The podcast where girls talk industrial automation! We interview people from all walks of life in the Industrial Automation industry. Through a personal narrative/conversational framework we talk about PLCs, SCADA, IIoT, Machine Vision, Industrial Robots, Pneumatics, Control Systems, Process Automation, Factory Automation, Systems Integration, Entrepreneurship, Career Stories, Personal Journeys, Company Culture, and any other interesting and timely topic we want to discuss. Co-Hosted by Nikk ...
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Ready to launch faster, market better, and stress less as a course creator? You’re in the right place. Hosted by Julie Ball—marketing and tech strategist, business cheerleader, and your go-to girl for simplifying the techy stuff—the Digital Course Assistant Podcast delivers bite-sized, practical episodes to help you grow your course business smarter and simpler. Get ready for AI-powered shortcuts, marketing strategies that actually work, and behind-the-scenes tips to build a business that su ...
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From Tesla Batteries to Underground Tunnels with Riddhi Padariya
1:02:29
1:02:29
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1:02:29Ever wondered what it takes to lead automation projects at trailblazing companies like Tesla and The Boring Company? Nikki chats with Riddhi Padariya about her journey from nerdy high schooler inspired by "How It's Made" to becoming a controls engineering leader in industries ranging from tissue manufacturing to carbon capture and underground tunne…
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(Ep 5 of 5) Digital Course Marketing with AI — What to Automate and What to Write Yourself
12:39
12:39
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12:39AI can save you hours in your business—but it shouldn’t replace you. In this episode, we’re talking about how to use AI in a smart, strategic way to simplify your marketing without losing your voice. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why not all AI is equal (and the difference between generic ChatGPT and custom AI Assistants) ✅ How to use AI to spee…
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(Ep 4 of 5) Sales Pages That Convert (Without the Sleaze)
9:13
9:13
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9:13Writing your sales page doesn’t have to feel like a cringe-fest. In this episode, I’m walking you through how to write a sales page that actually converts—without resorting to hype or hard sells. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why most sales pages flop (hint: it’s usually vague copy or over-the-top promises) ✅ The simple anatomy of a high-convert…
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(Ep 3 of 5) Funnels Aren’t Dead — But Yours Might Be
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10:48
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10:48If you’ve ever felt stuck or overwhelmed trying to set up a sales funnel, this episode is for you. We’re breaking it all down step-by-step—no tech headaches required. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What a sales funnel actually is (for the newbies, we’re keeping it simple) ✅ The core elements of a sales funnel tied to top, middle, and bottom of fu…
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(Ep 2 of 5) The One Lead Magnet That’s Still Working
10:00
10:00
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10:00Struggling to grow your email list? You’re not alone—and your problem probably isn’t your email platform… it’s your lead magnet. In this episode, we’ll break down: ✅ What a lead magnet really is (especially if you’re new to list-building) ✅ How to come up with the right lead magnet idea for your course audience ✅ Lead magnet examples ✅ Smart ways t…
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(Ep 1 of 5) Writing Emails That Actually Convert (Without Feeling Spammy)
9:21
9:21
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9:21Ready to write emails that actually connect with your audience and drive sales—without feeling spammy? In this episode, we’re kicking off Season 1 with a fresh look at email marketing for course creators. I’ll walk you through: ✅ Why your emails aren’t converting (and the #1 mistake most course creators make) ✅ My simple Value, Tease, Pitch framewo…
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Machine Vision, Project Nightmares, and Automation Chaos with Kerry Pierce
1:08:56
1:08:56
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1:08:56Curious how someone ends up building a career around machine vision and industrial automation? Nikki sits down with Kerry Pierce, discussing the winding path that led her from computer engineering to becoming a machine vision integrator, the invaluable lessons learned along the way, and how she’s helping demystify the field for newcomers. ------- T…
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Building Business Skills as an Engineer with Brielle Reisman
49:47
49:47
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49:47How do you build business skills as a chemical engineer? In this episode of the Automation Ladies podcast, Ali G chats with Brielle Reisman, who shares her experiences at Applied Control Engineering, and the importance of combining technical skills with business acumen. Brielle shares how she embraced the value of personal branding and content crea…
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🎙️ Trailer: Welcome to the Digital Course Assistant Podcast
1:57
1:57
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1:57Welcome to the Digital Course Assistant Podcast—the show for course creators who want to launch faster, market better, and stress less. Hosted by Julie Ball, a marketing and tech strategist with over a decade in the online business world, this podcast is your go-to for practical tools, AI-powered shortcuts, and strategies to grow your course busine…
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AI in Industrial Automation - Insights with Ashlesha and Alex from Masked Owl Technologies
1:01:48
1:01:48
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1:01:48How will AI change Industrial automation? Ashlesha Anil Chaudhari and Alex Kaderi from Masked Owl Technologies join us this week to discuss how their team is building practical solutions to support engineers and rethink the use of AI and new technologies on the factory floor. Hear firsthand insights into what manufacturers are actually adopting, wh…
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Automating the Farm - The Future of Agtech with Katie Bradford
1:01:17
1:01:17
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1:01:17How is automation and robotics changing the future of farming? Katie Bradford, Founder and CEO of Rotate8, joins Nikki to share her story of building practical automation that empowers small farms to thrive without sacrificing repairability or local expertise. Tune in to hear the challenges and opportunities in ag-tech, the design of accessible rob…
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Lyme Disease, Tick Survival Myths, and Protecting Your Family with Tick Expert Emily Merritt
1:10:02
1:10:02
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1:10:02Think ticks can’t find you at work? Think again! In this special episode hosts Nikki Gonzales and Courtney Fernandez sit down with tick expert Emily Merritt (aka the “Tick Chick”). Learn firsthand what Lyme disease can really mean, what to watch for after a bite, how to handle household exposure, and tips you won’t find on a repellant can. Ready to…
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Bridging Tech, Manufacturing & STEM Careers with Brit Bartolini
1:05:19
1:05:19
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1:05:19This week Nikki sits down with Brit Bartolini, Enterprise Account Director at MaintainX, for a conversation on digital transformation in manufacturing, the future of maintenance, and attracting new generations to STEM careers. Hear how real-world manufacturing pain points, a love of gadgets, and a dash of maker-spirit are turning maintenance work i…
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Fixing Automation’s Biggest Skills Gap With Paul Godines
54:20
54:20
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54:20Frustrated by the skills gap in automation? There’s a new approach in town. Join Nikki Gonzales as she sits down with Paul Godines from Logix Trainers to talk real solutions for bridging the entry-level technician divide. On this episode of Automation Ladies, you’ll get the inside story on why simulation training matters, what makes tenacity essent…
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Building Smart Factories and Smart Teams: Secrets from Dr. Nicole Schra-Martin
45:04
45:04
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45:04How do you build sustainable talent pipelines for the industry? Nikki Gonzales, Ali G, and Courtney Fernandez sit down with Dr. Nicole Schra Martin, an expert in manufacturing and automation, to discuss early STEM education, practical hiring for automation roles, and the changing face of industrial automation careers. These themes are essential for…
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Mastering Trade Show Success with Joe Campbell & Jennifer Mass
1:09:34
1:09:34
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1:09:34What’s the ROI of your trade show booth? Trade shows cost more than most companies realize. Yet, year after year, exhibitors throw away tens of thousands by showing up unprepared, staff glued to phones, demos unfinished, and leads lost. In this episode we chat with veteran exhibitors and industry experts, Joe Campbell and Jennifer Mass, to learn ho…
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Building Kansas City’s Go-To Controls Team with Caitlyn Young
1:00:36
1:00:36
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1:00:36What is it like to build a thriving controls engineering company with your partner? The Automation Ladies sit down with Caitlyn Young from Integrated Controls and Engineering to discuss what it takes to balance business, engineering, and partnership—all while serving the local industry at the highest level. Join us as Caitlyn shares the secrets of …
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AI, Tariffs, and Million-Dollar Mistakes in Automation—Live Insights With Frank Hurtte & Larry White
1:08:08
1:08:08
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1:08:08Curious why manufacturer-distributor relationships still make or break automation sales? Nikki Gonzales talked with industry veterans Frank Hurtte & Larry White at AHTD about tariffs, global supply chain headaches, how AI is shifting the workforce & why family-run industrial businesses are thriving. ------ Huge thank you to Automate.org for sponsor…
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Major Life Updates, Texas Moves, and Big Community News
54:18
54:18
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54:18The Automation Ladies are all back together! Catch up as they mark the return of the podcast for a new season, sharing candid updates on life transitions, moves, industry shifts, and unexpected opportunities. Listen in for real talk about building and growing their women-led automation community, the creative push behind the unique OT SCADA CON eve…
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Predictive Maintenance and Industry Insights with Ryan Treece
49:38
49:38
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49:38Many factories struggle with unexpected equipment failure, resulting in costly downtime hits without warning. How can you avoid this with predictive maintenance strategies? Join us as we welcome special guest Ryan Treece from FreeWave Technologies for a discussion covering many industry insights. Discover how implementing predictive maintenance usi…
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Catch up with Nikki - What's Coming in Season 6
28:17
28:17
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28:17We’re back! In this special solo kickoff to Season 6, Nikki shares what’s new with Automation Ladies — including her new role at Weintek USA, a big media partnership, and all the exciting things ahead for the show and community. In this episode: •Why Nikki joined the team at Weintek USA •The big announcement: Automation Ladies is now part of Indust…
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Demo of Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure w/ Jen Sutter, Itoro Meshioye & Talita Clemente
58:49
58:49
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58:49How can breaking free from traditional limitations unlock a new era of innovation and resilience in automation? Join us with Jennifer Sutter, Itoro Meshioye, and Talita Clemente, three amazing women from Schneider Electric, who are pioneering the “Universal Automation” movement, where design flexibility and hardware independence redefine possibilit…
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Collaborative Innovation, AI, & Cultural Dynamics w/ Dylan DuFresne
1:07:27
1:07:27
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1:07:27How can the collaboration between AI and cultural understanding create optimal performance in projects? Join us with Solutions Architect, Dylan DuFresne, as we navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation, shedding light on the often-overlooked human elements that can make or break technology implementations. We reflect on the evolving …
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OT, IT, & Cybersecurity in Manufacturing w/ Leah Dodson & Ashley Van Hoeson
1:06:37
1:06:37
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1:06:37OT, IT, and Cybersecurity - how are they different, related, and are you protected? Join us with Leah Dodson & Ashley Van Hoesen, as we master the distinctions between OT, IT, and Cybersecurity roles in the manufacturing industry. Gain insider knowledge on governance, risk, compliance, and the psychological tactics of scammers and hackers. Discover…
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Boiler Technologies, Training, & Empowerment w/Eric Johnson
1:16:28
1:16:28
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1:16:28Dive into the world of boiler technologies, the growing role of automation, and the power of training and development. Join us with, Eric Johnson, CEO of Boilearn, as we enthusiastically tackle the pivotal topic of training and development in the mechanical and boiler industries. We emphasize the value of a diverse skill set, allowing technicians t…
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Essential Leadership Skills & Community w/Alicia Lomas
59:33
59:33
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59:33What are the essential skills for a leader to create a supportive work culture? With retic and humor, our conversation with Alicia Lomas uncovers the nuances of leadership, exploring invaluable lesson on emotional regulation, the art of providing and receiving feedback, and the distinction between mentoring and managing-all essential skills for any…
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From Passion to Purpose, Navigating Through Career Changes & Growth w/Alex Pool
1:02:27
1:02:27
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1:02:27What if passion, resilience, and community could lead you to unexpected heights in a career? Join us along with Alex Pool from Masked Owl Technologies as we discuss how achievements, setbacks, fervor, and maintaining strong industry connections can pave the way for long-term personal and career success. We delve into the complexities of transitioni…
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Unlocking Industrial Efficiency: Insights on Compressed Air Systems w/Rob Michael
1:13:11
1:13:11
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1:13:11Discover how optimizing often-overlooked compressed air systems can revolutionize industrial efficiency. Nikki, Ali, Courtney, and Senior Compressed Air Technician, Rob Michael, share practical wisdom on avoiding design mistakes by consulting with domain experts, delving into technical insights and real-life experiences in working with air compress…
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Gender Dynamics, Mentorship, and Innovation w/ Christine Lee and Mara Pillott
1:03:52
1:03:52
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1:03:52Challenging existing norms and community are the keys to navigating the ever-evolving realm of industrial automation Join us along with Mara Pillott and Christine Lee in addressing the changing landscape of remote work, the intricate gender dynamics, and the urgent demand for inventive solutions to the engineering skill gap in the industrial automa…
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Attending Industry Events Increases Professional Growth w/ Brandon Peters
23:04
23:04
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23:04Attending industry events are crucial in extending your professional network and growing professionally. Join us with Brandon Peters, CEO of Shockwave Automation, as we highlight how short, focused sessions and face-to-face interactions at industry events can offer practical insights and foster meaningful connections. Gain insights into the importa…
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Connecting Through Content Creation, Cultural Exchange, & Personal Growth w/Jakob Sagatowski
1:00:51
1:00:51
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1:00:51Balancing work, life, and personal growth with cultural experiences and collaborative mindsets. Join us for a hearty conversation with Jakob Sagatowski, Software Engineer & CEO Sagatowski, involving traditions and career transitions, blending personal stories into an engaging narrative with nostalgic items symbolizing pride, success, and good fortu…
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Exploring Cybersecurity in Industrial Automation w/ Michael Grollmus
1:02:59
1:02:59
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1:02:59Cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing fields, offering a wealth of job opportunities. Join us as we discuss the challenges and advancements in cybersecurity in industrial automation with Michael Grollmus, CEO of Grollmus, highlighting the crossroads of tradition and innovation in this evolving sector. Together we investigate the mesh …
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Insights on Effective Social Media in the Industrial Sector with Susan Wilson
23:26
23:26
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23:26If you know us ladies, you know we love to network, both in-person and online, especially through social media. Join us, as we delve into the wonders and the transformations of social media with Susan Wilson from Inductive Automation. Sparked by her husband's career as a toolmaker machinist, hear how Susan discovered a passion for digital strategy,…
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Modernizing Dairy Farming with Automation ft. Vinny Endres
55:50
55:50
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55:50Nikki & Ali, sit down with Vinny Endres, owner of Bitmasked Automation & a trailblazer in dairy farm automation. Vinny shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming a diesel mechanic, then discovering his passion for electrical engineering & automation. He shares his unique perspective integrating robotic technologies in dairy farm…
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Building a Visionary Business in Automation with Erick Collins
39:15
39:15
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39:15What happens when a young troublemaker with a love for computers and cars finds himself at the forefront of the robotics and machine vision industries? Nikki and Courtney chat with Erick Collins, owner of Rockport Integration and Automation. Through a significant change in career direction and the influence of pivotal figures, Erick's path was anyt…
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Leveraging Expert Collaboration & TikTok with Kathy at Flex-Line Automation & Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024)
22:57
22:57
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22:57Ali and Nikki sit down with Kathy Rinne, the Conveyor Cougar from Flex-Line Automation, and Ed Garstkiewicz, Sr. Industry Segment Manager of Automation and Robotics from HARTING. They touch on how in the ever-evolving landscape of industrial automation and marketing, collaborating with experts is more important than ever. And ever wondered how a 12…
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Revolutionizing Automation with Corey at HARTING & Ale at Gray Solutions (Automate 2024)
19:24
19:24
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19:24Join the Automation Ladies once again at Automate 2024 as they chat with Corey Jenkins from HARTING and Ale Walker from Gray Solutions. Corey dives into the engineering magic behind HARTING's plug-and-play solutions, while Ale brings a personal touch, giving a heartfelt shout-out to her mom, Kathy Walker, the CEO of eCami. They share how these conn…
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Bridging Innovation and Culture with Casey from HARTING (Automate 2024)
23:08
23:08
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23:08Join the Automation Ladies as they chat with Casey Spitz, the VP of Development and Innovation at HARTING. She takes us through setting up product development teams in the US, all things connectors, and customer engagement strategies. Discover the role of connectors in transforming data centers and AI technologies, and learn how these small compone…
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From SPE Standards to Hands-On Automation with McKenzie from CLN of SF and Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024)
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43:01
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43:01Join us as the Automation Ladies sit down with McKenzie Reed, President of Single Paired Ether Standards Development / CLN of South Florida, and Ed Garskowitz, Business Development Manager at HARTING. Mckenzie shares his journey from working at Harting to acquiring his own industrial machinery company. Alongside McKenzie, Ed reflects on their colla…
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News Ways of Networking with Chris at Manufacturing Happy Hour & Amanda at HARTING (Automate 2024)
17:54
17:54
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17:54Ali and Nikki speak with Chris Luecke from Manufacturing Happy Hour and Amanda Marx, Senior VP of Marketing Digital Strategy & IT at HARTING. This minisode goes from casual LinkedIn conversations to establishing a dynamic community for women in industrial automation. They uncover the secrets of building niche communities, the importance of multi-ge…
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Exploring Festo's Innovations with Sandro at Festo & Lucas at HARTING (Automate 2024)
23:51
23:51
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23:51Ready to revolutionize your approach to automation and connectivity? Join us on the show floor at Automate, where Nikki and Ali sit down with two industry powerhouses, Sandro Quintero from Festo and Lucas Knapp from HARTING. You'll uncover the secrets behind Festo's groundbreaking transition from traditional pneumatics to state-of-the-art electric …
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Trends that are Reshaping Manufacturing Automation with Luis at Siemens & Ed at HARTING (Automate 2024)
15:51
15:51
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15:51In this second "minisode" from the floor of Automate 2024, Nikki and Ali sit down with Ed Garstkiewicz, Senior Industry Segment Manager at HARTING, and Luis Narvaez, Automation & Marketing Specialist at Siemens. We unpack the modernization trends reshaping the landscape of PLCs, automation, and manufacturing — the move to decentralized automation, …
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Flexible Navigation with Srna at OTTO and Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024)
27:24
27:24
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27:24In this first "minisode" from Automate, Nikki and Ali sit down with Srna Okukua, Head of Marketing at OTTO by Rockwell Automation, and Edmund Garstkiewicz, Senior Industry Segment Manager at HARTING. We'll explore how AMRs are making waves in industries ranging from automotive to consumer goods, offering unparalleled flexibility and efficiency over…
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In this season 3 finale, the Automation Ladies have a chat with Founder and CEO of Valoy Automation, Vanessa Loiola. They discuss and emphasize the importance of training and troubleshooting skills for operators to reduce downtime and improve efficiency, proper programming and maintenance, and intuitive coding. Support the show ____________________…
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A Data Driven World with Phil Seboa
1:11:35
1:11:35
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1:11:35In this week's episode, Nikki and Ali chat with Technical Sales Executive at Inductive Automation, Phil Seboa. They discuss the importance of IT and OT, his journey from electrician into the IT-centric world of automation, the impact of Ignition software, and some tips for content creation. Support the show _________________________________________…
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Elevating Industrial Automation (AHTD Spring Meeting Live Recap)
42:47
42:47
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42:47In a previous Linkedin Live, Nikki and Ali recap the AHTD Spring Meeting with founder of QuoteBeam, Roman Piszcz. They discuss the importance of the Association for High Technology Distribution (AHTD) and encourage others in the industry to join. They also touch on the need for dynamic websites that provide relevant content and build credibility, t…
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SCADA System Integration with Hassana Abubakar
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42:37
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42:37In Automation Ladies fashion we had some technical difficulties during this episode, but the Ladies and Hassana Abubakar, a SCADA engineer at Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited, had a great time. Hassana presented an amazing slideshow to show all the projects her and her team have accomplished and will achieve. They discuss hydropower plants, work…
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Innovation, Networking, and Giving Back with Preston Hadley (Linkedin Live)
55:09
55:09
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55:09In this Linkedin Live, Nikki along with a pop up from Ali, interview Preston Hadley, President and Founder of Envision Automation & Controls. Preston starts with his introduction to automation with working in a family business, and continues into the challenges and benefits of going to networking events and the authenticity of marketing. Support th…
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Connecting the Future with Ed Garstkiewicz and Goda Inokaityte
54:30
54:30
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54:30In this special episode, Nikki and Ali speak with Ed Garstkiewicz (Business Development Manager) and Goda Inokaityte (Product Manager) at HARTING. They talk about the challenges of selecting and designing connectors, the benefits of using connectors in machinery and automation systems, and the innovations in connector technology, including modular …
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The State of Smart Manufacturing with Andy Stump and Vitória Régia Oliveira (Linkedin Live)
1:04:35
1:04:35
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1:04:35In this previous Linkedin Live episode, Nikki catches up with Andy Stump (Director of Business Development at Rockwell Automation), and Vitória Régia Oliveira (Lead in Maintenance, Facilities, and Project Engineering at Magna International). They discuss the current state of smart manufacturing, the challenges of integrating technology, and the imp…
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