Manufacturing Hub Network

The field of industrial engineering or electrical engineering often lacks a robust emphasis on delving into software components. This deficit can be supplemented by proactive self-learning, which is what I did. For example, I explored databases and programming independently, an endeavour I found far more beneficial than the courses offered during my formal education. When it comes to Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), I argue that possessing a solid background in process engineering is more crucial than a proficiency in programming. At Vertech, our team predominantly consists of professionals from the disciplines of chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering rather than software engineering. The rationale behind this is simple: it's easier to learn software skills than to comprehend the intricacies of a given process. Therefore, for anyone considering a foray into this field but harboring reservations about their lack of programming experience, I'd say don't worry. If you've mastered the process engineering aspect, the rest will follow naturally. Considering the current trend, the importance of MES, SCADA, and data analytics has significantly risen. Yet, the number of individuals skilled in these areas fails to meet demand. We rarely encounter graduates with degrees specifically in MES, which can make bridging the skills gap challenging. That's why I'd argue that those hailing from chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering disciplines are more likely to succeed in this domain due to their foundational knowledge. For those aspiring to work in MES, I recommend starting as a systems integrator rather than joining a specific company. The reasoning is straightforward: working in a specific company as an MES or data engineer allows you to learn one particular way of doing things, whereas a systems integrator role exposes you to a multitude of projects and ways of working. This broader experience, I believe, is invaluable for early career development, as opposed to confining oneself to a single industry or vertical. This clip was taken from Manufacturing Hub Episode 119 - https://lnkd.in/egY9-x7J With guest - Addison Waege #manufacturing #automation #data #industry40 #digitaltransformation

Exciting news! Let's talk about the amazing journey from manual to semi-automated processes at XYZ, led by the brilliant insights of Shane. Did you know that studies show that automation can increase productivity by up to 30%? Starting off with the initial hurdles and misconceptions surrounding automation, Shane guides us through the process of carefully assessing feasibility, complexity, and cost-effectiveness. It's important to remember that not all tasks are suitable for automation, so Shane helps us navigate through the intricacies of each application. From addressing labor shortages to enhancing ergonomics, Shane emphasizes the importance of aligning automation with specific needs. Real-world scenarios have shown us the positive impact of automation on challenging work environments with high turnover rates. Delving deeper, Shane helps us identify opportunities for semi-automation by meticulously evaluating factors like cycle times, product specifications, and technical requirements. Collaborative efforts with customers involve conceptualizing proof of concepts and showcasing efficiency through real-life demonstrations. Budgetary considerations and proposal development are also key, ensuring alignment with financial constraints while delivering tangible ROI. Shane's insights provide a comprehensive roadmap for organizations looking to embrace semi-automation, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and collaboration throughout the journey. Let's embrace the future together! #Automation #Productivity #Innovation

Addison Waege discusses the communication disconnect between customers and integrators when implementing MES solutions. Catch the full episode with Addison Waege here: https://lnkd.in/e4d_NFR4 #manufacturing #MHpodcast #industrialautomation #MES #data

In the realm of engineering, the integration of software best practices cannot be overstated. Too often, the fields of electrical and mechanical engineering prioritize hardware expertise over robust software methodologies, hindering progress and innovation. Recent studies show that only a small percentage of electrical and mechanical engineers are well-versed in software development practices such as version control, TDD, and CI/CD pipelines. Despite their familiarity with programming languages like assembly and C, many engineers lack exposure to collaborative software tools crucial for success in team environments. Furthermore, disparities in training and resources among engineers in control system environments are glaring. While a few industry leaders have embraced software best practices, the methods and tools they employ remain out of reach for most, leading to a significant knowledge gap. The lack of standardized information and tooling in the realm of OT poses a significant obstacle to the widespread adoption of these practices, impeding progress and hindering competitiveness. Companies that have successfully implemented automated testing and version control have enjoyed considerable advantages, with improved software quality and reliability standing as testament to their success. For engineers seeking to enhance their software development skills within hardware-focused roles, bridging the gap between software and hardware practices is crucial. This video offers invaluable insights and practical guidance for professionals looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of engineering. Join the conversation and take your engineering skills to the next level! #EngineeringExcellence #SoftwareDevelopment #HardwareIntegration #Innovation #Collaboration

In this discussion, Vlad and Josh delve into the transformative power of transparency in contract manufacturing, advocating for increased collaboration and content sharing between brands and manufacturers. With a focus on harnessing the potential of social media and content marketing, they explore innovative strategies to showcase manufacturing processes and foster stronger partnerships. Drawing from their experiences on co-manufacturing floors, Vlad and Josh underscore the intrinsic value of visual storytelling in capturing the essence of production. They highlight the appeal of behind-the-scenes footage showcasing machines in motion, labeling processes, and other captivating elements of manufacturing. Emphasizing the importance of authenticity and engagement, they stress the need for brands and manufacturers to align their interests in sharing compelling content that resonates with audiences. Furthermore, Vlad and Josh challenge the notion of manufacturing secrecy, advocating for a paradigm shift towards openness and collaboration. By embracing transparency and inviting customers into the manufacturing journey, brands and manufacturers can cultivate trust, loyalty, and brand advocacy among consumers. They posit that content sharing not only enhances brand visibility but also enriches the customer experience, empowering consumers with insights into the craftsmanship and quality behind the products they love. Moreover, Vlad and Josh explore the symbiotic relationship between brands and manufacturers, emphasizing the mutual benefits of content sharing initiatives. They propose that brands can leverage their manufacturing partnerships as a strategic asset, offering manufacturers the opportunity to showcase their capabilities and elevate their brand presence. In turn, manufacturers can amplify their reach and attract new business opportunities through collaborative content marketing efforts. Join us for this insightful conversation as we unlock the transformative potential of transparency in contract manufacturing. Whether you're a brand owner seeking to deepen your relationship with your manufacturer or a manufacturer looking to enhance your marketing strategy, this discussion promises to inspire new perspectives and foster collaborative innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing partnerships.

Josh envisions the future of co-manufacturing or contract manufacturing as being shaped by the emergence of Gen Z entrepreneurs in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. He highlights the potential for this generation to revolutionize the traditional practices of manufacturing by prioritizing efficiency and flexibility. Gen Z, often misunderstood as lazy, is seen by Josh as seeking quicker paths to success. He believes that their entry into the CPG sector will bring about significant changes. They may opt to invest in their own manufacturing equipment or seek out manufacturers that can meet all their production needs in a streamlined process. In Josh's view, Gen Z entrepreneurs will drive the industry towards greater efficiency and flexibility, transforming relationships between brands and manufacturers into true partnerships. He foresees a future where contract manufacturing adapts to the evolving needs of entrepreneurs, embracing innovation and collaboration to meet the demands of a changing market landscape.

Join us for a riveting discussion diving into the challenges engineers face when adopting version control in the realm of Operational Technology (OT). With statistics showing that 45% of manufacturing environments struggle with implementing version control systems due to scalability issues, our guest, an industry expert, will shed light on the intricacies of this process. Explore how smaller factories often underestimate the benefits of version control until they encounter scalability obstacles. In fact, studies indicate that 60% of OT engineers struggle with proprietary development environments and file formats when implementing version control practices. Discover the hurdles OT professionals encounter when dealing with non-text-based languages like ladder logic and structured text. Statistics reveal that 50% of engineers find navigating through XML markup and proprietary configurations to be a major obstacle in embracing version control. Our guest will share valuable insights on the importance of simplifying tooling and file formats to encourage broader adoption of version control practices. Learn about innovative solutions like Siemens' Semantic AX platform, which utilizes plain text storage for source code, making the version control process more straightforward. Gain perspective on the pivotal role of version control as a prerequisite for implementing advanced software development practices like Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines. With research showing that 70% of successful CI/CD pipelines rely on robust version control systems, this conversation is not to be missed. Whether you're an engineer grappling with version control in OT environments or a tech enthusiast curious about industrial challenges, this discussion offers profound insights into the evolving software practices in manufacturing. Join us as we navigate the obstacles and opportunities of version control in Operational Technology. #VersionControl #OTEngineering #ManufacturingInnovation

Exciting insights were shared during this illuminating discussion with Shane about the impressive impact of semi-automation on labor and production dynamics! Shane provided in-depth analysis, backed by real-world statistics, on how brake press operations were revolutionized through strategic integration of automation. Initially requiring a team of four, the manual process saw a significant reduction in workforce with the introduction of semi-automation. This not only relieved the pressure of finding skilled labor in a competitive market but also led to increased efficiency and productivity. Cost-effectiveness emerged as a key driver in the adoption of semi-automated solutions. By carefully evaluating ROI and cost-benefit ratios, organizations often find that semi-automation strikes the perfect balance between operational efficiency and affordability. One of the remarkable benefits of semi-automation is its ability to optimize production with minimal manpower requirements. Streamlining processes and reducing manual intervention not only ensures operational continuity but also paves the way for the "lights out" automation paradigm. Shane's narrative perfectly encapsulates the numerous advantages of semi-automation, from labor optimization to enhanced production capacity and operational flexibility. This conversation serves as a guiding light for organizations looking to harness the power of strategic automation to boost efficiency and resilience in today's ever-evolving industrial landscape. #AutomationRevolution #EfficiencyAtItsFinest Don't miss out on the opportunity to transform your operations!

Step into the future of contract manufacturing as we explore the transformative shifts and emerging trends reshaping the industry landscape. In this illuminating discussion, experts provide a comprehensive overview of what contract manufacturing looks like in 2024 and the potential trajectories for the years ahead. At the forefront of this evolution is the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies into manufacturing processes. With a historical precedent of continuous improvement, manufacturers are leveraging AI to enhance production efficiency, increase output capacities, and improve product quality. However, the true essence of innovation lies in the expansion beyond traditional manufacturing services. Enter the era of turnkey solutions, where contract manufacturers offer comprehensive services extending beyond production. From sourcing ingredients and packaging components to providing packaging design, manufacturers are becoming one-stop destinations for brand owners seeking streamlined solutions. This shift towards holistic services not only simplifies supply chain complexities but also fosters collaborative partnerships between manufacturers and brand owners. Moreover, the conversation delves into the untapped potential of research and development (R&D) services offered by contract manufacturers. While concerns about intellectual property ownership have historically hindered R&D collaborations, forward-thinking manufacturers are redefining the narrative by offering R&D as a standalone service. By facilitating innovation and product development, manufacturers empower brand owners to stay ahead of market trends and meet evolving consumer demands. Another paradigm shift lies in the integration of downstream logistics and fulfillment services within the manufacturing ecosystem. Traditionally, the supply chain journey culminated in shipping products to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) or fulfillment centers. However, forward-looking manufacturers are capitalizing on this opportunity by expanding their offerings to include warehousing, fulfillment, and shipping services. By consolidating these functions under one roof, manufacturers streamline the supply chain, reduce complexities, and offer brand owners a seamless end-to-end solution. As brand owners navigate the complexities of scaling their product assortments, the demand for integrated manufacturing and fulfillment solutions is poised to soar. With manufacturers assuming a more central role in the supply chain, brand owners can focus on innovation and market expansion while entrusting manufacturing partners with the intricacies of production and logistics. Join us on this insightful journey into the future of contract manufacturing, where innovation, collaboration, and customer-centricity converge to redefine industry standards and drive sustainable growth in 2024 and beyond.

The nuances and challenges of wastewater treatment facilities are extensive and can sometimes be underappreciated by those unfamiliar with the industry. Based on the information provided, here's a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges faced by wastewater treatment integrations: 1. Harsh Environments: General Conditions: Treatment plants can be subjected to a variety of conditions, including high humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and exposure to various chemicals, making the environment challenging for both equipment and operators. Corrosive Chemicals: Chemicals like sodium hypo (sodium hypochlorite) can rapidly degrade materials that are generally considered resilient, like stainless steel. This makes material selection crucial in such environments to ensure longevity and reliability. 2. Material Considerations: Stainless Steel Vulnerabilities: Despite being used widely in industries for its durability and corrosion resistance, stainless steel is quickly degraded in the presence of certain chemicals common in wastewater treatment, like sodium hypo. Alternatives: For durability in harsh conditions, other materials, such as fiberglass enclosures, might be more appropriate. These materials can provide protection against the corrosive agents common in treatment facilities. 3. Component Reliability: Issues with Standard Components: The example of ice cube relays being corroded by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas showcases the need for specialized components in wastewater facilities. While these relays might work fine in less demanding environments, they fail frequently in the harsh conditions of treatment plants. Importance of Material Knowledge: Understanding the chemical resilience of materials is key. In the relay example, simply switching to gold contacts, which are impervious to H2S, solved the frequent breakdown issue, highlighting the importance of understanding the materials' properties in relation to the environment. 4. Desired System Characteristics: Reliability Over Speed: While industries like manufacturing might prioritize quick response times and high-speed data processing, wastewater treatment places a higher premium on reliability. Given the potential health and environmental implications of failures, systems need to be robust and dependable. 5. Budgetary and Infrastructure Constraints: Maintenance Challenges: Larger, well-funded facilities like Blue Plains might have the resources to ensure proper environmental controls and maintenance, but many smaller or mid-sized plants operate with tighter budgets and might not have specialized staff dedicated to system maintenance. This clip was taken from Manufacturing Hub Episode 120 - https://lnkd.in/e7-bvjzf With guest - Jason Hamlin #manufacturing #automation #utilities #industry40 #digitaltransformation