HIRED! The Podcast (Ft. Flex-Line Automation) | Ep. #50

Family-Driven Automation and Robotics

In this milestone 50th episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller is joined by a special lineup of guests from Flex-Line Automation, a leading company in the manufacturing and automation industry. The episode features Cathy Rinne, the co-founder, President, and CEO of Flex-Line Automation, along with her daughter Lauren Van De Mark, Sales and Marketing Manager, marketing intern Isaiah Roth, and Customer Service Specialist Cayla Sibley. Together, they delve into the challenges and triumphs of running a family business, the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace, and the future of talent acquisition in the manufacturing and automation sectors.

Navigating Family Dynamics in Business

Running a family business comes with unique challenges and rewards, as highlighted by Cathy Rinne and her daughter Lauren Van De Mark. Cathy, who co-founded Flex-Line Automation nearly four decades ago, shares the importance of succession planning and the delicate balance of leadership within a family-run company. Lauren, who grew up in the business, reflects on her journey from childhood involvement to taking on a leadership role. “I realized that the priority for me was to deepen my connection with my family and do something that benefits our customers,” she shares.

The episode also explores the generational dynamics between Cathy and Lauren, offering insights into how they manage different leadership styles while maintaining a strong family bond. Cathy’s experience and Lauren’s fresh perspective create a dynamic partnership that drives the company forward.

Emphasizing Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace

A key theme in this episode is the role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in the workplace. Cathy and Lauren discuss how they cultivate a positive work environment at Flex-Line, where empathy, understanding, and personal growth are prioritized. Cayla Sibley, who transitioned from the restaurant industry to customer service at Flex-Line, and Isaiah Roth, a marketing intern, both attest to the supportive and nurturing atmosphere created by Cathy and Lauren.

Cayla highlights the importance of EQ in her role, stating, “There is a lot of thought that goes into how you communicate with people, how you reach them, and what they really mean.” Cathy echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that emotional intelligence is crucial not only in sales but in all aspects of business.

Rebranding Manufacturing for the Future

One of the most significant points of discussion is the need to rebrand the manufacturing and automation industry to attract fresh talent. Cathy and Lauren both acknowledge that the industry can appear intimidating from the outside, often perceived as an “old boys’ club.” However, they argue that this perception needs to change to reflect the diverse opportunities available within the sector.

Lauren explains how Flex-Line is actively working to demystify the industry, particularly for younger generations. “I’m working with local high schools to start robotics clubs and expose students to the possibilities in automation,” she says. By introducing students to the industry early on, Flex-Line hopes to inspire a new generation of talent to pursue careers in manufacturing and automation.

Celebrating Flex-Line’s Growth and Success

The episode also highlights the personal growth and professional development of the Flex-Line team. Both Cayla and Isaiah share their experiences transitioning from the food service industry to manufacturing, expressing their surprise and satisfaction with their roles at Flex-Line. Isaiah, who is still in school, reflects on how his internship at Flex-Line has been a transformative experience, offering him insights into a field he never expected to enter.

Cathy’s leadership and commitment to fostering a supportive environment are evident throughout the conversation. Her approach to leadership, which blends experience with openness to new ideas, has not only driven the company’s success but also cultivated a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Flex-Line Automation

As Flex-Line Automation continues to grow and adapt to new technologies, Cathy, Lauren, Cayla, and Isaiah remain focused on maintaining the company’s core values of innovation, collaboration, and respect. The team’s dedication to fostering a positive workplace culture, combined with their efforts to rebrand the industry, positions Flex-Line as a leader in the future of manufacturing and automation.

This special 50th episode of HIRED! The Podcast is a testament to the power of family, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the exciting future of the manufacturing and automation industry.

About Flex-Line Automation

Flex-Line Automation, Inc. is a leading company in the manufacturing and automation industry, known for its cutting-edge solutions and innovative approach to problem-solving. Founded nearly 40 years ago by Cathy Rinne, the company has grown to become an industry leader, offering a wide range of automation solutions to clients across various sectors.

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