In this week's episode, powered by PLCnext Technology, Cisco's Chief Global Architect Kevin Wood joins the conversation to break down the practical strategies manufacturers need for secure, future-ready operations. Hear firsthand about the real-world challenges holding back IT and OT collaboration, the critical importance of visibility for protecting and optimizing your plant floor, and the evolving role of network infrastructure in enabling Industry 4.0.

If your organization is navigating legacy technology, security risks, or planning large-scale digital transformation, this episode is packed with expert guidance and industry best practices. Walk away with actionable steps for building a resilient and competitive industrial environment.

This episode is made possible by PLCnext Technology

PLCnext Technology is the ecosystem for industrial automation consisting of open hardware, modular engineering software, a global community, and a digital software marketplace.

Learn more at:

https://www.plcnext-community.net/news/synergy-edge-cloud/

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 Max on LinkedIn:

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

Decades of industrial automation, SCADA implementations, and digital transformation meet the future of IIoT in this conversation with special guest Max Carrit, made possible by PLCnext Technology. Hosts Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes trace Max’s journey from early experiences in Texas gas plants to leading multi-site SCADA modernization in Europe.

This episode covers technical growth, project challenges, cultural contrasts between U.S. and European automation, and hands-on learning with open platforms like Ignition. Highlights include mobile SCADA innovations, transitioning to enterprise-scale solutions, best practices for reducing tech debt, and building custom applications for fun (like D&D game management).

Whether you're stepping into the industry, evaluating career paths in controls engineering, or looking for practical advice on databases and IT/OT convergence, this discussion offers firsthand accounts and hard-won lessons from the field.

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This episode is made possible by PLCnext Technology

PLCnext Technology is the ecosystem for industrial automation consisting of open hardware, modular engineering software, a global community, and a digital software marketplace.

Learn more at:

https://www.plcnext-community.net/news/synergy-edge-cloud/

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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 Max on LinkedIn:

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

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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

IT and OT have never been closer yet more misunderstood. In this episode, powered by PLCnext Technology, David Ariens brings candid insight from his global industry experience to the table, breaking down why IT/OT convergence remains a challenge and how it’s far more than just a technical problem. Hear stories from frontline operations, learn why trust and collaboration trump technology, and get practical advice for companies wrestling with digital transformation across manufacturing, infrastructure, and process sectors.

From lessons in organizational models to thoughts on data openness, the conversation uncovers strategies for building real momentum behind change, making it clear that successful transformation hinges on the people behind the systems as much as the technology itself.

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This episode is made possible by PLCnext Technology

PLCnext Technology is the ecosystem for industrial automation consisting of open hardware, modular engineering software, a global community, and a digital software marketplace.

Learn more at:

⁠https://www.phoenixcontact.com/en-pc/products/plcnext-technology⁠

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Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidariens/

The IT/OT Insider:

https://itotinsider.com

ITOT.Academy

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