10/22/20 - MFG OutLoud Episode #29
Millennial Manufacturing Revolution
Next Generation Never Stops Learning
(with Special Guest - Tom Hilaris from Ergoseal)

Tom Hilaris is the CEO of Ergoseal - known worldwide for value-driven partnerships. 
 
Ergoseal is a premier designer, manufacturer, and distributor for optimized, cost-effective sealing solutions for rotating equipment.  From aerospace to industrial to sanitary industries, we specialize in mechanical, non-contacting, lip, and magnetic seals for rotating equipment. We provide custom and commercial seals while also providing value-added pump components manufactured from ceramics, molded rubber, and thermoplastic polymers.”
 
Tom has been involved in the business since he was 10 year old.  He took over as President & CEO in 2014, and stepped on the gas!  
 
Some of the things Tom and his team have accomplished include:
	•	Acquired 2 companies to expand capabilities and product offerings (doubling the size of the company).  Closed on both businesses 2 weeks apart. 
	•	Diversified and expanded their customer base and supply-chain globally. 
	•	Named one of the Best and Brightest companies to work for in Chicago by the National Association for Business Resources. 
 
and that's just PART of the story...
 
Tom, we are so glad to have you on the show today, 

Let’s dive into another courageous conversation gang!
 
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4 Quick Things from this Episode
	1.	When business leadership transitions to the next generation; pushback and stepping on the gas 
	2.	Size doesn’t matter; leveraging small 
	3.	Remarkable global reach; doesn’t happen without help 
	4.	Proactively reducing risk with redundancy; worst-case plan 

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Tweetable Quotes
“I worked in just about every department and worked my way up since I was 10. That’s the way to really understand the business.” —Tom Hilaris
 
“We’re small and agile and that’s to ours and our customer’s advantage. —Tom Hilaris
 
“Our global reach didn’t come without help from others. Seeking out programs to help small businesses and tapping every possible resource is key.” —Tom Hilaris
 
“Today’s manufacturing is higher skilled work that’s challenging and you make a really good living; machinists are truly artists.” –Tom Hilaris
 
“When a challenging customer pushes you, you have to find a solution and satisfy them. They’re there to make you better.” —Tom Hilaris 

 
Recommended Resources from this Episode
EXPORT TECH
ICDISC
TMA
IMEC

Thank you for listening and hanging out with us.
Keep manufacturing out loud! We need you. 

Connect with Tom Hilaris
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Connect with Ray Ziganto
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