Workforce 4.0
Workforce 4.0 is an industry centric podcast featuring Manufacturing Executives from all industries coming together to emphasize how companies are partnering with technology to give people more meaningful work. As a passion project created by Ann Wyatt, Workforce 4.0 highlights crucial topics such as closing the talent gap, success stories of real people engaged with the latest manufacturing technology and how the manufacturing workforce can transition into these exciting new roles.Meet Your Host:Ann's passion is helping innovative and progressive industrial Small-Medium Enterprises and Solutions Providers in accessing top leading technical talent within an increasingly decentralized market. Achieving this goal relies...
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The SE Playbook To Influencing Veteran Talent Outcomes (with Bobby Cain, CIO of Schneider Electric, NAM)
<p>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 Schneider Electric is leading the way in veteran support initiatives. If you are interested in tapping into this talent pool for driven leaders, this episode is...
You Can’t Automate Curiosity: The Human Edge In An AI-Driven World (with Sadiq Panjwani, Teledyne FLIR)
<p>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 organizations to successfully integrate new technologies and retain talent. The conversation also touches on the significance of interoperability and standardization in manufacturing processes. </p><p>...
Inside The Rise Of Bucket Robotics: Robots, Vision And More Meaningful Work (with Matt Puchalski, Bucket Robotics)
<p>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 manufacturing, and the growth of Bucket Robotics within the past year. Matt shares insights on the importance of mentorship and the future of...
Investing In Talent: The Win We Have To Have (with Suzanne Soper and Doug Beck, Schneider Electric)
<p>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 nurturing young talent. This conversation highlights how investing in manufacturing in the win that we have to have. </p><p>In This...
AI In Manufacturing Explained: Robotics, Safety, And The Future Workforce (with Mark Yahiro, RealSense)
<p>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. The conversation also touches on the human element in AI integration and the future of job security in an increasingly automated world. </p><p>In...
Lessons In Automation: Solutions For Tomorrow's Workforce (with Michael Haas, VP of FerRobotics)
<p>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 need for a skilled workforce and the role of robots in creating safer work environments. The conversation highlights the future of work and the necessity...
Manufacturing Hiring Trends: And What Employers Need To Know In 2026 (with Carolyn Lee, Manufacturing Institute)
<p>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 states across the US. Additionally, Ann asks Carolyn about current hiring trends, and the need for effective...
Creating Sustainability For The Future Of Work (with Agustin Lopez Diaz, Schneider Electric)
<p>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 where supply chain roles have grown with technology, but also how they will continue to continue evolve moving forward. </p><p>...
Skills That Really Matter: Aptitude And Attitude (with Patrick Tobin, President of Han-Tek)
<p>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 on the future of leadership and the impact of innovation on job creation. If you're wondering how your career can advance into seeing every aspect of how...
The Missing Link Between Talent And Skills (with Lisa Masciantonio, ARM Institute)
<p>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 in advanced manufacturing. When it comes to bridging the skills gap, the misalignment between the real world applications and the training that is available is...
