Manufacturing Talks
There are millions of cool stories in manufacturing. Your host, Jim Vinoski, helps share them by talking to the people who are making them happen. Manufacturing is where the rubber meets the road. There's no hiding. You're either making good products people will buy for enough to keep you in business, or you're not. Meet the amazing folks who thrive in that survival-of-the-fittest world.
Manufacturing Talks
Michael Goerlich from Raven Concealment Systems on growing a small Rust Belt manufacturing business
It's always a treat to hear from folks who are building new American manufacturing businesses. So chatting with Michael Goerlich, who makes gun holsters just outside of Cleveland, was great fun.
Michael, owner of Raven Concealment Systems and president of Threshold Strategic Consulting, discussed his journey from a failed college student to a successful manufacturer. He detailed the growth of Raven, which started as a weekend hobby and expanded into a significant business due to the post-9/11 concealed carry market. Goerlich highlighted the challenges of the firearms industry, including access to capital and the impact of the pandemic. He emphasized the importance of agility and innovation, particularly in additive manufacturing, to stay competitive. Goerlich also shared his views on the potential for American manufacturing to thrive, especially in the Rust Belt.
Highlights:
- Michael's Background and Early Career
- Starting Raven Concealment Systems
- Expansion and Injection Molding
- Challenges and Opportunities in the Firearms Industry
- Consulting and Strategic Advice
- Impact of the Pandemic on the Firearms Industry
- Future of Manufacturing and American Innovation
It was an excellent conversation chock-full of practical know-how for everyone in manufacturing. Check out the whole thing!
Raven Concealment Systems: https://rcsgear.com/
Threshold Strategic Consulting: https://www.thresholdsc.com/