Deli Meat Outbreak, Military Helicopter Crash, VW's No Layoffs Pledge | Today in Manufacturing Ep. 186

Also on the podcast, mini fridge maker expanding, GM facing class-action suit, EV RV maker opening new factory, AI may not steal jobs after all, and morphing wheels drive up stairs.

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This week's episode is brought to you by MSI Data. Many field service organizations understand the technology they use in their day-to-day service operations, but don’t take the necessary steps to tap into its full potential. Download "Your Guide to Field Service Maturity" now to learn what “field service maturity” is, why it matters and how to get started. Download the guide here

Every week, we cover the five biggest stories in manufacturing, and the implications they have on the industry moving forward. This week:

GM Facing Class Action Suit Over 'Defective' Transmissions - @6:53

The carmaker said the harsh shifting was normal.

Mini Fridge Maker Announces $21.4M Expansion in Michigan - @17:28

The investment will create up to 200 new jobs.

Volkswagen Aims to Cancel No-Layoffs Pledge, Won't Rule Out Closing Plants - @27:08

The company said early retirements and buyouts might not be enough.

Lax FAA Oversight Blamed for Deadly Military Helicopter Crash - @38:08

A failed engine component went unnoticed.

Boar's Head Plant Linked to Deadly Outbreak Broke Food Safety Rules - @47:47

The violations include instances of mold, insects, liquid dripping from ceilings and meat and fat residue on walls, floors and equipment.

In Case You Missed It

Electric RV Maker Pebble Opens 60,000-Square-Foot Factory in U.S. - @1:01:33

The company's Pebble Flow Was developed by veterans from Apple, Tesla, Zoox, Rivian and SpaceX.

AI May Not Steal Many Jobs After All - @1:06:45

It may just make workers more efficient instead.

Morphing Wheels Can Easily Drive Up Stairs - @1:11:37

They were inspired by a drop of liquid.


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