Beyond Tech

E Tech Group
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Beyond Tech is E Tech Group’s podcast that goes beyond just technology, diving into the latest advancements in automation, control, and intelligence solutions. Through expert interviews, in-depth discussions, and real-world case studies, we explore how innovation is transforming industries and how E Tech Group is leading the charge.

  1. 3 days ago

    MES Mythbusting: What Manufacturers Get Wrong About MES

    Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) remain one of the most misunderstood technologies on the plant floor. Many manufacturers know they need better data, more consistent processes, and improved visibility, but fears and misconceptions often hold them back from exploring MES as a solution. In this episode, hosts Jennifer Palumbo and Jackie Slaght sit down with Dominique Telfort, Director of MES at E Tech Group, to debunk the biggest myths surrounding MES. From the belief that MES is ‘too big’ or ‘too disruptive,’ to misunderstandings about operator flexibility, downtime, and MES’s role relative to SCADA and PLC systems, we break down what MES actually is — and what it definitely isn’t. Whether you’re a plant manager, operations director, or digital transformation leader evaluating MES for the first time, this episode will help you see MES clearly, confidently, and with renewed possibility. Listeners will learn: Why MES is not just for large manufacturersHow MES enhances operator performance rather than restricting itHow MES can be implemented in phases without major downtimeWhy you don’t need perfect processes before startingHow MES complements — not replaces — SCADA/PLC systemsReal examples of MES driving quality, throughput, and visibility Learn more: https://etechgroup.com/manufacturing-execution-systems/ Join our team, view open positions here: https://etechgroup.com/careers/

    31 min

  2. 2 Jun

    Lab Automation Meets Digital Transformation: Connecting Bench-Level Innovation to the Enterprise

    In this episode of Beyond Tech, Jackie Slaght and Dave O’Brien sit down with Sura Hadi and Niket Karode from E Tech Group’s Lab Automation and Industrial Robotics team to explore why so many automation initiatives in pharma and biotech fail to scale. From “islands of automation” to fully connected lab ecosystems, they break down the difference between automating tasks and achieving true digital transformation. The discussion covers data architecture, OT/IT convergence, integration challenges, and the real drivers behind speed to insight. You will also hear practical strategies for avoiding common pitfalls, the value of upfront design through FEED studies, and how AI and advanced analytics are shaping the next generation of labs.

    49 min

  3. 19 May

    Unifying Operations After Acquisition: Multi-Site Standardization & M&A Growth Challenges

    Company expansion and growth through acquisition bring enormous opportunity, but also enormous complexity. New sites may run on different control platforms, network designs, cybersecurity standards, and operating procedures. This episode explores why site expansion or acquisition creates islands of automation, why standardization becomes so difficult, and how IT/OT assessments help companies unify operations, reduce risk, and scale modernization across every facility. Eric Medecke breaks down what companies discover during due diligence, the hidden risks inside inherited infrastructure, and real examples of organizations that transformed fragmented, multi‑plant operations into cohesive, scalable, secure enterprise architectures.

    20 min

  4. 5 May

    Powering the Future: Automation and Resilience in Data Centers for 2026

    Data centers are under pressure to deliver speed, scalability, and sustainability as AI and cloud workloads surge. As we head into 2026, operators must modernize infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, and ensure uptime — all while navigating rising demand and evolving technologies.

    31 min

  5. 21 Apr

    Beyond the Packaging Line: Automation, AI Readiness, and the Future of Pharma

    Automation in pharmaceuticals is no longer confined to the packaging line—and that shift is accelerating faster than many organizations realize. In this episode of Beyond Tech, hosts Jackie Slaght and Dave O’Brien sit down with E Tech Group experts Sura Hadi, Director of Laboratory Automation and Industrial Robotics, and Pradeep Paul, Director of Engineering for Intelligence and Data Solutions, to unpack how automation is transforming pharma and biotech from early discovery and R&D to quality, manufacturing, and beyond. Anchored by a recent A3/Automate.org article on automation solutions in pharmaceuticals, the conversation explores how robotics, machine vision, integrated control systems, and data platforms are enabling higher precision, scalability, and compliance in one of the world’s most regulated industries. But as the discussion makes clear, technology alone is not enough. The group dives into the real‑world challenges holding organizations back—validation requirements, fragmented data, uneven AI adoption, and a lack of standardized workflows—and explains why AI readiness is ultimately about people, processes, and data, not just tools. From high‑throughput lab automation and workflow orchestration to manufacturing intelligence, real‑time dashboards, and predictive use cases, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s working today and what still needs to evolve. Whether you’re navigating lab automation, exploring AI in regulated environments, or trying to turn automation investments into actionable intelligence, this conversation provides practical insight into how pharma organizations can move past pilots and build scalable, future‑ready foundations. Read the article that inspired this episode discussion: https://www.automate.org/industry-insights/automation-solutions-in-pharmaceutical Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etechgroup/ Join our team: https://etechgroup.com/careers/

    46 min

  6. 7 Apr

    The Real Barriers to Modernization — Unpacked

    In this episode of Beyond Tech, host Jackie Slaght continues the conversation sparked during our recent live partner session, “Simplifying the Modernization of Food & Beverage Operations.” While the event covered several audience questions, many more deserved deeper exploration, so we’re taking them on here. Jackie is joined by Kyle VanDruten, Group Engineering Manager at E Tech Group, and Tom Steffen, Senior Solution Consultant at Rockwell Automation, to unpack what modernization really looks like for food, beverage, and CPG manufacturers. Together, they discuss the most commonly misunderstood barriers to modernization, how mixed‑vintage systems impact visibility and growth, and why many plants still operate with infrastructure that’s 15–25 years old. The conversation dives into the cultural and operational shifts that occur when moving from siloed systems to a unified controls strategy, the evolving role of engineers and operators, and how platforms like PlantPAx are shaping the future of manufacturing intelligence, data standardization, and cybersecurity resilience. From real‑world “aha moments” on the plant floor to practical advice for leaders hesitant to modernize, this Q&A‑driven episode delivers clear, candid insights for anyone looking to bring their operations into the next generation. Watch the full partner session here: https://etechgroup.com/simplify-modernization-of-food-beverage-operations/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etechgroup/

    30 min

  7. 24 Mar

    Engineering After Hours: Home Automation Passion Projects

    This episode features passionate engineers sharing their home automation projects, from elaborate Christmas light displays to smart home security and control systems. Discover how their hobbies reflect their professional skills and inspire innovation. Key Topics Home automation projects and DIY innovationsIntegration of control systems and IoT devicesPassion for engineering reflected in personal projects Chapters: 00:00- Introduction to Home Automation Passion Projects01:19- Christmas Light Show: A Creative Journey08:43- Smart Home Automation Experience17:53- Innovative Security System20:59- Home Automation Systems23:23- Innovative Garage Solutions28:14- Model Railroads and Automation28:59- Networking and Malware Analysis34:42- Engineering Insights and Future Aspirations Learn More about E Tech Group: www.etechgroup.com Connect with Us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etechgroup

    36 min

  8. 10 Mar

    From Concept to ROI: How Digital Twins Deliver Real Business Value

    Digital Twin technology is transforming how manufacturers design, operate, and maintain their systems. This episode explores how Digital Twins move from concept to measurable ROI, with real examples of reducing downtime, improving predictive maintenance, and boosting efficiency. Whether you’re exploring implementation or evaluating investment, you’ll gain actionable insights to make Digital Twins work for your business. Learn more about E Tech Group's Digital Twin expertise. https://etechgroup.com/capabilities/digital-twin-technology/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etechgroup

    42 min
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About

Beyond Tech is E Tech Group’s podcast that goes beyond just technology, diving into the latest advancements in automation, control, and intelligence solutions. Through expert interviews, in-depth discussions, and real-world case studies, we explore how innovation is transforming industries and how E Tech Group is leading the charge.

Information

  • Creator
    E Tech Group
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 E Tech Group
  • Show Website
    Beyond Tech