Brian Romano with The Arthur G. Russell Company

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Brian Romano, Director of Technology Development at Arthur G. Russell about “Automation Solutions”.

Brian Romano from Arthur G. Russell discussed the company’s focus on custom-designed automation, particularly for the medical device industry. Romano highlighted the importance of nimble solutions due to rapid market changes and technological advancements. He emphasized the need for continuous learning and training within the workforce, mentioning initiatives like a mini MBA and augmented reality glasses for remote support. Romano also noted the significant skills gap in automation, with only 16,000 graduates annually against 60,000 job openings. He stressed the importance of staying ahead in technology to maintain U.S. manufacturing leadership.

Robert “Bob” Voigt with Penn State University – METAL Program

Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Robert “Bob” Voigt, Professor with Penn State University about “Educating the Future Manufacturing Leaders”.

The conversation highlights the importance of the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress, scheduled for November 3-5, 2023. The Industrial Talk podcast, hosted by Scott Mackenzie, features an interview with Robert Voight, a professor at Penn State Behrend, discussing the Metallurgical Engineering Trade Apprenticeship and Learning (METAL) program. Voight emphasizes the hands-on experience provided to students, including foundry visits and practical metal casting. He also discusses the evolution of materials like austempered ductile iron and the integration of digital technologies to improve manufacturing efficiency and quality. Voight’s contact information is available for those interested in learning more.

Zach Bauer with Murrelektronik

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Zach Bauer, Sales Development Program Manager at Murrelektronik about “Automation Insights”.

Zach Bauer, Sales Development Manager at Murrelektronik, discussed the company’s innovative solutions for industrial automation at MD&M West in Anaheim, California. Murrelektronik specializes in automated machinery infrastructure, offering decentralized, agnostic systems that reduce labor requirements and improve efficiency. Their SIP safety fusion block consolidates safety signals on the machine, reducing wiring and improving connectivity. Bauer highlighted the company’s manufacturing facilities in Georgia, Germany, and the Czech Republic, and emphasized the importance of data collection and edge computing in modern manufacturing. He also shared his background in industrial automation and the company’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Jeff Williams with Commercial Fleet Financing

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Jeff Williams, Vice President at Commercial Fleet Financing about “Capital for Expansion”.

The conversation, hosted by Scott Mackenzie at MD&M West, features Jeff Williams from Commercial Fleet Financing. Jeff discusses the importance of financing in the manufacturing industry, highlighting the impact of lower interest rates on business expansion. He notes that his company, a family-owned broker, offers quick funding within 24 hours and has a high repeat business rate. Jeff emphasizes the role of financial partners in helping businesses reach their potential and achieve strategic goals. He also mentions the increasing demand for working capital loans and the competitive advantage of larger companies. Contact information for Jeff will be available on Industrial Talk’s website.

Dr. Paul Lynch with Penn State METAL Program

Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Dr. Paul Lynch, Associate Professor of Industrial Engineering with Penn State about “Educating the Future Industrial Leaders”.

Scott Mackenzie hosts the Industrial Talk podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their contributions. In this episode, he interviews Dr. Paul Lynch, who oversees the Metallurgical Engineering Trade Apprenticeship and Learning (METAL) program at Penn State Erie. Dr. Lynch discusses the importance of manufacturing in Erie, Pennsylvania, and the METAL program’s role in training the next generation of skilled workers. He emphasizes the need for hands-on training and collaboration between industry and academia to address the workforce shortage. The program aims to inspire interest in manufacturing careers and provide practical skills through boot camps and apprenticeships. Dr. Lynch also highlights the upcoming new center for manufacturing competitiveness at Penn State Erie.