Veterans are a valuable and often overlooked talent pipeline in manufacturing. Yet, when it comes to hiring strategic thinkers that are focused on taking action on completing a plan, veterans oftentimes know how to get things done. In this episode, Bobby Cain, CIO of Schneider Electric North America, shares insights on veteran hiring, workforce development, and building inclusive corporate cultures. Discover practical strategies for leveraging military skills in the corporate world and how Schne...
Feb 25, 2026•29 min•Season 11Ep. 7
In this episode of the Workforce 4.0 podcast, host Ann Wyatt engages with Sadiq Panjwani, SVP of Machine Vision Cameras Group at Teledyne FLIR, to discuss the transformative impact of machine vision and automation in manufacturing. They explore the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies, the rise of physical AI, the importance of human-robot collaboration, and the evolving skill sets required for the future workforce. Sadiq emphasizes the need for empathy and agility in ...
Feb 18, 2026•33 min•Season 11Ep. 6
In this episode of Workforce 4.0 host, Ann Wyatt, interviews friend, Matt Puchalski, founder of Bucket Robotics. Since launching his robotics start up, Bucket Robotics in 2024, Matt has been on a personal mission to give quality operators more time to focus on production challenges and less time inspecting for defects. Join these two as they discuss Matt's journey in the robotics and manufacturing industry. They explore the challenges of quality inspection, the application of computer vision in ...
Feb 04, 2026•36 min•Season 11Ep. 5
In this episode of the Workforce 4.0 podcast, host Ann Wyatt interviews Suzanne Soper and Doug Beck from Schneider Electric at the 2025 Schneider Innovation Summit. They discuss the importance of technology for the future of work, but also on the importance of hiring veterans, career pathing in the tech industry, and the significance of building a strong company culture. The guests share insights on the future of work, emphasizing the need for data-driven decision-making and the importance of nu...
Jan 28, 2026•47 min•Season 11Ep. 4
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Mark Yahiro, Vice President of Business Development from RealSense about the intersection of AI, robotics, and the future of work. They discuss the importance of understanding the true costs of automation, the role of safety in robotics, and how AI can enhance efficiency in manufacturing. Mark shares innovative use cases of RealSense technology, including applications for inventory management and aiding those with visual impairments. T...
Jan 21, 2026•32 min•Season 11Ep. 3
If there is anyone passionate about automation and people in this industry, it has to be the Vice President of FerRobotics, Michael Haas. And in this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Michael about the transformative impact of automation on the manufacturing industry. They discuss the evolution (and history) of automation technology, the importance of workforce education, and the challenges faced by small and large companies in implementing automation. Michael emphasizes the n...
Jan 14, 2026•35 min•Season 11Ep. 2
Welcome to Season 11 of Workforce 4.0 and this week we are ringing the new year in with a bang as host Ann Wyatt speaks with Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director or the Manufacturing Institute. This week, Carolyn and Ann discuss the current state of the manufacturing workforce, the impact of technology, and the importance of bridging the skills gap. They also share experiences and the powerful impact that the FAME program has been as a successful model for workforce development in many ...
Jan 07, 2026•40 min•Season 11Ep. 1
In this special bonus episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt interviews Agustin Lopez Diaz, a Senior leader at Schneider Electric, discussing the future of work, the role of AI in supply chain management, and the importance of resilience and flexibility in today's manufacturing landscape. They explore how technology is transforming the supply chain, the challenges smaller companies face in adopting AI, and predictions for the future of manufacturing jobs. In this episode, you not only get a view of...
Dec 10, 2025•30 min
In this week's season 10 finale, Ann Wyatt sits down with , Patrick Tobin, President of Han-Tek, for a conversation that shares insights about his journey in the automation industry, the importance of company culture, and the role of technology in enhancing workplace safety and efficiency. Patrick emphasizes the significance of hiring individuals with the right attitude and aptitude, adapting to changing customer needs, and maintaining integrity in business practices. The discussion also touches...
Nov 19, 2025•35 min•Season 10Ep. 8
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Lisa Masciantonio, Chief Workforce Officer at the ARM Institute about the critical role of workforce development in the robotics and manufacturing sectors. They discuss innovative training platforms, the importance of aligning skills with job market needs, and the challenges of bridging the skills gap. Lisa shares insights on how job seekers can navigate their career paths in robotics and emphasizes the exciting opportunities available...
Nov 12, 2025•26 min•Ep. 7
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, Ann Wyatt interviews Hendrik Stoltz, CEO of Automated Industrial Robotics (or AIR). They discuss Hendrik's journey from South Africa to the USA, his experiences in the robotics industry, and the importance of cultural transformation within organizations. The conversation delves into the challenges of acquisitions, the significance of employee retention, and the future of work with technology integration. Hendrik emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence in ...
Nov 05, 2025•34 min•Season 10Ep. 6
In this episode, Ann Wyatt and Kevin Bowers discuss the current challenges facing the manufacturing industry, particularly the impact of tariffs and other economic factors during the fourth quarter of 2025. They explore the importance of data collection through surveys, the implications of Section 232 tariffs, and the ongoing job losses in manufacturing. The conversation emphasizes the need for small manufacturers to engage with their representatives and utilize available resources to navigate t...
Oct 29, 2025•31 min•Season 10Ep. 5
Have you ever walked into a store and wondered "how is this store out of of the product that I need?" In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Jaimie Horstman, Director of Demand and Forecasting at Procter & Gamble. They discuss the critical role of data in supply chain management, consumer behavior during crises, and the importance of predictive insights. Jaimie shares her insights on how to leverage data for better decision-making and offers practical tips for smaller m...
Oct 22, 2025•24 min•Season 10Ep. 4
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Frank Gibson from the North Central Ohio Region Manufacturing Workforce Alliance about the intricacies of workforce development. They discuss the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, the evolution of workforce strategies, and the critical role of apprenticeships in building a skilled workforce. Frank shares insights on loyalty in the workforce, the challenges of implementing apprenticeship programs, and the necessity...
Oct 15, 2025•41 min•Season 10Ep. 3
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Christelle Keefer from ABB about the critical role of education in preparing the next generation for careers in robotics and automation. They discuss the importance of teachers, the challenges in robotics education, and the need for hands-on experiences for students. Christelle shares inspiring stories of students and emphasizes the need for industry collaboration to bridge the skills gap. The conversation highlights the importance of ...
Oct 08, 2025•32 min•Season 10Ep. 2
In this conversation, Ann Wyatt and Jeremiah Llewellyn discuss the multifaceted aspects of working at Horn USA, focusing on marketing, technology, and the importance of people in the business. They explore how technology enhances workforce collaboration, the unique skills developed at Horn, and the significance of passing down knowledge in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, they highlight the company's internship programs and community engagement efforts, emphasizing the need for effectiv...
Oct 01, 2025•48 min•Season 10Ep. 1
Do you ever wish you could go back in time and be 8 years old again? Or even relive your first plant tour? In this engaging episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt interviews her son Phoenix, who shares his experiences and insights about his recent visit to Horn USA. The conversation covers Phoenix's interests, his impressions of the manufacturing world, and the importance of safety and quality in the industry. Through a light-hearted and informative dialogue, listeners gain a unique perspectiv...
Sep 03, 2025•23 min
In this episode, Ann Wyatt interviews John Piller, a seasoned expert in automation and controls, who shares his journey from working in a corporate environment to starting his own consulting business. The conversation delves into the importance of workforce development, the role of Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) in supporting small manufacturers, and John's passion for teaching the next generation. Additionally, John discusses his involvement in a fundraising event for at-risk youth...
Aug 27, 2025•40 min•Season 9Ep. 8
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Scott Gauvin, an operations and strategy consultant with over 30 years of experience in manufacturing. They discuss the importance of respect for people in improving company culture, the challenges organizations face in cultural transformation, and the psychological principles that underpin effective workplace interactions. Scott shares insights from his book, 'Leading with Compassion,' and offers actionable steps for leaders to foster...
Aug 20, 2025•42 min•Season 9Ep. 7
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Clay Martin, founder of Isla Talent , a recruiting company focused on connecting job seekers from Puerto Rico with manufacturing companies in need of labor. They discuss the challenges of labor shortages, the importance of bridging cultural gaps, and the evolving landscape of recruitment in the manufacturing sector. Clay shares insights from his experience in the Peace Corps and how it shaped his entrepreneurial journey, as well as the...
Aug 13, 2025•25 min•Season 9Ep. 6
This conversation delves into the innovative manufacturing processes at Horn, highlighting the importance of collaboration, customer relationships, and adaptability in the tooling industry. The speakers share their experiences and insights on how Horn's commitment to quality and rapid delivery sets them apart in a competitive market. They discuss the significance of continuous improvement and the company culture that fosters trust and teamwork among employees and customers alike. In This Episode...
Aug 06, 2025•38 min•Season 9Ep. 5
In this episode of the Workforce 4.0 podcast, host Ann Wyatt interviews Carrie Giles, National President of ACTE, about the critical work in pipeline talent development. They discuss the importance of bridging the skills gap in the manufacturing industry, the significance of soft skills, and how partnerships between employers and educational institutions can enhance career and technical education (CTE). The conversation highlights the changing perceptions of manufacturing careers and the need fo...
Jul 30, 2025•27 min•Season 9Ep. 4
How do we leverage MEPs and Labor Data in helping us at accelerating the up-skilling of our manufacturing workforce? In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Molly Lenty, COO of Vessel, about the critical role of workforce development in manufacturing. They discuss the importance of labor market information, the challenges of workforce deficits, and the need for collaboration among various stakeholders to build effective training pathways. The conversation highlights the impa...
Jul 23, 2025•31 min•Season 9Ep. 3
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Josh Ebert, Curriculum Development Manager at A3 Association for Advancing Automation. Ann and Josh go in depth about the evolving landscape of educational content and its impact on workforce development. They discuss, at length, the importance of on-demand learning, the shift in perceptions around career technical education, and the need for rapid updates in educational content to keep pace with industry changes. The conversation also...
Jul 16, 2025•40 min•Season 9Ep. 2
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt interviews Michael Maxwell, the operations manager at Horn USA. They discuss the unique digital processes that enable Horn as a major player in customized tooling manufacturing and provide a blueprint for moving forward in Industry 4.0. They also discuss the origin story of Horn GmbH and Horn USA, the importance of open source solutions to process ownership, and the unique way that digitizing processes like their ERP system has led to better custo...
Jul 09, 2025•48 min•Season 9Ep. 1
Welcome to a special episode of Workforce 4.0 as your host, Ann Wyatt shares conversations from behind the scenes of the 2025 Automate Show in Detroit, MI. This conversation explores the critical themes of workforce development in manufacturing, the impact of technology and automation, gender dynamics in STEM fields, and the future of work. Ann Wyatt meets this week's special guests to discuss the importance of training and education in bridging the skills gap, the role of technological innovati...
Jun 11, 2025•28 min•Season 8Ep. 8
In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt sits down with longtime mentor and client, Bryan Clarity, VP of HR at Assa Abloy Entrance Systems. They discuss the importance of Human Resources in manufacturing, the impact of technology and automation on job roles, challenges in workforce training and development, and effective recruitment strategies in a competitive labor market. Bryan shares insights on creating a positive workplace culture and the significance of employee engagement in attra...
Jun 04, 2025•25 min•Season 8Ep. 7
In this conversation, Ann Wyatt interviews Ken Macken, founder of Worker Labs, discussing the evolution of manufacturing, the challenges of workforce recruitment, and the future of jobs in the industry. Ken shares insights on the need for engaging work, the importance of technology in removing mundane tasks, and the vision behind his company aimed at making robotics more accessible. He emphasizes the significance of understanding customer needs and creating products that solve real problems, whi...
May 07, 2025•44 min•Season 8Ep. 6
In this conversation, Kence Anderson, Founder and CEO of Composable sits down with host, Ann Wyatt, to discusses the critical role of AI in manufacturing. From the looming retirement crisis to the critical need for preserving tribal knowledge, Kence shares why AI, machine teaching, and innovative workforce training are more essential than ever. He highlights how manufacturers can empower engineers and operators, ensure business continuity, and build a future-ready workforce. Kence shares insight...
Apr 30, 2025•34 min•Season 8Ep. 5
In this conversation, Ann Wyatt interviews John Robinson, founder of Bits To Atoms, about the challenges and opportunities in the manufacturing sector, particularly in talent acquisition and the impact of automation. John shares insights on the skills needed in the industry, the disconnect between education and workforce requirements, and innovative training solutions that align with market needs. The discussion emphasizes the importance of human talent in an increasingly automated world and the...
Apr 23, 2025•49 min•Season 8Ep. 4
