Careers in Focus

Careers in Focus
Enabling Automation
Careers in Focus

Jan 08 2026 | 00:32:37

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Episode 8 January 08, 2026 00:32:37

Show Notes

Welcome to Enabling Automation! The eighth episode of season 4 is "Careers in Focus". Join our season 4 host for this episode, Ben Hope, as he discusses Manufacturing AUTOMATION’s Lifetime Achievement Award with special guest, Steve Wardell. Read the article here: https://www.automationmag.com/a-vision-for-automation/

Listen to all episodes on the following platforms:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bRvl6sNObcsEDLvRmQ8PX?si=56683f33843c4785

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/consulting-meets-automation/id1703651289?i=1000715607051

- Overcast: https://overcast.fm/+BBYs2Agw6U

- Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/63e2da85-de40-447e-aaaf-6fca18358cec/episodes/dece103f-3ba4-4aff-99c7-57ee60a9fdcd/enabling-automation-consulting-meets-automation

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NofAvtHmH7k&list=PL1amIhdccgLUh7TbNYEANqxd1WIXb4uDd&index=2

For more information, visit: https://atsautomation.com/podcast/

Contact us: https://atsautomation.com/

In this monthly podcast series, join industry leaders from across ATS as they share and discuss the latest industry trends, new innovations, and more! ATS is an industry-leading automation solutions provider to many of the world's most successful companies.

Timestamps

00:04 – Introduction

00:52 – What went through your mind when you first learned you were receiving a lifetime achievement award?

01:22 – Do you feel “a vision for automation” captures your journey?

03:15 – What were the critical turning points that changed the direction of your career? 05:20 – Where is automation heading?

07:45 – Where are there gaps between was is possible and what is implemented?

10:23 – What did the article get right about your philosophy? Is there anything to add or clarify?

12:44 – How has the role of data changes in manufacturing?

14:51 – Where do you see the value in AI? Where is it overhyped?

17:45 – What’s the smartest first step for companies looking to start their modernization journey?

19:47 – What have you learned about change mindset?

21:25 – How can companies bridge the tension between OT and IT?

24:37 – What advice do you have for young engineers and leaders entering the field today?

26:02 – What developments in automation over the next 5 to 10 years excite you the most?

29:08 – Is there a technology or idea that’s underrated right now?

31:20 – Final thoughts

32:04 – Closing

#enablingautomation #automation #podcast

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