SCV Means Business

Brian Williams, CEO of Shimtech Industries, joins the program to discuss Lamsco West, Inc., one of Shimtech's business units and the largest single manufacturer of shims and laminated shim stock in the world. You'll learn about the importance of shims in the airplane manufacturing process, and what Shimtech looks for when acquiring a new company. Discover the state-of-the-art composites that are being used to replace metal parts and some of the challenges and opportunities involved.

Voldi Way, Founder of WayForward Technologies, joins the program to discuss the evolution of the video game industry, and the history of his company. Voldi also discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with scaling a business, and how WayForward manages large teams. He also reveals how they recruit in a tight labor market, and how they create a positive work culture.

Stratasys Direct CEO Kent Firestone joins the program to discuss the unique history of 3D printing in Santa Clarita, and the rise of 3D printing for production. Discover the benefits of 3D printing over traditional manufacturing, and how Stratasys develops unique solutions for customers.

John Petrovich, CEO of the Alfred Mann Foundation, and Robert Greenberg, Executive Chairman of the Alfred Mann Foundation, join the program to discuss the history and purpose of their organization. Discover how the foundation has helped bring new technology to market for some of the most challenging medical problems, and how they partner with outside companies to maximize their efforts.

This episode features an interview with Tim Burkhart and Neal Thurman from Six Flags Theme Parks, as they discuss some of the highlights and history of the theme park. They reveal a new coaster and new section of the park that is coming soon, and some of the global projects currently in development. 

In this episode, you'll hear from an owner of several McDonald's stores in Santa Clarita, as he discusses the evolution of the franchise. Discover industry trends and innovations, and how McDonald's is using technology to better serve their customers.

This episode features an interview with Jennifer Gerard, President and CEO of Gerard Cosmetics, as she discusses the evolution of her company and why she decided to start her own business. Discover the range of products that the company offers, and how Jennifer uses social media influencers to get the word out about the brand. Jennifer shares her thoughts about the current state of social media influencers and reveals future collaborations. 

This episode features an interview with Adel Villalobos, President of Lief Labs, as he discusses how being based in Santa Clarita has helped his company to grow. He gives an overview of the dietary supplement market and how it has evolved, and shares takeaways for how to run a successful organization. Discover the importance of culture, values and vision for any business.

Trina Davidian, President and CEO of King Henry's Inc, joins the program to discuss the history behind the company, and the products they produce, including premium candy, nuts, trail mixes, and assorted sweets. She reveals how the packaging has evolved over time, and some of the specialty items they produce. She also discusses how automation has changed the production process and why she sought a designation as a woman-owned business. 

Robert Gleason, Executive Director, Product Engineering & PMO for ITT, Inc, joins the program to discuss the work that the company does for both the civilian and military aerospace industries. He reveals some of the recent trends, challenges, and disruptive forces in aerospace, and how ITT is working to attract talent

Robert Gleason, Executive Director, Product Engineering & PMO for ITT, Inc, joins the program to discuss the work that the company does for both the civilian and military aerospace industries. He reveals some of the recent trends, challenges, and disruptive forces in aerospace, and how ITT is working to attract talent

Keith Grossman and Javan Diaz, owners of Simplify Optics, discuss the process of making high quality lenses and how they have carved out a unique niche in their industry. They reveal their philosophy of keeping things simple even in a complex manufacturing process, and what they look for when hiring new employees. They also share their vision for the company moving forward. 

Gary Horton, CEO of Landscape Development, Inc, joins the program to discuss the growth of his company since the last recession, and the lessons that he learned that have contributed to that growth. Discover the impact that technology is having on the industry, and the creative ways that Landscape Development, Inc. instills and reinforces their company values for both front-line staff and executives.

Ravi Rajan, President of the California Institute of the Arts, joins the program to discuss the history and mission of CalArts, and the unique approach that the school takes towards arts education. He reveals some of the technological changes that have created more opportunities for animators and artists, the benefits of being located in Santa Clarita, and the role of the arts in community and economic development. 

Have you ever wondered how film and television companies find interesting and unique locations for their productions? Karen Bryden, owner of SCV Locations, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the industry, and why Santa Clarita is a highly sought after area for filming. Karen also reveals the strangest location request she has ever received!