Revolutionizing Manufacturing: Jeff Halonen on Steelhead Technologies & Automation

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Jeff Halonen, co-founder of Steelhead Technologies, to discuss how digital solutions are transforming job shop and service-based manufacturing. Jeff shares his journey from a mechanical engineering background at General Motors to building Steelhead, a software platform designed to improve workflow efficiency, job costing, and communication in the coatings and manufacturing industries.

The conversation highlights the complexities of coating processes and the growing need for automation and professionalization in the industry. Jeff explains how Steelhead reduces transaction costs, enhances customer experience through real-time visibility, and provides scalable solutions for businesses looking to grow. They also discuss how implementing the right software can improve work-life balance, streamline bidding and tracking, and ultimately drive long-term business success.

Key Takeaways:

• Steelhead Technologies provides a purpose-built platform for job shop manufacturing.
• The software integrates ERP and MES functionalities to enhance efficiency.
• Digital solutions are essential for managing complex coating processes.
• Job costing, real-time visibility, and workflow automation improve profitability.
• Reducing transaction costs leads to greater productivity and customer satisfaction.
• Implementing software involves mapping key processes for seamless adoption.
• Scaling a painting or coating business requires effective job tracking and automation.
• Professionalizing the industry through technology leads to long-term growth.
• A well-integrated system allows for better work-life balance and business control.

Titles:

1. Revolutionizing Coatings & Manufacturing: Jeff Halonen on Steelhead Technologies
2. Scaling Job Shops Through Automation & Digital Solutions
3. How Steelhead Technologies is Transforming the Coatings Industry

Sound Bites:

• "Where were you 10 years ago?"
• "You make money by shipping goods."
• "We want to cut transaction costs."
• "You have to automate a lot of tasks."
• "This is going to be a game changer."
• "Your work should be able to double."

Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Steelhead Technologies 03:03 — Jeff Halonen’s Background & Journey from GM to Software Innovation 06:06 — The Need for Digital Solutions in Manufacturing 08:59 — Addressing the Complexity of Coating Processes 12:11 — Steelhead’s Key Features & Industry Impact 15:01 — Workflow Management & Automation in Coating Shops 18:07 — Software Implementation & Customization 20:46 — Tracking Costs & Business Performance in Job Shops 24:00 — The Future of Custom Production & Finishing 28:40 — Scaling Painting Businesses Through Automation 30:05 — Transforming Workloads & Work-Life Balance 32:00 — Professionalizing the Painting Industry with Technology 35:17 — Streamlining Software Implementation for Efficiency 39:13 — Integrating Systems to Reduce Operational Costs 45:45 — Investment & Cost-Effectiveness of Software Solutions 48:34 — Enhancing Customer Experience & Community Engagement 51:31 — Navigating Competition in the Coatings Industry