The Future of Manufacturing, with Randy Altschuler of Xometry

In our third episode, we dive deep into the core of the manufacturing ecosystem with Randy Altschuler of Xometry. Randy observed a fundamental inefficiency in manufacturing, which he instantly recognized as an opportunity: On the one hand, a number of small and large producers who often find their productive capacity stretched to the limit, unable to meet the need for additional parts. On the other hand, producers whose machines occasionally sit idle.

It sounds easy, but there is a lot more to connecting the dots, establishing trust, ensuring timeliness, reliability and quality. Matching the right production technology to every specific need is key. Sophisticated algorithms play a crucial role—but you will discover that in this era of artificial intelligence and innovative technologies, some of the biggest obstacles are surprisingly basic. Efficiency across the system increases; large companies like BMW have already bought into the idea. But what is the impact on employment? And what does this mean for global supply chains—could it make protectionism less harmful, or even encourage it? What does the future of manufacturing look like as platforms like Xometry expand?

This episode, like our last episode with Sorcero, contains a "part 2," in which Michael and Marco discuss the bigger implications of Xometry and Manufacturing as a Service.

Chapters

• 0:00 shout out
• 1:27 intro
• 5:26 interview with Randy
• 42:09 Michael & Marco postgame commentary