In this episode of the Workforce 4.0 podcast, host Ann Wyatt interviews Suzanne Soper and Doug Beck from Schneider Electric at the 2025 Schneider Innovation Summit. They discuss the importance of technology for the future of work, but also on the importance of hiring veterans, career pathing in the tech industry, and the significance of building a strong company culture. The guests share insights on the future of work, emphasizing the need for data-driven decision-making and the importance of nurturing young talent. This conversation highlights how investing in manufacturing in the win that we have to have.

In This Episode:

-02:00: The Convergence Of Consumer and Workforce Technology

-04:56: Applying AI For The People At Work

-15:03: Manufacturing Opportunities: The Younger Generations Aspire to Problem Solve

-18:09: Schneider Electric Driving The People/Technology Convergence

-19:07: Schneider's Billion Dollar Investment For A Sustainable Future

-22:54: Schneider Electric's Commitment To Workforce Development

-24:39: Investing In Veterans Through Unique Hiring Initiatives

-26:52: The Shift In Manufacturing Roles Past And Present

-29:56: Personal Testimonies of Career Pathing Opportunities At Schneider Electric

-33:40: Tips For Fostering A World Renowned Culture

-41:08: Investing In Your Talent Is The Win That You Have To Have

-45:42: Closing Remarks And Point of Contact Information

More About Suzanne Soper:

Suzanne Soper is Vice President of U.S. Services at Schneider Electric, leading commercial service operations and driving innovation across the EcoStruxure platform. With over 20 years in sales, operations, and business development, she’s passionate about building high-performing teams and advancing resilient, efficient, and sustainable solutions in the IoT era. Since joining in 2018, she’s held strategic leadership roles focused on critical power and software growth. To learn more about Suzanne,, connect with her here.

More About Doug Beck

Doug Beck is Director, US Industrial Automation Services Leader at Schneider Electric. Doug has over 25 years of experience across power, digital, energy, and industrial automation sectors. He is deeply committed to fostering a culture of trust and leveraging technology to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Currently, he lead a team of service professionals focused on consulting, digital transformation, and modernization services—driving greater reliability, resiliency, and sustainability in industrial automation processes. To learn more about Doug, connect with him here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Mark Yahiro, Vice President of Business Development from RealSense about the intersection of AI, robotics, and the future of work. They discuss the importance of understanding the true costs of automation, the role of safety in robotics, and how AI can enhance efficiency in manufacturing. Mark shares innovative use cases of RealSense technology, including applications for inventory management and aiding those with visual impairments. The conversation also touches on the human element in AI integration and the future of job security in an increasingly automated world.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0

-00:30: Welcoming Mark Yahiro, RealSense

-04:02: The Real Value Of Ai For The Manufacturing Workforce

-05:48: RealSense's Mission Behind Making Robotics Safer

-08:49: Making Automation Practical And Safe For Humans

-11:28: How Any Business Can Get Started With AI

-14:15: Defining New Skills For A New Way Of Work

-17:14: AI IRL...

-22:55: How Manufacturing Companies Are Already Leading In Innovation

-27:52: Approachable Robotics Leading To Everyday Interactions

-31:04: Mark's Closing Thoughts And Point Of Contact

-31:55: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Mark:

Mark Yahiro is a seasoned business leader who incubates and scales emerging technologies and builds high-impact strategic partnerships. As VP of Business Development at RealSense, he helps drive expansion by securing the right partners for sustainable, long-term growth.

Over nearly 15 years at Intel, he held leadership roles across incubation, strategic partnerships, and emerging tech—most recently as GM of the RealSense business, leading computer vision and autonomous mobile robotics initiatives. He also led Intel’s Incubation and Disruptive Innovation Group, launching ventures and AI-driven solutions with meaningful real-world impact.

Earlier, Mark led strategic business development in Intel’s Client Computing Group and helped build the RealSense portfolio through investments, alliances, and M&A work with Intel Capital. Prior to Intel, he led marketing and business development at display-tech start-up PureDepth Inc., which went public in 2008 with a $400M market valuation. He holds a B.S. in Software Engineering (University of Illinois Chicago) and an MBA in International Business (DePaul University). To learn more about Mark, check him out here.

If there is anyone passionate about automation and people in this industry, it has to be the Vice President of FerRobotics, Michael Haas. And in this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Michael about the transformative impact of automation on the manufacturing industry. They discuss the evolution (and history) of automation technology, the importance of workforce education, and the challenges faced by small and large companies in implementing automation. Michael emphasizes the need for a skilled workforce and the role of robots in creating safer work environments. The conversation highlights the future of work and the necessity of adapting to new technologies in order to thrive in the manufacturing sector. Join us for a conversation featuring plenty of passion, education and some key insights into the future of how the manufacturing industry will work!

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0

-00:30: Welcoming Michael Haas From FerRobotics

-07:12: The Evolution of Automation And The Impacts Of Increased Accessibility

-13:27: The Impact of Automation on Manufacturing Workforce Skills

-17:48: Challenges in Implementing Automation for Small vs. Large Companies

-22:13: Automation Is Actually Creating Opportunities for Frontline Workers

-28:20: People Centric: The Future of Work and Automation's Role

-32:31: Michael's Closing Thoughts and Point of Contact

-34:51: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Michael:

Michael Haas is a leading voice in the field of intelligent automation, serving as Vice President of FerRobotics Inc., a global innovator in sensitive robotic technologies. With over a decade of experience spearheading North American operations, Michael has been instrumental in introducing force-controlled automation solutions that are revolutionizing surface processing across industries—from automotive to aerospace and beyond.

Originally from Austria, Michael combines his deep engineering expertise with a strategic vision for flexible, human-friendly automation. His passion lies in transforming dangerous, dirty, and demeaning tasks into safe, efficient, and empowering robotic processes. As a trusted advisor and technical ambassador, he frequently collaborates with Fortune 500 manufacturers, R&D centers, and academic institutions.

Michael is also a member of the Technical Advisory Committee for the ARM (Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing) Institute and a regular speaker at top-tier automation events. Based in the US, he continues to advocate for the integration of smart robotics to boost productivity, support skilled labor, and create sustainable growth in modern manufacturing. To learn more about Michael, connect with him here.

Welcome to Season 11 of Workforce 4.0 and this week we are ringing the new year in with a bang as host Ann Wyatt speaks with Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director or the Manufacturing Institute. This week, Carolyn and Ann discuss the current state of the manufacturing workforce, the impact of technology, and the importance of bridging the skills gap. They also share experiences and the powerful impact that the FAME program has been as a successful model for workforce development in many states across the US. Additionally, Ann asks Carolyn about current hiring trends, and the need for effective frontline leadership and the expectations of younger workers. As a featured recent keynote discussion leader during Schneider Electric's 2025 Innovation Summit, North America, this is our second installment highlighting and celebrating the road forward to building the manufacturing workforce.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction To Workforce 4.0

-00:30: Welcoming Carolyn Lee From The Manufacturing Institute To Workforce 4.0

-04:16: Preparing The Workforce For The People/Technology Convergence

-09:08: Exploring Where The Real Skills Gap Lies

-11:35: What Real FAME Looks Like: A Model for Workforce Development

-16:40: Examining Real Time Manufacturing Hiring Trends

-20:19: The Importance of Empowering Frontline Leadership

-25:03: Breaking Down The Impact In Positive Culture And Productivity

-32:41: The New Data On The Manufacturing Skills Gap

-37:37: Carolyn's Final Thoughts And Point Of Contact

-39:17: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Carolyn:

Carolyn Lee is the president and executive director of the Manufacturing Institute, the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers. Ms. Lee leads the MI in its goal of building a resilient manufacturing workforce prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. She was named to the leadership role at the MI in 2017, and during her leadership tenure, the MI has grown significantly, evolving for scaled impact nationwide across the manufacturing industry. She led the MI as it developed new programs, initiatives and events, including taking stewardship from Toyota of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education in 2019 and growing its reach; inaugurating the annual MI Workforce Summit; launching the 35×30 mentorship initiative for women and young girls; expanding the MI’s Heroes MAKE America initiative; working with the NAM to develop Creators Wanted—the manufacturing industry’s largest national workforce development and education campaign; and partnering with organizations such as Stand Together Trust to create the MI’s second chance hiring initiative.

Through implementing groundbreaking programs, convening industry leaders and conducting innovative research, the MI furthers individual opportunity, community prosperity and a more competitive manufacturing industry. The MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. To learn more about Carolyn connect with her here.

In this special bonus episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt interviews Agustin Lopez Diaz, a Senior leader at Schneider Electric, discussing the future of work, the role of AI in supply chain management, and the importance of resilience and flexibility in today's manufacturing landscape. They explore how technology is transforming the supply chain, the challenges smaller companies face in adopting AI, and predictions for the future of manufacturing jobs. In this episode, you not only get a view of where supply chain roles have grown with technology, but also how they will continue to continue evolve moving forward.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Introduction

-00:30: Welcoming Agustin Lopez Diaz Of Schneider Electric

-03:29: Schneider Electric: Bringing Manufacturing Jobs To TN

-04:36: Getting To Know Agustin

-05:55: The Evolution Of Supply Chain Roles

-09:15: The Convergence Of AI And People At Work

-12:04: AI And Supply Chain Management

-15:28: Tips On Implementing AI For Small And Medium Businesses

-18:26: Creating Sustainable Supply Chain Management Systems

-24:30: Culture At Schneider Electric: Just Be Yourself

-27:49: Agusin's Predictions: People And Value

-29:41: Closing Thoughts And Contact Information

-30:12: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Agustin:

Agustin Lopez Diaz, North America Supply Chain Officer​

Augustin Lopez Diaz currently serves as the North America Supply Chain Officer of Schneider Electric. Before joining the company, Agustin held various leadership positions in Sustainability and CS&Q in Faurecia, GE Power, Rockwell and Vestas, where he led a number of key transformations to create more value for customers, people and planet. On top of a career devoted to safety, quality, sustainability and performance, Agustin is a multicultural leader originally from Mexico who has since lived in 6 countries of which he speaks the language. He owns degrees in Mechanical engineering, Business Administration and Negotiation (UPAEP university of Mexico, and the last one from University of Michigan).​ To learn more about Agustin, connect with him here.

In this week's season 10 finale, Ann Wyatt sits down with , Patrick Tobin, President of Han-Tek, for a conversation that shares insights about his journey in the automation industry, the importance of company culture, and the role of technology in enhancing workplace safety and efficiency. Patrick emphasizes the significance of hiring individuals with the right attitude and aptitude, adapting to changing customer needs, and maintaining integrity in business practices. The discussion also touches on the future of leadership and the impact of innovation on job creation. If you're wondering how your career can advance into seeing every aspect of how a product is made in manufacturing- from concept to completion- this episode is for you!

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Introduction

-00:30: Welcoming Pat Tobin To Workforce 4.0

-03:15: Building a Strong Company Culture

-05:51: Navigating Change and Continuous Improvement

-08:28: Expanding Beyond New York: Growth Strategies

-11:10: Maintaining Company Culture During Growth

-14:09: The Role of Attitude and Aptitude in Hiring

-16:53: The Impact of Technology on Workforce

-19:26: Advice for Future Leaders

-22:02: Customer Success Stories and Integrity

-27:17: Conclusion and Future Outlook

-34:40: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Pat:

"At Han-Tek, I've been given the opportunity to see every aspect of how a product develops from concept to completion—how they get manufactured, processed, assembled, and installed," says Patrick.

This deep, first-hand knowledge is what drives Patrick's leadership focus on customer needs and strategic business development. He further honed this expertise by earning his MBA from the University of Rochester Simon School of Business.

As resident, Patrick oversees the organization's day-to-day operations and personally champions the team's efforts to implement their new strategic business plan, ensuring the company's future growth and success. While no two days are the same—from new business development initiatives to exploring potential mergers and acquisitions—Patrick remains committed to keeping Han-Tek's family-business values at the core of every decision.

In his downtime, Patrick enjoys being with his growing family, hitting the slopes to ski, finding a quiet spot to fish, and cheering on NCAA lacrosse. To learn more about Patrick, connect with his here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Lisa Masciantonio, Chief Workforce Officer at the ARM Institute about the critical role of workforce development in the robotics and manufacturing sectors. They discuss innovative training platforms, the importance of aligning skills with job market needs, and the challenges of bridging the skills gap. Lisa shares insights on how job seekers can navigate their career paths in robotics and emphasizes the exciting opportunities available in advanced manufacturing. When it comes to bridging the skills gap, the misalignment between the real world applications and the training that is available is real.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Show Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Lisa Masciantonio To Workforce 4.0

-03:00: Innovative Training Platforms and Career Pathways

-06:08: Addressing the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

-09:02: Karaoke and Personal Insights

-11:57: Bridging the Gap Between Job Descriptions and Skills

-14:31: Engaging with ARM Institute and Career Opportunities

-17:29: Future of Work and Career Pathways in Robotics

-25:43: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Lisa Masciantonio:

Lisa is a performance-driven leader with notable success in cultivating and executing business strategies and bringing in multimillion-dollar deals that exceed growth and revenue goals. Her greatest strength is in formulating long-term strategic client relationships and has proven success in developing business solutions, commercialization of products, technology transfer, and technological initiatives that have supported organizational growth, improved staff productivity, and increased profitability. Critical to her success is the ability to increase awareness and drive thought leadership position by designing and executing innovative programs as well as developing and launching new, value-add offerings for ongoing competitiveness.

The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute is a Pittsburgh-based, nationally-known, public-private partnership founded by Carnegie Mellon University. ARM actively develops, demonstrates and facilitates early adoption of robotic solutions in an effort to grow the national manufacturing ecosystem. ARM focuses on critical growth sectors that are ripe for rapid adoption of robotics in manufacturing. As widespread adoption of robotics in manufacturing continues to grow, so do the issues of expense, single purpose inefficiency, reprogramming and isolation from humans for safety. The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Institute integrates industry practices and institutional knowledge across many disciplines to realize the promises of a robust manufacturing innovation ecosystem. To learn more about Lisa, connect with her here.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt interviews Hendrik Stoltz, CEO of Automated Industrial Robotics (or AIR). They discuss Hendrik's journey from South Africa to the USA, his experiences in the robotics industry, and the importance of cultural transformation within organizations. The conversation delves into the challenges of acquisitions, the significance of employee retention, and the future of work with technology integration. Hendrik emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence in leadership and offers advice for the next generation of professionals. Join us for this week's conversation packed with tips on how people are the center of your business and how acquisitions can integrate products and people- seamlessly.

In This Episode:

-00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0

-00:30: Welcoming Hendrik Stoltz of AIR on Workforce 4.0

-03:10: Hendrik's Journey and Experience in Robotics

-05:58: Cultural Transformation and Team Development

-08:53: Acquisitions and Integrations in Business

-11:41: Employee Value Proposition and Retention

-14:24: Future of Work and Technology Integration

-17:07: Leadership and Emotional Intelligence

-19:58: Advice for the Next Generation

-22:41:Final Thoughts and Networking Opportunities

-33:28: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Hendrik:

Hendrik Stoltz is a globally experienced business leader in advanced automation, packaging, and industrial technology, with over 25 years of executive leadership across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. As President of Automated Industrial Robotics (AIR)—an Ares Management portfolio company—he has led transformational restructuring, diversification, and value-creation initiatives, driving operational excellence and sustainable growth. Hendrik’s career spans leadership roles in multinational firms such as Elopak, where he oversaw global capital equipment operations across multiple continents, and Totally Automated Systems (TA Systems), where he integrated engineering innovation with digital performance management. Renowned for his people-centered, coaching-based leadership, he builds resilient, high-performing teams and cultures that thrive on accountability, innovation, and collaboration. With a foundation in mechanical engineering and multiple patents to his name, Hendrik combines deep technical expertise with strategic insight—applying state-of-the-art automation and data-driven technologies to improve efficiency, scalability, and competitiveness in complex global manufacturing environments. To learn more about Hendrik, connect with him here.

In this episode, Ann Wyatt and Kevin Bowers discuss the current challenges facing the manufacturing industry, particularly the impact of tariffs and other economic factors during the fourth quarter of 2025. They explore the importance of data collection through surveys, the implications of Section 232 tariffs, and the ongoing job losses in manufacturing. The conversation emphasizes the need for small manufacturers to engage with their representatives and utilize available resources to navigate these challenges. Additionally, they provide insights into the economic outlook for the manufacturing sector and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst uncertainty. If you're wondering how you can successfully navigate all of the political and economic shifts happening and need resources to do so, this episode is up your alley!

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Introduction

-00:30: Welcoming Kevin Bowers From AMT On Workforce 4.0

-08:35: The Role of Automation in Manufacturing

-11:30: Job Losses and Workforce Challenges

-14:15: Financial Resources and Support for Manufacturers

-16:53: Future Projections for Manufacturing

-19:13: Community Engagement and Advocacy

-21:47: Navigating Economic Uncertainty

-24:10: Conclusion and Key Takeaways

More About Kevin Bowers:

Kevin is the association's Vice President of Research: With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing across sales, operations, training, and support, he understands all aspects of our members' businesses. He also led research for industrial equipment and field services at the Technology & Services Industry Association, where they focused on benchmarking, advisory, and consulting to improve members' business outcomes. Kevin's deep-rooted industry knowledge and technical expertise, combined with his experience in actionable research, make him uniquely qualified to take our Research and Consulting team at AMT to the next level. He also serves on the board of NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills). Kevin graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Japanese and spent several years living and working in Japan.

Have you ever walked into a store and wondered "how is this store out of of the product that I need?" In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Jaimie Horstman, Director of Demand and Forecasting at Procter & Gamble. They discuss the critical role of data in supply chain management, consumer behavior during crises, and the importance of predictive insights. Jaimie shares her insights on how to leverage data for better decision-making and offers practical tips for smaller manufacturers to manage their data effectively. The conversation also touches on the passion for problem-solving in supply chain roles and concludes with career advice for aspiring professionals in the field. If you've ever wondered how one of the largest global consumer brands is leveraging data to keep the supply chain strong, regardless of what else is going on in the world, this episode is a must listen!

In This Episode:

-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Intro

-00:30: Welcoming Jaimie Horstman

-04:42: The Role of Data in Supply Chain Management

-09:14: Consumer Behavior and Supply Chain Dynamics

-13:25: Building Trust in Data for Smaller Manufacturers

-18:03: Maintaining Customer Experience in a Data-Driven World

-22:34: Career Insights and Advice for Aspiring Supply Chain Professionals

-23:43: Workforce 4.0 Outro

More About Jaimie Horstman:

Jaimie McIntyre Horstman currently serves as the Director of Demand Forecasting at Procter & Gamble. Jaimie has a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. She began her career in engineering and manufacturing at P&G but found and followed her passion over the last 24 years leading transformations and solving problems in the end-to-end supply chain. Her experience spans supply planning, customer service/logistics, transportation, S&OP leadership, global supply network design, internal and external cross functional collaboration, demand planning and short/long range capacity planning. She has been a strong advocate for women in supply chain, leading the NA Supply Network Operations Women’s Affinity group at P&G for 5 years and most recently being featured on the “She Supply Chains” Podcast.