AI is adding another layer of responsibility to the CIO role, particularly when it comes to deciding which tools are ready for integration and which introduce risks that are not yet well understood. In #AerospaceManufacturing, new technology has to fit within existing requirements for data protection, system reliability, and regulatory compliance. A tool that works…

The technology itself is becoming easier to access, which puts more attention on the decisions surrounding it. In manufacturing, someone still has to understand the operational impact, protect critical systems, manage risk, and make sure changes do not disrupt production. Strong #techleadership has always required more than knowing how a system works. It requires earning…

What happens to leadership when technology can handle more of the analysis and everyday decision support? As #TechLeaders, it remains imperative to take time making judgement calls, set priorities, and understand the operational impacts of a decision. AI may change how quickly we get information, but someone still has to decide the best plan of…

One thing I have learned from leading technology projects is that getting the software in place is usually the easiest part. The challenge is making sure the technology we implement works along with the way the business actually operates. Like any other form of #FutureTech, AI will impact #Manufacturing where decisions depend on accurate data…

Looking forward to being in Chicago on Thursday for IMTS Chicago! It’s always a great opportunity to see what’s new in #ManufacturingTechnology and connect with others in our industry. Who else is planning to attend? Let me know if you’ll be attending! #IMTS2026 #IMTSChicago Discover the International Manufacturing Technology Show | Sept. 14-19, 2026 |…

Good #TechnologyLeadership requires a willingness to challenge your own assumptions. A solution can look great on paper and still fall apart when it meets the realities of a manufacturing operation. The best leaders ask questions, listen to the people closest to the work, and are still willing to adjust when the facts change. That approach…

Working with our high school interns from the Ignite Institute is always a great reminder of the value of education and real-world experience. Last week we had a chance to work hands on with our interns using a #Multimeter which was a great opportunity to take what they are learning in class and apply it…

One of the practical issues #TechLeaders find with the innovations in enterprise technology are how to utilize older systems to best enhance our #DigitalTransformation efforts. If critical manufacturing data is spread across aging applications and poorly integrated databases, adding new capabilities does not eliminate the issues. Before introducing another capability, we must discover if the…

Being a technology leader in #SmartManufacturing environments requires understanding far more than infrastructure or applications. Every technology decision eventually shows up on the production floor through uptime, engineering change management, compliance, or customer delivery. The #CIO role is becoming more connected to daily operations because business systems, manufacturing execution, and #CyberSecurity all influence the same…

Great reminders from Kevin Van Horn on the difference between a technical upgrade and a true business transformation. #ERPmodernization is often measured by whether a new system goes live, but the larger objective is improving how the business operates. The greatest value comes from connecting engineering, procurement, production, and finance teams with reliable data that…