The Automation Solution Podcast - podcast cover

The Automation Solution Podcast

Craig Franciscorobex.us
You're listening to the Automation Solution Podcast where we provide innovative, value added, smart technology solutions that automate and optimize manufacturing processes for customers seeking excellence. Regardless of your role we will share valuable solutions for you to apply within your area of responsibility. About Us RōBEX was formed in 2015 as a clean sheet organization with seasoned automation industry leaders, robotic integration specialists, experienced technicians and engineering professionals with outstanding mechanical, electrical and civil/structural skills.

Episodes

Erik Nieves, CEO and Co-Founder for Plus One Robotics talks about the need for ‘always-on’ logistics. Robots Work. People Rule.

Craig Francisco from RōBEX , talks with Erik Nieves about Plus One's mission of ‘always-on’ logistics. Erik's passion for his business is truly inspirational.  This episode is a must listen for those looking to automate logistics and warehouse product handling.   Follow Plus One Robotics on LinkedIn! About Erik: Erik Nieves, CEO and co-founder Plus One Robotics Erik Nieves is co-founder and CEO of Plus One Robotics, a software company developing of 3D and AI software for robots in logi...

Jan 26, 202233 minSeason 2Ep. 7

Supply Chain and the Future of Automation with Ben Perlson, DHL Innovation Manager

Ben Perlson and Craig Francisco talk about the current state of the supply chain and the future role of automation.   Current supply chain challenges in the U.S.  Why are we experiencing these delays? Automation and the future of supply chain. Get to know the DHL Innovation Center!   See below for several links that are referenced in the interview...…. About DHL Innovation Centers: In our Innovation Centers, we spearhead the future of logistics and drive customer-centric innovatio...

Oct 05, 202134 min

Your Questions are Answered! Automation in Manufacturing and Warehousing, 3PL.

Craig Francisco and Wes Allen sit down to discuss the following questions you wanted covered in this episode!  Where do you see autonomous mobile robots being used in manufacturing? Where are manufactures spending money on automation? Why are we seeing supply chain lead times extending beyond the norm? Are you seeing warehousing/distribution facilities installing robots? What did Covid do for automation in general? For more information please contact RōBEX at [email protected]  More ...

Aug 09, 202110 min

What is RōBEX FLEXX™? - Questions from our Listeners.

In this episode, Craig Francisco answers the following questions from our listeners! What is FLEXX? Why did you create this program? Is this different than machine as a service? This sounds like a lease, is it? Why not use a lease format? How much does it cost? Where do you see this program going?  Will others do it as well? RōBEX FLEXX™ is an industry-unique program (Patent Pending) that establishes a monthly technology licensing fee which allows customers access to the latest automation t...

May 10, 202111 minSeason 2Ep. 4

The Manufacturing Millennial Talks Automation

Host & RōBEX President Craig Francisco is joined by the founder of The Manufacturing Millennial, Jake Hall. Jake has amassed an incredible social media following through his content, with a simple goal in mind: Expanding the presence of younger generations in the manufacturing space through automation. This is an impactful, insightful conversation on how crucial automation is to the present and future of industry. Jake's passion for the topic comes through as he tackled the questions laid be...

Mar 09, 202134 minSeason 2Ep. 3

The Future of Material Handling - Autonomous Mobile Robots Lead the Way

Van Garrett and Craig Francisco talk about all things AutoGuide !  Listen to this episode if you have an interest in learning more about the AMR technology and where you can expect to see the growth over the coming years.   About Van: Master communicator with a passion for developing creative sales and marketing strategy. For nearly 30 years Van has honed and proven his abilities as an innovative visionary, creator, and driver of market share in the areas of engineering and robotics. H...

Mar 03, 202130 minSeason 2Ep. 2

Automation Trends in 2021

Craig Francisco discusses three automation trends he believes will see major growth during 2021.   AMR Collaborative Robotics FLEXX (MaaS) About Craig: I help manufacturing and distribution leaders improve safety, increase productivity, and improve overall quality.  This is my passion! I’ve spent the last 20 years navigating businesses through the tech bubble, financial crisis, 9/11, the great recession, and now the pandemic, I’ve learned what it takes to implement a waste identificati...

Jan 05, 202111 min

How to Get Started With Automation - Wes Garrett, FANUC

In this episode, Craig Francisco talks with Wes Garrett about uncovering new opportunities to automate production processes in the packaging and warehouse world.  If you're new to automation or looking to continue the journey, this episode is for you!   Wes Garrett is an Account Manager in the Authorized System Integrator (ASI) Group responsible for the integrator’s in FANUC’s network whose focus are Packaging and Warehousing applications. Wes has 17 years of experience in the robotics...

Sep 23, 202026 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Machine as a Service Model to Revolutionize Manufacturing

Are you a leader in manufacturing looking to learn more about the Machine as a Service Model? Craig Francisco and special guest Michael Senske discuss all things MaaS.     About Michael Senske:  Michael A. Senske, President & CEO Mr. Senske joined Pearson Packaging Systems 1997.  During his tenure at Pearson Packaging Systems, he has held a wide variety of positions including Product Manager, Director of Business Development, and Vice President Sales & Marketing....

Jul 29, 202044 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Leverage LinkedIn Video to Drive Brand Awareness

If you're interested in growing your brand on LinkedIn you have to listen to this episode!   Craig Francisco interviews Shay Rowbottom on using video to leverage brand awareness on the LinkedIn platform. Shay Rowbottom is a LinkedIn influencer and digital marketing entrepreneur, specializing in creating social media video content to attract attention and bring more eyeballs to your business. “I believe there’s still few people in the world who truly understand social media video marketing a...

Jul 07, 202037 minSeason 1Ep. 11

Grow your Business with LinkedIn Pages - Michaela Alexis

Your business could be leaving thousands or maybe millions on the table by not using LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the biggest business opportunity available today, with over 700 million active users and 2 new members joining every second! In this episode, Michaela Alexis gives you real life examples on how to dominate the conversation about your industry…. Listen now! About Michaela: Hailing from Ottawa, Michaela Alexis is currently one of North America’s most in-demand speakers on topics related to pe...

Jun 11, 202049 minSeason 1Ep. 10

Pandemic Prompts New Urgency for Robotic Automation

In this episode we are truly blessed to have a living legend as our special guest.  Jim Cooper has joined us to talk about robotic automation in the face of our current pandemic.  If you are new to automation or an experienced veteran, this episode is for you!   James Cooper is Executive Director Global Accounts for FANUC America Corporation responsible for developing global relationships with consumer packaged goods, and general industry customers. Mr. Cooper originally joined FA...

May 28, 202045 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Engaging Clients in an upside down world with Kim Kaupe

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed with way we interact with customers.  Trade shows, conferences, networking events, one on one in person bonding are all on hold.  How do you plan to meet new prospects, nurture your top customers?  We must take action.  Take risks.  Get off the bleachers and jump into the game.  The new normal will look different.  Kim does an amazing job sharing her expertise and ideas in this exclusive interview with Craig Francisco. About Ki...

May 15, 202054 minSeason 1Ep. 8

Machine as a service (MaaS) - Accelerating and Transforming Manufacturing

Craig Francisco and Micheal Cromheecke discuss machine as a service (MaaS) and how it can strengthen and simplify relationships between OEMs and end-users.   Win Win .   Michael Cromheecke has 17 years’ experience at Rockwell Automation. His background includes the acquisition and growth of early-stage robotics technology companies as well as the creation and development of multi-million dollar, cloud-based software platforms. Mike has a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan T...

Apr 15, 202046 minSeason 1Ep. 7

Identifying automation opportunities using the IPE model

Use the IPE model ( Identify - Prioritize - Execute ) to identify areas of improvement within your manufacturing facility.  Craig Francisco has led over 18 kaizen events in the last decade helping companies understand the 7 forms of waste that exist in every business. COMMWIP Correction, Over production, movement of material, motion, waiting, inventory, and process. Listen to the episode to gain insight on a simple but effective way to increase cash flow and improve your bottom line!...

Jan 31, 202014 minSeason 1Ep. 6

Everything you need to know about Collaborative Robots with Greg Buell from Fanuc Corporation

Interested in learning more about collaborative robots?  This episode covers all things collaborative and will serve as a guide for you to make the right decision as you venture into the collaborative space.  Enjoy the episode and get ready to take notes!   About Greg Greg Buell is a senior engineer in the General Industry & Automotive Segment at FANUC America Corporation, and the product manager for collaborative robots and operation. He came to FANUC with a BSEE degree from ...

Jan 07, 202032 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Leading Successful Change with Rick Houcek

Have you ever struggled to implement new ideas, solutions, or major strategic shifts within your business?  Of course you have!  As leaders, we all have struggled at times to effectively implement change.  Change is hard and typically not welcome by your employees.  Rick Houcek, the CEO of Soar With Eagles, Enterprises, will guide you through through the murky waters of being a successful change leader.  This episode is a MUST for anyone looking to continually improve th...

Dec 27, 201935 min

Packaging and Processing Excellence

Listen to Jorge Izquierdo , VP of Market Development for PMMI, talk about packaging and processing automation and the transformation he’s seen over the last 20+ years! Jorge is a leader in the industry and will provide you tremendous value! Jorge Izquierdo oversees PMMI’s market development, research and programs for strengthening the competitiveness of North American suppliers of packaging and processing technologies. He is also responsible for industry engagement initiatives for continuous imp...

Dec 12, 201936 minSeason 1Ep. 3

Mobile Industrial Robots - Manufacturing Excellence

Matt Charles and Craig Francisco discuss the future of autonomous mobile robots in the manufacturing sector.    Report estimates global warehouse automation market will more than double from $13 billion in 2018 to $27 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 11.7% between 2019 and 2025.   https://www.mmh.com/article/agvs_amrs_and_picking_robots_to_lead_the_automated_warehouse_market_worth_2 ABOUT MiR https://www.mobile-industrial-robots.com/en/about-us/ Our autonomous robots are a new genera...

Nov 20, 201932 minSeason 1Ep. 2

Are you ready? Automation's role in the success of US Manufacturing

Listen to Dr. Robert Atkinson and his views on US Manufacturing and the role automation will play in our country's future success.   Links mentioned in the interview: https://www.itif.org/   https://www.nist.gov/mep   https://www.universal-robots.com/   https://www.fanucamerica.com/   https://robex.us/ Dr. Robert D. Atkinson is one of the country’s foremost thinkers on innovation economics. He has conducted ground-breaking research on technology and innovation and author...

Nov 07, 201935 minSeason 1Ep. 1