Betts on the Future

Hosted by Jennifer Betts

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Apr 2025

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Betts on the Future Podcast 🔩 Exploring Careers in Metals & Manufacturing ⚙️ Metals are the foundation of modern life—powering infrastructure, transportation, and technology. Yet, careers in metals remain overlooked. Betts on the Future , produced by Magnar Metals , shines a light on the dynamic opportunities within the industry. Hosted by Jennifer Betts , a 20-year metals veteran, this podcast features real stories from professionals shaping the future of steel, aluminum, copper, and beyond. Whether you’re exploring a career shift or want to learn more about the industry, these conversations highlight the women driving innovation and sustainability in metals - critical to everyday life. Looking for more industry insights? Check out the Metals & Advanced Manufacturing Podcast for expert discussions on the technologies shaping the future. 🎧 Follow for inspiring stories and career insights in metals. #Metals #Manufacturing #Careers #Sustainability #Technology Listen Notes Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support .

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41 recent

April 30, 2025Episode 2627 min

Alexandra Graf | SensoTech | S02E26

From Vaccines to Steel: Alexandra Graf's Unconventional Journey in the Metals Industry Welcome to another episode of Betts on the Future, hosted by metals industry veteran Jennifer Betts.This episode features Alexandra Graf, head of application and training at SensoTech.Alexandra shares her unconventional journey into the metals industry, starting from her background in biotechnology to becoming a specialist in analytical measurement technology. She discusses her passion for supporting users globally, the significance of SensoTech's innovative analyzers, and her dedication to encouraging more women to pursue careers in engineering and technology.Join us for a fascinating conversation about industry trends, digitalization, and the importance of knowledge sharing in the steel industry.00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:25 Meet Alexandra Graf: Head of Application and Training at SensoTech00:54 Alexandra's Journey in the Metals Industry01:58 The Importance of Knowledge Sharing in the Steel Industry06:15 Applications of SensoTech's Analyzer Technology07:30 Alexandra's Unconventional Path to the Steel Industry09:53 The Role of SensoTech's Analyzer in Steel Production15:27 Future of Analyzer Technology and Digitalization25:44 Empowering Women in the Steel Industry27:13 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsProduced by Magnar Metals.https://www.magnarmetals.com/podcasts/betts-on-the-futurehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershermanbetts/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-graf-63b108149/https://www.sensotech.com/en/https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164https://www.magnarmetals.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

November 4, 2024Episode 2540 min

Megan O'Connor, Ph.D. | Nth Cycle | S02E25

Redefining Critical Metals Refining with Nth Cycle's CEO Megan O'ConnorIn this episode of Betts on the Future, host Jennifer welcomes Megan O'Connor, PhD, co-founder and CEO of Nth Cycle, a company revolutionizing the critical metals refining industry through innovative electro-extraction technology. Megan discusses how Nth Cycle enables sustainable domestic production of essential metals like nickel and cobalt, which are crucial for U.S. technological advancement. She shares her journey from environmental chemistry to co-founding Nth Cycle, the significance of critical minerals in various sectors including clean energy and defense, and the challenges and successes along the way. Megan also elaborates on the importance of a resilient domestic supply chain and the impact of Nth Cycle’s commercial system in Ohio. Tune in to learn more about the vital role of critical minerals and Megan's inspiring entrepreneurial journey. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:26 Meet Megan O'Connor: Pioneering Metal Refining02:07 The Journey to Nth Cycle05:09 Challenges and Innovations in Metal Refining16:00 Nth Cycle's Impact on Military and National Security19:26 Modularity and Mobility in Metal Refining29:11 Building a Resilient Supply Chain33:05 Transition from Academia to Entrepreneurship36:37 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs38:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughtshttps://www.nthcycle.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

October 21, 2024Episode 2445 min

Nicole Sweet | RHI Magnesita | S02E24

Exploring Career Paths in the Metals Industry: An In-Depth Conversation with Nicole SweetIn this episode, Jennifer Betts sits down with Nicole Sweet, the head of end-to-end recycling for North America at RHI Magnesita, during the AIST - Association for Iron & Steel Technology Women in Steel conference in Pittsburgh. Nicole shares her journey from starting in the steel industry at 18 to becoming a leader in refractory recycling. Learn about Nicole's career milestones, the importance of refractory in steel making, and the exciting advancements in the industry. Gain insights into the realities of working in metals, the value of non-traditional career paths, and the crucial role of recycling in the industry's future.00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:22 Live from the Women in Steel Conference00:45 Meet Nicole Sweet: A Journey in Steel01:11 Nicole's Early Career and Growth04:27 Understanding Refractory and Its Importance11:11 The Future of Refractory Recycling18:08 Advice for Current and Future Industry Professionals24:29 The Value of Diverse Career Paths25:19 Encouraging Hard Work and Dedication25:40 The Importance of Trade Skills26:19 Flexibility in Career Choices27:09 Navigating Job Insecurity31:18 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome36:49 Advice for Future Generations39:29 Promoting Inclusivity in the Industry44:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Informationhttp://www.rhimagnesita.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

October 17, 2024Episode 2332 min

Rijuta Dey | Fastmarkets | S02E23

Exploring the World of Metals Journalism with Rijuta DeyJoin Jennifer Betts on Betts on the Future podcast with seasoned journalist Rijuta Dey. With a background spanning three countries and extensive experience in metals reporting, Rijuta shares her unique journey from her small hometown in India to becoming a senior reporter for Fastmarkets in the U.S. Gain insights into the niche field of price reporting, understand the importance of objectivity in journalism, and discover how the metals industry is evolving with new trends like decarbonization. Don't miss this fascinating episode filled with career advice and industry knowledge.00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:43 Meet Rijuta Dey: A Journey from India to the Metals Industry08:21 The Role of a Price Reporter in the Metals Industry14:46 The Importance of Price Reporting Agencies19:25 Challenges and Opportunities in the Metals Industry23:08 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughtshttps://www.fastmarkets.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

August 19, 2024Episode 2241 min

Maddie Carlson | Shapiro | S02E22

Exploring Sustainability in the Metals Industry with Maddie CarlsonIn this episode of Betts on the Future, host Jennifer Betts interviews Maddie Carlson, a sustainability consultant at Shapiro. Maddie shares insights into the world of metals recycling and sustainability, discussing her background, the importance of combining environmental studies with economics, and the challenges and opportunities in the sustainability consulting field. The conversation touches on topics from the impact of greenwashing to the fascinating processes behind metals recycling and the role of sustainability in the metals industry. Tune in to learn more about innovative approaches to recycling, the importance of sustainability in business, and the evolving demographics of the environmental sector. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:25 Meet Maddie Carlson: Sustainability Consultant01:38 Maddie's Journey into Sustainability04:00 The Intersection of Economics and Sustainability06:46 Understanding the Metals Recycling Industry11:03 Challenges and Innovations in Recycling21:14 Greenwashing in the Environmental Sector32:06 Women in Sustainability and Metals Industry37:00 Advice for Aspiring Professionals39:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughtshttp://shapirometals.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

August 12, 2024Episode 211 hr 0 min

AIST | S02E21

Empowering Women in the Steel IndustryJoin Jennifer Betts, a seasoned veteran in the metals industry, as she hosts Stacy Varmecky, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at the Association for Iron and Steel Technology (AIST), and Kelly Dallas, Senior Director of Engineering at Cleveland Cliffs. In this Betts on the Future episode, Stacy and Kelly discuss their impressive career journeys, the evolution of AIST's Women in Steel initiative, and the growing importance of diversity and workforce development in the steel industry. They also highlight the upcoming Women in Steel conference, the role of AIST in fostering new talent, and the industry's technological advancements and safety measures. Don't miss this insightful conversation on how women are shaping the future of the metals industry.00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:24 Meet Our Esteemed Guests: Stacy Varmecky and Kelly Dallas00:45 Stacy Varmecky's Journey in the Steel Industry02:15 Kelly Dallas' Path to Engineering Excellence04:39 Diving into the Steel Industry: Personal Stories09:21 Unique Office Backdrops and Industry Art13:39 AIST: Advancing Steel Manufacturing Technology21:32 The Future of the Steel Industry: Skills and Workforce Development30:56 Advancing Technology and Workforce Needs31:44 Engaging Women in Steel: The Initiative33:15 Focus Groups and Surveys: Gathering Insights33:56 Roundtables and Real Situations36:37 Women's Steel Conference: Growth and Impact37:47 Expanding Membership and Global Interest39:32 Conference Details and Professional Development41:16 Anticipating the 2024 Conference57:06 Final Thoughts and Encouragementhttp://www.aist.org/http://www.clevelandcliffs.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

August 5, 2024Episode 2033 min

Kelly Fairchild | Venture Metals | S02E20

Exploring Non-Traditional Paths in the Metals Industry with Kelly FairchildIn this episode of Betts on the Future, hosted by Jennifer Betts, we dive into the fascinating world of metals and the diverse career opportunities it offers. Our guest, Kelly Fairchild, Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at Venture Metals, shares her unique journey from technology sales to the metals industry. Kelly discusses her role in driving revenue growth, building global partnerships, and her passion for sustainability. Tune in to learn about the exciting dynamics of the metals sector, the importance of recycling, and how technology is transforming the industry.00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:23 Meet Kelly Fairchild: A Non-Traditional Path00:51 Kelly's Role at Venture Metals04:02 Transitioning from Tech to Metals07:02 The Importance of Recycling and Sustainability08:55 Challenges and Opportunities in the Metals Industry23:58 The Future of Technology in Metals31:58 Closing Thoughts and Contact Informationhttps://venturemet.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

July 22, 2024Episode 1936 min

Anna Tompkins & Jill Donahue | AWMI | S02E19

Exploring Women's Career Paths in the Metal Industry with AWMI LeadersWelcome to Betts on the Future, hosted by Jennifer Betts, where we explore exciting career opportunities in the metals industry through the eyes of experienced professionals. In this episode, Jennifer interviews two distinguished guests from the Association of Women in the Metal Industries (AWMI): Anna Tompkins, Non-Ferrous Commercial Director at Sims Metal and AWMI International Vice President, and Jill Donahue, Senior Regional Sales Manager at Commercial Metal Forming and AWMI California Chapter Social Media and Marketing Chair. They share their career journeys, insights on the metals industry, and the important role of AWMI in supporting and advancing women within the field. Discover how AWMI's educational events, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs foster leadership and inclusivity in this traditionally male-dominated sector.00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:21 Meet Our Guests: Anna Tompkins and Jill Donahue03:45 Anna Tompkins' Journey in the Metals Industry05:59 Jill Donahue's Path to Success08:53 The Importance of AWMI10:11 AWMI's Growth and Mission13:17 Benefits of Joining AWMI16:27 AWMI Events and Networking Opportunities35:03 Encouraging Student Memberships35:30 Conclusion and Contact Informationhttps://www.simsmm.com/http://www.cmforming.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

July 15, 2024Episode 1836 min

Anna Frounfelker | Ferrosource | S02E18

Revolutionizing the Metals Industry with Technology: A Conversation with Anna Frounfelker In this episode of Betts on the Future podcast, host Jennifer Betts engages in an enlightening conversation with Anna Fraunfelker of Ferrosource, a seasoned professional in the metals industry. With almost a decade of experience, Anna shares her journey from administrative roles to becoming a senior inside sales representative. They delve into integrating technology within the metals sector, the need for modernization, and the importance of lifelong learning and mentorship. Discover how Anna's unique career path and passion for innovation are helping to propel the industry forward. 00:00 Introduction to Betts on the Future00:22 Meet Anna Frounfelker: A Metals Industry Professional02:26 Anna's Journey into the Metals Industry03:21 The Fascinating U.S. Steel Training Module07:46 Challenges and Opportunities in the Metals Industry18:12 The Future of Technology in Metals33:43 Anna's Advice and Final Thoughtshttp://www.ferrosource.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.

July 8, 2024Episode 1725 min

Lisa Kagan | Buddy | S02E17

Revolutionizing Metal Recycling with Lisa Kagan: Live from ISRI 2024In this special live edition of Betts on the Future, host Jen Betts meets entrepreneur Lisa Kagan in Las Vegas during the ISRI conference. Lisa, who recently exited her New Zealand-based metal recycling business, Endless, discusses her journey from Deloitte to founding Buddy—a metal recycling marketplace. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the scrap metal industry, emphasizing the need for technological innovation and improved data systems. Lisa also shares insights into her career growth, balancing multiple roles, and the importance of marketing in the industry. The episode highlights the significance of recycling, the industry's evolution, and the upcoming ISRI rebrand.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:29 Meet Lisa Kagan: A Journey in Metal Recycling01:56 From Deloitte to Buddy: Lisa's Entrepreneurial Path03:50 Challenges and Innovations in Metal Recycling08:06 Balancing Life and Business: Lisa's Secret Sauce13:00 The Future of the Metal Recycling Industry24:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughtshttps://www.tradebuddy.io/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/betts-on-the-future--5887164/support.