America does not just have a labor problem. It has a capacity problem.

In this episode of Builders, Makers, Doers, Andy and Elliot sit down with Kory Anderson, founder of Anderson Brands, to talk about what it really takes to preserve American manufacturing, rebuild the skilled trades pipeline, and create businesses that last.

Kory explains that Anderson Brands is built around two core missions: strengthening American manufacturing through foundry operations, and filling the pipeline of young men entering the skilled trades through Iron Warrior and Iron Warrior Academy.

This isn’t just a conversation about foundries.

It’s a conversation about stewardship.

Kory lays out a mission that feels bigger than one company. He talks about why foundries still matter, why America cannot afford to lose more industrial capacity, and why the labor shortage is deeper than most people think. He makes the case that the country did not just lose workers. It lost exposure, mentorship, and belief in the trades over time.

This is what you’ll discover:

• Why preserving foundries matters far beyond manufacturing
• What is really driving the skilled trades pipeline crisis
• The decision that led Kory to buy Dakota Foundry
• Why systems are the first move in any turnaround
• How character can outperform experience in hiring
• Why AI is increasing demand for the trades
• Why the trades do not have an opportunity problem, but a branding problem

About Kory Anderson:

Kory Anderson is the founder of Anderson Brands, the company behind Dakota Foundry, Muncie Castings, Anderson Industries, Iron Warrior, and Iron Warrior Academy. He is on a mission to strengthen American manufacturing and help bring the next generation into the skilled trades.

If you are an owner, operator, builder, or manufacturer trying to protect what matters and build something that lasts, this conversation will hit home.

▶ Watch the full episode and subscribe to Builders, Makers, Doers.

Stay Connected & Follow the Movement

• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts
• Follow Builders, Makers, Doers on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ellerbrock-norris/

• Grab a copy of Andy Bassett’s book
https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/book

Connect with the Hosts

Andy Bassett
CEO, Ellerbrock-Norris
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-bassett-cpcu-cic-7711853/

Elliot Bassett, President and Partner, Ellerbrock-Norris
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515/

🌐 https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/