Episode 23

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Published on:

18th Mar 2024

Inside Scoop on Sign Technology Evolution with Lori Anderson

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan speaks with President and CEO of the International Sign Association, Lori Anderson. Lori shares her journey in association management and her passion for serving the sign graphics industry, emphasizing the industry's impact on communities and the unique craftsmanship involved in sign-making. They discuss the technological advancements in the sign industry, workforce challenges, and initiatives to attract younger generations. Lori also gives a sneak peek into the upcoming International Sign Expo in Orlando and highlights the association's advocacy work in local communities. Stay tuned for a deep dive into the behind-the-scenes work that shapes the sign industry and the exciting events at the upcoming trade show.

Key Themes:

1. Passion and Creativity: The sign industry is fueled by passionate individuals who view their work as a craft, taking pride in creating custom signs that serve businesses and communities. The industry's commitment to craftsmanship and creativity sets it apart.

2. Technological Advancements: Digitalization has revolutionized the sign industry, transforming printing, electronic signage, and lighting technologies. The podcast highlights the industry's ability to adapt to digital advancements and stay at the forefront of innovation.

3. Workforce and Education: Lori discusses the challenges of attracting and retaining workers in the industry, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like Sign Manufacturing Day to introduce young people to potential careers in the sign industry.

4. Safety and Sustainability: Safety is a critical focus in the sign industry, especially given the complexities of installation and maintenance, while sustainability efforts are increasingly being integrated into operations.

Fun Facts:

- The sign industry is often referred to as the "most visible invisible industry" due to its ubiquitous presence in everyday life.

- The ISA's Sign Expo, a major industry event, offers attendees the opportunity to experience the latest technological advancements, network, and engage in various educational initiatives.

Lessons Learned:

- The importance of showcasing industries to young people to attract future workers.

- The value of creating inclusive initiatives in the industry, such as the Women Leading Industry event, to encourage diversity and provide opportunities for women and allies to learn and connect.

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About the Podcast

The Manufacturers' Network
Connecting Manufacturers with Manufacturers
The Manufacturers' Podcast is THE place for manufacturers to connect with and learn from other manufacturers. Not only will listeners get to learn from their manufacturing colleagues, but they will also discover HOW they can help each other as a resource or as a source of help and inspiration.

As a manufacturer, it's easy to get pigeon-holed into only focusing on your own industry, whether it be through your industry trade association or your industry colleagues. While trade associations are an excellent source of information for their members, sometimes it's gaining a perspective from someone else in a completely different industry that gives you the solution to your dilemma.

Stay tuned for new episodes every week on "Manufacturing Monday's." This drive-time length podcast will give you the information, tips and strategies you need to get your week off to a fantastic start.

About your host

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Lisa Ryan

As a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), an award-winning speaker and author of ten books, Lisa Ryan, CSP, works with her clients to develop employee and client engagement initiatives and strategies that keep their top talent and best clients from becoming someone else’s.
Lisa’s expertise includes: strengthening workplace culture, improving employee engagement, increasing customer retention, and initiating gratitude strategies (“Grategies”) for personal and professional benefit. Lisa’s participants enjoy her high energy, enthusiastic delivery and quick wit and they leave the session with ideas they are committed to acting on immediately to make positive workplace culture changes.
Lisa costars in two films with other experts including Jack Canfield of “Chicken Soup for the Soul.” She is the Past-President of the National Speakers Association, Ohio Chapter and holds an MBA from Cleveland State University.

Relevant Experience

• Keynote, breakout or workshop speaker at more than 100 national and international conferences
• Thirteen years of industrial marketing and sales experience, including seven years in the welding industry – and yes, she does weld
• Host of “Elevate Your Engagement Levels: What You Need to Know” on the Elite Expert Network and the C-Suite Network
• Creator of “The Seven Mistakes Managers Make to Crush Company Culture” video series
• Best-selling author of ten books, including “Manufacturing Engagement: 98 Proven Strategies to Attract and Retain Your Industry’s Top Talent”
• Award-winning speaker