In this episode of OT After Hours, Ken Kully (Systems Support Lead for Rockwell SecureOT), sits down with Natalie Kalinowski (Network & Cybersecurity Specialist), Tyler Bergman (Operations Team Lead) and Lance Lamont (Special Projects & Protocols Team Lead) to discuss the recently-concluded Rockwell Automation Fair.

And if you weren't able to attend Automation Fair, you can still find videos and presentations from it on the Rockwell YouTube channel.

Key Takeaways

• Automation Fair is a major annual event held by Rockwell Automation, attracting both employees and customers. The event features workshops, tech demos, and product displays, not unlike a mini-CES for Rockwell, its partners, and its clients.
• Workshops ranged from basic controller programming to advanced topics like CPWE design with Cisco and Powerflex fundamentals. Keynotes are a valuable way to gauge Rockwell's strategic direction, including the announcement of a $2 billion investment in a new greenfield facility in southeastern Wisconsin, set to open in 2028 as a showcase for automation, AI, robotics, and cybersecurity.
• Numerous robotics demos at the Automation Fair, including collaborative robots (cobots), multi-brand robot arm interoperability, and advanced material handling systems.
• Verve Industrial Protection has been rebranded to Rockwell Secure OT, which was a prominent presence in Rockwell's display area. Lots of conversations at the SecureOT booth, discussing asset inventory, risk analysis, and the new risk scoring features, while engaging with customers and IT/OT professionals to address practical use cases and integration challenges.
• Vibrant event culture, including pin-collecting, and swag at the SecureOT booth, the role of casual interactions in networking, and the significance of shared spaces like the lunch hall in fostering connections among attendees.

Timestamps

00:36 – Preamble and recording kickoff

00:56 – Introductions by Lance, Tyler, and Natalie

01:37 – What is the Automation Fair, and where was it held?

04:54 – Robots, cobots, and robot inter-operatbility

18:04 – Workshops, keynotes, and collectible pins

27:26 – Massive space for lunch...and networking

28:11 – FIRST Robotics and Student Mentorship

32:25 – The SecureOT Booth Experience

46:24 – Wrap-ups, more robotics, and final takeaways

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