Workforce 4.0

Hosted by Ann K. Wyatt

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Oct 2026

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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 on blending emerging digital capabilities with a highly personable customer user experience, resulting in bridging the talent gap and building stronger company cultures and communities. In her personal time, she advocates for: Creative Workforce Development Initiatives Technical and Interpersonal Skillsets Facing the Future of Work Continuous Improvement of Company Culture Advancement of All Things Industry 4.0 Learn More About Host Ann Wyatt Watch Workforce 4.0 on YouTube

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October 21, 20268 min

We Promised Them The Future: Robotics Is Helping To Build It (with Doosan Robotics)

In this episode, we get the second installment to the very special project that took place at this year's Automate Trade Show in Chicago, IL in June of 2026. In our first episode, host Ann Wyatt sat down with Terry Iverson and volunteers from his nonprofit organization "CHAMPIONNow," to learn more about Terry's passion for workforce development and why introducing kids to manufacturing earlier on can increase their chances of choosing this industry as a viable career. This week, the conversation continues in a very different way when host Ann Wyatt facilitates a live conversation from the trade show floor between Joe McLaughlin from Doosan Robotics and the students. Beyond the discussions about the latest advancements in robotic palletizing systems, emphasizing their applications, safety features, and the importance of diversity in engineering emerges a true look at tomorrow's workforce. And the result? A light shining on their absolute brilliance. In This Epsiode: -00:00: Introduction To Workforce 4.0 -02:09: Introducing Students TO Doosan Robotics -02:38: Joe McLaughlin’s Background In Engineering And Sales -03:02: How Much Can The Robot Lift? -03:30: What The Robot Can Handle Beyond Boxes -04:21: The Challenges Of Developing Palletizing Software -05:21: Creativity And Critical Thinking In Robotics -06:32: How Automation Can Change Manufacturing Jobs -07:31: Paletize OS And Plans For Future Improvements -08:07: Encouraging More Women To Enter Robotics -08:56: Why Diverse Perspectives Strengthen Engineering -09:43: Student Reflections On Inclusion In Manufacturing -10:27: Closing Thoughts From The Show Floor More About Cutting Tool Engineering CTE Publications Inc. serves as a vital resource for engineers, technicians, machinists, and other industry professionals involved in metalworking, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, medical device production and other related sectors. We offer in-depth articles, case studies, product reviews, industry news and expert insights to help our audience stay updated on the latest advancements, trends and best practices in cutting tool technology and machining processes. Cutting Tool Engineering magazine offers an editorial package that makes it a must-read resource for industry decision-makers. Our print magazine, published by CTE Publications Inc. in Arlington Heights, Illinois, is the backbone of CTE's digital media presence—from our website to our YouTube, video and social media channels. As a multimedia business-to-business publisher, CTE covers all aspects of the machining process, including cutting and grinding operations, cutting/abrasive tools, metalworking fluids, the workpiece and workholders, toolholders, machine tools, software, controllers and more. Learn more about CTE here . The Future Of Work (And This Episode) Is Powered By Bucket Robotics

October 14, 202617 min

Before They Choose A Career, Show Them What's Possible (with Terry Iverson, Founder of CHAMPIONNow)

In this episode, host Ann Wyatt sits down with the Founder of ChampionNow, a 501(c) nonprofit, Terry Iverson to recap the next generation workforce tour from the Automate 2026 trade show in June 2026. Listen ins as these two explore the reactions from the students during the field trip, how other organizations are partnering together in the great Chicago area to bring awareness to manufacturing careers and the importance of engaging young people in manufacturing. These two also go in depth to discuss factors like the role of AI and technology in the industry and how events like Automate can inspire the next generation of workers. In This Episode: -00:00: Introduction To The Event And Guests -01:55: The Importance Of Engaging Youth In Manufacturing -03:48: Challenges In Attracting Young People To Manufacturing -05:49: Parents' Perceptions And Outdated Views -07:03: The Need For Flexible Skill Sets In Industry -07:49: Young People's Curiosity And Questions About Careers -09:03: The Evolving Role of AI In Manufacturing Processes -10:06: Adapting To Technological Changes And New Skills -11:05: The Importance Of Industry Events For Youth Engagement -11:59: Closing Remarks And Contact Information More About Terry: Terry M. Iverson was the former owner of their 95 year old family machine tool distributorship and rebuilder in Des Plaines, Illinois, which he sold in June 2023. Terry has been calling on machine shops and manufacturing companies for over 4 decades. His family owns businesses in manufacturing-related areas. His brother runs a company that manufactures dial indicators (mechanical and electronic). Terry’s uncles have had sub-contract machine shops, while his father ran the company up until 1986, after his grandfather founded it in 1931. In 2025, his family celebrated 100 years in the manufacturing industry. Terry has spent thousands of hours keynote speaking at schools and events about manufacturing in America. He has participated on numerous technical educational advisory boards. He has served nationally on the TMA Education Foundation, the CTE Education Foundation, and chaired the National Visiting Committee for FLATE (Florida Advanced Technological Education Center). In 2012 Terry formally founded CHAMPION Now! ( www.championnow.org ) after coming up with the concept in 2009, with the vision of changing perceptions of manufacturing careers, in hopes of assisting to solve the skills gap crisis in this country. Terry published his first book in 2018 (Finding America’s Greatest Champion), and his follow up book (Inspiring Champions in Advanced Manufacturing) in 2023. CHAMPION Now that same year started the inspirational “Camp CHAMP” to introduce middle school students to manufacturing by having high school CTE students mentor younger students, while learning how to manufacture pens on tabletop CNC machines. Following his father's death in 2021, Terry established the CHAMPION Now! Jerry R. Iverson Manufacturing Memorial Scholarship. Recently this was set it up at Taft High School in Chicago, where they awarded the second $1,000 scholarship to another deserving student. To learn more about Terry, connect with him here. The Future Of Work (And This Episode) Is Powered By Bucket Robotics

February 25, 202629 min

The SE Playbook To Influencing Veteran Talent Outcomes (with Bobby Cain, CIO of Schneider Electric, NAM)

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 packed with Bobby's tips on growing your veteran workforce. In This Episode: -00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0 -00:30: Welcoming Bobby Cain, CIO of Schneider Electric, To Workforce 4.0 -01:21: Bobby's Journey from Military Team Player to Corporate A Lister -05:58: Highlighting Common Challenges For Veteran's Re-Entering Civillian Life -08:38: A Company's Responsibilty For Intential Veteran Hiring Practices -13:40: Schneider Electric's Veteran Hiring Initiative -17:48: The Importance Of Creating A Supportive Environment For Veterans -22:37: Tips On Giving Back To Your Employees Through Employee Resource Networks -27:17: Closing Thoughts And Point of Contact Information -28:50: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Bobby Cain: Robert (Bobby) W. Cain was recently named as SVP and CIO for Schneider Electric North America. Prior to that he served as the VP Business Transformation North America. Since 2018, he has worked closely with the Schneider Electric North America executive leadership team to establish the transformation strategy in alignment with SE business priorities and manage the execution of deliverables and objectives by leveraging modern technology to expand margin, drive customer value and increase employee engagement. His high-performing team has delivered tremendous value to the business, seeing over $50M in the first two years with $100M planned over the life of the program. To learn more about Bobby, connect with him here.

February 18, 202632 min

You Can’t Automate Curiosity: The Human Edge In An AI-Driven World (with Sadiq Panjwani, Teledyne FLIR)

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. In This Episode: -00:00: Introduction to Machine Vision and Manufacturing -00:30: Welcoming Sadiq Panjwani, Teledyne -04:51: Breaking Down The Future Of Automation And Manufacturing -09:39: The Rise Of Physical AI and Human-Robot Collaboration -14:31: AI In Manufacturing: Unpacking The Timeline Shift -19:02: Connecting The Data Dots In Real Time -28:30: Uncovering Generational Challenges For Most Legacy Manufacturers -31:37: Closing Thoughts And Point of Contact -32:30: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Sadiq: Sadiq Panjwani has extensive work experience in various leadership roles within prominent companies. Sadiq currently serves as the Vice President and General Manager of the Machine Vision Cameras Group at Teledyne FLIR, where he has helped lead the global business division for integrated imaging solutions. Before joining Teledyne, Sadiq worked at GE, where he held several senior positions, including the Senior Commercial Director at GE Digital. Above all, Sadiq is committed to delivering decisive action in responding to evolving customer needs, uncovering market trends and mobilizing resources to deliver best-in-class and cost-effective technology solutions. This includes designing and driving initiatives that increase productivity, competitive differentiation and customer engagement while reducing costs and creating disruptive strategies. To learn more about Sadiq, connect with him here.

February 4, 202635 min

Inside The Rise Of Bucket Robotics: Robots, Vision And More Meaningful Work (with Matt Puchalski, Bucket Robotics)

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 technology in manufacturing, emphasizing the need for automation and the potential for up-skilling the workforce. Just two people on a mission to give people more meaningful work. Catch the full interview now. In This Episode: -00:00 : Workforce 4.0 Intro -00:30: Introducing Matt Puchalski, Founder Of Bucket Robotics -08:32: Creating Autonomous Solutions For The Real World -12:51: Quality Applications: Robots V Humans -18:03: Analyzing The Future Of Machine Vision For Manufacturing -21:34: Robotics Past V Present -22:58: Unlocking Future Energy Demands And Unleashing Human Potential -25:42: Growth and Challenges of Bucket Robotics -28:52: Previewing 2026 Events And Trade Shows -30:37: The Lessons And Impacts Of Growing A Company -34:30: Closing Thoughts And Point Of Contact -35:23: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Matt Puchalski: Before co-founding Bucket Robotics, Matt distinguished himself in the autonomous vehicle industry through pivotal roles at Stack AV, Latitude AI, and Argo AI. His work at these companies brought the deployment of autonomous vehicles to public roads across the United States and Germany. With deep expertise in integrating and operationalizing AVs, Matt brings a unique vision to revolutionize the robotics industry. To learn more about Matt, connect with him here.

January 28, 202646 min

Investing In Talent: The Win We Have To Have (with Suzanne Soper and Doug Beck, Schneider Electric)

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. In This Episode: -02:00: The Convergence Of Consumer and Workforce Technology -04:56: Applying AI For The People At Work -15:03: Manufacturing Opportunities: The Younger Generations Aspire to Problem Solve -18:09: Schneider Electric Driving The People/Technology Convergence -19:07: Schneider's Billion Dollar Investment For A Sustainable Future -22:54: Schneider Electric's Commitment To Workforce Development -24:39: Investing In Veterans Through Unique Hiring Initiatives -26:52: The Shift In Manufacturing Roles Past And Present -29:56: Personal Testimonies of Career Pathing Opportunities At Schneider Electric -33:40: Tips For Fostering A World Renowned Culture -41:08: Investing In Your Talent Is The Win That You Have To Have -45:42: Closing Remarks And Point of Contact Information More About Suzanne Soper: Suzanne Soper is Vice President of U.S. Services at Schneider Electric , leading commercial service operations and driving innovation across the EcoStruxure platform. With over 20 years in sales, operations, and business development, she’s passionate about building high-performing teams and advancing resilient, efficient, and sustainable solutions in the IoT era. Since joining in 2018, she’s held strategic leadership roles focused on critical power and software growth. To learn more about Suzanne,, connect with her here. More About Doug Beck Doug Beck is Director, US Industrial Automation Services Leader at Schneider Electric. Doug has over 25 years of experience across power, digital, energy, and industrial automation sectors. He is deeply committed to fostering a culture of trust and leveraging technology to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Currently, he lead a team of service professionals focused on consulting, digital transformation, and modernization services—driving greater reliability, resiliency, and sustainability in industrial automation processes. To learn more about Doug, connect with him here.

January 21, 202632 min

AI In Manufacturing Explained: Robotics, Safety, And The Future Workforce (with Mark Yahiro, RealSense)

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. In This Episode: -00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0 -00:30: Welcoming Mark Yahiro, RealSense -04:02: The Real Value Of Ai For The Manufacturing Workforce -05:48: RealSense's Mission Behind Making Robotics Safer -08:49: Making Automation Practical And Safe For Humans -11:28: How Any Business Can Get Started With AI -14:15: Defining New Skills For A New Way Of Work -17:14: AI IRL... -22:55: How Manufacturing Companies Are Already Leading In Innovation -27:52: Approachable Robotics Leading To Everyday Interactions -31:04: Mark's Closing Thoughts And Point Of Contact -31:55: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Mark: Mark Yahiro is a seasoned business leader who incubates and scales emerging technologies and builds high-impact strategic partnerships. As VP of Business Development at RealSense , he helps drive expansion by securing the right partners for sustainable, long-term growth. Over nearly 15 years at Intel, he held leadership roles across incubation, strategic partnerships, and emerging tech—most recently as GM of the RealSense business, leading computer vision and autonomous mobile robotics initiatives. He also led Intel’s Incubation and Disruptive Innovation Group, launching ventures and AI-driven solutions with meaningful real-world impact. Earlier, Mark led strategic business development in Intel’s Client Computing Group and helped build the RealSense portfolio through investments, alliances, and M&A work with Intel Capital. Prior to Intel, he led marketing and business development at display-tech start-up PureDepth Inc., which went public in 2008 with a $400M market valuation. He holds a B.S. in Software Engineering (University of Illinois Chicago) and an MBA in International Business (DePaul University). To learn more about Mark, check him out here.

January 14, 202635 min

Lessons In Automation: Solutions For Tomorrow's Workforce (with Michael Haas, VP of FerRobotics)

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 of adapting to new technologies in order to thrive in the manufacturing sector. Join us for a conversation featuring plenty of passion, education and some key insights into the future of how the manufacturing industry will work! In This Episode: -00:00: Introduction to Workforce 4.0 -00:30: Welcoming Michael Haas From FerRobotics -07:12: The Evolution of Automation And The Impacts Of Increased Accessibility -13:27: The Impact of Automation on Manufacturing Workforce Skills -17:48: Challenges in Implementing Automation for Small vs. Large Companies -22:13: Automation Is Actually Creating Opportunities for Frontline Workers -28:20: People Centric: The Future of Work and Automation's Role -32:31: Michael's Closing Thoughts and Point of Contact -34:51: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Michael: Michael Haas is a leading voice in the field of intelligent automation, serving as Vice President of FerRobotics Inc. , a global innovator in sensitive robotic technologies. With over a decade of experience spearheading North American operations, Michael has been instrumental in introducing force-controlled automation solutions that are revolutionizing surface processing across industries—from automotive to aerospace and beyond. Originally from Austria, Michael combines his deep engineering expertise with a strategic vision for flexible, human-friendly automation. His passion lies in transforming dangerous, dirty, and demeaning tasks into safe, efficient, and empowering robotic processes. As a trusted advisor and technical ambassador, he frequently collaborates with Fortune 500 manufacturers, R&D centers, and academic institutions. Michael is also a member of the Technical Advisory Committee for the ARM (Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing) Institute and a regular speaker at top-tier automation events. Based in the US, he continues to advocate for the integration of smart robotics to boost productivity, support skilled labor, and create sustainable growth in modern manufacturing. To learn more about Michael, connect with him here.

January 7, 202639 min

Manufacturing Hiring Trends: And What Employers Need To Know In 2026 (with Carolyn Lee, Manufacturing Institute)

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 frontline leadership and the expectations of younger workers. As a featured recent keynote discussion leader during Schneider Electric's 2025 Innovation Summit, North America, this is our second installment highlighting and celebrating the road forward to building the manufacturing workforce. In This Episode: -00:00: Introduction To Workforce 4.0 -00:30: Welcoming Carolyn Lee From The Manufacturing Institute To Workforce 4.0 -04:16: Preparing The Workforce For The People/Technology Convergence -09:08: Exploring Where The Real Skills Gap Lies -11:35: What Real FAME Looks Like: A Model for Workforce Development -16:40: Examining Real Time Manufacturing Hiring Trends -20:19: The Importance of Empowering Frontline Leadership -25:03: Breaking Down The Impact In Positive Culture And Productivity -32:41: The New Data On The Manufacturing Skills Gap -37:37: Carolyn's Final Thoughts And Point Of Contact -39:17: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Carolyn: Carolyn Lee is the president and executive director of the Manufacturing Institute , the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers . Ms. Lee leads the MI in its goal of building a resilient manufacturing workforce prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. She was named to the leadership role at the MI in 2017, and during her leadership tenure, the MI has grown significantly, evolving for scaled impact nationwide across the manufacturing industry. She led the MI as it developed new programs, initiatives and events, including taking stewardship from Toyota of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education in 2019 and growing its reach; inaugurating the annual MI Workforce Summit; launching the 35×30 mentorship initiative for women and young girls; expanding the MI’s Heroes MAKE America initiative; working with the NAM to develop Creators Wanted—the manufacturing industry’s largest national workforce development and education campaign; and partnering with organizations such as Stand Together Trust to create the MI’s second chance hiring initiative. Through implementing groundbreaking programs, convening industry leaders and conducting innovative research, the MI furthers individual opportunity, community prosperity and a more competitive manufacturing industry. The MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. To learn more about Carolyn connect with her here .

November 19, 202534 min

Skills That Really Matter: Aptitude And Attitude (with Patrick Tobin, President of Han-Tek)

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 a product is made in manufacturing- from concept to completion- this episode is for you! In This Episode: -00:00: Workforce 4.0 Introduction -00:30: Welcoming Pat Tobin To Workforce 4.0 -03:15: Building a Strong Company Culture -05:51: Navigating Change and Continuous Improvement -08:28: Expanding Beyond New York: Growth Strategies -11:10: Maintaining Company Culture During Growth -14:09: The Role of Attitude and Aptitude in Hiring -16:53: The Impact of Technology on Workforce -19:26: Advice for Future Leaders -22:02: Customer Success Stories and Integrity -27:17: Conclusion and Future Outlook -34:40: Workforce 4.0 Outro More About Pat: "At Han-Tek , I've been given the opportunity to see every aspect of how a product develops from concept to completion—how they get manufactured, processed, assembled, and installed," says Patrick. This deep, first-hand knowledge is what drives Patrick's leadership focus on customer needs and strategic business development. He further honed this expertise by earning his MBA from the University of Rochester Simon School of Business. As resident, Patrick oversees the organization's day-to-day operations and personally champions the team's efforts to implement their new strategic business plan, ensuring the company's future growth and success. While no two days are the same—from new business development initiatives to exploring potential mergers and acquisitions—Patrick remains committed to keeping Han-Tek's family-business values at the core of every decision. In his downtime, Patrick enjoys being with his growing family, hitting the slopes to ski, finding a quiet spot to fish, and cheering on NCAA lacrosse. To learn more about Patrick, connect with his here.