The Chris Voss Show Podcast – Blasting Innovation: Brandon Acker, President of Titan Abrasive Systems, Talks American Manufacturing and Tech

Blasting Innovation: Brandon Acker, President of Titan Abrasive Systems, Talks American Manufacturing and Tech Titanabrasive.com About the Guest(s): Brandon Acker is the President of Titan Abrasive Systems, a leading OEM manufacturer that specializes in abrasive air blast equipment commonly referred to as sandblasting equipment. Brandon purchased the company in 2013 from his uncle after five years of learning the intricacies of the business. Since then, he has spearheaded efforts to modernize and upgrade the product line, emphasizing the importance of American manufacturing. Brandon is passionate about utilizing made-in-USA components for all Titan products, ensuring quality while supporting local jobs. Episode Summary: In this exciting episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss engages with Brandon Acker, President and transformative leader of Titan Abrasive Systems. Known for his commitment to American manufacturing, Brandon dives into the company's evolution since he acquired it in 2013. From modernizing processes to utilizing advanced technologies, Brandon's insights offer a rich narrative of innovation and leadership in the abrasive air blasting industry. The conversation delves into the technicalities of sandblasting, highlighting Titan's focus on custom solutions for various industries, including military and aerospace. Brandon underscores the critical shift from sand to other media abrasives in blasting, discussing the benefits of reclaim systems and the safety improvements they offer. The episode also explores the future of manufacturing in the U.S., the potential impact of AI and robotics, and Brandon's unique leadership style that fosters team collaboration and innovation. Key Takeaways: Brandon Acker purchased Titan Abrasive Systems in 2013 and has since modernized the company’s operations, emphasizing the use of 3D modeling and efficient manufacturing technologies. American manufacturing holds immense importance for Brandon due to its quality output and the jobs it creates; Titan also prioritizes sourcing components made in the USA. Titan’s products cater to various industries, including the military and aerospace sectors. The innovation lies in their transition away from traditional sandblasting to more efficient and safer abrasive methods. Reclaim systems are crucial for modern blasting, allowing for the reuse of media and improving both cost-effectiveness and safety. The future of abrasive blasting could see significant advancements in robotics and AI, further automating complex processes and enhancing safety. Notable Quotes: "To me, it’s important just for being an American and keeping manufacturing here in this country, keeping supporting the country, supporting jobs." "If you can dream it, we can make it." "Even as an American manufacturer, covid kind of taught us some things and really helped us flush out any remaining parts that we might have coming that are not made in this country." "Technology, obviously, is a big one. For us in the blasting, a lot of robotics come into play." "Everything kind of looks like sand. Imagine everything’s in that form." Resources: Titan Abrasive Systems Website