ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie

Episod

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  Season 2 Finale: Season Wrap-Up with Chuck and Howie 18.06.2026 1j 10min

  Season 2 of ChatNAPT brought together some of the brightest minds in metrology, calibration, quality, and accreditation to share real-world lessons on leadership, workforce development, innovation, and technical excellence. From CEOs and laboratory owners to NASA experts and quality leaders, our guests discussed the challenges facing today's laboratories and the strategies helping organizations stay competitive, compliant, and future-ready. The biggest takeaway? Success in metrology isn't just about measurements—it's about building strong teams, embracing new technology, developing talent, and creating systems that drive continuous improvement. Whether you're a laboratory manager, quality professional, technician, or business leader, Season 2 delivered practical insights you can apply to strengthen your operations, reduce risk, improve performance, and prepare for what's next in the industry. And stay tuned, ChatNAPT Season 3 is coming this fall, with new guests, fresh perspectives, and actionable insights to help you get even more from your proficiency testing program.----NAPT will be in Kansas City, MO, July 27–29 for the NCSL International Workshop & Symposium 2026, and we're looking forward to connecting with the metrology community once again.If you're planning to attend, stop by and say hello. Whether you've worked with NAPT for years or are just getting to know us, we'd love the opportunity to meet, catch up, and talk about what's happening in your lab.The day before the symposium begins, we'll be celebrating NAPT's 30th Anniversary—and you're invited.📅 July 26, 2026🕒 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM📍 John's Big Deck | Kansas City, MOJoin us for an afternoon of great conversations, networking, food, drinks, and a chance to celebrate 30 years of supporting laboratories through proficiency testing.If you're attending NCSLI, we'd love to see you there. RSVP and get all the details here: https://www.proficiency.org/30th-anniversary-party/
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  Season 2 | Episode 15 with Bobby Feigler from Michelli Weighing & Measurement 21.05.2026 1j 13min

  What does it take to grow a family business into one of the most recognized names in weighing and measurement?In this episode of ChatNAPT, Chuck and Howie sit down with, Bobby Feigler President and CEO of Michelli Weighing & Measurement. Bobby shares the story behind Michelli’s growth from a small New Orleans business founded in 1947 to a company serving customers across the country.The conversation covers industrial scales, calibration labs, and why accurate measurement matters more than most people realize. Bobby explains how measurements impact everything from manufacturing and transportation to food production and safety-critical industries.They also discuss leadership, company culture, and the challenge of developing skilled technicians in today’s workforce. Drawing from his Army background and years of business experience, Bobby shares his approach to building strong teams and creating a company where people can grow.Along the way, the episode also touches on family, travel, military service, and the lessons learned from decades in business.If you work in metrology, calibration, or laboratory operations, this episode offers an honest look at leadership, growth, and the people behind the measurements that keep industries running.
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  Season 2 | Episode 14 with Heath M Moore from Tennessee Valley Authority 30.04.2026 1j 9min

  What can you learn from managing metrology in a nuclear environment and how can it make your lab run better?In this episode of ChatNAPT, Chuck and Howie sit down with Heath Moore, Senior Manager of Calibration Services at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). With nearly three decades of experience, Heath shares what it takes to lead calibration operations where downtime is not an option and every decision carries weight.They talk about the realities labs face every day, from hitting turnaround times and handling technician shortages to working with legacy equipment that still has to perform. Heath also breaks down why communication is often the biggest hidden issue in lab performance and what leaders can do to fix it.The conversation also gets into one of the biggest challenges right now, building and keeping a strong technical team. From developing new technicians to creating a culture where people step up and support each other, there are clear takeaways you can apply immediately in your own lab.
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  Season 2 | Episode 13 with Danae Powell from Carlton Industrial Solutions 16.04.2026 1j 5min

  What does a 40-year career in metrology really look like and how do you build one that lasts?In this episode of ChatNAPT, Chuck and Howie sit down with Danae Powell, General Manager of Precision Measurement at Carlton Industrial Solutions and a longtime leader in the metrology community. From her early days in the Marine Corps to leading teams and building labs, Danae shares the real story behind her career and the moments that shaped it.They talk about how people actually find their way into metrology, why strong technical foundations still matter, and what it takes to lead in an industry that’s constantly evolving. The conversation also dives into the current state of NCSLI, the need to rebuild engagement across the community, and why collaboration is more important now than ever.Because at the end of the day, metrology isn’t just about standards or compliance, it’s about the people behind the measurements and the experience they bring to the table.
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  Season 2 | Episode 12 with Ken Racen from Applied Technical Services, LLC 01.04.2026 53min

  What will it take to close the growing skills gap in metrology and who’s leading the charge?In this episode of ChatNAPT, Chuck and Howie sit down with Ken Racen, Director of Operations at Applied Technical Services and founder of the Metrology Institute, to discuss workforce development, education, and the future of the industry.Ken shares his vision for building a centralized hub for metrology training, one that brings together existing programs, supports accredited pathways, and elevates calibration as a recognized skilled trade. The conversation explores the challenges of attracting new talent, the limitations of current training models, and the importance of collaboration across organizations, educators, and industry leaders.Because the future of metrology depends on how we train the next generation.
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  Season 2 | Episode 11 with Steve Stahley from Cummins, Inc. 19.03.2026 55min

  What does it take to lead metrology at a global manufacturer and where can those skills take you beyond the lab? In this episode of ChatNAPT, Chuck and Howie sit down with Steve Stahley of Cummins, Inc., Director of Measurement Excellence, recipient of the 2025 Wildhack Award, and brewery owner, to talk leadership, technical excellence, and career growth. Steve shares insight on accreditation, uncertainty analysis, mentorship, and leading teams across global manufacturing environments, while also reflecting on transferable skills and why stronger education and certification pathways matter for the future of the field.Because the path from the lab might lead further than you ever expected.
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  Season 2 | Episode 10 with Troy Thomas from Essco Calibration Laboratory 05.03.2026 1j 12min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie welcome Troy Thomas, President of Essco Calibration Laboratory, back to the show, but this time Troy takes the lead and turns the tables on the hosts. Instead of being interviewed, he brings the questions many labs have about proficiency testing and what really happens behind the scenes. Chuck and Howie share their perspective on how artifacts are characterized, how reference values and traceability are established, and why careful handling and clear instructions matter as kits move from lab to lab. Troy adds his experience from the laboratory side, talking about how proficiency testing can uncover small issues that lead to important improvements in processes, training, and measurement practices. The conversation also touches on how the calibration industry continues to evolve, including the growing role of technology and the potential impact of AI tools. 
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  Season 2 | Episode 9 midseason recap featuring Chuck & Howie 19.02.2026 56min

  Chuck and Howie hit pause midseason to return to the open, unscripted conversations that launched ChatNAPT. Starting with recent headlines, they dig into responsibility, ethics, and the real-world impact of metrology work—especially how small oversights and complacency can snowball into bigger issues. They also discuss leadership, mentorship, accreditation, and staying engaged for long-term professional growth.Chuck reflects on NAPT’s 30-year milestone and how it grew into a leading proficiency testing provider for the metrology community. The episode closes with a preview of upcoming guests and an invitation for listeners to submit questions and future topic ideas.
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  Season 2 | Episode 8 with Stephen Doty from NASA 05.02.2026 55min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie sit down with Stephen Doty to reflect on a career that spans Navy calibration work, pressure and vacuum metrology, accreditation program leadership, and quality management at NASA. Stephen shares what brought him out of retirement and into the metrology lab at Marshall Space Flight Center, and how that environment encourages collaboration, shared best practices, and true partnership with internal customers. The conversation explores the evolution from legacy standards to ISO/IEC 17025, why ongoing education (for both labs and customers) matters, and how contract review and process consistency help prevent “quality blind spots.” They also discuss how accreditation has changed over time, what labs should consider when choosing an accreditation body, and why proficiency testing and interlaboratory comparisons remain essential tools for validating competence and improving measurement performance. The episode wraps with Stephen’s personal path into metrology and practical advice for those entering the field: stay curious, ask questions, and be a sponge for learning.
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  Season 2 | Episode 7 with Tom Lilly from Global Cents 22.01.2026 59min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie welcome Tom Lilly, CEO of Global Cents, to talk about a topic that impacts every accredited lab: document control. Tom shares how regulated organizations manage SOPs, approvals, records retention, and audit readiness and why “if it’s not documented, it didn’t happen” still drives quality. The conversation also covers leadership, lessons from military service, and how AI is being used to improve intelligent automation in documentation workflows while keeping humans in the loop. A must-listen for anyone working in metrology, calibration, quality, or compliance.
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  Season 2 | Episode 6 with Patrick Jester from Blackthorn Consulting Group 08.01.2026 1j 2min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie sit down with Patrick Jester, Founder of Blackthorn Consulting Group, to explore his unconventional path through aviation, military service, metrology, law, and leadership. Patrick shares how mentorship, discipline, and a commitment to excellence shaped his career—from Black Hawk helicopters to ISO/IEC 17025 assessments and consulting. The conversation dives into leadership values, ethics versus morals, the importance of integrity in quality systems, and how proficiency testing, training, and accreditation support long-term technical competence. Patrick also reflects on industry mentorship, writing Pillars of Command, and his vision for leadership within the metrology community. 
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  Season 2 | Episode 5 with Jon Sanders from Additel Corporation 11.12.2025 53min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie talk with Jon Sanders, President of Additel Corporation, to uncover how technical curiosity, mentorship, and a people-first mindset shaped his path from Hart Scientific and Fluke to leading a rapidly growing metrology company. Jon shares his perspective on simplifying measurement workflows, using automation and AI in meaningful ways, developing talent from within, and strengthening quality through accreditation and proficiency testing. He also reflects on leadership, industry partnerships, and the value of culture and community in building a successful metrology organization.
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  Season 2 | Episode 4 with Henry Zumbrun from Morehouse Instrument Company 25.11.2025 1j 9min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie talk with Henry Zumbrun, President and fourth-generation leader of Morehouse Instrument Company, to uncover practical insights you can use to strengthen your own measurement programs—from modernizing processes and applying clear decision rules to reducing risk and improving training. Henry shares how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on problem-solving can accelerate your expertise, highlights Morehouse’s force measurement guide and 40-week training series as tools to elevate your work, and offers personal reflections on leadership, community, and the company’s long partnership with NAPT.
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  Season 2 | Episode 3 with Michael Walsh from Essco Calibration Laboratory 13.11.2025 49min

  In this episode, Chuck and Howie sit down with Michael Walsh, former owner of Essco Calibration Laboratory, to trace his journey from a small family business to one of the nation’s most respected calibration labs—now part of Transcat. Michael shares how his father’s work on the Apollo missions inspired Essco’s beginnings, how teamwork and trust fueled its growth, and why investing in young talent is key to the industry’s future. They discuss Essco’s nearly 30-year partnership with NAPT, the company’s lasting impact on metrology, and the importance of community and leadership. Along the way, Michael talks about his passion for golf, sailing, and music, and reflects on what it means to carry forward Essco’s legacy within the Transcat family. 
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  Season 2 | Episode 2 with Rhett Price from IndySoft 30.10.2025 42min

  Chuck and Howie continue Season 2 with a deep dive into the evolution of calibration management software with Rhett Price, CEO of IndySoft. From humble beginnings in a small calibration lab to leading one of the industry’s fastest growing software companies, Rhett shares how innovation, teamwork, and customer focus have driven IndySoft’s success.They explore how digital transformation, cloud technology, and data integration are reshaping the future of metrology and what it takes to lead through that change. Along the way, Rhett opens up about the culture he’s built, his passion for music and pinball, and why curiosity is key to leadership.
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  ChatNAPT Returns: Season 2 with Chuck and Howie | C-Level Executives Making a Difference in Metrology 16.10.2025 49min

  Chuck and Howie kick off Season 2 with a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how metrology is shifting in today’s world, from industry consolidation and evolving technician training to the never-ending debate around measurement uncertainty. They mix sharp insights with humor and real-world stories, challenging listeners to think about where the field is headed and what it really means to keep precision, integrity, and purpose at the center of our work.This season’s theme spotlights C-level executives who make a real difference in metrology. Across the board, we’re featuring leaders shaping the industry, and we’re looking for more. If you’re a CFO, CEO, COO, CTO, or any other C-suite making an impact, Chuck and Howie want to hear from you!
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  Season 1 Recap 16.07.2025 43min

  After 14 episodes of metrology insights, industry banter, and real talk, ChatNAPT closes out Season 1 with a heartfelt and entertaining finale. Chuck and Howie look back on conversations with 11 standout guests, share behind-the-scenes stories, and hint at what’s ahead in Season 2, from C-suite spotlights to metrology-musician jam sessions. They also dive into integrity, risk, and why “buyer beware” isn’t enough in today’s calibration world. As Chuck puts it, “If you don’t solve the problem, you are the problem.”
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  Season 1 | Episode 13 with Ted Green from Naval Sea Systems Command 09.07.2025 37min

  Episode 13 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie features a sit-down with longtime metrology figure Ted Green, a self-taught electronics enthusiast whose fascination with schematics and gadgets in high school launched a career that’s taken him from military tech school to leading one of the Navy’s premier calibration labs. Now serving as the Technical Manager at the Navy Cal Lab in Seal Beach, Ted reflects on his time at Lowry AFB, his roles at Hughes Aircraft and McDonnell Douglas, and his deep involvement with the Measurement Science Conference. Chuck and Howie also mark World Metrology Day, celebrating 150 years since the Metre Convention and discussing how standardized measurement has fueled progress from early aviation to the space race. 
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  Season 1 | Episode 12 with Jeremy Sims from NexusCal 25.06.2025 51min

  Episode 12 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie dives into a hot-button issue shaking up the calibration world: ethics and integrity. Joined by industry veteran Jeremy Sims, founder of NexusCal and longtime metrology professional, they explore where things go wrong, from pencil-whipped calibrations to inconsistent standards enforcement. Jeremy shares insights from decades of auditing labs, highlighting that integrity issues often stem from either willful neglect or simply not knowing what’s required. With real talk, sharp insights, and a touch of humor, this episode digs into the challenges and responsibilities facing calibration professionals today. 
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  Season 1 | Episode 11 with Ryan Egbert from Sine Calibration 18.06.2025 50min

  Episode 11 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie features Ryan Egbert, President and founder of Sine Calibration and Sine Certified, talking about the critical need for hands-on training in the metrology field. From military roots to civilian solutions, Ryan shares how his program is helping bridge the gap, especially for transitioning veterans.