In this episode of Unplugged, hosts Phil Saboa and Ed Fuentes are joined by Darren Anderson, a lecturer of industrial automation and mechatronics at South Eastern Regional College. With over 28 years of industry experience, Darren shares his journey from being an electrical maintenance engineer to an educator. The conversation covers his hands-on experience with PLCs, microcontrollers, and IoT, as well as how he incorporates these technologies into his curriculum. Darren also discusses the growing adoption of Industry 4.0 and IoT in local businesses and the importance of apprenticeships in bridging the skills gap.

00:00 Introduction to Unplugged: An IIoT Podcast

00:30 Meet Darren Anderson: Background and Experience

02:15 The Drive Behind Learning and Understanding the "Why"

05:42 Strategy and People Before Technology

08:01 Upcoming Learning Goals: Ignition, Python, and SQL

11:23 Continuous Learning and Industry Adaptability

15:09 Challenges and Adaptations During the COVID-19 Pandemic

18:45 Teaching and Sparking Interest in Advanced Technology

21:56 The Role of Apprenticeships in Addressing Skills Gaps

23:40 Engaging Students in IIoT and Industry Practices

27:05 Personal Journey in Home Automation

31:22 Understanding Energy Usage and Temperature Impact

34:15 Challenges and Successes in IoT Projects

38:12 Factory Tours: BMW Motorrad and Spirit AeroSystems

41:08 Digital Transformation in Local Industries

45:01 The Importance of Small Data and Operator Knowledge

48:25 First Encounter with "Industry 4" and IoT

50:13 Influencing Students with Hands-On IoT Projects

54:04 Legacy Knowledge in Industry 4.0

57:20 Becoming an Industry Evangelist

59:05 Follow Darren Anderson on LinkedIn and Final Thoughts

60:20 Subscribe to Unplugged: An IIoT Podcast

Connect with Darren on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-anderson-401408b2/

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/

Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/

About Industry Sage Media:

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Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com