Episode 94
Advice for Industry Leaders: Reflecting on Career Lessons and Growth Strategies
In this exciting episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding interviews four remarkable guests: Don Akery, Chief Executive Officer of Waldom Electronics; Holly Good, Senior Distribution Manager – North America at Knowles Precision Devices; Eric Slatten, President and CEO of ECS Inc International; and Michael Knight, President and CEO of Endries International Inc.
This episode is a special recap filled with valuable career lessons and advice, compiling the most insightful moments from previous conversations into an enlightening and cohesive episode. Each guest reflects on the pivotal career advice they would give their younger selves, offering wisdom and strategies that have shaped their successful journeys.
Join us as we delve into these wisdom-filled narratives and elevate your leadership journey on this episode of Leadership in Manufacturing.
“Virtually all of the great things that have happened to me in my life and career have resulted from an investment in networking I made prior to them happening.”
Key takeaways
Slow Down and Build Relationships:
Don Akery encourages us to slow down and truly understand our customers before rushing to make a sale. Building genuine relationships can pave the way for long-term success.
Trust Your Gut:
Holly Good tells us to stay the course. Trust your instincts, and remember that the right opportunities will present themselves when the timing is right.
Invest in Networking:
Michael Knight underscores the power of networking. Building a robust network can open doors to new opportunities and support your career growth.
Have Confidence:
Eric Slatten advises us to be confident in our abilities and not to be overly concerned with titles. Everyone is approachable, and confidence can help bridge those gaps.
“Reflecting on the journey, it is acknowledged the importance of valuing time and making balanced decisions. Time is the most precious asset; use it wisely.”
Leading with Confidence and Purpose in Industry
Show Notes:
In this episode of the Leadership In Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding engages with industry leaders Eric Slatten, Don Akery, Holly Good, and Michael Knight, offering a treasure trove of advice from their expansive career journeys.
The conversation kicks off with Don Akery, who advises slowing down to truly understand your current situation. Don emphasizes the importance of building relationships before diving into sales, comparing it to pacing yourself on a first date. This thoughtful approach fosters trust and aligns with Sannah’s perspective on providing value first.
Holly Good chimes in with her counsel to “stay the course.” She highlights the significance of gut instincts and timing, sharing her own career trajectory with Cornell Jubilee, which evolved organically as her personal circumstances changed. Holly’s journey underscores the value of persistence and aligning opportunities with the right moments in life.
Michael Knight reflects on the importance of staying curious and giving back to communities, a realization that came to him later in his career. He acknowledges that while hindsight offers clarity, the choices made at any given time shape who we are today. His advice to new industry entrants is to commit, work diligently, choose mentors wisely, and actively network—emphasizing the immense impact of a robust professional network.
Eric Slatten advises younger professionals to have more confidence and not be intimidated by titles. He shares his own experience of evolving from hesitation to confidently engaging with anyone, understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process. His key takeaway: confidence and humility go hand in hand.
The episode wraps up with a unified message: Leadership in manufacturing thrives on continuous learning, building genuine relationships, and staying true to oneself.
For more insights and to connect with industry leaders, visit leadershipandmanufacturing.com and follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. Remember: stay curious and keep learning.
Check out the full episode for more detailed advice from these industry veterans!
Guests:
Don Akery
Don Akery
Chief Executive Officer at Waldom Electronics
Don Akery is a visionary leader and dedicated principal with extensive experience in the distribution of electronic components. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer at Waldom Electronics, he has achieved revenue, profit, and business objectives while adhering to compliance requirements and developing corrective action plans.
Don has a proven track record in P&L enhancement, sales growth, sales management, business development, employee recruiting, and talent development. He holds a degree in Applied Behavioral Sciences and is actively involved in organizations such as Women in Electronics and the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors. Throughout his career, Don has been recognized for his outstanding work ethic, determination, and strong leadership skills.
Holly Good
Holly Good
Director, Global Distribution Sales, Knowles Precision Devices
Holly Good is the Director of Global Distribution Sales at Knowles Precision Devices with over eight years of experience in managing and supporting channel partner relationships.
She excels in organizational leadership, distribution channel management, new business development, and product training.
Holly is also a Founding Advisory Board Member at Women in Electronics, where she is dedicated to the professional and personal leadership development of women in the electronics industry.
Holly has received the WE Recognizes Award in 2020 for her outstanding achievement in empowering, developing, advocating, and celebrating women in the industry.
Michael Knight
Michael Knight
President & CEO Endries International Inc
Michael Knight is the President and CEO of Endries International Inc., a provider of OEM fastener solutions. With over 25 years of experience in the electronic components distribution and manufacturing industry, Michael Knight is an accomplished professional in the field.
Prior to his role at Endries International, Michael Knight spent 18 years at TTI, where he held various management positions. This experience allowed him to gain valuable expertise and insights into the industry.
With his wealth of experience and strong leadership abilities, Michael Knight continues to make significant contributions to the electronic components industry.
Eric Slatten
Eric Slatten
President & CEO, ECS Inc. International
Eric Slatten is a dynamic leader serving as the President & CEO at ECS Inc. International, where he manages key accounts and drives strategic initiatives.
With over 16 years of experience in the industry, Eric is known for his expertise in overseeing contract negotiations and acquisitions, contributing significantly to the company’s growth.
Listen Now
Related Episodes
How to Build a Winning Culture: Insights from Schneider Electric’s Michael Lotfy Gierges – Episode 108
Join Michael Lotfy Gierges, Executive Vice President at Schneider Electric, as he shares insights on building a winning company culture through people-centric leadership, diversity, and collaborative practices. Discover actionable strategies for ethical leadership and driving positive change in your organization
2025 Market Outlook – Electronics Manufacturing Insights – Dennis Reed – Episode 107
Join host Sannah Vinding in Episode 107 of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast with Dennis Reed as they dive into the automotive industry’s shift to electric vehicles, addressing key challenges such as performance, pricing, and infrastructure. Learn about market trends, the impact of tariffs, and the role of AI in manufacturing. Tune in for strategic insights and cautious optimism for 2025.
