Manufacturing Hub

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, we dive into the world of industrial automation, PLC programming, and career development with Hans Schradermakers, an experienced automation engineer with more than 23 years in the industry. Hans has worked extensively with both Siemens and Rockwell software, specializing in developing, standardizing, testing, and commissioning automation solutions for major companies such as Nestlé, Hershey’s, Pepsi, Kellogg’s, and Pringles.

The conversation begins with an exploration of Hans’ journey from Belgium to Denmark and Austria, tracing the pivotal moments that led him to a career in PLC programming. He shares insights into his early experiences working for machine builders, where he first encountered Siemens automation technology, before later expanding into Rockwell systems. Over the years, he has developed expertise in both platforms, allowing him to provide a balanced perspective on their strengths, weaknesses, and industry adoption.

A key focus of the discussion is the ongoing challenge of standardization in PLC programming. Hans explains how standardization typically occurs at the machine builder level rather than the end-user level, highlighting the importance of structured programming and modular software development. The conversation also explores the differing approaches between European and North American markets, where Siemens dominates in Europe while Rockwell remains the dominant platform in North America.

Hans provides valuable insights into career growth in automation, emphasizing the importance of working on commissioning projects and gaining hands-on experience with industrial machinery. He discusses how exposure to different machine builders and standards accelerates learning and enables engineers to develop better programming structures.

Another major topic covered is the role of training and upskilling in the industry. Hans shares the story of how he transitioned from freelancing to launching PLC Skilltree, his online training platform that provides structured courses for learning TIA Portal programming. He discusses the importance of creating modular, maintainable PLC programs and the growing need for engineers to develop structured programming skills rather than focusing solely on specific programming languages.

The conversation also touches on industry trends, including the potential impact of AI on PLC programming, the growing interest in virtual PLCs, and the shift toward industrial PCs for data collection and processing. Hans provides his perspective on whether AI will become a useful tool for automation engineers and how it might change the way PLC programs are developed in the future.

For engineers and automation professionals looking to advance their careers, Hans provides actionable advice on how to gain experience, work with different companies to broaden expertise, and improve software structuring skills. His insights offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to transition into freelancing, specialize in PLC programming, or build a career in industrial automation.

For more information on Hans’ training courses, visit PLC Skilltree, where he offers structured training for TIA Portal and automation programming. He also shares free resources, including a PLC structuring guide, designed to help engineers improve their programming approach.

Listeners interested in PLC programming, industrial automation, or career development in the manufacturing sector will find this episode highly informative. Whether you are an engineer looking to upskill, a machine builder working on PLC standardization, or a professional considering a transition into freelancing, this conversation provides deep insights into the realities of automation careers and the evolving landscape of industrial control systems.

Follow Manufacturing Hub for weekly conversations on automation, controls, and digital transformation. Subscribe on YouTube or listen on your preferred podcast platform.

🎓 Interested in learning TIA Portal programming?
Check out Hans’ PLC Skilltree training courses at www.plcskilltree.com and grab his free PLC Structuring Guide!

🔗 Connect with Hans on LinkedIn: Hans Schrynemakers
📺 Follow his YouTube channel for tutorials: PLC Skilltree on YouTube

💡 Follow Manufacturing Hub for more insights on automation, controls, and digital transformation!

🔴 Subscribe on YouTube: Manufacturing Hub YouTube
🎙️ Listen on Podcast Platforms: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

#Manufacturing #Automation #PLCProgramming #TIAportal #RockwellAutomation #Siemens #IndustrialAutomation #Training #ControlsEngineering #ManufacturingHub

As we enter 2025, the manufacturing and industrial automation sectors are facing a period of significant transformation. In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, Dave and Vlad outline their plans for the year, covering everything from the direction of the podcast to industry trends shaping the future of manufacturing.

This episode kicks off with an overview of the podcast’s 2025 format, which continues to be structured around monthly themes. This year, topics such as ERP, modern maintenance strategies, workforce upskilling, and industrial data management will take center stage. While some recurring topics like robotics, systems integration, and manufacturing intelligence will return, the podcast will also explore new themes to address emerging challenges in the industry.

Beyond the podcast, Dave and Vlad discuss the state of manufacturing going into 2025, breaking it down by key business functions:

Finance & Capital Investments – Companies are resuming automation and technology investments after a period of budget constraints. However, challenges remain in securing funding for new initiatives, especially for mid-sized manufacturers looking to scale operations. With interest rates still relatively high and economic uncertainty lingering, capital expenditures will need strong justification, emphasizing ROI and long-term cost reductions.

Workforce & Hiring Challenges – The talent shortage remains one of the biggest obstacles for manufacturing organizations. While many companies are investing in workforce development and training, the gap between available talent and industry demand continues to widen. The increasing complexity of industrial automation systems, combined with the push toward IT-OT integration, is making it even harder to find individuals with the right mix of skills. This challenge is particularly evident in sectors that require highly specialized knowledge, such as SCADA, MES, and industrial cybersecurity.

IT & Digital Transformation – More manufacturers are accelerating their adoption of cloud computing, IIoT, and advanced analytics, yet IT departments are often understaffed and struggling to implement these technologies effectively. The ongoing debate over who owns industrial data—IT or OT—continues to create friction in many organizations. Additionally, IT teams are being tasked with addressing growing cybersecurity risks, particularly as legacy systems remain vulnerable and require modernization.

Sales & Marketing in Industrial Automation – As the industry becomes more competitive, companies selling hardware, software, and integration services must refine their messaging to better communicate value to specific audiences. Instead of broad, generic marketing efforts, more targeted, technical content and direct engagement with decision-makers will be key. The challenge lies in translating technical capabilities into business outcomes, ensuring that sales strategies align with the evolving priorities of manufacturing leaders.

Operations & Production Management – The pressures on operations teams remain as high as ever. Whether due to supply chain fluctuations, increased product customization demands, or workforce shortages, maintaining efficiency while improving uptime is becoming increasingly complex. The role of data-driven decision-making in operations is expanding, with more companies seeking to optimize production through real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance strategies. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that frontline workers and plant managers have access to actionable insights rather than overwhelming amounts of raw data.

Additionally, Dave and Vlad outline their plans for attending major industry events in 2025, including Automate, Hannover Messe, Ignition Community Conference, and the Prove It Conference. While their focus will be on attending key events rather than producing content at every trade show, they emphasize the importance of staying engaged with industry developments and fostering in-person conversations.

This episode serves as a comprehensive preview of what to expect in manufacturing, automation, and industrial technology in 2025. The year ahead promises to be one of both challenges and opportunities, with companies navigating economic pressures, workforce shortages, and the rapid evolution of digital manufacturing technologies.

Join us as we set the stage for 2025, explore what’s ahead, and continue the conversation on how manufacturers can adapt, innovate, and stay competitive in an increasingly complex landscape.

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, recorded live at ICC 2023, hosts Dave and Vlad welcome back James Burnand, CEO of 4IR Solutions, to discuss IT-OT convergence, the role of 4IR Solutions in the Ignition Community, and key takeaways from Ignition 8.3.

4IR Solutions and IT-OT Convergence
4IR Solutions is a Solutions Partner within the Ignition Community, focusing on OT as a Service to help manufacturers manage patching, security, and system monitoring—common pain points for system integrators. Ignition has evolved from a SCADA tool to a data-centric platform that facilitates enterprise-wide connectivity.

James explains that IT and OT have historically operated in silos, but the adoption of Docker and Kubernetes in industrial environments is breaking these barriers. Traditional OT systems prioritize stability and uptime, while IT is focused on scalability and security. The challenge is implementing modern IT principles in an OT-friendly way.

Key Features of Ignition 8.3
The Ignition 8.3 update introduces file-based gateway configurations, making automation and scaling more efficient for system integrators. New drawing tools and event streams enhance real-time data visualization and workflow automation. Additionally, Helm charts offer enterprises a better way to manage large-scale deployments.

Bridging the IT-OT Divide
James highlights the organizational challenges of IT-OT convergence, noting that many manufacturers lack dedicated IT-OT professionals. 4IR Solutions often serves as a mediator between IT and OT teams, helping ensure security, compliance, and operational stability while enabling modernization efforts.

Takeaways from ICC 2023
James praises ICC’s community-driven atmosphere, where integrators, end users, and Inductive Automation’s leadership openly share knowledge. The collaborative nature of the conference allows for real-time feedback, which directly influences Ignition’s ongoing development.

Looking Ahead
4IR Solutions is leveraging Ignition 8.3 to improve automation, reduce costs, and enhance scalability for its customers. As IT-OT integration continues to evolve, manufacturers must embrace flexibility, security, and data-driven decision-making to stay competitive.

References from the Episode
4IR Solutions (James Burnand, CEO)
Ignition by Inductive Automation (SCADA, MES, Unified Namespace)
Docker & Kubernetes in Industrial Automation
Helm Charts & Enterprise Deployment Strategies
IT-OT Convergence & Security in OT Environments
This version keeps the depth while making it easier to read. Let me know if you need further refinements.

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

In this special episode of Manufacturing Hub, Vlad, and Dave reflect on the major lessons, projects, and trends from 2024 while laying out ambitious plans for 2025. They discuss the evolution of automation, AI, and industrial tech, share personal insights on business growth, and preview upcoming podcast themes and trade show appearances.

Topics include:
✅ Key takeaways from 2024 in manufacturing, automation, and consulting
✅ The reality of AI in industrial settings—hype vs. practical applications
✅ Joltek’s training and upskilling initiatives + Kaplan’s focus on Ignition & automation strategy
✅ 2025 predictions: The impact of automation, labor shortages, and investment shifts
✅ Upcoming podcast themes and trade shows for next year
✅ Tech deep dives: Servers, NAS, and 3D printing for industrial use

🔗 References & Mentions:
Books: Main Street Millionaire by Cody Sanchez
Podcast: My First Million by Sam Parr & Shaan Puri
3D Printing Tech: Bamboo Labs A1
Tech Infrastructure: Dell Rack Server, Synology NAS, Ignition 8.3
Upcoming Trade Shows: ICC, Automate, SPS, Hannover Messe, ProveIt, Realize Live
Podcast Themes for 2025: AI, Digital Transformation, Industrial Data, Robotics, Systems Architecture, Training & Upskilling

If you're in manufacturing, automation, or industrial technology and want to collaborate, reach out to Vlad or Dave. Stay tuned for an exciting 2025!

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

Welcome back to Manufacturing Hub. In this episode, we sit down with Kent Melville, Director of Sales Engineering at Inductive Automation, to explore career growth, sales engineering, and the evolving landscape of industrial automation.

Kent shares his fascinating journey, starting as a computer science graduate with a background in web development, ERP systems, and industrial automation before making his way into Inductive Automation. He takes us through the challenges and opportunities he encountered as he transitioned from technical roles into sales engineering, growing from one of the first hires in his division to leading a 30-plus-person team today.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Kent explains the role of a sales engineer and how it differs from traditional technical sales. He breaks down how sales engineers bridge technical expertise and customer engagement, ensuring that solutions meet real-world manufacturing challenges. He also discusses the growth of Inductive Automation, the company culture that has fueled his success, and how the Ignition platform has shaped the industrial automation industry.

Another key topic in this discussion is the Ignition Community Conference (ICC), which has become a central event for the Ignition ecosystem. Kent shares how the Build-a-Thon, a live competition where integrators showcase their automation skills, became a major attraction and why it highlights the true power of rapid development with Ignition.

Insights on Future Industry Trends
Kent provides his perspective on where the industry is heading, especially in terms of IT-OT convergence. He discusses how containerization and DevOps principles are making their way into manufacturing and why version control and structured deployments will become the norm. He also shares insights on how Ignition’s flexibility enables organizations to modernize their operations and prepare for the future.

Career Lessons and Key Takeaways
This episode is filled with valuable career advice for engineers and professionals looking to move into sales or leadership roles. Kent emphasizes the importance of working for a company that aligns with your goals rather than constantly chasing small pay increases. He discusses the need for clear communication, initiative, and the ability to adapt to different work styles.

For those considering a transition from technical roles to sales engineering, Kent breaks down the key skills required, the training process, and how Inductive Automation prepares its team members for success. He also highlights the importance of building a reputation within an organization, taking on new challenges, and creating opportunities through proactive engagement.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Fun Moments
Beyond the technical and career discussions, Kent shares some of the most entertaining moments from his time at Inductive Automation. He talks about how an impromptu on-stage rap performance during an Ignition product launch unexpectedly boosted his visibility within the company. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at how Inductive Automation uses its own software for internal processes, from CRM and training to office automation.

Who Should Watch This Episode?
This conversation is ideal for industrial professionals looking to understand the role of sales engineering, engineers considering a move into customer-facing roles, and manufacturing leaders exploring Ignition’s capabilities. It also offers practical career insights for anyone looking to grow within their organization and stand out in the industry.

If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share them in the comments. Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow Manufacturing Hub for weekly conversations on manufacturing, automation, and technology.

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

References
1. Inductive Automation & Ignition SCADA

• Inductive Automation - Official Website
  https://inductiveautomation.com/
• Ignition SCADA - Overview & Features
  https://inductiveautomation.com/scada/
• Download Ignition (Free Trial & Maker Edition for Personal Use)
  https://inductiveautomation.com/downloads/
• Ignition Exchange (Free Industrial Automation Templates & Modules)
  https://inductiveautomation.com/exchange/
• Ignition Community Conference (ICC) – Annual Conference
  https://inductiveautomation.com/resources/icc/
• Inductive Automation’s YouTube Channel (Webinars, Case Studies, Training)
  https://www.youtube.com/@InductiveAutomation

2. Sales Engineering & Career Development

• The Sales Engineer Handbook: A Guide to Sales Engineering & Technical Sales (Patrick Pissang)
  https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Engineer-Handbook-Technical-Engineering/dp/3982171402
• Mastering Technical Sales: The Sales Engineer’s Handbook (John Care, Aron Bohlig)
  https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Technical-Sales-Engineers-Handbook/dp/1608324262
• Harvard Business Review - What Makes a Great Sales Engineer?
  https://hbr.org/2019/04/what-makes-a-great-sales-engineer
• LinkedIn Sales Engineering Community – Discussions, Networking, and Career Advice
  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8948750/

3. IT-OT Convergence & Industrial Automation Trends

• ISA (International Society of Automation) – IT-OT Convergence Resources
  https://www.isa.org/topics/it-ot-convergence
• Industrial DevOps and Containerization in Manufacturing (Inductive Automation Blog)
  https://inductiveautomation.com/resources/article/modernizing-scada-with-devops/
• Understanding Unified Namespace (UNS) and MQTT for Industrial Automation
  https://cirrus-link.com/what-is-unified-namespace/
• ISA-95 Standard – Best Practices for IT and OT Integration
  https://www.isa.org/standards-and-publications/isa-standards/isa-95

4. Home Automation & Ignition for Personal Use

• Ignition Maker Edition (Free Version for Personal & Home Automation Projects)
  https://inductiveautomation.com/ignition/maker-edition/
• Home Automation with Ignition - Community Projects & Discussions
  https://forum.inductiveautomation.com/tags/home-automation
• Travis Cox on Using Ignition for Smart Home Automation (Podcast)
  https://www.theautomatorpodcast.com/episodes/travis-cox-home-automation-ignition

5. Kent Melville & Inductive Automation Socials

• Kent Melville on LinkedIn
  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentmelville/
• Inductive Automation on LinkedIn
  

Manufacturing is a fast-moving industry with evolving technologies, shifting business priorities, and increasing demand for skilled professionals. Whether you’re just starting your career, looking to deepen your technical expertise, or considering a move into management, knowing how to navigate your journey can make all the difference.

In this episode of The Manufacturing Hub, Vlad and Dave share career stories, key lessons, and valuable advice from their years of experience in manufacturing and industrial automation. They’ll discuss what it takes to grow in the industry, the skills that have been most valuable in their careers, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way.

Topics covered in this episode:
How to transition from an entry-level role to an advanced technical position
The key skills manufacturing professionals need to stay relevant
What engineers should consider when moving into management
Lessons learned from real-world manufacturing projects
Common pitfalls to avoid in career development
The importance of networking, continuous learning, and adaptability
Vlad and Dave will also be answering live questions from the audience. If you’re listening to this as a podcast, remember that you can join the conversation live every Wednesday at 4 PM Eastern / 1 PM Pacific on LinkedIn and YouTube.

Beyond career advice, this episode will also provide a sneak peek into The Manufacturing Hub’s 2025 plans. The podcast has long focused on monthly themes covering a wide range of manufacturing topics, from automation and digital transformation to industrial cybersecurity and AI in production. Vlad and Dave have been working on new themes for the upcoming year, and they’re excited to hear your thoughts.

If you have suggestions for future topics, guest recommendations, or are interested in sponsorship opportunities, don’t hesitate to reach out. This community is built around shared knowledge and open discussions, and every contribution helps shape the conversation.

Why This Episode Matters
For anyone in the manufacturing space, career growth is not just about mastering technical skills—it’s about understanding industry trends, learning from others' experiences, and positioning yourself for future opportunities. As automation continues to reshape the industry and new technologies emerge, professionals who can adapt, lead, and problem-solve will be in high demand.

Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Join Vlad and Dave live each week to engage with the community and stay up to date on the latest trends in manufacturing, automation, industrial software, and technology.

About Manufacturing Hub:

Manufacturing Hub Network is an educational show hosted by two longtime industrial practitioners Dave Griffith and Vladimir Romanov. Together they try to answer big questions in the industry while having fun conversations with other interesting people. Come join us weekly!

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, we welcome back Jim Gavigan, founder of Industrial Insight and a leading expert in time-series data and manufacturing intelligence. Jim shares his fascinating journey from starting as a physical education major to becoming a data-driven problem solver in the manufacturing industry. His career is filled with invaluable lessons and hilarious anecdotes, making this episode both insightful and entertaining.

We dive into Jim’s experiences transitioning from OT to IT, the challenges of balancing technical work with sales as a business owner, and his thoughts on the value of certifications versus hands-on learning. Jim also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the world of data historians, including his expertise with OSIsoft PI, Tableau, and Power BI, while offering advice for manufacturers looking to optimize their data.

One of the highlights of this episode is Jim’s unforgettable story about his senior project—a tale of problem-solving under pressure that shaped his approach to engineering and business. It’s a testament to the power of determination, creativity, and the willingness to learn.

Whether you're passionate about data-driven manufacturing, exploring career growth, or just looking for some inspiration, this episode has something for everyone. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with more insights from industry experts!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel to stay updated on the latest conversations with industry leaders. Hit the bell 🔔 to never miss an episode!

Thank you for tuning in to Manufacturing Hub. See you next week!

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

This week, Dave and Vlad are thrilled to be joined by Alicia Lomas, a powerhouse in manufacturing, automation, and leadership. Alicia shares her inspiring journey from studying chemical engineering to becoming a key figure in the controls and automation world. Along the way, she has worked with major brands like Chobani, where she helped revamp and optimize operations, and fast-paced startups like Redwood Materials, where she built automation teams and delivered large-scale projects. With years of hands-on experience in both legacy manufacturing environments and cutting-edge greenfield facilities, Alicia brings a wealth of knowledge to this conversation.

In this episode, Alicia opens up about her transition from process engineering to controls engineering and the lessons learned while navigating these fields. She explains how mentors shaped her career, how she tackled the steep learning curves of PLC programming, and why curiosity and emotional intelligence are essential for success in automation. Alicia also talks about her experience building high-performing technical teams, hiring engineers from diverse backgrounds, and fostering a culture of mentorship and growth.

We take a deep dive into the complexities of choosing the right control platforms, including Alicia’s candid comparison of Siemens and Rockwell, and her decision-making process when leading automation strategy for a startup. She also discusses the importance of data collection, MES systems, and predictive maintenance, emphasizing how organizations can start small and scale their digital transformation efforts over time.

Alicia shares her thoughts on the convergence of IT and OT, the future of automation, and how collaboration between controls engineers, software developers, and IT professionals will shape the industry. Her optimism for the future is inspiring, as she envisions a world where technology, processes, and people come together to solve complex manufacturing challenges.

Whether you’re an automation veteran, a newcomer to the industry, or simply curious about the future of manufacturing, this episode is packed with actionable insights, career advice, and thought-provoking discussions.

📖 Book Recommendation:
Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up by Jerry Colonna – A must-read for anyone looking to lead with empathy, integrity, and self-awareness in today’s fast-paced world.

💬 Join the Conversation:
We’d love to hear from you! What trends are you seeing in the automation industry? How do you see IT/OT convergence playing a role in the factories of the future? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

👉 Connect with Alicia on LinkedIn: Alicia Lomas

👉 Follow Manufacturing Hub for more episodes and insights!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel to stay updated on the latest conversations with industry leaders. Hit the bell 🔔 to never miss an episode!

Thank you for tuning in to Manufacturing Hub. See you next week!

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• Alicia Lomas
• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

In this in-depth conversation, Jason Waits, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Inductive Automation, provides a comprehensive exploration of Industrial Control System (ICS) cybersecurity. With decades of experience securing critical infrastructure and navigating the complexities of Operational Technology (OT) environments, Jason offers actionable insights into the current state and future of cybersecurity in industrial sectors like manufacturing, energy, and water treatment.

The discussion begins with an overview of what makes ICS cybersecurity distinct from traditional IT security. Jason explains how OT systems prioritize availability and safety, presenting unique challenges compared to the confidentiality-driven focus of IT. The conversation highlights key vulnerabilities in ICS environments, such as legacy systems that lack modern security features, poorly designed protocols without encryption, and the risks posed by IT/OT convergence.

Jason dives into common attack vectors, including social engineering (phishing), lateral movement from IT to OT networks, and physical access breaches. He explores real-world case studies like the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, the Oldsmar water treatment plant hack, and the Stuxnet worm, illustrating how these vulnerabilities have been exploited and the lessons they offer for building stronger defenses.

The video also emphasizes the critical role of compliance and standards, such as ISA/IEC 62443, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and CIS Controls. Jason underscores the difference between compliance and real security, advocating for a "security first, compliance second" philosophy to ensure that organizations focus on mitigating actual risks rather than merely checking regulatory boxes.

As the conversation unfolds, Jason discusses the role of vendors and OEMs in securing ICS environments, detailing how Inductive Automation uses proactive measures like Pwn2Own competitions, bug bounty programs, and detailed security hardening guides to improve the security of their products. He highlights the importance of collaboration between vendors and customers to address challenges like long equipment lifecycles and the growing adoption of cloud services.

Emerging technologies also take center stage, with Jason exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming threat detection and response, while also enabling more sophisticated attacks like personalized phishing and adaptive malware. He addresses the implications of IT/OT convergence, emphasizing the need for collaboration between traditionally siloed teams and the importance of building shared security frameworks.

For organizations looking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, Jason offers practical steps, starting with foundational measures like asset management and configuration baselines. He explains how leveraging free resources, such as CIS Benchmarks, and creating a roadmap for cybersecurity maturity can help organizations of all sizes navigate these challenges, even with limited budgets.

Timestamps
0:00 – Introduction and Overview of ICS Cybersecurity
3:15 – Meet Jason Waits: Background and Journey to CISO
6:45 – What Is ICS Cybersecurity? Key Differences Between IT and OT
10:30 – The Importance of Availability and Safety in OT Systems
13:50 – Challenges of Legacy Systems and Long Equipment Lifecycles
17:20 – Attack Vectors: Social Engineering, Lateral Movement, and Physical Access
20:10 – Case Studies: Colonial Pipeline, Oldsmar Water Treatment Plant, and Stuxnet
25:35 – Compliance vs. Security: Jason’s “Security First, Compliance Second” Philosophy
30:00 – The Role of Vendors and OEMs in Cybersecurity
34:45 – Inductive Automation’s Approach: Pwn2Own, Bug Bounties, and Security Hardening Guides
40:00 – Emerging Technologies: AI in Threat Detection and the Risks of Sophisticated Phishing
45:10 – The Growing Adoption of Cloud in ICS and Its Implications
50:00 – IT/OT Convergence: Opportunities and Challenges
55:15 – Practical Steps for Organizations: Asset Management and Roadmaps
1:00:10 – Building a Security Culture: Collaboration Between IT and OT Teams
1:05:30 – Future Outlook: Increasing Regulations, Ransomware Risks, and Innovation
1:10:00 – Using Cybersecurity as a Competitive Advantage
1:15:00 – Closing Thoughts: The Need for Continuous Learning and Proactive Action

About Manufacturing Hub:
Manufacturing Hub Network is an educational show hosted by two longtime industrial practitioners Dave Griffith and Vladimir Romanov. Together they try to answer big questions in the industry while having fun conversations with other interesting people. Come join us weekly!

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• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek

In this expansive episode of Manufacturing Hub, we welcome back Justin Dean, an accomplished engineer, entrepreneur, and business leader, for a deep dive into his incredible career journey. Justin has transitioned from a technical expert in control systems and automation to a successful entrepreneur and private equity professional, and in this conversation, he shares valuable insights for anyone navigating the intersection of engineering and business.

We start by exploring Justin’s early career, where his unexpected leap from studying art to pursuing electrical engineering set the stage for his passion for problem-solving. From designing complex control systems for downhole pumps to leading automation projects across six continents, Justin’s career highlights the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. He delves into his transition from engineering roles to business leadership, recounting his decision to start his own company, Sohoma, and how his 13 years of diverse experience and strong industry network enabled him to quickly scale his business.

Justin explains the challenges and rewards of balancing the technical and business sides of running a company. He reflects on the need for engineers to develop a business mindset while staying true to their technical expertise. Sharing his philosophy on leadership, he emphasizes the value of building teams, identifying strengths, and mentoring employees to grow both individually and collectively. Justin also discusses the importance of structuring businesses thoughtfully, including creating complementary entities to address specific market needs.

The conversation broadens into Justin’s experience in private equity, where he helps companies grow by providing mentorship, capital, and strategic direction. He offers advice for engineers interested in moving into private equity or starting their own businesses, encouraging them to focus on solving problems they know best. Justin also touches on the potential for engineers to add value to due diligence processes by leveraging their technical knowledge to evaluate opportunities.

Finally, we explore Justin’s thoughts on the role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing and its potential to optimize processes, enhance worker efficiency, and improve decision-making. He shares his perspective on the evolving dynamics of AI integration, highlighting the importance of empowering employees with these technologies rather than replacing them.

Whether you’re an engineer looking to explore the business side of manufacturing, a decision-maker seeking insights on digital transformation, or simply curious about the journey from technical expert to business leader, this episode is packed with actionable advice, inspiring stories, and valuable takeaways. Tune in to learn how to navigate the exciting intersection of engineering, entrepreneurship, and industry innovation.

About Manufacturing Hub:
Manufacturing Hub Network is an educational show hosted by two longtime industrial practitioners Dave Griffith and Vladimir Romanov. Together they try to answer big questions in the industry while having fun conversations with other interesting people. Come join us weekly!

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Connect with Us

• Justin Dean
• Vlad Romanov
• Dave Griffith
• Manufacturing Hub
• SolisPLC
• Joltek