How to Get Started on Automation, Right Now

Four Conversations with Tech Experts at The Automated Shop Conference

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What if you could supercharge your small to midsize job shop with the power of automation? That's what The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) was all about, bringing together experts in automation to help SMBs take actionable steps on their digital transformation journey.

The TechEd Podcast served as co-technical director at the inaugural conference, along with Modern Machine Shop's Editor-in-Chief, Brent Donaldson. Now, you're getting all the best insights from TASC compiled into one podcast episode!

Hear four conversations with four technology experts who share strategies for automation you can start implementing today.

4 Big Takeaways from this episode:

Collaborative robots are a first choice for automation with a long-term view of success: with Jerry Perez - Executive Director of Global Accounts, FANUC America. Cobots are a great choice for your first automation project. They are easier to deploy, provide a more positive user experience, and have a lower threshold for employees learning how to program and operate them. They're a gateway for future automation.
No-code and AI-powered automation are making it possible for any company to automate: with Andra Keay - Managing Director of Silicon Valley Robotics and Vice President of Global Robotics at AMT. This new evolution of robotics is moving so quickly and making it so easy for manufacturers to find a simple solution that they can benefit from. Plus, it's an order of magnitude more affordable today than it was decades ago. So there's no excuse - get started today, because your competitors already are.
Calculating ROI on automation requires a longer-term view, plus you'll need to consider some "hidden" factors: with Steve Alexander - Vice President of Operations & Standard Products at Acieta. Increasing capacity, adding shifts, employee retention...these are all positive impacts that an automation investment can bring your company. Learn more about how to calculate ROI on automation.
Looking for answers? Manufacturers today are more open to sharing what's worked for them: with Fabian Schmahl - Managing Director of Bold Promises Delivered. We talk about all the benefits of automation: it creates a culture of innovation where employees are engaged with their work, it makes you a destination employer for skilled talent, it helps you be more profitable...but how do you get started? Fabian has great advice on where to find answers, including networking tips, industry resources, and brands and integrators you should look into.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The Automated Shop Conference is returning in 2024 as part of IMTS in Chicago! Check out their site for all the details.

TASC is powered by Modern Machine Shop, Production Machining, and the team at Gardner Business Media.

Connect with our guests' organizations:

FANUC America | Silicon Valley Robotics | The Association for Manufacturing Technology | Acieta | Bold Promises Delivered

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