ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie
ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie
National Association for Proficiency Testing
In our podcast, we dive deep into metrology, calibration, and proficiency testing bringing you real stories, expert insights, and candid conversations from our 85+ years of combined experience. This isn’t just another technical podcast; we’re here to challenge the status quo, discuss industry changes, and tackle big questions like whether calibration labs are failing to train the next generation or if automation has gone too far. Expect lively discussions, industry leaders as guests, and a little fun along the way. As Howard puts it, “Proficiency testing is checking that transition from theory to application. But what happens when techs are just pushing buttons?” And Chuck adds, “We’re not teaching technicians how to measure anymore—we’re teaching them how to press ‘go.’” Whether we’re reflecting on our journeys—like Howard’s path from Air Force electronics to writing calibration procedures for the NFL—or debating metrology’s future, we promise to keep it engaging, informative, and unfiltered.
Season 1 Recap
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.”
Jul 16, 2025
43 min
Season 1 | Episode 13 with Ted Green from Naval Sea Systems Command
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. 
Jul 9, 2025
37 min
Season 1 | Episode 12 with Jeremy Sims from NexusCal
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. 
Jun 25, 2025
51 min
Season 1 | Episode 11 with Ryan Egbert from Sine Calibration
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. 
Jun 18, 2025
50 min
Season 1 | Episode 10 with Dilip Shah from E=mc3 Solutions
Episode 10 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie features metrology veteran Dilip Shah, President at E=mc3 Solutions. With over 45 years of experience, Dilip shares how his fascination with measurements began at the age of seven and evolved into a career marked by industry-shaping contributions. The trio discusses Dilip’s impact on standards, training, and certifications, his philosophy on simplifying technical topics, and why he remains passionate about helping the community. It’s a mix of humor, history, and metrology insights you won’t want to miss.
Jun 11, 2025
49 min
Season 1 | Episode 9 with Troy Thomas from Essco
Episode 9 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie features Troy Thomas, President of Essco, about his unexpected journey into the metrology world—from answering a newspaper ad to leading a successful calibration company. They discuss the changing landscape of talent in the field, the importance of curiosity over credentials, and what makes someone truly excel in metrology. The conversation is full of insights on hiring, growth, training challenges, and even a bit of music talk as the group dreams about forming a calibration band at future conferences. 
Jun 5, 2025
52 min
Season 1 | Episode 8 with Chris Grachanen from National Instruments
Episode 8 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie features metrology legend Christopher Grachanen, whose decades-long career spans the U.S. Air Force, NASA, Compaq, and National Instruments. A pioneer in the field, Chris developed the original free Uncertainty Calculator and other widely used tools that transformed calibration labs around the world. He shares stories of innovation, leadership, and his role in launching NAPT, along with surprising passions like playing in bands and hunting for diamonds. Tune in for an inspiring blend of technical insight, industry history, and personal stories from one of metrology’s most influential figures. 
May 29, 2025
48 min
Season 1 | Episode 7 with Peter Unger from IQEIS
Episode 7 of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie features Peter Unger, co-founder of IQEIS and former President & CEO of A2LA. With decades of experience from NIST to building A2LA, Peter shares how the organization got its start, the role of General Motors, and why proficiency testing is essential to lab accreditation. Chuck and Howie reflect on their early days with Peter, discuss global PT challenges, and bust myths about government-led accreditation. A must-listen for anyone in the lab world. 
May 21, 2025
48 min
Season 1 | Episode 6 midseason recap featuring Chuck and Howie
In this sixth episode of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie, we’re looking back at the people, places, and moments that made the first half of our podcast journey so memorable. From trade show floors filled with familiar faces to behind-the-scenes laughs about bourbon preferences and three-wheeled scooters, this episode captures the heart of the metrology community. You’ll hear highlights from recent conversations, lessons learned from the road, and a few personal stories that remind us why precision matters.
May 7, 2025
36 min
Season 1 | Episode 5 featuring Jim Hewston from Cross Company
In this fifth episode of ChatNAPT with A.I. Chatterbots Chuck & Howie, we are joined by Jim Hewston, Director of Quality and Training at Cross Company and a proud NAPT board member. Jim shares his unique path into the field, starting with his days at NIST and rubbing elbows (and beards) with metrology legends. He brings a fresh perspective from the testing side of the industry and helps explain the key differences between captive and non-captive labs. But before we get technical, Chuck and Howie bond over their beloved (and beleaguered) Chiefs, classic TV like Gunsmoke and Johnny Carson, and the art of No-Shave November. Expect laughs, some serious industry insights, and a few beard-growing tips along the way.
Apr 23, 2025
48 min
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