In this episode of The Common Chord, Carlton sits down with Peter Reiter, a production leader with more than three decades in component manufacturing, to explore what meaningful progress really looks like. The conversation moves from shop floor realities to broader industry shifts, offering insight shaped by experience rather than theory.
Lean Thinking That Starts on the Floor
Peter’s approach to lean manufacturing is simple and disciplined. Measure the time it takes to do the work. By tracking man minutes instead of relying only on board footage, shops can schedule more accurately, deliver more reliably, and reduce stress across the operation. It is a mindset built around respect for labor and clarity in planning.
Estimation Is Not Free
One of the biggest challenges Peter sees is time lost in estimating. Designers spend hours producing estimates that may never turn into jobs. That cost adds up quickly. Peter believes faster estimation tools, including AI-assisted workflows, could help shift effort toward final design work that actually drives revenue.
Looking Ahead with Caution and Curiosity
While robots and automation continue to advance, Peter is comfortable letting others go first. His focus remains on proven improvements that save steps and manpower without disrupting the flow of the shop. As he puts it, “If you know how long each operation takes, you can schedule your business instead of reacting to it.” That perspective offers a steady path forward in a changing industry.
