Topic(s)
- People-centric leadership
Lean was never just about process — it’s always been about people. The future of manufacturing depends on how well we connect, listen and grow together.
In conversations with operators, engineers, owners and educators, no matter where someone sits — on the shop floor or in the front office — the message is clear: we’re all part of one big, interconnected system. The stories we share aren’t just side notes — they’re full of real-life lessons, warnings, wins and playbooks for continuous improvement.
Rapid Fire Manufacturing was built to bring these voices forward. It’s not about being polished — it’s about being real. It’s about creating space to learn from one another in ways that wouldn’t happen otherwise. When we take the time to truly listen, we bridge gaps between generations, departments and industries.
This session will show how storytelling breathes new life into lean — not just as a set of tools, but as a way of thinking, working and building culture. Because when we lean into human connection, we don’t just solve problems — we shape the future of manufacturing.
- Stories bring lean principles to life. Hearing what others have lived through makes lessons stick and drives future improvement
- Different roles offer different insights from people from all walks of life, company executives, operations leaders, team members and those who support them
- Listening is a strategy. It’s how we move faster, avoid repeating mistakes and build momentum together
Hennig Inc. is a global leader in machine protection and automation support solutions for the manufacturing industry. It engineers and builds advanced chip management systems, protective machine enclosures, telescopic steel covers, way wipers, roll-up covers, cable carriers and more — designed to keep production running smoothly, safely and efficiently.
With headquarters in Machesney Park, Illinois and operations in over 20 countries, Hennig serves OEMs, machine tool builders and job shops with custom-built systems that solve real-world challenges on the shop floor. From protecting high-value equipment to managing chips and coolant in demanding environments, its solutions are trusted by manufacturers around the world.
Hennig doesn't just build components — it helps build uptime, safety and performance into every machine. https://hennigworldwide.com/
David Turner is a regional sales director for Hennig and Advanced Machine & Engineering (AME), where he helps manufacturers across the Midwest solve real-world challenges with precision engineering, chip management and machine protection solutions. With a background in both manufacturing and learning development, Turner brings a unique blend of technical insight and sales strategy to the table — focused on creating lasting impact through education, storytelling and relationships.
Before stepping into sales, Turner spent nearly a decade developing industrial training programs, helping frontline teams build the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. Now, he travels throughout Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia, working closely with machine shops, OEMs and automation integrators to drive smarter manufacturing outcomes.
He also hosts the Rapid Fire Manufacturing podcast, where he spotlights leaders, innovators and unsung heroes in the shop who are shaping the future of American manufacturing — one conversation at a time. 
