February 2024 Volume 6

AUTOMATION

The Automation Ladies Podcast featuring Chelsea Lantto of Trenton Forging By Niamh Field

The Automation Ladies podcast, hosted by Nikki Gonzalez and Alicia Gilpin, provides discussion, exploration, and awareness to the manufacturing industry with a focus on industrial automation. The November episode features FIA Board Chair, Chelsea Lantto, who recently implemented automation at Trenton Forging Company. Covered topics include Trenton’s history, cultivation of company culture, skilled trades shortages, and their journey into automation. Trenton Forging Company is a third generation operated; second generation owned forging producer specializing in custom impression-die forgings. Founded by Chelsea’s grandfather, George S. Moxlow in 1967, the company has evolved from modest beginnings with one building and two hammers into a thriving manufacturer. The commitment to reinvestment in employees and equipment by Chelsea's father laid the groundwork for the company's growth, paving the way for automation. Chelsea’s personal journey involves a detour from her initial career in public health, finding her calling within the family business. Since returning to Trenton, she and her brother, Dane Moxlow, now serve as president and vice president, leading the company’s evolution.

experienced in hot forging automation which eliminated the need for the integrator to adapt to the type of manufacturing. Chelsea said that the decision to embrace automation at Trenton was driven by the looming threat of future manpower challenges, as the company monitors competition from industries with working conditions more attractive to a less traditional generation. The labor intensive nature of existing operations made automation a strategic imperative to stay competitive and attract skilled workers. Trenton Forging Company seems to understand the challenge of attracting younger talent, especially in a loud and hot working environment. Efforts are focused on finding the right people and providing opportunities for professional growth. Trenton invests in the transfer of knowledge between older and younger generations with mentorship and on-the-job training, utilizing technology like ERP systems to document and share institutional knowledge. Industry workshops and webinars, such as those offered by FIA, contribute to knowledge-sharing efforts. When it came to cultivating an improved company culture at Trenton Forging, Chelsea states that transparency is imperative in Trenton's approach. This includes clear communication with the team, which is especially important regarding the introduction and reasoning behind investment in automation. The company assured its team members that automation is not about replacing jobs but enhancing capabilities. Trenton remains committed to its team members – emphasizing that no one will be replaced by a robot.

Chelsea Lantto, President, Trenton Forging

Chelsea mentions that Dane played a pivotal role in designing Trenton's newly automated production cell. He has an educational background in business, but Dane excels in the ability to adapt complex engineering concepts. His mechanical and creative inclinations were said to contribute to the success of the automation project. Trenton Forging also collaborated with an integrator

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