Todd Beckerdite with Ajinomoto Foods

The discussion with Todd Beckerdite, a Senior Manager of Maintenance Foundation at Ajinomoto Foods, focused on the integration of AI in maintenance and reliability. Richard Leurig highlighted the evolution of generative AI, emphasizing its seamless integration into workflows. Todd discussed the potential of AI in creating decision trees for maintenance, reducing downtime, and predictive maintenance. He also mentioned the importance of connecting older equipment to modern communication devices for data collection. The conversation also touched on the interplay of AI, IoT, and sustainability, and the need for accurate data gathering for regulatory reporting and energy efficiency.

Linda Fanaras with Millennium Agency

Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial-focused podcast celebrating industry professionals and their innovations. He discusses the importance of marketing, sales, and branding in a commoditized market with Linda Fanaras, CEO of Millennium Agency and host of the B2B Brand180 Podcast. Linda emphasizes the need for a responsive website, social media strategy, and consistent brand messaging. She shares insights on rebranding and repositioning companies, highlighting the importance of internal buy-in and cultural change. Linda also discusses the role of AI and video content in modern marketing, stressing the need for meaningful and consistent communication.

Bill Cappel and Kyle Slagle with Cross Discipline Engineering

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech and talking to Bill Cappel and Kyle Slagle with Cross Discipline Engineering about “In a rapidly changing utility market, listening and driving to a solution is key”.

Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial podcast from Distribute Tech in Orlando, highlighting the importance of innovation and problem-solving in the utility and power industries. Bill Cappel and Kyle Slagle from Cross Discipline Engineering discuss their roles in addressing complex challenges such as achieving carbon neutrality without sacrificing reliability. They emphasize the need for prioritizing goals, understanding client needs, and staying updated with regulatory changes. They also stress the importance of standardization and updating outdated standards. Bill and Kyle share their backgrounds in military and utility operations, respectively, and offer their services through Cross Discipline Engineering, encouraging listeners to reach out for solutions.

Mark Kraeling with Wabtec Corporation

Industrial Talk is onsite at IoT Solutions World Congress and talking to Mark Kraeling, Solutions Architect at GE Transportation about “Achieving sustainable solutions in transportation with data!”.

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.

Brian Hronchek with Eruditio

Industrial Talk is onsite at SMRP 31 and talking to Brian Hronchek, Principal Trainer at Eruditio about “In the oversaturated world of Technology it always gets down to the people”. 

Scott MacKenzie and Brian Hronchek discuss the importance of people in industrial innovation and the challenges faced in the reliability, maintenance, and asset management sectors. Brian shares his background, including his service in the Marines and transition to the reliability field at US Steel. They highlight the disconnect between the availability of technology and the lack of trained personnel, attributing it to a shift in corporate focus from employees and customers to shareholders in the 1970s. Brian emphasizes that investing in employee training and development can increase retention and productivity. They conclude that a cultural shift towards valuing people is crucial for long-term success in industry.