Growth Unplugged Podcast

Episode 6 - Battery Boom or Bust? The Crisis No One Talks About!

In this episode, Omkar Nadgauda, COO of EnPower, discusses the rapid growth of the battery manufacturing industry, driven by EV demand, green technology, and energy security. He explains how battery production is high-tech, requiring rare earth materials, complex engineering, and strict regulations.

Key takeaways:

  • The U.S. is investing in domestic battery production to reduce supply chain risks.
  • Battery segmentation varies by application—EVs, drones, and storage require different designs.
  • Data, AI, and automation are transforming operations, but hands-on manufacturing expertise remains crucial.
  • Leadership in manufacturing is evolving—people skills, innovation, and adaptability are key.
  • Omkar emphasizes that manufacturing is a people-driven industry, and success lies in problem-solving, continuous learning, and engagement.

Omkar Nadgauda is the Director of Manufacturing, Cell at Xalt Energy, a renewable energy semiconductor manufacturing company based in Midland, Michigan, United States. In this role, he oversees cell manufacturing operations.
WIZA.CO

Previously, Omkar has held positions at Amazon and Schneider Electric, where he gained extensive experience in operations management within the manufacturing sector. He is currently the Chief Operations Officer at EnPower, leading efforts to bring battery products from research and development to market.

LinkedIn

Company Website

00:00 - Introduction to Battery Manufacturing and Operations Management
02:18 - The Surge in Battery Interest and Climate Change
05:52 - Understanding Battery Segmentation and Manufacturing Process
10:41 - The Importance of Domestic Battery Manufacturing
12:37 - Education and Real-World Application in Manufacturing
14:40 - Complexities and Challenges in Battery Manufacturing
19:02 - The Evolving Role of Data in Operations Management
24:34 - AI's Role in Battery Manufacturing
27:38 - Leadership Challenges in Modern Manufacturing
32:59 - Key Takeaways for Manufacturing Leaders

Nikhil Joshi - Digital Transformation Leader

As the founder of Snic Solutions, I am dedicated to empowering organizations in the manufacturing industry to navigate digital transformation by uniting technology, strategy, and human potential.

Manufacturers interested in Industry 4.0 adoption— let's get in touch!

Screenshot 2024-10-05 093503

Past Events

AI Will Replace Your Factory Job… Or Will It? - with Ehab Beshay
Episode 5

AI Will Replace Your Factory Job… Or Will It? - with Ehab Beshay

February 13, 2025
Is Manufacturing Dying? Why Data and Automation Might Be Its Only Savior - with Raj Aitha
Episode 4

Is Manufacturing Dying? Why Data and Automation Might Be Its Only Savior - with Raj Aitha

January 30, 2025
Cobots, AI, and the Future of Work with Jeremy Keating
4
Episode 3

Cobots, AI, and the Future of Work with Jeremy Keating

November 22, 2024
Medical Device Manufacturing Myths Busted With Adriana Zanetti
Growth Unplugged Adriana
Episode 2

Medical Device Manufacturing Myths Busted With Adriana Zanetti

November 5, 2024
Securing Manufacturing: Navigating Cybersecurity Threats with Gordon Twilegar
Growth Unplugged
Episode 1

Securing Manufacturing: Navigating Cybersecurity Threats with Gordon Twilegar

October 10, 2024

Start Your Digital Transformation Journey Today!

Nikhil Digital Transformation Solutions (2) (1)

Get in Touch

Get in Touch