In this episode of The Common Chord, Carlton sits down with Zach Hubbs and John Holland, two leaders guiding Paragon through its next phase, to explore what growth really looks like in the component manufacturing industry. The discussion dives into the shift from development to scale and the role of technology in helping manufacturers navigate increasing complexity.
For nearly ten years, Paragon operated largely out of sight, focused on building a strong technical foundation. That changed with its public launch, and now the company is stepping into a new phase defined by growth, adoption, and industry engagement. Zach describes this moment as the most exciting part of the journey. The work of building is no longer theoretical. It is being tested in real-world applications, with real customers who need better tools and better outcomes.
This shift matters for component manufacturers. As expectations rise around speed, accuracy, and collaboration, the need for modern, cloud-based tools becomes more clear. Growth is not just about adding users. It is about delivering real value at scale.
Technological Innovation
John highlights a key tension that many in the industry are feeling. The pace of technological change is accelerating, especially with the rise of AI. At the same time, the realities of manufacturing, labor, and materials remain complex and often unpredictable. The question becomes how to bridge that gap.
For component manufacturers, this shows up in practical ways. Estimating timelines, managing costs, and coordinating across teams are becoming more difficult, not less. Technology has the potential to help, but only if it is applied in a way that respects the physical nature of the work.
This is where Paragon’s approach stands out. By focusing on both the digital and physical sides of truss design, the platform aims to create a more connected and efficient workflow from design through production.
Looking Ahead
What stands out most from the conversation is the shared focus on people. Even as software becomes more powerful, relationships remain central to how the industry operates. Zach emphasizes that software is a means, not an end. The goal is to help customers thrive, not just to build features. That mindset shapes how Paragon approaches growth, partnerships, and product development. Looking ahead, the opportunity is significant. As more manufacturers adopt modern tools and rethink their workflows, there is a chance to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and open new possibilities for collaboration.
“Software is just a problem solving tool that helps empower relationships and trust.” — Zach Hubbs
