Heavy industry is stepping into a new era of innovation, and the metals sector is no exception. In this episode of Beyond Tech, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo sit down with three industry leaders from E Tech Group: Carmelo Bottari, Dave Jancosek, and Nish Patel, for an in‑depth conversation about how automation and modernization are reshaping steel, aluminum, and other metals operations as we move into 2026.

Together, the panel unpacks the biggest priorities and pressures facing metals manufacturers today, including the urgent need to digitize legacy systems, improve safety, navigate workforce shortages, reduce energy consumption, and meet rapidly evolving sustainability targets. They explore the realities of modernizing decades‑old equipment, implementing automation to reduce downtime, and leveraging data to increase efficiency and product quality in environments where equipment is massive, expensive, and mission‑critical.

Listeners will hear real‑world examples of automation in action, from modernizing cold mills and process lines to enhancing pickle line performance, and learn how predictive maintenance, advanced modeling, and digital transformation strategies are helping producers stay competitive in an increasingly volatile global market.

Looking ahead, the group discusses the macro forces shaping capital spending, the future of high‑strength materials, and the emerging technologies poised to define the next decade of metals manufacturing. The episode closes with personal insights, career lessons, and a few fun questions that reveal the human side of heavy industry.

Whether you work directly in metals, support industrial automation, or simply want to understand how one of the world’s most foundational industries is preparing for the future, this episode offers an educational and forward‑thinking perspective you will not want to miss.

Learn more about our Metals Industry Experience:

https://etechgroup.com/industries/manufacturing/metals/

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In this episode of Beyond Tech, Jackie Slaght sits down with two industry leaders at E Tech Group: Randy Ruano, who leads the West Coast team with decades of expertise in automation and process control, and Casey Noonan, Vice President of Business Development. Together, they explore the technologies and trends shaping the Food and Beverage landscape as producers prepare for 2026.

The conversation covers the major shifts happening across agriculture and beverage production, including smart irrigation, field sensors, data‑driven optimization, sustainability pressures, and the rising need for operational transparency. Randy and Casey also dive into how AI and machine learning are beginning to influence production decisions, efficiency, product consistency, and long‑term competitiveness.

You will hear real‑world examples of automation improving quality and throughput, learn the challenges facing producers of all sizes, and get insight into the innovations that could be game‑changers in the next few years. The episode wraps with a fun rapid‑fire segment where our guests share personal lessons, surprising perspectives, and their take on what they would automate in their own lives.

Whether you work in Food and Beverage, agriculture, or advanced manufacturing, this episode offers clear and practical insight into how technology is transforming the industry.

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Life sciences manufacturers are under increasing pressure to move faster, stay compliant, and scale efficiently, all without compromising quality. In this episode, we explore how modern manufacturing technologies are reshaping the life sciences industry, from digital transformation strategies to smarter, more connected production environments.

Our conversation dives into the challenges life sciences organizations face today and the tools helping them overcome operational silos, improve data visibility, and accelerate innovation. Whether you’re navigating automation, digital systems, or the future of manufacturing execution, this episode offers valuable insights into building resilient, future-ready operations.

Tune in to learn how life sciences manufacturers are leveraging technology to drive efficiency, ensure compliance, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

Learn more about E Tech Group's Life Science Expertise: https://etechgroup.com/industries/life-sciences/

Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etechgroup/

The Consumer-Packaged Goods and Food & Beverage industries are transforming at an unprecedented pace. As manufacturers face mounting pressure to modernize legacy systems, achieve sustainability goals, and adapt to shifting consumer expectations, all while navigating labor shortages and rising costs, how can they stay competitive?

In this episode of Beyond Tech, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo sit down with Trent Meyers, Vice President of Process Industries at E Tech Group, and Nish Patel, Director of Corporate Development and Strategy. Together, they explore how automation, digital transformation, and strategic planning are helping manufacturers overcome today’s challenges and prepare for the future. From innovative control systems to macro-level industry insights, this conversation delivers actionable ideas for driving efficiency and growth in 2026 and beyond.

View all of our Beyond Tech Episodes: https://etechgroup.com/home/beyond-tech-podcast/

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Learn more about our expertise in Consumer Product Goods:

https://etechgroup.com/industries/manufacturing/consumer-product-goods/

Join hosts Jennifer Palumbo and Jackie Slaght for a special year-end episode of Beyond Tech, featuring returning guest Matt Wise, CEO of E Tech Group, and Fred Fontaine, President of E Tech Group. Together, we’ll look back at the biggest shifts, surprises, and innovations that shaped automation and system integration in 2025, and explore what’s ahead for 2026 and beyond.

From AI and machine learning to IT/OT convergence, cybersecurity, sustainability, and workforce transformation, this conversation dives into the trends redefining automation and control. Hear leadership insights on how manufacturers are balancing flexibility with speed, leveraging data for smarter decisions, and preparing for the next wave of digital transformation.

If you’re curious about the future of automation, this episode is packed with perspectives you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we explore how integrated lab automation and industrial robotics are transforming workflows in biotech, pharma, and diagnostics. We are joined by Sura Hadi head of E Tech Group’s Lab Automation and Industrial Robotics (LAIR) to share how LAIR bridges the gap between R&D labs and manufacturing environments—unlocking efficiency, scalability, and smarter data strategies.

In this episode of Beyond Tech, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo are joined by E Tech Group’s Cassy Gardner and Chris Schleich to explore the critical role of FEED (Front-End Engineering Design) studies in automation, control, and intelligence projects.

With decades of combined experience, Cassy and Chris share how a well-executed FEED study can reduce total installed costs by up to 30% and slash schedule delays by nearly 70%. They unpack the FEED process, share success stories (and a few cautionary tales), and offer expert advice on what to consider before launching your next major project.

If you want to improve outcomes, reduce risk, and drive ROI—this episode is for you.

Industrial networks are no longer flying under the radar. In this episode of Beyond Tech, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo sit down with cybersecurity experts Eric Medecke and Brian Gifford to explore why OT (Operational Technology) networks have become prime targets for cyberattacks, and why many manufacturers don’t realize how exposed they really are.

From legacy systems and unpatched vulnerabilities to the growing risk of cyber-espionage, we unpack the hidden dangers lurking in industrial environments. Learn how IT/OT assessments, cross-functional collaboration, and a phased approach to modernization can help manufacturers protect their operations, intellectual property, and bottom line.

Whether you're in operations, IT, or leadership, this episode will open your eyes to the critical role OT security plays in digital transformation.