What’s the secret to scaling a manufacturing business? For Mike, it all started with a growing passion for manufacturing, a desire to learn, and the decision to implement ProShop ERP. In this episode of MakingChips, Paul and Mike share their origin stories and dive into the transformative power of systems, processes, and ProShop.
Mike’s journey began with a love for technology and shop floor data collection, but his path took a turn when he acquired Hill Manufacturing in 2018. From there, he leaned on ProShop to standardize operations, eliminate inefficiencies, and drive remarkable growth. Hill Manufacturing’s mission—delivering quality parts on time, every time—became achievable on a whole new level.
With ProShop in place, Hill saw savings of several hours per person daily, streamlined purchasing into a shared responsibility, and even reduced the management team’s size while repurposing staff into value-added roles.
When COVID hit and revenue plummeted, they doubled down on systems and processes, reinvesting in ProShop. By 2021, they rebounded with 25% more revenue and 30% fewer people—proof that the right ERP can make all the difference.
If you’ve ever wondered how to scale efficiently, make bold decisions, and embrace systems that align your team, this episode will inspire you to take action. Because if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money!
Segments
- [0:36] Leverage ProShop for your business
- [4:07] Paul shares his origin story
- [12:17] Mike shares his origin story
- [21:40] Meet us at The MFG Meeting!
- [28:05] Hill’s ProShop Implementation
- [43:35] Challenges and wins
- [46:50] Paul’s bet with a customer
Resources mentioned on this episode
- Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP
- The MFG Meeting: Feb 19th-21st, 2025
- A College Course in Machine Shop Management with James Marzilli
- How Modern ERP Transforms Manufacturing with John Zmuda
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