The Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA) is a significant initiative designed to grow domestic manufacturing, requiring federally funded infrastructure projects to prioritize U.S.-made components. For companies involved in infrastructure, energy, transportation, and other key sectors, compliance with BABAA regulations is a critical factor in supplier selection.

Power/mation is proud to work with a number of suppliers who meet or exceed these requirements, ensuring that our customers have access to high-quality, American-made industrial automation components. These suppliers are not just meeting a mandate—they are driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for reliability and performance in U.S. manufacturing.

American Made Powerhouses in Industrial Automation

We proudly partner with leading manufacturers who prioritize American-made excellence, including:

ABB: Specializing in power and automation technologies, ABB’s U.S. manufacturing facilities produce many products that meet BABAA requirements.

Emerson Electric Co.: Offering a broad range of industrial, commercial, and consumer products, Emerson’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing aligns with BABAA objectives.

Phoenix Contact: Specializing in industrial automation, electronic interface systems, and surge protection, many of Phoenix Contact’s products are manufactured domestically.

Banner Engineering: Specializing in industrial automation, sensors, vision, and wireless solutions, Banner Engineering manufactures many of its products domestically at its headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Turck: Specializing in industrial automation, connectivity, and sensor technology, Turck manufactures many of its products domestically at its facility in Plymouth, Minnesota, ensuring high-quality and reliable automation solutions.

Rittal: Specializing in industrial enclosures, climate control, and power distribution solutions, Rittal manufactures many of its products domestically at its facility in Urbana, Ohio, ensuring high-quality and durable solutions for industrial and IT applications.

Exlar: Specializing in electric actuators and motion control solutions, Exlar manufactures many of its products domestically at its facility in Chanhassen, Minnesota, delivering high-performance automation solutions for industrial applications.

Horner Automation: Specializing in all-in-one industrial automation solutions, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and human-machine interfaces (HMIs), Horner Automation manufactures its products domestically at its facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, ensuring high-quality and innovative automation solutions for various industries.

Tolomatic: Specializing in electric linear actuators, pneumatic actuators, and motion control solutions, Tolomatic manufactures its products domestically at its facility in Hamel, Minnesota, ensuring high-quality and reliable automation solutions for industrial applications.

Yaskawa, Control Techniques, Lenze and More – These trusted partners produce and assemble mission-critical components in America, ensuring compliance and quality for our customers.

When you choose American made and BABAA-compliant solutions from Power/mation, you’re not only meeting regulatory requirements—you’re investing in the durability, performance, and innovation that drive American manufacturing forward.

The Power of a Balanced Supply Chain: Why Global Innovation Still Matters

While BABAA compliance is essential for certain projects, industrial automation is a global industry, and innovation knows no borders. Many of our trusted international suppliers bring world-class technology, specialized expertise, and competitive pricing that allow our customers to maintain a leading-edge advantage in their industries.

Companies that source internationally often do so because of the unique capabilities, efficiency, or cost savings offered by global suppliers. At Power/mation, we believe that both domestic and international suppliers have an essential role in keeping U.S. manufacturers competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

A Strategic Approach to Sourcing: Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business

Whether your focus is BABAA compliance, innovation, cost-efficiency, or a mix of all three, Power/mation helps you develop a sourcing strategy that aligns with your business goals:

• For BABAA Projects → We provide fully compliant, American-made components from leading manufacturers.
• For Cost-Conscious Projects → We offer a mix of domestic and international solutions that balance affordability and performance.
• For Innovation-Driven Projects → We deliver high-tech solutions from global suppliers at the forefront of industrial automation.

Our vendor relationships—both domestic and international—allow us to offer the most flexible, future-ready automation solutions in the Midwest industrial market.

Navigating Tariffs: What It Means for Your Business

The latest tariff increases on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada (including a 25% tariff on general imports from Canada and Mexico, a 10% tariff on Canadian energy resources, and an increase from 10% to 20% on imports from China) are reshaping supply chains across North America.

For manufacturers in the Midwest, these changes create both challenges and opportunities:

• Challenges → Rising costs on imported components may impact project budgets, requiring smarter, more strategic sourcing decisions.
• Opportunities → Domestic manufacturing may become more competitive, making BABAA-compliant solutions more attractive for companies looking to future-proof their operations.

Power/mation stays ahead of these trends, providing strategic guidance on sourcing the right mix of domestic and international solutions to keep your operations running smoothly.

Why Choose Power/mation? Your Trusted Industrial Automation Partner

With over 60 years of experience in industrial automation distribution, Power/mation understands the complexity of modern supply chains. We help our customers navigate regulatory changes, optimize costs, and leverage both domestic and international technology to stay competitive.

What You Get When You Work With Power/mation:

A Curated Product Portfolio – Whether you need BABAA-compliant solutions or leading international technology, we’ve got you covered.

Expert Consultations – Our experienced team understands the nuances of tariffs, compliance, and supply chain strategies.

Regional Support – With offices and distribution centers throughout the Midwest, we provide hands-on support and fast shipping to keep your operations running smoothly.

Vendor-Neutral Approach – We offer best in class solutions from both domestic and global suppliers, ensuring you get the right product for your specific needs.

A Future-Proof Approach to Industrial Automation

At Power/mation, we don’t see the world in black and white when it comes to sourcing. Both domestic and international vendors play a vital role in industrial automation, and our job is to ensure you get the best solutions—whether that means BABAA-compliant products, global innovations, or a mix of both.

If you’re looking for guidance on navigating BABAA compliance, tariffs, or sourcing strategies for your industrial automation needs, Power/mation is here to help.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your business with the right solutions, no matter where they come from.

EPLAN is an advanced software suite used extensively for its electrical CAD (Computer-Aided Design) capabilities, which equips engineers with a robust toolkit for designing, documenting, and managing both automation projects and electrical installations.

This software enhances operational efficiency, ensures documentation standardization, and facilitates seamless collaboration among teams through its integration with cloud-based systems.

EPLAN’s utility extends beyond electrical design, encompassing various other engineering disciplines. These include fluid power engineering (such as pneumatics and hydraulics), instrumentation, control, and automation technology, making it an invaluable resource across multiple sectors. EPLAN’s comprehensive solutions for integrating diverse engineering processes make it an indispensable tool in industries such as manufacturing, automation, and process engineering. The platform’s ability to generate detailed schematics, 3D panel layouts, and digital twins further amplifies its effectiveness, providing engineers with the tools they need to optimize design workflows and project execution across disciplines.

EPLAN is designed for team collaboration, offering cloud integration that allows your team to work together seamlessly, regardless of location. It supports real-time updates and centralized data management, which means fewer errors and more consistency.

The Four Main Benefits of Investing in EPLAN

1. Increased Productivity: EPLAN’s digital twin technology allows for thorough testing and analysis, improving design accuracy and reducing development cycles.
2. Error Prevention: EPLAN reduces errors with visual design tools and automated checks that ensure compliance with industry standards, enhancing reliability and reducing costly revisions.
3. Compliance with Industry Standards: With built-in tools and extensive libraries, EPLAN supports adherence to international standards, ensuring designs are both compliant and optimized.
4. Enhanced Collaboration: EPLAN facilitates effective collaboration between engineers, clients, and suppliers, ensuring all stakeholders have real-time access to project data, streamlining communications and project management.

Integrated Project Engineering with EPLAN Software Solutions

EPLAN offers an all-encompassing engineering platform, supporting a wide range of needs from electrical schematics to 3D panel layouts and fluid power engineering. With Power/mation’s integration services, businesses can harness this platform to enhance both the speed and quality of engineering projects. Power/mation’s expert support network can ensure that EPLAN’s advanced tools are seamlessly integrated into existing workflows, enabling immediate improvements in efficiency and project outcomes.

Optimizing Design with EPLAN’s Automation Design Tools

The intuitive user interface of EPLAN, coupled with Power/mation’s implementation strategies, simplifies complex engineering tasks. The platform includes advanced features like an improved terminal editor and enhanced cable planning, which are critical for precision in electrical engineering. With Power/mation’s support, companies can fully utilize these functionalities to optimize their engineering processes and achieve high-quality results.

Cloud Integration and Subscription Flexibility

EPLAN’s cloud integration features facilitate collaboration and efficient data management across project teams. Power/mation aids businesses in leveraging EPLAN’s flexible subscription models, allowing them to scale their software use efficiently and cost-effectively. Additionally, the EPLAN Data Portal provides standardized, up-to-date manufacturer data, ensuring projects comply with global standards.

Empowering Engineers Through Learning and Support

EPLAN’s commitment to user empowerment is enhanced by Power/mation’s dedicated training and support. Engineers can access a range of eLearning modules, guided installations, and best practices through the EPLAN Engineering Standard, all supported by experts. This approach helps engineers at all levels to enhance their skills and maximize the potential of the EPLAN software.

Future-Proof Your Engineering Operations with Power/mation

Investing in EPLAN through Power/mation ensures access to tools that evolve with industry demands, keeping engineering solutions at the cutting edge. This partnership not only addresses current needs but also prepares businesses to tackle future challenges in an increasingly digital and automated world.

For more detailed insights into how EPLAN can help your engineering processes, contact us today!

In today’s industrial environments, safeguarding both personnel and equipment is a fundamental requirement, especially with the growing complexity of automation and machinery. At Power/mation, we understand that one-size-fits-all solutions rarely meet the unique demands of modern manufacturing facilities. That’s why we offer custom fencing solutions, designed and built by Power/mation in partnership with Safety System Products (SSP), with flexibility, durability, and ease of assembly in mind.

Power/mation’s perimeter fencing systems provide an effective barrier between dangerous equipment and personnel, ensuring that safety regulations are met while also improving overall operational efficiency. In this detailed blog, we’ll explore how Power/mation’s fencing systems—Flex-Line, Combi-Line, and Easy-Line—deliver on these goals and more.

Key Benefits of Implementing Custom Fencing Systems

Custom fencing solutions provide safety and efficiency by isolating potentially dangerous machinery from workers, minimizing the risk of accidents, and helping companies maintain regulatory compliance. Many industries, such as automotive, food and beverage, and general manufacturing, require robust protective barriers to ensure safe work environments.

Here’s why custom fencing systems from Power/mation are the best choice for any industrial setting:

1. Enhanced Worker Safety: Custom fencing prevents workers from accidentally entering hazardous areas, reducing the risk of injuries.
2. Protecting Equipment: Fencing keeps sensitive machinery safe from accidental damage, thereby extending the life of expensive equipment.
3. Regulatory Compliance: All Power/mation custom fencing solutions meet ISO 14120:2015 standards, ensuring compliance with international safety regulations.
4. Efficiency: Quick-to-assemble and modular, Power/mation fencing solutions allow facilities to stay operational with minimal disruption.

Three Fencing Styles: Flex-Line, Combi-Line, and Easy-Line

Power/mation offers three main fencing styles—Flex-Line, Combi-Line, and Easy-Line—each designed to meet the diverse needs of modern industries.

1. Flex-Line: Versatility for Complex Designs

The Flex-Line system is the most flexible and robust of the three, providing a wide range of configuration options to suit highly customized or complex fencing designs.

• Components: The system uses 44mm x 44mm extruded aluminum profiles at both the top and bottom of the fencing material, offering structural stability.
• Infill Materials: Flex-Line supports a variety of infill materials, including mesh, polycarbonate, sheet metal, and color panels. These materials can be chosen based on the specific safety requirements of the installation site.
• No Specialized Tools Required: Installation is simple thanks to Net-locks, which fasten mesh securely into the “T” slots of vertical and horizontal posts. There’s no need for welding or drilling.
• Combining Systems: Flex-Line can also be integrated with other fencing systems, allowing for a custom setup that meets specific needs.

This versatility makes Flex-Line ideal for companies that need to secure complex workspaces with a mix of materials for safety, visibility, and access control.

2. Combi-Line: A Balance of Cost and Stability

Power/mation’s Combi-Line fencing system offers a cost-effective solution without compromising stability or safety. Combi-Line combines economic efficiency with robust construction, making it a perfect choice for businesses that require a strong, durable fence on a budget.

• Top and Bottom Components: The system utilizes 44mm x 44mm extrusion at the top, while the bottom is supported by an H-channel.
• Infill Materials: Like the Flex-Line, Combi-Line supports spot-welded mesh infill, ensuring durability and visibility while maintaining safety.
• Net-Locks: The fencing material is fastened to the extrusion with Net-locks, providing a secure attachment without the need for additional tools or specialized equipment.

The Combi-Line system is particularly well-suited to industries where fencing configurations need to be adaptable but cost-effective, such as warehouses, logistics centers, and manufacturing plants with standardized workflows.

3. Easy-Line: Cost-Effective Simplicity

The Easy-Line system is the most economical option, offering a simplified design while maintaining the high safety standards expected from Power/mation. This system is perfect for less complex installations where budget is a primary concern.

• Top and Bottom Components: Easy-Line utilizes H-channels at both the top and bottom of the fencing material, providing stability with fewer materials.
• Infill Materials: Like Flex-Line and Combi-Line, Easy-Line supports spot-welded mesh, ensuring adequate protection and airflow in open environments.
• Net-Locks: As with the other two systems, Easy-Line uses Net-locks to secure the fencing material, ensuring quick installation.

Easy-Line is ideal for industries that need reliable, basic fencing systems, such as small manufacturing operations or areas where safety needs are straightforward.

System Components & Accessories

Power/mation’s custom fencing solutions are designed with simplicity and ease of assembly in mind. Each system includes a minimal number of components and accessories to ensure a quick and efficient installation.

• Extruded Aluminum Profiles: Available in multiple sizes—44 x 16, 44 x 26, 44 x 44, and 44 x 88—these profiles provide the foundation for each fencing system. Lightweight yet durable, they offer the structural integrity needed for industrial settings.
• Pre-Aligned Brackets: All brackets come pre-aligned and pre-mounted with hardware, reducing the time needed for assembly.
• Net-Locks: These secure the mesh or infill materials to the aluminum profiles, ensuring the fencing is held firmly in place.
• Floor Brackets: Fast-Connect floor brackets provide secure attachment to uneven surfaces, ensuring the fencing is stable and safe in any environment.

These components work together to create fencing systems that are strong, durable, and easy to install. Whether a facility opts for a pre-assembled system or a kit build, Power/mation ensures that the process is streamlined from start to finish.

Build Options: Pre-Assembled or Kit Build

Power/mation offers two main build options for fencing systems: Pre-Assembled or Kit Build. Each option is designed to meet different customer needs based on budget, installation speed, and available resources.

1. Pre-Assembled Fencing Systems

For customers who need quick installation, pre-assembled fencing systems offer the fastest turnaround. These systems arrive at the customer site in sub-sections that are ready to be installed.

• Sub-Sections: Pre-built systems are divided into manageable sub-sections, pre-assembled and labeled for easy installation.
• Fully Packaged: The complete fencing system is securely loaded onto pallets, protected, and wrapped for safe transport.

Pre-assembled fencing is ideal for companies that want to minimize on-site labor and install their safety fencing system quickly, with minimal downtime.

2. Kit Build Fencing Systems

For companies that want more control over the installation process or are working within tighter budget constraints, Kit Builds offer a more flexible option.

• Doors Pre-Assembled: In kit builds, doors are typically pre-assembled to simplify the installation process.
• Labeled Components: Extrusions and infill materials are cut and labeled according to a detailed build plan, ensuring accuracy during assembly.
• Pre-Fastened Floor Brackets: Floor brackets are pre-fastened to vertical posts, making on-site installation faster.

Kit builds are ideal for businesses that have the capacity to assemble the fencing on-site but want to ensure the materials arrive ready for quick assembly.

Structural Integrity & Compliance

Safety fencing is only effective if it meets industry safety standards. At Power/mation, we ensure that all of our fencing systems comply with the ISO 14120:2015 standard, which covers the design and construction of fixed and movable guards in industrial settings.

Pendulum Impact Testing

Power/mation’s fencing systems have undergone rigorous impact testing in accordance with EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex C. These tests simulate impacts caused by a 90 kg (200 lbs) body mass moving at a speed of 1.6 m/s (5.25 ft/s), with each system absorbing an impact energy of at least 115 J.

This testing ensures that our fences can withstand real-world industrial conditions, providing reliable protection for both workers and machinery.

Requesting a Quote for Custom Fencing

Getting started with a custom fencing system from Power/mation is easy. We have streamlined the Request for Quote (RFQ) process to ensure customers receive accurate, detailed quotes based on their unique safety needs.

Information Needed for an RFQ:

• Customer contact details
• Desired fencing style (Flex-Line, Combi-Line, Easy-Line)
• Base details (sweep height, guard height)
• Infill material preferences (mesh, polycarbonate, etc.)
• Basic drawings with dimensional information
• CAD files in .dwg, .dxf, or .stp formats

Once the RFQ is submitted, Power/mation’s Solutions Team will work closely with the customer to develop a custom design based on their specifications. After the design is approved, the fencing system will be built and prepared for shipment according to the customer’s preferred build option.

At Power/mation, we are committed to delivering safety solutions that meet the unique needs of modern industries. Whether you need a complex, customized fencing system like Flex-Line, a cost-effective option like Combi-Line, or an affordable yet durable solution like Easy-Line, Power/mation has the expertise and products to provide the protection your facility needs.

For more information or to request a custom quote, contact Power/mation today. Let us help you build a safer, more efficient industrial workspace.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is helping industries innovate across the globe, driving smarter, more efficient operations. From healthcare to manufacturing, AI’s potential is vast, with its influence in automation particularly interesting. AI encompasses machines that exhibit human-like intelligence, with subfields like machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) driving significant technological advancements.

Machine learning refers to algorithms that learn and improve from experience without explicit programming, while deep learning uses neural networks inspired by the human brain. These technologies are reshaping industries, enhancing processes, and enabling more efficient operations.

Let’s explore how AI is being utilized in industrial automation to enhance key processes such as PID coefficient autotuning and predictive anomaly-based alarming, with a specific look at how Horner Automation is working toward applying AI in its upcoming OCS360 platform for advanced analytics.

AI-Assisted PID Coefficient Autotuning

PID (Proportional, Integral, Derivative) controllers are crucial for maintaining optimal control in industrial processes such as temperature, pressure, and flow control systems. One of the key challenges in PID control is the tuning of the coefficients—P, I, and D—which determine how the system responds to changes and maintains stability.

Traditionally, PID tuning can be a complex, time-consuming process, requiring skilled engineers to manually adjust the coefficients or use automated methods like the Ziegler-Nichols tuning technique. However, AI is now being applied to enhance these traditional methods. By integrating machine learning into the tuning process, businesses can achieve more refined and precise results.

Machine learning algorithms can analyze historical data from specific systems, learn from that data, and predict the optimal PID settings for real-time operations. This results in more accurate control, leading to improved performance, reduced setup time, and fewer manual interventions. The AI-assisted tuning system is capable of adapting to changes in the system’s environment, ensuring optimal performance over time.

This advancement is particularly beneficial in industrial settings, where even small improvements in process control can lead to significant reductions in energy consumption, improved operational efficiency, and minimized downtime due to poorly tuned systems.

Predictive Anomaly-Based Alarming

AI is also transforming how industries approach predictive maintenance and anomaly detection. Unexpected equipment failures or system disruptions can cause significant downtime, leading to costly repairs and lost productivity. AI-based predictive anomaly detection offers a proactive solution by identifying potential issues before they cause major problems.

Using deep learning algorithms, predictive anomaly-based alarming systems monitor critical parameters like temperature, pressure, and current. By continuously learning what constitutes “normal” operations, these systems can detect deviations from the norm—anomalies that may signal potential equipment failures or process inefficiencies.

Once an anomaly is detected, the system can send alerts via SMS, email, or physical alarms, allowing businesses to take corrective action before the issue escalates. This capability helps businesses avoid unscheduled downtime and costly repairs, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

What sets AI-powered anomaly detection apart from traditional methods is its ability to go beyond simple threshold-based alarms. Instead of relying on fixed limits, AI systems learn and recognize patterns, enabling them to catch subtle changes that may be missed by conventional alarming methods. This leads to more accurate predictions and earlier detection of potential problems.

The benefits of predictive anomaly-based alarming include improved asset reliability, extended equipment lifespan, and reduced maintenance costs. AI-driven anomaly detection systems can also enhance safety by identifying dangerous conditions before they become critical.

AI and Machine Learning in Horner Automation’s Future OCS360 Platform

One brand that stands out in the industrial automation sector for its use of AI and ML is Horner Automation. The company is integrating advanced AI and machine learning capabilities into its upcoming OCS360 platform, enabling comprehensive data collection, cloud-based visualization, and remote connectivity.

The upcoming OCS360 platform will leverage AI to provide real-time insights and predictive analytics, helping businesses optimize their operations. The AI and ML features within the platform will support various critical functions, including:

• Predictive Maintenance: By analyzing historical and real-time data, AI can predict when equipment is likely to fail, allowing businesses to schedule maintenance and avoid costly breakdowns.
• Anomaly Detection: Similar to the predictive alarming systems discussed earlier, the OCS360 platform will use AI to identify unusual patterns in data, helping businesses catch potential problems early.
• Demand Forecasting: AI-driven algorithms can analyze trends and past data to predict future demand, helping businesses optimize production and manage inventory more efficiently.
• Energy Management: AI analyzes energy consumption patterns and suggests areas where energy usage can be reduced, helping companies lower costs and improve sustainability.
• Supply Chain Optimization: AI enhances supply chain efficiency by predicting demand fluctuations, optimizing inventory levels, and reducing potential disruptions.
• Remote Monitoring and Diagnostics: The platform allows users to monitor and diagnose systems remotely, improving response times and reducing the need for on-site support.

By integrating AI and machine learning into their platform, Horner Automation provides businesses with tools to make more informed, data-driven decisions, ultimately improving their overall performance.

The Future of AI in Industrial Automation

As AI technology evolves, it will likely become even more integral to industrial operations, driving innovation and efficiency across a wide range of applications. Companies that embrace AI stand to gain significant advantages, from improved operational performance to enhanced customer satisfaction. Whether through predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, or advanced analytics platforms like Horner Automation’s OCS360, AI will help businesses operate smarter, faster, and more efficiently.

Contact us or reach out to your Power/mation sales rep to learn more.

Welcome to another insightful edition of Run Mode, the industrial automation podcast by Power/mation. In this episode, we sit down with some of our Technical Sales Associates (TSAs), showcasing how Power/mation is nurturing the next generation of engineering talent. The episode features a lively discussion on the importance of equipping young engineers with the skills they need to become technically competent, real-world-ready solution providers.

Industry News: The Importance of NIS 2 Compliance

We began the episode by discussing the latest in industry regulations, specifically focusing on the Network and Information Systems Directive (NIS 2). This EU directive, updated in 2016, mandates new cybersecurity standards for various sectors, including energy, transportation, banking, healthcare, and more. Compliance is required by 2024, and organizations in these sectors must implement cybersecurity measures and fulfill reporting obligations. The directive differentiates between essential and important entities, with the former being subject to proactive audits and the latter required to produce documentation in case of incidents.

NIS 2 aims to create a unified cybersecurity sector across the EU, akin to the machine functional safety assessments mandated by OSHA for workplace safety. The directive emphasizes the involvement of management in cybersecurity measures, ensuring that organizations are prepared to protect their critical infrastructure and sensitive information.

Exploring AI, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning

The podcast also explored the distinctions between artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL). AI encompasses a broad range of technologies capable of simulating human intelligence, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and language processing. Machine learning, a subset of AI, focuses on creating adaptable models that learn from data to improve over time. It’s used in applications like recommendation systems, fraud detection, and predictive maintenance.

Deep learning, another subset of ML, employs neural networks with multiple layers to mimic the human brain’s learning process. This technology is essential for complex tasks like image classification, speech recognition, and autonomous vehicles. As these technologies advance, they continue to revolutionize industries, offering new solutions and efficiencies.

Inside Power/mation’s TSA Program: A Pathway to Success

The heart of the episode was a discussion with Andrew Jagger and a panel of current TSAs, including Adam Bohn, Cody Branch, and Mikal Hofstad. They shared their journeys into Power/mation and the transformative impact of the TSA program.

Andrew, who has been with Power/mation for over 15 years, started as a TSA during a challenging economic period in 2008. He recounted his unexpected entry into Power/mation, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and the value of a structured training program. The TSA program, which Andrew now leads, provides recent graduates with a comprehensive introduction to the industry, from operations and business development to engineering and sales.

Each panel member brought unique perspectives, highlighting the program’s versatility and depth. Adam Bohn, who graduated with a degree in industrial engineering, emphasized the value of a customer-facing role that allows continuous learning and exposure to cutting-edge technologies. Cody Branch and Mikal Hofstad shared their experiences in various program phases, from solutions engineering to business development.

Our TSA program’s phased approach ensures that participants gain a well-rounded understanding of Power/mation’s operations and the broader industry. The program includes hands-on training in different departments, technical skill development, and soft skills training, such as customer interactions and public speaking. This structured progression prepares participants for future roles as sales engineers or business development managers, equipped with the technical knowledge and confidence needed to excel.

The Value of Technical Expertise in Sales

Power/mation’s commitment to developing technically proficient salespeople is evident in the TSA program. The program’s design emphasizes learning through real-world scenarios and challenges, providing a safe environment for participants to make mistakes and learn from them. This approach helps build trust with customers, as well-trained salespeople can offer informed solutions and support.

The TSA program also fosters a sense of community and support within Power/mation. Participants are not left to navigate the complexities of the industry alone; they have access to a network of experienced professionals and resources. This support system is crucial for new graduates transitioning into the workforce, offering guidance and mentorship as they develop their careers.

The TSA program at Power/mation is more than just a training initiative; it’s a comprehensive educational experience that equips young engineers with the skills and confidence to thrive in the industrial automation industry. As we concluded the podcast, our guests reflected on their growth and the invaluable experiences they gained through the program. The discussion underscored the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.

For those interested in exploring a career in industrial automation or learning more about the TSA program, we encourage you to reach out to Power/mation. Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for a career path or an organization seeking technical expertise, Power/mation is committed to supporting your journey.

Subscribe to our podcast, YouTube channel, and follow us on our social media channels to stay tuned for new episodes, updates, sneak peeks of upcoming episodes, and more exclusive content from the Power/mation team. Let’s gear up for a transformative experience with ‘Run Mode’—where the world of industrial automation comes alive, one episode at a time.

RUN MODE

is the official podcast from Power/mation designed to explore the ever-evolving world of industrial automation in-depth.

With each episode, we aim to explore the innovative solutions, trends, and technologies that are transforming our industry. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer, a business leader, or an automation enthusiast, “Run Mode” is your new go-to resource for insights and inspiration from the forefront of automation technology.

Subscribe to our podcast, YouTube channel, and follow us on our social media channels to stay tuned for new episodes, updates, sneak peeks of upcoming episodes, and more exclusive content from the Power/mation team. Let’s gear up for a transformative experience with ‘Run Mode’—where the world of industrial automation comes alive, one episode at a time.