Tom Fletcher with Projective
Industrial Talk is talking to Tom Fletcher, Sr. Project Manager at Projective Engineering about “Utility management and optimization”.
Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec’s ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions, emphasizing their ROI and expertise. He then welcomes Tom Fletcher from Projective Engineering, discussing asset management and utilities. Tom shares his background in utilities and Projective’s focus on optimizing utility operations. They discuss the challenges of managing aging assets, the importance of proactive maintenance, and the role of AI in improving efficiency. Tom highlights Projective’s role in helping clients achieve sustainability goals and manage risks. Scott stresses the need for industry professionals to inspire the next generation and effectively communicate the industry’s value.
Chris Napier with Augury
Industrial Talk is onsite at SMRP 2025 and talking to Chris Napier, Reliability Success Manager at Augury about “Predictive maintenance with AI”.
Chris Napier, a predictive maintenance technician with Augury, discussed the evolution of maintenance and reliability practices over 25 years. Augury’s predictive maintenance platform uses advanced sensors and AI algorithms to monitor machine health, integrating with CMMS systems via APIs. Napier emphasized the importance of a solid foundation in reliability practices, such as building a comprehensive Bill of Materials (BOM) in CMMS systems, to effectively utilize new technology. He highlighted the role of human expertise in refining algorithms and ensuring effective preventative maintenance. Napier also stressed the importance of trust and collaboration in implementing and optimizing maintenance strategies.
Alfonso Aramburo – Master of Ops
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Alfonso Aramburo, Master of Ops about “Strategies for manufacturing optimization”.
The conversation revolves around the Industrial Talk podcast, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, highlighting innovations in the manufacturing industry. Scott Mackenzie interviews Alfonso Aramburo, a manufacturing expert with 17 years of experience, about his role as a “Master of Ops.” Alfonso discusses common challenges in manufacturing, such as operational readiness for business development projects and the importance of process mapping to streamline operations. He emphasizes the need for companies to address inefficiencies and improve workforce development. Alfonso also mentions his book on cultural change and the reluctance of employees to adopt new processes. Contact information for Alfonso is provided for further insights.
Bridget Youngs with Terminus Industrials
Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Bridget Youngs, Founder at Terminus Industrials about “Disrupting the transformer manufacturing market”.
Bridget Youngs, founder of Terminus, discussed her company’s innovative approach to transformer manufacturing. Terminus aims to reduce production time from months to under two weeks by automating processes and using AI and robotics. They focus on 138-34.5 kV transformers, a critical need in the ERCOT territory. Bridget highlighted the challenges of standardizing equipment across 1,700 utilities and the inefficiencies in current manufacturing. Terminus plans to launch products in Q3 2027, leveraging a team with expertise from companies like GE and Tesla to streamline design and manufacturing.
John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik with Hirata
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik with Hirata Corporation about “Manufacturing efficiency solutions”.
The conversation features Scott Mackenzie from the Industrial Talk podcast, discussing the MD&M West event with John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik from Hirata. John celebrates his 50th year in the industry and highlights Hirata’s 50-year history, starting with handcarts and evolving into a company specializing in automation and robotic solutions. Michael shares his background in manufacturing and automated testing. They discuss Hirata’s diverse clientele, including automotive, electronics, and medical devices, and their focus on long-term customer relationships. Hirata’s expertise in automation and predictive maintenance is emphasized, along with their integration of robots and systems for efficient manufacturing.
