Scott MacKenzie and Mark Kraeling discuss the evolution of the IoT Solutions World Congress, highlighting its shift towards sustainability and environmental impact. Mark, a solutions architect at Wabtech, emphasizes the company's role in optimizing rail transportation, which moves 40% of U.S. freight while accounting for less than 2% of transportation-related greenhouse gases. Wabtech's products, like Port Optimizer, enhance logistics by coordinating ship and train schedules. The conversation underscores the efficiency of rail over truck transport, with a single rail car capable of hauling 300,000 pounds, compared to trucks limited to 80,000 pounds.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Mark Kraeling on LinkedIn to learn more about Wabtec's projects.
• [ ] Promote industrial talk podcast and services to find guests and sponsors. Mention it is a central location.
• [ ] Consider attending next year's IoT Solutions World Congress in Barcelona for great content and people.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Mark introduces Scott MacKenzie and the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and innovations.
• Scott MacKenzie thanks listeners for their support and mentions the current broadcast location at IoT Solutions World Congress in Barcelona.
• Scott MacKenzie introduces the guest, Mark Kraeling, and mentions his previous appearances on the show.
• Mark acknowledges the introduction and expresses his appreciation for being on the show again.

Discussion on Sustainability and Conference Content

• Scott MacKenzie and Mark Kraeling discuss the evolution of the conference, noting a shift towards sustainability and environmental impact.
• Mark Kraeling highlights the importance of doing something positive for the environment, beyond just collecting data.
• Scott MacKenzie reflects on the rapid technological advancements and the challenges of keeping up with them.
• Mark Kraeling agrees, emphasizing the positive changes in the conference's focus and content.

Introduction of Mark Kraeling and Wabtec

• Scott MacKenzie asks Mark Kraeling to provide a background on himself and Wabtec.
• Mark Kraeling introduces himself as a solutions architect at Wabtec, based in Melbourne, Florida, with 27,000 employees worldwide.
• Mark Kraeling explains Wabtec's role in various industries, including transportation and mining, and its global presence.
• Scott MacKenzie recalls their previous conversation and mentions Wabtec's acquisitions, including Favela Corporation and GE Transportation.

Wabtec's Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency

• Scott MacKenzie inquires about changes in Wabtec's approach since their last conversation.
• Mark Kraeling explains that Wabtec is now working closely with customers to meet sustainability goals, particularly in fuel savings.
• Mark Kraeling provides statistics on the efficiency of rail transportation in the United States, highlighting its environmental benefits.
• Scott MacKenzie is surprised by the efficiency of rail transportation, noting the significant amount of freight it can move with less fuel consumption.

Coordination and Efficiency in Rail Transportation

• Mark Kraeling describes the logistics involved in moving freight by rail, including the coordination of trains and the efficiency of rail cars.
• Scott MacKenzie expresses amazement at the complexity and coordination required for rail transportation.
• Mark Kraeling explains Wabtec's role in optimizing rail operations, including the use of products like Port Optimizer to manage port logistics.
• Mark Kraeling compares the logistics of rail transportation to airport terminals, emphasizing the need for efficient management of freight cars.

Wabtec's Global Presence and IIoT Applications

• Scott MacKenzie asks about Wabtec's global presence and its applications of IIoT and analytics.
• Mark Kraeling mentions Wabtec's presence in over 50 countries, including mining operations in Australia and South Africa.
• Mark Kraeling explains how Wabtec uses IIoT and analytics to maintain control systems and ensure efficient operations.
• Scott MacKenzie is impressed with the data and statistics provided by Mark Kraeling, highlighting the environmental benefits of rail transportation.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Scott MacKenzie thanks Mark Kraeling for the insightful conversation and mentions the availability of contact information on the podcast.
• Mark Kraeling expresses his appreciation for being on the show and emphasizes the importance of sustainability in transportation.
• Scott MacKenzie encourages listeners to reach out to Mark Kraeling and learn more about Wabtec's innovations.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder to attend IoT Solutions World Congress and stay tuned for more episodes.