#244 – Trevor Blondeel | Transforming Manufacturing Leadership

Building Better with Brandon Bartneck

In this episode of Building Better with Brandon Bartneck, Trevor Blondeel, founder of Manufacturing Greatness, joins the conversation to explore the evolving landscape of manufacturing leadership. Trevor brings over 25 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, sharing insights on bridging the gap between expectations and reality in leadership roles, fostering self-awareness, and driving continuous improvement.

The discussion highlights the importance of transparency, curiosity, and core values in shaping a positive organizational culture. Trevor shares actionable strategies for connecting the top to the shop and emphasizes the power of emotional intelligence and feedback in developing engaged, accountable teams.

About Building Better: Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.

Key Takeaways:

• Manufacturing leadership requires a shift in cultural perceptions.

• Engagement in manufacturing is lower than in other industries.

• Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.

• Feedback is essential for closing the showing up gap.

• Core values should translate into observable behaviors.

• Continuous improvement is a team effort, not just a process.

• Curiosity drives better communication and understanding.

• Simplifying complex systems can lead to better outcomes.

• Transparency in leadership fosters trust and connection.

• Clear communication is key to effective leadership.

Chapters:

• The Evolution of Perception in Manufacturing Leadership

• Bridging the Expectation Gap in Leadership

• Understanding the Showing Up Gap

• Cultivating a Learning Organization

• The Complexity of Organizational Leadership

• The Human Element in Manufacturing Processes

About the Guest: Trevor Blondeel is the founder of Manufacturing Greatness and a seasoned manufacturing leadership coach with over 25 years of industry experience. Through his speaking, coaching, and advisory services, Trevor helps manufacturers connect the top to the shop, driving engagement, productivity, and continuous improvement. He is certified with the Center for Executive Coaching, holds a Professional Coaching Certification with the ICF, and is a Genos Emotional Intelligence practitioner. Trevor is also an experienced public speaker and active member of the National Speakers Association.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Trevor’s speaking services: trevorblondeel.com

• Explore coaching and advisory programs: manufacturinggreatness.com

• Listen to the Manufacturing Greatness podcast: Podcast

• Subscribe to Trevor’s newsletter: Sign Up

• Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/trevorblondeel

Connect with Building Better: Follow the podcast for more inspiring conversations:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Google Podcasts