In today’s episode, we are joined by John Chaffin, the Founder and President of Western States Machinery Corp. His company provides packaging and processing machinery for some of the largest companies in the United States. John talks about some of his biggest wins, his best practices in business, thoughts on labor shortages, and the future of the production industry. Tune in today to learn about some tips and tricks that can create success in your career.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [9:17] Introduction to John Chaffin – what’s the most important thing he’s learned about business during his career?
• [16:07] What was the very first design or engineering design John ever did?
• [18:49] Of all the products John has seen, were there any he thought would be successful that didn’t become successful?
• [20:30] What companies has John had success with in the packaging and processing manufacturing area?
• [27:50] What are John’s thoughts on remote living and working?
• [32:55] If someone graduated high school today and wasn’t sure of the direction they wanted to go; what would John tell that graduate?
• [35:04] What are John’s thoughts on the labor shortage and robotics?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• In today’s world, showing up for your customers and demonstrating that you are dedicated, reliable, and dependable will offer you the best success to keep growing in your career.
• In the production and processing industry, if you want to get ahead, you must get out there, meet your customers, and tour the facilities. Anyone trying to do this work from home or who is unwilling to travel will not see great success.
• The drive to succeed, becoming the best at every level in your career, integrity, and honesty will provide you with great success in your career.

BIO:

John Chaffin started as a “Silicon Valley Automation Specialist” and had many installations with customers such as Apple Computer, Microsoft, Atari, Hewlett Packard, and Lockheed. From the first “Power Bar” line, “Pringles Potato Chips” to “Bowl Appetite”, John has always contributed to each customer’s introduction of successful new products. Del Monte, Nestle, Dole, General Mills, Nabisco, ConAgra, Kraft Foods, Proctor and Gamble, and Campbell’s Soup, are but a few of the many companies in the food and beverage industry that have relied on John’s solutions. Having traveled to more than 25 countries, John brings over 50 years experience to his customers…thus earning a reputation as “The guy who has the solutions.”

LINKS MENTIONED:

Western States Machinery Corp. Website

John Chaffin’s Email

John Chaffin’s Linkedin