Best Automation Ladies Podcasts (2025)

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#06: Nikki Gonzales: Interview with an Automation Lady 1:00:07

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18d ago1:00:07

1:00:07

Technical careers don’t always stem from an engineering background. Nikki Gonzales grew up working with embedded controllers and exposure to a startup mentality, going on to a career in technical sales, product management and the founding of Automation Ladies. *On August 18, 2025, only two days after this podcast was recorded, Nikki suffered the un…

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#08: Vlad Romanov, Adventures in System Integration and Entrepreneurship 52:44

1d ago52:44

52:44

Vlad Romanov has had an extensive career in industry from system integration in large companies to startups and entrepreneurship. He has built training platforms, created a successful podcast and now does digital transformation consulting. This episode provides tactical insights on automation-related business and serial entrepreneurship. TAKEAWAYS …

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#07: Stephen Gates and the creation of myPLCtraining 50:49

8d ago50:49

50:49

How does a successful online training and coaching company get started? Hear how Stephen learned to program PLCs and turned a side hustle into a full-time job! TAKEAWAYS Where Stephen learned his automation skills (00:54 – 7:55) Stephen’s journey through university and his early experience working with PLCs . The founding of myPLCtraining (8:10 – 1…

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#05: How Industrial Automation Powers American Beverage Depot 36:56

25d ago36:56

36:56

What happens when a bottle plant puts its faith in relationships, grassroots innovation, and learning-by-doing instead of pricey, off-the-shelf solutions? Join Frank Lamb on Mastering the Machine as he chronicles a remarkable 12-year evolution at American Beverage Depot, where language barriers, aging hardware, and resourceful engineers become cata…

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#04: Mastering Industrial Automation with Practical Learning Methods 40:20

1M ago40:20

40:20

Do you find yourself lost in a sea of automation jargon, unsure how it all connects to real-world expertise? This episode of Mastering the Machine is your roadmap: Frank Lamb outlines the foundational pyramid every industrial automation pro should know and shows exactly how to apply it to both new technologies and daily problem-solving. Through his…

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#03: OT SCADA CON 2025 Conference Recap 47:07

1M ago47:07

47:07

What is OT SCADA CON? On Mastering the Machine, Frank Lamb talks to some of the speakers and attendees of the second annual OT SCADA CON networking technical event held in Houston, Texas July 23-25, 2025. Hear how this conference breaks the mold of dry trade shows by providing opportunities to meet some of the drivers of industrial automation techn…

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From Beer Bar to Buildathon: Margarita Rosenkrans’ Journey with Ignition 50:51

1M ago50:51

50:51

When a chance conversation at a beer bar introduced her to the word “SCADA,” Margarita Rosenkrans had no idea it would spark a career in industrial automation. In this episode, Courtney and Alicia chat with Margarita—Sales Engineer at Inductive Automation—about her path from graduating in the middle of a hiring freeze to thriving in both support an…

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#02: The History of PLCs and the Automation Evolution 54:27

2M ago54:27

54:27

How did programmable logic controllers (PLCs) revolutionize industrial automation, transforming factory floors worldwide? On Mastering the Machine, Frank Lamb pulls the curtain back on the untold history of PLCs, tracing their origins from a General Motors brainstorm through global expansion, industry shakeups, and the relentless pursuit of reliabi…

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#01: Mastering Industrial Automation from Novice to Expert 35:11

2M ago35:11

35:11

Have you ever wondered how an unconventional start can lead to mastery in industrial automation and control systems? Frank Lamb shares his decades-long journey through the ever-evolving world of PLC programming, machine building, and automation training. From his early days without a high school diploma to becoming a leading expert in hands-on lear…

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From Tesla Batteries to Underground Tunnels with Riddhi Padariya 1:02:29

2M ago1:02:29

1:02:29

Ever wondered what it takes to lead automation projects at trailblazing companies like Tesla and The Boring Company? Nikki chats with Riddhi Padariya about her journey from nerdy high schooler inspired by "How It's Made" to becoming a controls engineering leader in industries ranging from tissue manufacturing to carbon capture and underground tunne…

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(Ep 5 of 5) Digital Course Marketing with AI — What to Automate and What to Write Yourself 11:44

2M ago11:44

11:44

AI can save you hours in your business—but it shouldn’t replace you. In this episode, we’re talking about how to use AI in a smart, strategic way to simplify your marketing without losing your voice. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why not all AI is equal (and the difference between generic ChatGPT and custom AI Assistants) ✅ How to use AI to spee…

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(Ep 1 of 5) Writing Emails That Actually Convert (Without Feeling Spammy) 8:26

2M ago8:26

8:26

Ready to write emails that actually connect with your audience and drive sales—without feeling spammy? In this episode, we’re kicking off Season 1 with a fresh look at email marketing for course creators. I’ll walk you through: ✅ Why your emails aren’t converting (and the #1 mistake most course creators make) ✅ My simple Value, Tease, Pitch framewo…

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(Ep 2 of 5) The One Lead Magnet That’s Still Working 9:05

2M ago9:05

9:05

Struggling to grow your email list? You’re not alone—and your problem probably isn’t your email platform… it’s your lead magnet. In this episode, we’ll break down: ✅ What a lead magnet really is (especially if you’re new to list-building) ✅ How to come up with the right lead magnet idea for your course audience ✅ Lead magnet examples ✅ Smart ways t…

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(Ep 3 of 5) Funnels Aren’t Dead — But Yours Might Be 9:53

2M ago9:53

9:53

If you’ve ever felt stuck or overwhelmed trying to set up a sales funnel, this episode is for you. We’re breaking it all down step-by-step—no tech headaches required. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What a sales funnel actually is (for the newbies, we’re keeping it simple) ✅ The core elements of a sales funnel tied to top, middle, and bottom of fu…

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(Ep 4 of 5) Sales Pages That Convert (Without the Sleaze) 8:18

2M ago8:18

8:18

Writing your sales page doesn’t have to feel like a cringe-fest. In this episode, I’m walking you through how to write a sales page that actually converts—without resorting to hype or hard sells. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why most sales pages flop (hint: it’s usually vague copy or over-the-top promises) ✅ The simple anatomy of a high-convert…

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Welcome to Mastering the Machine: Your Guide to Automation Mastery 1:11

3M ago1:11

1:11

Ready to take control of automation’s future? In this short trailer, host Frank Lamb—automation expert and author of PLC Hardware and Programming and Industrial Automation: Hands On—introduces Mastering the Machine, a podcast for engineers, technicians, and automation professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve. Each week, you'll hear engagin…

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Machine Vision, Project Nightmares, and Automation Chaos with Kerry Pierce 1:08:56

3M ago1:08:56

1:08:56

Curious how someone ends up building a career around machine vision and industrial automation? Nikki sits down with Kerry Pierce, discussing the winding path that led her from computer engineering to becoming a machine vision integrator, the invaluable lessons learned along the way, and how she’s helping demystify the field for newcomers. ------- T…

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Building Business Skills as an Engineer with Brielle Reisman 49:47

3M ago49:47

49:47

How do you build business skills as a chemical engineer? In this episode of the Automation Ladies podcast, Ali G chats with Brielle Reisman, who shares her experiences at Applied Control Engineering, and the importance of combining technical skills with business acumen. Brielle shares how she embraced the value of personal branding and content crea…

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🎙️ Trailer: Welcome to the Digital Course Assistant Podcast 1:03

3M ago1:03

1:03

Welcome to the Digital Course Assistant Podcast—the show for course creators who want to launch faster, market better, and stress less. Hosted by Julie Ball, a marketing and tech strategist with over a decade in the online business world, this podcast is your go-to for practical tools, AI-powered shortcuts, and strategies to grow your course busine…

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AI in Industrial Automation - Insights with Ashlesha and Alex from Masked Owl Technologies 1:01:48

3M ago1:01:48

1:01:48

How will AI change Industrial automation? Ashlesha Anil Chaudhari and Alex Kaderi from Masked Owl Technologies join us this week to discuss how their team is building practical solutions to support engineers and rethink the use of AI and new technologies on the factory floor. Hear firsthand insights into what manufacturers are actually adopting, wh…

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Automating the Farm - The Future of Agtech with Katie Bradford 1:01:17

3M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

How is automation and robotics changing the future of farming? Katie Bradford, Founder and CEO of Rotate8, joins Nikki to share her story of building practical automation that empowers small farms to thrive without sacrificing repairability or local expertise. Tune in to hear the challenges and opportunities in ag-tech, the design of accessible rob…

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Lyme Disease, Tick Survival Myths, and Protecting Your Family with Tick Expert Emily Merritt 1:10:02

3M ago1:10:02

1:10:02

Think ticks can’t find you at work? Think again! In this special episode hosts Nikki Gonzales and Courtney Fernandez sit down with tick expert Emily Merritt (aka the “Tick Chick”). Learn firsthand what Lyme disease can really mean, what to watch for after a bite, how to handle household exposure, and tips you won’t find on a repellant can. Ready to…

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Bridging Tech, Manufacturing & STEM Careers with Brit Bartolini 1:05:19

4M ago1:05:19

1:05:19

This week Nikki sits down with Brit Bartolini, Enterprise Account Director at MaintainX, for a conversation on digital transformation in manufacturing, the future of maintenance, and attracting new generations to STEM careers. Hear how real-world manufacturing pain points, a love of gadgets, and a dash of maker-spirit are turning maintenance work i…

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Fixing Automation’s Biggest Skills Gap With Paul Godines 54:20

4M ago54:20

54:20

Frustrated by the skills gap in automation? There’s a new approach in town. Join Nikki Gonzales as she sits down with Paul Godines from Logix Trainers to talk real solutions for bridging the entry-level technician divide. On this episode of Automation Ladies, you’ll get the inside story on why simulation training matters, what makes tenacity essent…

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Building Smart Factories and Smart Teams: Secrets from Dr. Nicole Schra-Martin 45:04

4M ago45:04

45:04

How do you build sustainable talent pipelines for the industry? Nikki Gonzales, Ali G, and Courtney Fernandez sit down with Dr. Nicole Schra Martin, an expert in manufacturing and automation, to discuss early STEM education, practical hiring for automation roles, and the changing face of industrial automation careers. These themes are essential for…

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Mastering Trade Show Success with Joe Campbell & Jennifer Mass 1:09:34

5M ago1:09:34

1:09:34

What’s the ROI of your trade show booth? Trade shows cost more than most companies realize. Yet, year after year, exhibitors throw away tens of thousands by showing up unprepared, staff glued to phones, demos unfinished, and leads lost. In this episode we chat with veteran exhibitors and industry experts, Joe Campbell and Jennifer Mass, to learn ho…

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Building Kansas City’s Go-To Controls Team with Caitlyn Young 1:00:36

5M ago1:00:36

1:00:36

What is it like to build a thriving controls engineering company with your partner? The Automation Ladies sit down with Caitlyn Young from Integrated Controls and Engineering to discuss what it takes to balance business, engineering, and partnership—all while serving the local industry at the highest level. Join us as Caitlyn shares the secrets of …

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AI, Tariffs, and Million-Dollar Mistakes in Automation—Live Insights With Frank Hurtte & Larry White 1:08:08

5M ago1:08:08

1:08:08

Curious why manufacturer-distributor relationships still make or break automation sales? Nikki Gonzales talked with industry veterans Frank Hurtte & Larry White at AHTD about tariffs, global supply chain headaches, how AI is shifting the workforce & why family-run industrial businesses are thriving. ------ Huge thank you to Automate.org for sponsor…

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Major Life Updates, Texas Moves, and Big Community News 54:18

5M ago54:18

54:18

The Automation Ladies are all back together! Catch up as they mark the return of the podcast for a new season, sharing candid updates on life transitions, moves, industry shifts, and unexpected opportunities. Listen in for real talk about building and growing their women-led automation community, the creative push behind the unique OT SCADA CON eve…

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Predictive Maintenance and Industry Insights with Ryan Treece 49:38

6M ago49:38

49:38

Many factories struggle with unexpected equipment failure, resulting in costly downtime hits without warning. How can you avoid this with predictive maintenance strategies? Join us as we welcome special guest Ryan Treece from FreeWave Technologies for a discussion covering many industry insights. Discover how implementing predictive maintenance usi…

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Catch up with Nikki - What's Coming in Season 6 28:17

6M ago28:17

28:17

We’re back! In this special solo kickoff to Season 6, Nikki shares what’s new with Automation Ladies — including her new role at Weintek USA, a big media partnership, and all the exciting things ahead for the show and community. In this episode: •Why Nikki joined the team at Weintek USA •The big announcement: Automation Ladies is now part of Indust…

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Demo of Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure w/ Jen Sutter, Itoro Meshioye & Talita Clemente 58:49

9M ago58:49

58:49

How can breaking free from traditional limitations unlock a new era of innovation and resilience in automation? Join us with Jennifer Sutter, Itoro Meshioye, and Talita Clemente, three amazing women from Schneider Electric, who are pioneering the “Universal Automation” movement, where design flexibility and hardware independence redefine possibilit…

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Collaborative Innovation, AI, & Cultural Dynamics w/ Dylan DuFresne 1:07:27

10M ago1:07:27

1:07:27

How can the collaboration between AI and cultural understanding create optimal performance in projects? Join us with Solutions Architect, Dylan DuFresne, as we navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation, shedding light on the often-overlooked human elements that can make or break technology implementations. We reflect on the evolving …

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OT, IT, & Cybersecurity in Manufacturing w/ Leah Dodson & Ashley Van Hoeson 1:06:37

10M ago1:06:37

1:06:37

OT, IT, and Cybersecurity - how are they different, related, and are you protected? Join us with Leah Dodson & Ashley Van Hoesen, as we master the distinctions between OT, IT, and Cybersecurity roles in the manufacturing industry. Gain insider knowledge on governance, risk, compliance, and the psychological tactics of scammers and hackers. Discover…

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Boiler Technologies, Training, & Empowerment w/Eric Johnson 1:16:28

10M ago1:16:28

1:16:28

Dive into the world of boiler technologies, the growing role of automation, and the power of training and development. Join us with, Eric Johnson, CEO of Boilearn, as we enthusiastically tackle the pivotal topic of training and development in the mechanical and boiler industries. We emphasize the value of a diverse skill set, allowing technicians t…

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Essential Leadership Skills & Community w/Alicia Lomas 59:33

10M ago59:33

59:33

What are the essential skills for a leader to create a supportive work culture? With retic and humor, our conversation with Alicia Lomas uncovers the nuances of leadership, exploring invaluable lesson on emotional regulation, the art of providing and receiving feedback, and the distinction between mentoring and managing-all essential skills for any…

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From Passion to Purpose, Navigating Through Career Changes & Growth w/Alex Pool 1:02:27

11M ago1:02:27

1:02:27

What if passion, resilience, and community could lead you to unexpected heights in a career? Join us along with Alex Pool from Masked Owl Technologies as we discuss how achievements, setbacks, fervor, and maintaining strong industry connections can pave the way for long-term personal and career success. We delve into the complexities of transitioni…

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Unlocking Industrial Efficiency: Insights on Compressed Air Systems w/Rob Michael 1:13:11

11M ago1:13:11

1:13:11

Discover how optimizing often-overlooked compressed air systems can revolutionize industrial efficiency. Nikki, Ali, Courtney, and Senior Compressed Air Technician, Rob Michael, share practical wisdom on avoiding design mistakes by consulting with domain experts, delving into technical insights and real-life experiences in working with air compress…

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Gender Dynamics, Mentorship, and Innovation w/ Christine Lee and Mara Pillott 1:03:52

11M ago1:03:52

1:03:52

Challenging existing norms and community are the keys to navigating the ever-evolving realm of industrial automation Join us along with Mara Pillott and Christine Lee in addressing the changing landscape of remote work, the intricate gender dynamics, and the urgent demand for inventive solutions to the engineering skill gap in the industrial automa…

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Attending Industry Events Increases Professional Growth w/ Brandon Peters 23:04

11M ago23:04

23:04

Attending industry events are crucial in extending your professional network and growing professionally. Join us with Brandon Peters, CEO of Shockwave Automation, as we highlight how short, focused sessions and face-to-face interactions at industry events can offer practical insights and foster meaningful connections. Gain insights into the importa…

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Connecting Through Content Creation, Cultural Exchange, & Personal Growth w/Jakob Sagatowski 1:00:51

12M ago1:00:51

1:00:51

Balancing work, life, and personal growth with cultural experiences and collaborative mindsets. Join us for a hearty conversation with Jakob Sagatowski, Software Engineer & CEO Sagatowski, involving traditions and career transitions, blending personal stories into an engaging narrative with nostalgic items symbolizing pride, success, and good fortu…

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Exploring Cybersecurity in Industrial Automation w/ Michael Grollmus 1:02:59

12M ago1:02:59

1:02:59

Cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing fields, offering a wealth of job opportunities. Join us as we discuss the challenges and advancements in cybersecurity in industrial automation with Michael Grollmus, CEO of Grollmus, highlighting the crossroads of tradition and innovation in this evolving sector. Together we investigate the mesh …

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Insights on Effective Social Media in the Industrial Sector with Susan Wilson 23:26

12M ago23:26

23:26

If you know us ladies, you know we love to network, both in-person and online, especially through social media. Join us, as we delve into the wonders and the transformations of social media with Susan Wilson from Inductive Automation. Sparked by her husband's career as a toolmaker machinist, hear how Susan discovered a passion for digital strategy,…

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Modernizing Dairy Farming with Automation ft. Vinny Endres 55:50

1y ago55:50

55:50

Nikki & Ali, sit down with Vinny Endres, owner of Bitmasked Automation & a trailblazer in dairy farm automation. Vinny shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming a diesel mechanic, then discovering his passion for electrical engineering & automation. He shares his unique perspective integrating robotic technologies in dairy farm…

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Building a Visionary Business in Automation with Erick Collins 39:15

1y ago39:15

39:15

What happens when a young troublemaker with a love for computers and cars finds himself at the forefront of the robotics and machine vision industries? Nikki and Courtney chat with Erick Collins, owner of Rockport Integration and Automation. Through a significant change in career direction and the influence of pivotal figures, Erick's path was anyt…

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Leveraging Expert Collaboration & TikTok with Kathy at Flex-Line Automation & Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024) 24:25

1y ago24:25

24:25

Ali and Nikki sit down with Kathy Rinne, the Conveyor Cougar from Flex-Line Automation, and Ed Garstkiewicz, Sr. Industry Segment Manager of Automation and Robotics from HARTING. They touch on how in the ever-evolving landscape of industrial automation and marketing, collaborating with experts is more important than ever. And ever wondered how a 12…

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Revolutionizing Automation with Corey at HARTING & Ale at Gray Solutions (Automate 2024) 20:53

1y ago20:53

20:53

Join the Automation Ladies once again at Automate 2024 as they chat with Corey Jenkins from HARTING and Ale Walker from Gray Solutions. Corey dives into the engineering magic behind HARTING's plug-and-play solutions, while Ale brings a personal touch, giving a heartfelt shout-out to her mom, Kathy Walker, the CEO of eCami. They share how these conn…

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Bridging Innovation and Culture with Casey from HARTING (Automate 2024) 26:18

1y ago26:18

26:18

Join the Automation Ladies as they chat with Casey Spitz, the VP of Development and Innovation at HARTING. She takes us through setting up product development teams in the US, all things connectors, and customer engagement strategies. Discover the role of connectors in transforming data centers and AI technologies, and learn how these small compone…

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From SPE Standards to Hands-On Automation with McKenzie from CLN of SF and Ed from HARTING (Automate 2024) 46:11

1y ago46:11

46:11

Join us as the Automation Ladies sit down with McKenzie Reed, President of Single Paired Ether Standards Development / CLN of South Florida, and Ed Garskowitz, Business Development Manager at HARTING. Mckenzie shares his journey from working at Harting to acquiring his own industrial machinery company. Alongside McKenzie, Ed reflects on their colla…

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News Ways of Networking with Chris at Manufacturing Happy Hour & Amanda at HARTING (Automate 2024) 19:23

1y ago19:23

19:23

Ali and Nikki speak with Chris Luecke from Manufacturing Happy Hour and Amanda Marx, Senior VP of Marketing Digital Strategy & IT at HARTING. This minisode goes from casual LinkedIn conversations to establishing a dynamic community for women in industrial automation. They uncover the secrets of building niche communities, the importance of multi-ge…