Industrial Talk Media

Industrial Talk is talking to Seth Ratner, CEO at East Hills Instruments about "Telling the story of advanced precision measurement solutions".

Scott Mackenzie promotes Wildcat Generation's unmatched power generation expertise on the Industrial Talk Podcast. Seth Ratner from East Hill Instruments discusses his journey of promoting his company through an RV tour, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in business. Seth's company manufactures handheld test and measurement equipment for pressure and vacuum, highlighting their unique auto-ranging technology that eliminates the need for multiple devices. Despite challenges from large distributors, Seth's direct approach and innovative products are gaining traction. He encourages proactive asset maintenance and offers his contact details for further engagement.

Outline
Introduction to Wildcat Generation and Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott reiterates the importance of celebrating industry professionals and introduces Seth Ratner from East Hill Instruments, who is sharing his journey of promoting his company through an RV tour.
Scott praises Seth for his efforts in telling his story and emphasizes the importance of companies telling their stories to connect with their audience.
Seth Ratner's Journey and the Importance of Storytelling
Scott discusses the significance of storytelling in today's fast-paced technology landscape, urging companies to find their voice and connect with their audience.
Scott offers support and resources to help companies create content and tell their stories, emphasizing the importance of human connection in building trust.
Scott introduces Seth Ratner, who is on the road promoting his company, and highlights the value of Seth's approach in creating a personal connection with his audience.
Seth Ratner, expresses his gratitude for being on the show and shares his background, including his family and career in the gas and oil industry.
Background of East Hill Instruments and Testing Equipment
Seth Ratner provides a brief history of East Hill Instruments, mentioning its origins in East Hills, Long Island, and its current location in Westbury, Long Island.
Seth explains the focus of East Hill Instruments on handheld test and measurement equipment for gas, oil, nuclear, pharmaceutical, and wastewater treatment industries.
Seth describes the specific equipment they manufacture, including pressure and vacuum measurement tools, and their unique features like ergonomic design and patented technologies.
Scott, who works with various testing equipment companies, asks for clarification on the specific focus of East Hill Instruments, and Seth explains their niche in pressure and vacuum measurement.
Details of East Hill Instruments' Products and Solutions
Seth explains the two main components of their solution: a portable source of pressure or vacuum and a digital gage that auto-ranges and auto-calibrates.
Seth highlights the advanced features of their digital gage, such as high-resolution color screens, rechargeable batteries, and data logging capabilities.
Seth discusses the importance of metrology and calibration work, emphasizing the need for patience, methodical approach, and attention to detail.
Seth explains how their equipment helps technicians verify the accuracy of pressure and vacuum measurements, and the importance of maintaining equipment within specification.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry
Seth shares the challenges his company faces, including competition from large corporations and the difficulty of gaining access to large distributors.
Seth describes his strategy of going direct to customers and launching a reality show called "On Site and Off the Grid" to promote his products and educate the industry.
Seth discusses the positive feedback he has received from customers and the importance of shedding light on the industry and its critical role in keeping the world running.
Seth emphasizes the need for proactive insights into the health of assets and the importance of efficient and reliable tools for maintenance professionals.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Seth shares contact information for East Hill Instruments, including their website, YouTube channel, and LinkedIn profile, inviting listeners to connect and learn more about their products.
Scott wraps up the conversation, expressing admiration for Seth's journey and emphasizing the importance of storytelling for companies in the industry.
Scott encourages listeners to reach out to Seth and take advantage of the resources available on the Industrial Talk Podcast to tell their own stories and connect with their audience.

SETH RATNER'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-ratner-595738aa/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/east-hills-instruments/
Company Website: https://easthillsinstruments.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at SMRP 2025 and talking to Candi Robison and Daniel Rimmasch with IFS/Ultimo about "A flexible EAM cloud platform for today's industry".

Scott Mackenzie from Industrial Talk Podcast interviews Candi Robinson and Daniel Rimmasch from IFS Ultimo at the SMRP event in Fort Worth, Texas. Candi, with 25 years in EAM, discusses IFS Ultimo's cloud-based EAM solution, which integrates CMMS and EAM functionalities, addressing labor shortages, workforce retirement, and sustainability. Daniel highlights Ultimo's mobile capabilities, AI integration, and its ability to prevent data silos. They emphasize the importance of user-friendly interfaces, effective data capture, and training to ensure efficient maintenance and asset management. Ultimo's deployment can be as quick as three months, catering to various industries.

Background of Candi Robinson and Daniel Rimmasch
Candi Robison shares her 25-year experience in EAM, starting with MRO software and later working at IBM before joining IFS Ultimo.
Candi discusses the acquisition of Ultimo by IFS and the significant growth the company has experienced.
Daniel Rimmasch introduces himself as a business development representative with a decade of experience in the industry, emphasizing his passion for helping people and staying updated with industry trends.
Understanding IFS Ultimo's Solution
Candi explains that IFS Ultimo is an Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) solution that bridges the gap between CMMS and EAM.
She discusses the changing market landscape, with EAM leaders like Maximo and SAP evolving to asset lifecycle management.
Candi highlights the importance of addressing labor shortages, workforce retirement, and sustainability through EAM solutions.
The Role of Nano and Kevin Price
Candi mentions Nano as a partner that provides devices for energy-centered maintenance, connecting to IFS Ultimo for actionable visibility.
Scott and Candi discuss the role of Kevin Price, who is the head of EAM at IFS, and how Ultimo fits into the IFS cloud offering.
Candi clarifies that Ultimo is a separate company from IFS, focusing on maintenance-centered conversations.
Differentiation of IFS Ultimo
Daniel explains that Ultimo's approach includes health and safety operations, making it a one-stop shop for asset management.
He emphasizes the importance of preventing data silos and providing a singular view for all departments.
Daniel highlights that Ultimo is a cloud-based software, offering continuous support and additional features as clients progress in their journey.
Deployment and Implementation of Ultimo
Daniel explains that Ultimo's typical deployment can be as short as three months, depending on the client's needs.
Candi adds that Ultimo is multilingual, multi-currency, and multi-time zone, and can be deployed globally without a system integrator.
Scott and Candi discuss the importance of training and change management, starting with understanding the customer's process.
Future Trends and AI Integration
Daniel identifies AI as a significant trend, aiming to make the job easier for end-users by capturing and streamlining data.
Scott emphasizes the importance of AI in driving out inefficiencies and augmenting human efforts.
Candi and Daniel discuss the role of AI in capturing information and improving asset management.
Addressing Legacy Systems and Mobile Solutions
Scott asks about addressing legacy systems and the importance of a nimble, configurable solution.
Daniel explains that Ultimo offers an asset maturity assessment to help clients transition to the next stage.
Daniel introduces Ultimo Go, a mobile solution that is on and offline capable, making it easier for technicians to access and use the software.
Ensuring User Adoption and Efficiency
Scott discusses the importance of user adoption and the challenges of pencil whipping and data entry errors.
Daniel explains that Ultimo embeds AI to provide choices and accelerate data entry, reducing the need for manual updates.
Candi highlights the importance of effective tools for shift handover and ensuring seamless data transfer.
Supporting Young Professionals and Industry Agnosticism
Scott asks about supporting young professionals and addressing the learning curve.
Daniel emphasizes the importance of having the system accessible on mobile devices to help new professionals get up to speed quickly.
Candi and Daniel discuss the flexibility of Ultimo to support various industries, including food and beverage, and the importance of creating transparency across the organization.

CANDI ROBISON'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candirobison/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifsultimo/
Company Website: https://www.ultimo.com/
DANIEL RIMMASCH'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-rimmasch-434439156/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Frederic Borne, VP at Resonetics about "Medtech manufacturing and microfabrication solutions".

Fred Borne, a physics engineer and leader at Resonetics, discussed the company's expertise in medtech manufacturing, particularly in interventional cardiology, advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgeries, and bioelectronics. Resonetics specializes in microfabrication, including laser micromachining, and has expanded its capabilities through acquisitions, such as MemorySays for nitinol production. Borne highlighted the company's role in developing fiber optic sensors and implantable batteries, emphasizing their applications in neuromodulation and cardiac devices. He also touched on the potential of brain-computer interfaces and the future of neuromodulation technology.

Outline
MD&M West Event Introduction
Industrial Talk, sponsored by MD&M West and the News and Brews team.
Highlights the importance of MD&M West in delivering medtech automation, packaging, plastics, and design under one roof.
Emphasizes the innovation, energy, and conversation at the event.
Thanks the listeners for tuning in and celebrating the people driving industrial innovation.
Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott reiterates the podcast's dedication to celebrating industry professionals worldwide.
Encourages listeners to put MD&M West on their calendar for next year.
Mentions the importance of meeting people like Fred Borne at the event.
Introduction of Fred Borne
Fred shares his background as a physics engineer specializing in fiber optics.
Mentions his education at Laval University in Quebec City, one of the top photonics optics schools in North America.
Discusses his career in fiber optics and the acquisition of memory says by Resonetics.
Resonetics and Market Solutions
Fred explains that Resonetics is a top 10 contract design manufacturing company for the medtech industry.
Specializes in interventional cardiology, advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgeries, and bioelectronics.
Highlights the company's expertise in microfabrication and the acquisition of memory says for the production of nitinol.
Discusses the company's ability to provide micro components of nitinol, stainless steel, and other materials.
Microfabrication and Medical Applications
Scott and Fred discuss the concept of microfabrication and its applications in medical devices.
Fred explains the use of laser micro machining for creating extremely small components.
Mentions the company's ability to handle various materials and the importance of precision in their work.
Discusses the challenges and innovations in the medical device manufacturing process.
Fiber Optic Sensors and Medical Implantable Batteries
Fred explains his role at Resonetics, managing the fiber optic sensors and medical implantable batteries divisions.
Discusses the use of fiber optic sensors in blood pressure monitoring and other medical devices.
Highlights the applications of fiber optic sensors in diagnostics and heart pumps.
Explains the use of medical implantable batteries in cardiac applications and neuromodulation devices.
Neuromodulation and Future Technologies
Fred discusses the growing field of neuromodulation and its applications in medical devices.
Explains the use of neuromodulation devices to treat conditions like urinary incontinence and asthma.
Mentions the use of neuromodulation devices for sleep apnea treatment.
Discusses the future potential of combining neuromodulation with brain-computer interfaces (BCI).
Battery Technology and Innovations
Fred explains the advancements in battery technology and the company's focus on increasing capacity.
Discusses the differences between rechargeable and primary batteries based on application requirements.
Mentions the use of rechargeable batteries in neuromodulation devices due to their non-life-sustaining nature.
Highlights the importance of reliable battery technology in medical devices.
Contact Information and Final Thoughts
Scott asks Fred Borne for the best way to contact him, and Fred suggests LinkedIn.
Scott expresses his admiration for Fred's work and encourages listeners to connect with him.
Reiterates the importance of attending MD&M West and meeting industry professionals like Fred.
Concludes the podcast with a reminder to put MD&M West on the calendar for next year.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

FRED BORNE'S CONTACT INFORMATION:

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredbornegm/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resonetics/

Company Website: https://resonetics.com/

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Industrial Talk is talking to Klaus Andersen and Nils Olsson with Tacton about "Redefining buyers engagement for manufactures of complex products".

Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevo Tech, a company offering ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions, and then transitions to discussing Tacton, a Swedish company specializing in advanced manufacturing configuration. Tacton's CPQ solutions help customers configure complex equipment, supporting both direct sales and omnichannel interactions. The platform integrates with existing systems like CRM, PLM, and ERP, aiming to increase win rates, efficiency, and reduce errors. Tacton's AI capabilities can cut configuration time by up to 80% by structuring unstructured product data. Implementation times vary, typically between six months and a year, depending on the project's scope.

Outline
Introduction to Elevotec and Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec, highlighting their ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions.
Scott Mackenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
Scott Mackenzie introduces Klaus and Nils from Tacton, discussing their platform and its solutions for today's challenges.
Scott Mackenzie expresses excitement about the renaissance in industrial solutions and the importance of human-to-human connection in marketing.
Challenges and Solutions in Advanced Manufacturing
Nils explains Tacton's specialization in configuring complex equipment, comparing it to configuring consumer products like computers or cars.
Klaus describes Tacton's CPQ solutions for advanced manufacturing, supporting both direct sales and omnichannel support.
Scott Mackenzie and Klaus discuss the importance of making the configuration process easy for customers while ensuring technical accuracy.
Nils emphasizes the need for a buyer-centric smart factory, making it easy for customers to navigate the solution space without technical expertise.
Integration and Flexibility of Tacton's Solutions
Scott Mackenzie inquires about Tacton's integration with existing IT systems like CRM, PLM, and ERP.
Nils explains that Tacton is an agnostic player, able to augment existing systems without complete reconfiguration.
Scott Mackenzie and Nils discuss the financial benefits of Tacton's solutions, including increased win rates, efficiency, and reduced errors.
Klaus highlights the importance of accurate quotes and the impact of errors on warranty costs and rework.
Customer-Centric Pricing and Data Management
Scott Mackenzie asks about the flexibility of Tacton's pricing methods, including value-based pricing and detailed bill of materials.
Nils explains that Tacton supports various pricing methods, depending on the business needs.
Scott Mackenzie inquires about how Tacton ensures the system stays updated with the latest product changes and data.
Nils describes the typical setup of connecting PLM and CPQ systems to ensure data accuracy and timeliness.
Implementation Time and AI Integration
Scott Mackenzie asks about the implementation time for Tacton's solutions.
Klaus estimates the implementation time to be between six months and a year, depending on the project's scope.
Scott Mackenzie inquires about Tacton's use of AI in their solutions.
Nils explains that AI is used to structure unstructured product data, significantly reducing the time required for configuration.
Future Challenges and Market Reception
Scott Mackenzie asks about the future challenges and opportunities for Tacton.
Klaus and Nils discuss the increasing use of AI in their solutions and the expansion into configuration lifecycle management and production configuration.
Scott Mackenzie inquires about the market reception and any roadblocks to adoption.
Nils mentions that companies are eager to adopt Tacton's solutions, and the main challenge is ensuring widespread awareness.
Contact Information and Final Thoughts
Scott Mackenzie asks about the best way to contact Klaus and Nils.
Klaus and Nils provide their contact information, emphasizing their visibility on various platforms and their willingness to engage with potential clients.
Scott Mackenzie wraps up the conversation, highlighting the importance of Tacton's solutions and encouraging listeners to connect with them.
Scott Mackenzie emphasizes the need for industry professionals to tell their stories and use platforms like Industrial Talk to share their experiences.

KLAUS ANDERSEN'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klaus-andersen-8445121/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tacton-systems-ab/
Company Website: https://www.tacton.com/
NILS OLSSON'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nils-olsson-400715/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at SMRP 2025 and talking to Paul Crocker, Sr. Reliability Engineer at ReliabilityX about "Cultural alignment with your reliability strategy".

Paul Crocker emphasizes the importance of storytelling and podcasting for creating human connections in business, especially in the context of AI. He suggests using Industrial Talk as a platform to amplify voices and build resilient businesses. Crocker discusses his career journey, starting with the Board of Public Utilities in Kansas City, Kansas, and his role in implementing Maximo systems for reliability and maintenance. He highlights the need for effective training and cultural alignment between operations and maintenance. Crocker also touches on the challenges of sustaining success and the potential of AI to assist in maintenance processes.

Outline
Podcasting as a Marketing Strategy
Scott emphasizes the importance of storytelling and podcasting to create a human connection with the market.
Podcasting is recommended as a marketing platform to open doors and create long-term relationships.
Industrial Talk is suggested as a platform to amplify voices and promote business resilience.
Scott encourages businesses to consider podcasting to tell their story and build trust with their audience.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott humorously questions the year and the background noise, setting a casual tone for the podcast.
The podcast is broadcasting on-site at SMRP, with Speaker 1 mentioning the reliability and asset management focus.
Scott humorously comments on the lack of carpet and the constant backing up of forklifts, adding to the informal atmosphere.
Paul Crocker's Background and Career Journey
Scott introduces Paul Crocker, who has been in the hot seat 27 times, and comments on his changing appearance.
Paul Crocker shares his career journey, starting with the Board of Public Utilities in Kansas City, Kansas.
He describes his transition from administrative services to power generation, working with heavy equipment.
Paul pursued a Bachelor of Science in Network and Communication Management and later took over the maintenance department.
Transition to ReliabilityX and Maximo Implementation
Paul discusses his role at ReliabilityX, focusing on training and assessments, particularly EAM implementation.
He mentions the Maximo mass nine rollout for half of the utilities plants in Missouri, with plans to expand to Kansas.
Paul highlights the importance of training and the support from top management in ensuring the success of the training programs.
He emphasizes the need for a culture shift and proper training to avoid pushback from the crafts.
Challenges and Solutions in Training and Implementation
Scott and Paul discuss the different types of training, including system training and reliability training.
Paul explains the importance of integrating system training with reliability training to ensure practical application.
He shares his approach to training, focusing on the day-to-day life of maintenance supervisors and crafts.
Paul emphasizes the need for basic pieces like work initiation and asset location hierarchy to be right before adding more complex features.
Addressing Resistance and Sustaining Success
Scott and Paul discuss how to address resistance and sustain success in training and implementation.
Paul mentions the importance of having supervisors who can identify and engage problematic individuals.
He highlights the need for top management support and the role of supervisors in ensuring the system works well.
Paul shares his experience with user acceptance testing and the visual cues that indicate successful training.
The Role of AI and Future of ReliabilityX
Scott and Paul discuss the potential of AI in improving reliability and maintenance processes.
Paul views AI as an assistant that can provide better answers than Google but acknowledges its limitations.
They discuss the importance of understanding operations and maintenance working together and the challenges of disconnected management.
Paul emphasizes the need for passionate doers in the organization and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation and improvement.
Passion and Innovation in Manufacturing
Scott and Paul discuss the importance of passion and innovation in manufacturing and industry.
Paul shares his experience in the water and utilities sector, highlighting the complexity and importance of water systems.
They discuss the need for better public perception of the value of water and the challenges faced by water and wastewater treatment plants.
Paul emphasizes the importance of accurate and reliable operations in water systems to ensure public health and safety.

PAUL CROCKER'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pcrockerkck/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reliabilityx/posts/?feedView=all
Company Website: https://reliabilityx.com/

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