Talking Industrial Automation

n this episode of Talking Industrial Automation, Lisa Richter sits down with Rob Goldsmith, Director of Industrial Systems at Matrix, to explore his unexpected journey from bioengineering student to automation leader overseeing one of North America's largest independent integration teams. Rob shares how Matrix "brings processes to life" through factory automation, network infrastructure, and industrial systems integration — from small retrofit projects to massive greenfield installations. He also explains automation in everyday terms using a simple "making soup" analogy, discusses the growing role of AI in manufacturing, and highlights why CSIA best practices and strong client relationships remain essential in a rapidly evolving industry. Tune in for insights on leadership, automation strategy, AI adoption, and the human side of industrial systems integration.

In this special crossover episode of Talking Industrial Automation, host Lisa Richter shares a conversation from Great Question: A Manufacturing Podcast, featuring outgoing CSIA CEO Jose Rivera. As he prepares to step down after 10 transformative years, Jose looks back on the challenges and triumphs that shaped the Control System Integrators Association—from navigating the pandemic and launching remote certifications to championing emerging leaders and expanding globally. Listeners will gain insights into how CSIA evolved to meet the needs of a new generation of system integrators and why the upcoming Learning Hub could redefine professional development in automation. If you're interested in leadership transitions, association strategy, or the future of industrial integration, this episode delivers thoughtful reflections and a hopeful look ahead. P.S. The Show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join this show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (Linkedin here)

In today's episode, we're talking industrial automation with Matt Wise, CEO of E Tech Group as we explore how E Tech Group became a powerhouse in system integration, earning accolades like the 2025 System Integrator of the Year award. Discover Matt's unique journey from marketing to leading over 600 employees across North America and how his diverse background shapes innovative strategies for tackling industry challenges. Key Takeaways: - Learn about E Tech Group's evolution through strategic acquisitions and its impact on scaling operations. - Understand the complexities faced by clients in automation and how E Tech Group provides tailored solutions. - Gain insights into industry trends, including labor shortages and technological advancements like AI. P.S. The Show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join this show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (You can finder on on Linkedin here)

In today's episode, we're talking industrial automation with Cole Wangsness, who is a Solution Architect at OnLogic. Since joining the team in 2018, Cole has focused on empowering companies to solve complex technology challenges at the edge -- encompassing both software and hardware -- by leveraging OnLogic's industrial computing solutions and its robust partner ecosystem. Through his work with customers, partners, vendors and the team at OnLogic, Cole gets to feed his passion for making complex technologies -- such as AI at the Edge & Device Orchestration -- easier to understand and deploy. Hear all about it in this episode of Talking Industrial Automation. P.S. The show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join ths show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (You can find her on LinkedIn.)

In this episode, you'll hear from Jim Gillespie, who is the co-founder and chief growth officer of GrayMatter, a leading OT-focused company that provides consulting, services, and curated technology to transform operations and empower people. Since its inception, GrayMatter has grown to over 290 team members and over $80M in revenue. Along the way, it also completed 5 acquisitions and achieved national and international recognition. Listen to find how how and why Jim has grown this company to the size it is today.

In this episode of Talking Industrial Automation, Kacie Chitwood, an account executive at Miller Resource Group, shares her insights into the job market for controls engineers. Some tidbits: The surprising salary jumps controls engineers can expect in their first five years Creative perks companies are using to attract top talent beyond just salary Why the "skills gap" is a major challenge and how companies are addressing it Tips for candidates on standing out in the job market and negotiating offers The future outlook for industrial automation careers and why it's so promising Whether you're a job seeker looking to advance your career, an employer trying to attract and retain talent, or simply curious about the state of the industry, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insider knowledge.

The airwaves are blowing up with the potential of AI in industrial automation -- but is it all talk? Not at all, says Bryan DeBois, DIrector of AI at RoviSys, a system integration founded in 1989. In fact, Autonomous AI is solving unsolvable problems right now -- including the brain drain and labor shortage -- that are plaquing manufacturing throughout the US. FInd out how in this episode of Talking Industrial Automation.