Automation Ladies
Automation Ladies is a podcast where girls talk about industrial automation. They interview people from various fields in the industry, covering topics like PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, IIoT, machine vision, industrial robots, pneumatics, control systems, process automation, factory automation, systems integration, entrepreneurship, career stories, personal journeys, and company culture. The show is co-hosted by Nikki Gonzales, Ali G, and Courtney Fernandez.
Episodes
AI Won't Replace Automation Engineers, but It Will Change Everything with Rylan Pyciak
Everyone’s talking about AI, humanoids, and the “factory of the future” but plenty of plants are still held together with undocumented panels, obsolete PLCs, and the same hard production constraints they’ve had for decades. Nikki sits down with Rylan Paishack from Cleveland Automation Systems to sort out what actually works when you’re responsible for keeping equipment running and delivering autom
Modernizing Manufacturing with AI, AMRs & Digital Transformation with Carrie Brown & Krista Beyhaut of Wesco
“Digital transformation” sounds exciting until you’re standing in front of a 30-year-old panel with missing drawings and a line that cannot go down. Nikki sits down with Carrie Brown and Krista Beyhaut from Wesco to get real about what modernization actually looks like across manufacturing, especially for plants that are stuck spending their entire budget on downtime instead of upgrades. We talk c
From Petroleum Engineer to Entrepreneur: Career Growth in the Oil & Gas Industry with Yogashri Pradhan
Getting laid off can either shrink your world or force it open. When we sit down with Yogashri Pradhan, she walks us through how she’s navigated the reality of a cyclical oil and gas industry and why she chose entrepreneurship anyway, building Iron Lady Energy Advisors and taking on fractional leadership roles that keep her close to real operational problems and real outcomes. We talk about what i
Why Career Paths Aren’t Linear: Lessons from Engineering, Writing, and Everything In Between with Rachael Pasini
In this episode of Automation Ladies, we step away from the technology and talk about something just as important: the people behind it.From nonlinear career paths to the pressure of “doing everything right,” this conversation dives into what work really looks like in today’s world, especially in industrial automation and manufacturing.Our guest shares her journey from engineering to technical wri
AI, OT SCADA Con, and Big Updates: an Automation Ladies Catch-Up
Something shifted for us this year: the more we commit to doing less, the more we’re actually building. Nikki, Courtney, and Allie get together for a real catch-up on work, life, and what’s next for Automation Ladies, with stories that range from bigger robotics and better work-life balance to a brand-new view outside a bayou window in Louisiana.We also dig into OT SCADA CON and why it keeps feeli
How A Nonprofit Brings Humanoid Robotics To Underserved Students with Dr. Elliot Heflin. Jr
Humanoid robots are getting real, and the biggest question isn’t “Can they dance?” It’s “Who’s going to understand them well enough to build, program, and fix them?” We sit down with Dr. Elliot Hefling Jr., founder of Reality Tech Academy, to talk about why he brings full-scale humanoid robots into education and why waiting until college is too late for most students, especially in underserved com
How A Hospitality Manager Became A Manufacturing Leader with Megan Weber
You don’t need a perfectly planned career to become a manufacturing leader. Megan, Director of Manufacturing at Sentry Equipment, started in hospitality and landed in manufacturing because she wanted a more predictable schedule for family life. What happened next is the part most people miss: she fell in love with the shop floor, learned continuous improvement tools like QRM, Lean, and Six Sigma,
From Newsroom To Packaging: Sarah Wynn On Building Digital Community
Automation media, trade shows, and digital content are reshaping how the industrial automation industry connects. In this episode, Sarah shares insights from covering manufacturing and packaging events, building relationships across OEMs and integrators, and how social media and content creation are influencing the future of automation, engineering, and industrial technology.Support the show______
Conveyor Cougar: Automate or Get Left Behind with Cathy Rinne
Season 7 kicks off with Cathy “Conveyor Cougar” Rinne, President of FlexLine Automation, a 15-person, woman-owned integrator known for moving fast, shipping when it counts, and adapting the playbook—from conveyors and robotics to a TikTok presence that actually reaches engineers.We talk about what leadership really means in a family business, how FlexLine is using AI to automate drawings and quoti
From Beer Bar to Buildathon: Margarita Rosenkrans’ Journey with Ignition
When a chance conversation at a beer bar introduced her to the word “SCADA,” Margarita Rosenkrans had no idea it would spark a career in industrial automation. In this episode, Courtney and Alicia chat with Margarita—Sales Engineer at Inductive Automation—about her path from graduating in the middle of a hiring freeze to thriving in both support and sales engineering roles. We cover her behind-the
From Tesla Batteries to Underground Tunnels with Riddhi Padariya
Ever wondered what it takes to lead automation projects at trailblazing companies like Tesla and The Boring Company?Nikki chats with Riddhi Padariya about her journey from nerdy high schooler inspired by "How It's Made" to becoming a controls engineering leader in industries ranging from tissue manufacturing to carbon capture and underground tunneling. They dive into hands-on lesson
Machine Vision, Project Nightmares, and Automation Chaos with Kerry Pierce
Curious how someone ends up building a career around machine vision and industrial automation? Nikki sits down with Kerry Pierce, discussing the winding path that led her from computer engineering to becoming a machine vision integrator, the invaluable lessons learned along the way, and how she’s helping demystify the field for newcomers. -------This episode is brought to you by SPS Atlanta. Smar
Building Business Skills as an Engineer with Brielle Reisman
How do you build business skills as a chemical engineer?In this episode of the Automation Ladies podcast, Ali G chats with Brielle Reisman, who shares her experiences at Applied Control Engineering, and the importance of combining technical skills with business acumen. Brielle shares how she embraced the value of personal branding and content creation in the engineering industry, particularly for
AI in Industrial Automation - Insights with Ashlesha and Alex from Masked Owl Technologies
How will AI change Industrial automation? Ashlesha Anil Chaudhari and Alex Kaderi from Masked Owl Technologies join us this week to discuss how their team is building practical solutions to support engineers and rethink the use of AI and new technologies on the factory floor.Hear firsthand insights into what manufacturers are actually adopting, where they're finding real value, and why som
Automating the Farm - The Future of Agtech with Katie Bradford
How is automation and robotics changing the future of farming?Katie Bradford, Founder and CEO of Rotate8, joins Nikki to share her story of building practical automation that empowers small farms to thrive without sacrificing repairability or local expertise. Tune in to hear the challenges and opportunities in ag-tech, the design of accessible robotic platforms for small farms, and why an open-sou
Lyme Disease, Tick Survival Myths, and Protecting Your Family with Tick Expert Emily Merritt
Think ticks can’t find you at work? Think again!In this special episode hosts Nikki Gonzales and Courtney Fernandez sit down with tick expert Emily Merritt (aka the “Tick Chick”). Learn firsthand what Lyme disease can really mean, what to watch for after a bite, how to handle household exposure, and tips you won’t find on a repellant can. Ready to rethink what you know about ticks? You’ll want to
Bridging Tech, Manufacturing & STEM Careers with Brit Bartolini
This week Nikki sits down with Brit Bartolini, Enterprise Account Director at MaintainX, for a conversation on digital transformation in manufacturing, the future of maintenance, and attracting new generations to STEM careers.Hear how real-world manufacturing pain points, a love of gadgets, and a dash of maker-spirit are turning maintenance work into a high-tech, high-satisfaction career while sol
Fixing Automation’s Biggest Skills Gap With Paul Godines
Frustrated by the skills gap in automation? There’s a new approach in town.Join Nikki Gonzales as she sits down with Paul Godines from Logix Trainers to talk real solutions for bridging the entry-level technician divide.On this episode of Automation Ladies, you’ll get the inside story on why simulation training matters, what makes tenacity essential in controls, and how industry standard models li
Building Smart Factories and Smart Teams: Secrets from Dr. Nicole Schra-Martin
How do you build sustainable talent pipelines for the industry?Nikki Gonzales, Ali G, and Courtney Fernandez sit down with Dr. Nicole Schra Martin, an expert in manufacturing and automation, to discuss early STEM education, practical hiring for automation roles, and the changing face of industrial automation careers. These themes are essential for managers, engineers, and educators alike who are i
Mastering Trade Show Success with Joe Campbell & Jennifer Mass
What’s the ROI of your trade show booth?Trade shows cost more than most companies realize. Yet, year after year, exhibitors throw away tens of thousands by showing up unprepared, staff glued to phones, demos unfinished, and leads lost. In this episode we chat with veteran exhibitors and industry experts, Joe Campbell and Jennifer Mass, to learn how to transform every show into an engine for leads
Building Kansas City’s Go-To Controls Team with Caitlyn Young
What is it like to build a thriving controls engineering company with your partner?The Automation Ladies sit down with Caitlyn Young from Integrated Controls and Engineering to discuss what it takes to balance business, engineering, and partnership—all while serving the local industry at the highest level. Join us as Caitlyn shares the secrets of navigating roles, playing to strengths, handling ch
AI, Tariffs, and Million-Dollar Mistakes in Automation—Live Insights With Frank Hurtte & Larry White
Curious why manufacturer-distributor relationships still make or break automation sales?Nikki Gonzales talked with industry veterans Frank Hurtte & Larry White at AHTD about tariffs, global supply chain headaches, how AI is shifting the workforce & why family-run industrial businesses are thriving.------Huge thank you to Automate.org for sponsoring this episode!The biggest automation party
Major Life Updates, Texas Moves, and Big Community News
The Automation Ladies are all back together! Catch up as they mark the return of the podcast for a new season, sharing candid updates on life transitions, moves, industry shifts, and unexpected opportunities. Listen in for real talk about building and growing their women-led automation community, the creative push behind the unique OT SCADA CON event, the challenge and pull of relocating for caree
Predictive Maintenance and Industry Insights with Ryan Treece
Many factories struggle with unexpected equipment failure, resulting in costly downtime hits without warning. How can you avoid this with predictive maintenance strategies?Join us as we welcome special guest Ryan Treece from FreeWave Technologies for a discussion covering many industry insights. Discover how implementing predictive maintenance using vibration sensors can alert you in advance, mi
Catch up with Nikki - What's Coming in Season 6
We’re back! In this special solo kickoff to Season 6, Nikki shares what’s new with Automation Ladies — including her new role at Weintek USA, a big media partnership, and all the exciting things ahead for the show and community.In this episode:•Why Nikki joined the team at Weintek USA•The big announcement: Automation Ladies is now part of Industry Sage Media•Behind-the-scenes of producing the podc
Demo of Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure w/ Jen Sutter, Itoro Meshioye & Talita Clemente
How can breaking free from traditional limitations unlock a new era of innovation and resilience in automation?Join us with Jennifer Sutter, Itoro Meshioye, and Talita Clemente, three amazing women from Schneider Electric, who are pioneering the “Universal Automation” movement, where design flexibility and hardware independence redefine possibilities. Experience their inspiring narratives and an i
Collaborative Innovation, AI, & Cultural Dynamics w/ Dylan DuFresne
How can the collaboration between AI and cultural understanding create optimal performance in projects? Join us with Solutions Architect, Dylan DuFresne, as we navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation, shedding light on the often-overlooked human elements that can make or break technology implementations. We reflect on the evolving intersection of electrical engineering and softwa
OT, IT, & Cybersecurity in Manufacturing w/ Leah Dodson & Ashley Van Hoeson
OT, IT, and Cybersecurity - how are they different, related, and are you protected? Join us with Leah Dodson & Ashley Van Hoesen, as we master the distinctions between OT, IT, and Cybersecurity roles in the manufacturing industry.Gain insider knowledge on governance, risk, compliance, and the psychological tactics of scammers and hackers. Discover best use practices to safeguard operations, m
Boiler Technologies, Training, & Empowerment w/Eric Johnson
Dive into the world of boiler technologies, the growing role of automation, and the power of training and development. Join us with, Eric Johnson, CEO of Boilearn, as we enthusiastically tackle the pivotal topic of training and development in the mechanical and boiler industries. We emphasize the value of a diverse skill set, allowing technicians to collaborate effectively with professionals acros
Essential Leadership Skills & Community w/Alicia Lomas
What are the essential skills for a leader to create a supportive work culture?With retic and humor, our conversation with Alicia Lomas uncovers the nuances of leadership, exploring invaluable lesson on emotional regulation, the art of providing and receiving feedback, and the distinction between mentoring and managing-all essential skills for any leader striving to create a supportive work cultur
From Passion to Purpose, Navigating Through Career Changes & Growth w/Alex Pool
What if passion, resilience, and community could lead you to unexpected heights in a career? Join us along with Alex Pool from Masked Owl Technologies as we discuss how achievements, setbacks, fervor, and maintaining strong industry connections can pave the way for long-term personal and career success. We delve into the complexities of transitioning from technical roles to management and the sig
Unlocking Industrial Efficiency: Insights on Compressed Air Systems w/Rob Michael
Discover how optimizing often-overlooked compressed air systems can revolutionize industrial efficiency. Nikki, Ali, Courtney, and Senior Compressed Air Technician, Rob Michael, share practical wisdom on avoiding design mistakes by consulting with domain experts, delving into technical insights and real-life experiences in working with air compressors. Uncover the common pitfalls in compressed air
Gender Dynamics, Mentorship, and Innovation w/ Christine Lee and Mara Pillott
Challenging existing norms and community are the keys to navigating the ever-evolving realm of industrial automation Join us along with Mara Pillott and Christine Lee in addressing the changing landscape of remote work, the intricate gender dynamics, and the urgent demand for inventive solutions to the engineering skill gap in the industrial automation sector.Through humor and reflections, Christi
Attending Industry Events Increases Professional Growth w/ Brandon Peters
Attending industry events are crucial in extending your professional network and growing professionally. Join us with Brandon Peters, CEO of Shockwave Automation, as we highlight how short, focused sessions and face-to-face interactions at industry events can offer practical insights and foster meaningful connections. Gain insights into the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and techno
Connecting Through Content Creation, Cultural Exchange, & Personal Growth w/Jakob Sagatowski
Balancing work, life, and personal growth with cultural experiences and collaborative mindsets. Join us for a hearty conversation with Jakob Sagatowski, Software Engineer & CEO Sagatowski, involving traditions and career transitions, blending personal stories into an engaging narrative with nostalgic items symbolizing pride, success, and good fortune in adulthood. Reflecting on experiences w
Exploring Cybersecurity in Industrial Automation w/ Michael Grollmus
Cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing fields, offering a wealth of job opportunities. Join us as we discuss the challenges and advancements in cybersecurity in industrial automation with Michael Grollmus, CEO of Grollmus, highlighting the crossroads of tradition and innovation in this evolving sector. Together we investigate the mesh of cybersecurity into industrial automation and
Insights on Effective Social Media in the Industrial Sector with Susan Wilson
If you know us ladies, you know we love to network, both in-person and online, especially through social media. Join us, as we delve into the wonders and the transformations of social media with Susan Wilson from Inductive Automation. Sparked by her husband's career as a toolmaker machinist, hear how Susan discovered a passion for digital strategy, taking on a unique role that focuses exclus
Modernizing Dairy Farming with Automation ft. Vinny Endres
Nikki & Ali, sit down with Vinny Endres, owner of Bitmasked Automation & a trailblazer in dairy farm automation. Vinny shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming a diesel mechanic, then discovering his passion for electrical engineering & automation. He shares his unique perspective integrating robotic technologies in dairy farming, the potential of teleoperation, t
Building a Visionary Business in Automation with Erick Collins
What happens when a young troublemaker with a love for computers and cars finds himself at the forefront of the robotics and machine vision industries? Nikki and Courtney chat with Erick Collins, owner of Rockport Integration and Automation.Through a significant change in career direction and the influence of pivotal figures, Erick's path was anything but ordinary. Discover how a friend'
Leveraging Expert Collaboration & TikTok with Kathy at Flex-Line Automation & Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024)
Ali and Nikki sit down with Kathy Rinne, the Conveyor Cougar from Flex-Line Automation, and Ed Garstkiewicz, Sr. Industry Segment Manager of Automation and Robotics from HARTING.They touch on how in the ever-evolving landscape of industrial automation and marketing, collaborating with experts is more important than ever. And ever wondered how a 12-year-old can transform a Gen Xer's approach t
Revolutionizing Automation with Corey at HARTING & Ale at Gray Solutions (Automate 2024)
Join the Automation Ladies once again at Automate 2024 as they chat with Corey Jenkins from HARTING and Ale Walker from Gray Solutions. Corey dives into the engineering magic behind HARTING's plug-and-play solutions, while Ale brings a personal touch, giving a heartfelt shout-out to her mom, Kathy Walker, the CEO of eCami. They share how these connections aren't just mechanical but deepl
Bridging Innovation and Culture with Casey from HARTING (Automate 2024)
Join the Automation Ladies as they chat with Casey Spitz, the VP of Development and Innovation at HARTING. She takes us through setting up product development teams in the US, all things connectors, and customer engagement strategies. Discover the role of connectors in transforming data centers and AI technologies, and learn how these small components continue to drive technology forward.Support t
From SPE Standards to Hands-On Automation with McKenzie from CLN of SF and Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024)
Join us as the Automation Ladies sit down with McKenzie Reed, President of Single Paired Ether Standards Development / CLN of South Florida, and Ed Garskowitz, Business Development Manager at HARTING. Mckenzie shares his journey from working at Harting to acquiring his own industrial machinery company. Alongside McKenzie, Ed reflects on their collaborative history, and their innovative office. The
News Ways of Networking with Chris at Manufacturing Happy Hour & Amanda at HARTING (Automate 2024)
Ali and Nikki speak with Chris Luecke from Manufacturing Happy Hour and Amanda Marx, Senior VP of Marketing Digital Strategy & IT at HARTING. This minisode goes from casual LinkedIn conversations to establishing a dynamic community for women in industrial automation. They uncover the secrets of building niche communities, the importance of multi-generational workforces and the unique approach
Exploring Festo's Innovations with Sandro at Festo & Lucas at HARTING (Automate 2024)
Ready to revolutionize your approach to automation and connectivity? Join us on the show floor at Automate, where Nikki and Ali sit down with two industry powerhouses, Sandro Quintero from Festo and Lucas Knapp from HARTING. You'll uncover the secrets behind Festo's groundbreaking transition from traditional pneumatics to state-of-the-art electric automation solutions. Sandro delves into
Trends that are Reshaping Manufacturing Automation with Luis at Siemens & Ed at HARTING (Automate 2024)
In this second "minisode" from the floor of Automate 2024, Nikki and Ali sit down with Ed Garstkiewicz, Senior Industry Segment Manager at HARTING, and Luis Narvaez, Automation & Marketing Specialist at Siemens.We unpack the modernization trends reshaping the landscape of PLCs, automation, and manufacturing — the move to decentralized automation, the rise of modular connectors, the s
Flexible Navigation with Srna at OTTO and Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024)
In this first "minisode" from Automate, Nikki and Ali sit down with Srna Okukua, Head of Marketing at OTTO by Rockwell Automation, and Edmund Garstkiewicz, Senior Industry Segment Manager at HARTING. We'll explore how AMRs are making waves in industries ranging from automotive to consumer goods, offering unparalleled flexibility and efficiency over older AGV systems. Srna shares in
Robot Royalty with Vanessa Loiola
In this season 3 finale, the Automation Ladies have a chat with Founder and CEO of Valoy Automation, Vanessa Loiola.They discuss and emphasize the importance of training and troubleshooting skills for operators to reduce downtime and improve efficiency, proper programming and maintenance, and intuitive coding.Support the show__________________________________________________________________🎙 About
A Data Driven World with Phil Seboa
In this week's episode, Nikki and Ali chat with Technical Sales Executive at Inductive Automation, Phil Seboa.They discuss the importance of IT and OT, his journey from electrician into the IT-centric world of automation, the impact of Ignition software, and some tips for content creation.Support the show__________________________________________________________________🎙 About Automation Lad
Elevating Industrial Automation (AHTD Spring Meeting Live Recap)
In a previous Linkedin Live, Nikki and Ali recap the AHTD Spring Meeting with founder of QuoteBeam, Roman Piszcz. They discuss the importance of the Association for High Technology Distribution (AHTD) and encourage others in the industry to join. They also touch on the need for dynamic websites that provide relevant content and build credibility, the challenges of recruitment and retention, and t
SCADA System Integration with Hassana Abubakar
In Automation Ladies fashion we had some technical difficulties during this episode, but the Ladies and Hassana Abubakar, a SCADA engineer at Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited, had a great time.Hassana presented an amazing slideshow to show all the projects her and her team have accomplished and will achieve. They discuss hydropower plants, work in Nigeria, and the resilience of people.Interes
Innovation, Networking, and Giving Back with Preston Hadley (Linkedin Live)
In this Linkedin Live, Nikki along with a pop up from Ali, interview Preston Hadley, President and Founder of Envision Automation & Controls. Preston starts with his introduction to automation with working in a family business, and continues into the challenges and benefits of going to networking events and the authenticity of marketing.Support the show_________________________________________
Connecting the Future with Ed Garstkiewicz and Goda Inokaityte
In this special episode, Nikki and Ali speak with Ed Garstkiewicz (Business Development Manager) and Goda Inokaityte (Product Manager) at HARTING. They talk about the challenges of selecting and designing connectors, the benefits of using connectors in machinery and automation systems, and the innovations in connector technology, including modular connectors and single-pair Ethernet.Thank you to H
The State of Smart Manufacturing with Andy Stump and Vitória Régia Oliveira (Linkedin Live)
In this previous Linkedin Live episode, Nikki catches up with Andy Stump (Director of Business Development at Rockwell Automation), and Vitória Régia Oliveira (Lead in Maintenance, Facilities, and Project Engineering at Magna International).They discuss the current state of smart manufacturing, the challenges of integrating technology, and the importance of cybersecurity.Check out Vitória in a pre
The Importance of Patience with Dale Parker (Linkedin Live)
Nikki and Ali had the chance to speak to Dale Parker, Design Engineering Manager at Keystone Gas Services.Dale talks about his interest in getting UL 508A certification, sharing knowledge and mentoring the next generation of automation, as well as, some new exciting updates about Keystone's future.Support the show__________________________________________________________________🎙 About Automa
Exploring Neurodiversity with Jason Bean (Linkedin Live)
In this previous , Nikki and Ali talk to Jason Bean, founder of M-Path Consulting and IIoT Market Specialist at Pepperl+Fuchs Group.Jason discusses working in various industries, his own experience with being neurodivergent, and the stigma behind individuals who fall under that.Learn more about Harnessing Neurodiversity for Organizational Excellence at https://www.manufacturingpath.com/Support the
Automation Abroad with Vitória Régia Oliveira
In this pre-recorded episode, all the Automation Ladies chat with Vitória Régia Oliveira, Lead in Maintenance, Facilities, and Project Engineering at Magna International.The ladies get the chance to discuss creating women in automation groups, overcoming challenges as a black woman in the industry, and the process of moving abroad for career opportunities. Support the show_________________________
Uniting Expertise with Sarah and Jessica at BBP (Linkedin Live)
This week Nikki and Ali speak with Sarah Sonnier, Data Scientist and Jessica Williams, Controls Engineer at BBP. They discuss the challenges of integrating IT and OT, AI's usefulness in tasks like programming (with some human intervention), and the story of the dynamic duo's origins.Support the show__________________________________________________________________🎙 About Automation Ladi
Insights into Machine Vision with Yamini Vattipalli
In this episode, Nikki interviews Yamini Vattipalli, Director of Operations at Easy Automation Systems. Yamini shares her journey from being an image processing engineer to her current role. They discuss the challenges and importance of vision applications, the transition to system integration, and the role of AI in machine vision. Support the show_________________________________________________
A Rollercoaster of Automation with Linda Freeman (Linkedin Live)
Nikki and Ali G sat live with Linda Freeman, an Industry Manager and longtime employee at Rockwell Automation. They look at the importance of functional safety and cybersecurity skills in the industry, the need for continuous learning, and using traditional gender roles to one's advantage.Check out the original live episode here.Support the show_______________________________________________
Navigating Career Transitions with Dyci Sfregola
This week, Nikki gets a one on one interview with Startup Mentor, Dyci Sfregola. Nikki and Dyci discuss mentorship, starting her own venture, supply chain management, and her brand new book.Support the show__________________________________________________________________🎙 About Automation LadiesAutomation Ladies is an industrial automation podcast spotlighting the engineers, integrators, innovat
Leveraging Strengths with Kortni Pendon (LinkedIn Live)
In this LinkedIn Live, Nikki and Ali G (and a little bit of Courtney) speak with student PCE employee Kortni Pendon.Kortni began her journey into automation thanks to her dad and time in the Navy. She discusses her military experience and the soft skills she developed, the importance of playing into your strengths and working on your weaknesses, as well as, how being a mom has helped her in the te
STEAMing Ahead with Chioma Aso
This week Nikki speaks with Chioma Aso, Founder of STEAMDivas Inc. and longtime engineer. The importance of art and creativity in engineering isn't the only conversation they have. Nikki and Chioma both open up about imposter syndrome, emotions, and finding yourself within the workspace.Interested in Chioma's book? Check it out here.Support the show_______________________________________
Innovative Applications with Daniella Gonzalez (Linkedin Live)
This week, Ali G and Courtney get the chance to talk to Festo Product Manager, Daniella Gonzalez.They cover topics like gender imbalances in the field, problem-solving with customers, Daniella' work with training and workforce development at Festo, and which Harry Potter house they all are.Support the show__________________________________________________________________🎙 About Automation Lad
Catching Up with Morgan Wilson (Linkedin Live)
Nikki, Ali G, and guest host Courtney catch up live with Morgan Wilson, Partner Success Manager at SVT Robotics.Last time Ali G and Courtney spoke to Morgan live about her experiences at SVT Robotics and her outreach with customers. They talk SVT's work with diverse technologies and custom systems, potential application of certain automation, and the evolving landscape that is automation. S
From the Sea with Krystle Ponce
While Nikki is away, Ali G takes on her own solo interview with guest Krystle Ponce, Senior Data Analyst at TREW. Krystle started her journey into automation as an aviation electrician in the Navy. She talks about her journey from the sea to the land, the importance of learning through mistakes, and the importance of confidence in the work place.Interested in the TED talk mentioned? Take a look he
The Crystal Ball on AI with Juan Aparicio Ojea (Linkedin Live)
Starting the Linkedin Lives up for the 2024 season, Nikki, Ali G, and guest host Courtney talk with robotics and AI expert, Juan Aparicio Ojea.Juan is the co-founder of a start up and spent many years working with robotics. They discuss how AI can be brought more into robotics, the lack in current AI technology when it comes to automating certain jobs, and a look into the future of technology.Supp
A3 Business Forum with Cathy and Lauren
This week's episode is a little different since Nikki was at an industry event: the A3 Business Forum hosted by the Association for Advancing Automation in Orlando Florida. She thought she found a quiet corner to have a conversation with Cathy Rinne (the infamous Conveyor Cougar on TikTok) and Lauren Van De Mark - President and Sales and Marketing Manager respectively at Flex-Line Automation
Automating Australia with Jasmine Quick (Linkedin Live)
Continuing Season 3: Nikki and Ali G (along with a guest appearance from Courtney) take time to speak with Jasmine Quick, an Industrial Automation Engineer at GPS Electrical Services in Melbourne.Sometimes working long shifts, Jasmine is no stranger to the engineer lifestyle. She talks about going through school in Australia, VM's, converting whole sites to new programs, and software.Support
From Electrician to Entrepreneur with Naomi Pittman
Naomi Pittman began her career in IT but found herself looking for more. Now Naomi is a master electrician and the owner of ElekProTek, an electrical & controls contractor with presence in 6 states! Nikki & Naomi talk about her journey, entrepreneur stuff like building a website and growing a client base, and the apprenticeship model that allows skilled tradespeople with the drive to succe
EPLAN with Özlem Biber (Live At Rockwell Automation Fair 2023)
Nikki and Ali G had the opportunity to interview Özlem Biber with EPLAN at Rockwell Automation Fair in Boston last month. She is an Account Manager in the Chicago area and she called on Ali years ago when she was working at Probat so it was a fun reunion. We promise we did not mean to talk about EPLAN so much but we can't be too surprised the conversation kept coming back to it considering Öz
Forging with Chelsea Lantto
Nikki speaks with Chelsea Lantto, president of Trenton Forging Company, a forging company that delivers high-quality forged steel components.Although not new to forging, as a second-generation leader of the company, Chelsea shares the history of Trenton Forging and how it's become a family operated business. The company strives to complete their long-term plan of gradual automation to replace
AI in Manufacturing with Priyansha Bagaria (LinkedIn Live)
Nikki talks to Priyansha Bagaria, Founder & CEO of Loopr AI a computer vision company solving the complex challenges traditional vision inspection still can't solve. She started working in her family's manufacturing plant at a young age and saw what good employment opportunities in manufacturing can do for a community, but also the challenges that can come with trying to automate a p
A Journey of Empowerment with Elisa Ochoa
This week, Nikki and Ali G speak with Elisa Ochoa, Client Advisor at Skellig Automation. They met Elisa at the Inductive Automation Ignition Community Conference in Folsom recently and had to have her on the show to learn more. Elisa moved to LA from Mexico for college and became a DeltaV engineer who recently made the move into a client advisory (ghasp sales) role at a systems integrator! They ta
Cybersecurity Conversations with Leah Dodson & Hayley Lichtenfels (LinkedIn Live)
With October being Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Automation Ladies decided to speak with some experts in the field Leah & Hayley. Leah is the Principal Cybersecurity Specialist at Nextlink labs, while Hayley is a Product Marketing Specialist for Network and Security at Phoenix Contact. Follow them on LinkedIn!These cybersecurity ladies discuss ways to protect yourself against cyberattacks
Can AI Help Engineers Market? (Linkedin Live)
In this live episode, Nikki and Ali G spoke with David Garcia and Nathan Schaffer, creators of MarketMate AI, a software built for industrial companies to help them scale their marketing efforts. We wanted to know does this work for a company like Process and Controls Engineering LLC a systems integration firm run by an engineer, and if so, how? Want to see the demo? Check out the live episode on
Events and Digital Marketing with Sarah Larson
In this episode Nikki sits down, in person, with Sarah Larson - Digital Business Manager at ePLAN. Spending most of her career at Rockwell Automation, initially in technical support but then growing into both sales and marketing roles, she is one of our favorite people in *gasp* marketing. Hear the story of how her mom had to lobby to get her into shop class, what she thinks about the state of the
HR and People with Ann Wyatt
In this episode Nikki and Ali have a chat with Ann Wyatt the owner of Ann Wyatt Recruiting and the host of Workforce 4.0 a Linkedin Live show and podcast about the manufacturing workforce. This episode is a little more "girl talk" style than our usual interviews since they are all pretty good friends now since meeting in person at Automate earlier this year and participating together in
Mastering Industrial Automation with Lynn McMahon
Nikki and Ali talk with Lynn McMahon founder & Engineer at Monona Instrumentation & Controls. After spending nearly a decade writing software for machines in the Aerospace and Pharmaceutical industries, Lynn branched out and started her own consulting firm.The ladies talk industry, entrepreneurship, professional certifications and how to balance it all. Support the show____________________
A Piece of the Pie with Adam Crandall (LinkedIn Live)
To wrap up Season 2 of Automation Ladies, Nikki speaks with Adam Crandall, Chief Revenue Officer at Addtronics about getting a "piece of the pie".Nikki and Adam talk about multi-level relationships, getting people excited about Mondays, being a platform company, and most importantly investing in your employees.Interested in joining or learning more about Addtronics? Check them out here.S
