From Shipping Boxes to Robotics: The Flex-Line Story
Cathy shares that she started out doing all the behind-the-scenes jobs at the company, from shipping and receiving to installation and assembly. She became the company’s president in 1999 and has been leading the business for over 20 years now.
Lauren explains that she has literally grown up alongside the company, helping pack boxes from a young age. She says she’s probably one of the only 38-year-olds in the automation industry with 38 years of experience.
The host asks how one gets into the automation and manufacturing business, as it seems so complicated with all the machines and technology involved. Cathy explains that her family had a farming and engineering background, which helped provide the problem-solving skills needed. She notes that the industry is becoming more accessible, with advancements in AI and programming tools making it less reliant on having an engineering degree.
Automation Adventures: Growing Up in the Family Business
Cathy shares that about 10 years ago, they realized they needed to pivot the business more towards robotics, as the industry was shifting in that direction. This was a major challenge, as they had no prior robotics experience. But they overcame it by partnering with experts and learning on the job through collaboration. Cathy emphasizes the importance of knowing how to leverage resources and not trying to do everything alone.
The conversation then shifts to discussing a typical day in the life for each of them. Cathy describes her role as very hands-on, doing whatever needs to be done, from paperwork to manual labor. She sees her job as supporting and facilitating her team. Lauren wears many hats, from customer service to graphic design to industry research, and she’s also heavily involved in trade shows and marketing.
Lessons from Family: Building a Business Across Generations
Cathy shares lessons she learned from her father-in-law, Orville, who was a perfectionist focused on attention to detail. Lauren discusses what she’s learned from her mom, including embracing a more go-with-the-flow attitude and not taking everything so seriously. She’s learned to appreciate the value in different approaches, even if they don’t match her own.
The conversation concludes with Cathy emphasizing the importance of not getting too caught up in the small details and instead focusing on having fun and enjoying the work. She’s embracing the “grandma stage” of her career, where she can be more relaxed and creative. The group also mentions that Flex-Line Automation is in the process of becoming officially woman-owned.
Overall, the podcast provides a fascinating glimpse into the day-to-day operations and evolution of this family-run automation business, as well as the lessons learned over decades of experience.
Links:
https://flex-lineautomation.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/flex-line-automation-inc./
Topics discussed:
1. From Shipping Boxes to Robotics: The Flex-Line Story
2. Automation Adventures: Growing Up in the Family Business
3. Navigating Change: Flex-Line’s Shift to Robotics
4. Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life at Flex-Line Automation
5. Lessons from Family: Building a Business Across Generations
6. The Automation Revolution: Making the Industry Accessible
7. Mother-Daughter Dynamics: Leadership in a Family Business
8. Perfecting the Art of Imperfection: Embracing Change
9. Collaboration Over Competition: The Key to Flex-Line’s Success
10. Celebrating Women in Automation: Flex-Line’s New Journey