From the high-security demands of airports to the everyday comfort of smart homes, Alby Eckel shares his unique path from aviation industry specialist to founder of his own automation business. This episode uncovers what really happens behind the scenes in airport operations, the challenges of integrating legacy systems, and the opportunities IoT solutions are bringing to both large-scale infrastructure and Australian agriculture. Hear practical stories about predictive maintenance, data-driven farming, and how making technology approachable for end users, whether they're farmers or homeowners—is accelerating smarter, safer experiences. Insights on regulations, radio tech, and the shifting landscape of automation make this episode a must-listen for anyone curious about the hidden world of industrial and smart home technology.

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/

Connect with Alby on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/albyeckel/

About Industry Sage Media:

Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.

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

Join hosts Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes as they sit down with Rafael Amaral, CTO and cofounder of TilliT. With decades of hands-on manufacturing and IT experience, Rafael shares his perspective on bridging the gap between the shop floor and digital tools. They examine the challenges manufacturers face in moving away from paperwork and spreadsheets, misconceptions around MES, and what it really takes to achieve user-friendly digital transformation.

Rafael discusses lessons learned from early MES projects, why operator-first design matters, and how making manufacturing systems simpler without losing capability is possible. The conversation covers effective strategies for moving from manual data capture to real-time IoT integration, building ROI for digital projects, and fostering a management-driven approach to factory operations.

Whether you’re curious about the future of MES, interested in AI’s practical applications on the factory floor, or want advice on starting your own automation journey, this episode offers practical wisdom straight from the frontlines of industrial digitalization.

Connect with Rafael on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-tillit/

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/

Learn more about TilliT: https://gotillit.com/

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About Industry Sage Media:

Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.

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

In this episode of Unplugged, Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes sit down with Jarith Fry, the SCADA and Systems Engineering Manager at Highland Pine Products. Jarith, an experienced engineer and innovator, shares his journey from Washington State, where he developed a passion for robotics inspired by his favorite superhero, Iron Man. Transitioning from integrator to end user, Jarith discusses the challenges and successes of modernizing equipment at Highland Pine, including moving from legacy systems to state-of-the-art technologies like Ignition. He also touches on the importance of community and training, security concerns, and innovative projects both at work and home. Tune in to learn about Jarith's insights on automation, the timber industry, and the future of industrial IoT.👉 Connect with Jarith on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarith-fry-45260b175/👉 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:Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry. 🔗 Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com