challenges. The episode uncovers how Massachusetts efficiently pivoted its manufacturing sector to produce large quantities of FDA-compliant medical gear amidst the pandemic. 

Highlighting the critical role of established trust and collaboration between government, academia, and manufacturers, Ben provides valuable insights into the interconnectedness of technology, product development, and community needs. He also discusses the influence of federal policies and funding on regional manufacturing, focusing on the necessity of aligning these with state and local objectives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of manufacturing, technology, and crisis response, offering a compelling call-to-action for continued collaboration and adaptation in the manufacturing sector.

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AMCC’s podcast is made possible in part by the pro bono expertise of Mike McAllen, founder of Podcasting4Associations. Are you part of an association also looking to produce a podcast? Let us get you in touch with Mike.

Thank you to the Economic Development Administration for their partnership in producing this podcast. This podcast was prepared in part using Federal funds under award 3070145 from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Big Concept: The critical role of systems thinking and collaborative efforts in responding to crises in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors.

Participants:

• Ben Linville-Engler, Deputy Director and Chief Investment Strategist and Program Executive, Massachusetts Technology Collaborative in Boston.
• Matt Bogoshian, Executive Director, American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative, and host of the podcast.

📢 Unique Insights from Ben:

• The importance of pre-existing trust and relationships between government, manufacturers, and academia in responding effectively to crises like COVID-19.
• The role of systems thinking in bridging the gap between technology, product development, and community needs.
• The concept of ‘ecosystem engineering’ – leveraging existing networks and collaborations for rapid and efficient crisis response.

💡 Key Ideas:

• The rapid pivot of over 50 manufacturers in Massachusetts to produce FDA-compliant medical gear during the COVID-19 crisis.
• The significance of workforce training and education in building a robust manufacturing sector.
• The impact of federal policies and funding on regional manufacturing, focusing on how to align them with state and local needs.
• The challenge of coordinating different federal programs and definitions of ‘region’ in manufacturing and technology development.

🔗Links:

• Connect with Ben Linville-Engler on Linkedin
• Follow AMCC
• Find Matt on Linkedin
• Visit our website