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.

FEB 10

Inside the Future of Food and Beverage: Automation, AI, and the 2026 Transformation

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. 🔗 Helpful Links👉 Register for E Tech Group’s upcoming partner session 👉Learn more about E Tech Group’s Food and Beverage capabilities 👉Connect with E Tech Group on LinkedIn

39 min
JAN 27

Transforming Life Sciences Manufacturing: Smarter Systems, Faster Innovation

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/

35 min
JAN 13

Modernizing CPG and Food & Beverage: Automation, Sustainability, and Strategic Growth

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/ Connect with us on LinkedIn for all the latest news and upates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/etechgroup/ Learn more about our expertise in Consumer Product Goods: https://etechgroup.com/industries/manufacturing/consumer-product-goods/

37 min
12/17/2025

2025 Reflections and What’s Next for Automation in 2026

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.

31 min
11/25/2025

The Invisible Threat: Why OT Networks Are the New Cyber Battleground

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.

30 min
10/28/2025

The Usual Suspects: Support Horror Stories from the Field

When the lights flicker and the HMI starts acting haunted, who you gonna call? In this spooky-season special, Jackie and Jen sit fireside with E Tech Group’s Bill Backinger and Tony McAuliff to share real-life 24/7 support horror stories. From Frankenstein systems stitched together with sticky notes to cursed software updates and ghost meters, these tales from the field are as chilling as they are enlightening. Discover the four “usual suspects” that haunt industrial operations—and how expert support can bring systems back from the brink. Whether it’s a midnight shutdown or a wrath-of-nature disaster, this episode proves that with the right team, even the scariest support calls can have a happy ending. Grab your flashlight and settle in. You won’t want to listen to this one alone.

45 min
09/30/2025

From Bench to Factory Floor: Rethinking Automation in Life Sciences

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.

39 min
08/26/2025

From Data to Decisions: Making Intelligence Solutions Work on the Plant Floor

Manufacturing intelligence can boost productivity, reduce costs, and prevent downtime, but only if you avoid “analysis paralysis.” In this episode, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo talk with E Tech Group experts Pradeep Paul and Jodi Roberts about how to focus on the right data, align technology with business goals, and turn insights into action on the plant floor.

49 min
07/29/2025

Rinse, Repeat, Reimagine: The Hidden ROI of Clean-In-Place Optimization

In this episode of Beyond Tech, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo are joined by E Tech Group’s Hans Frei and Jeff Ballard to explore the critical, but often overlooked, role of Clean-in-Place (CIP) systems in manufacturing. With deep expertise in automation, controls, and system integration, Hans and Jeff reveal how optimizing CIP can reduce cleaning cycle times by up to 40% and cut water and chemical usage by as much as 50%. They break down why CIP is frequently under-prioritized, how smarter strategies can unlock major efficiency gains, and what red flags to watch for in your own operations. If you're looking to boost uptime, reduce waste, and turn your CIP system into a competitive advantage, this episode is for you.

57 min
06/24/2025

Fail to Plan, Plan to Fail: Why FEED Studies Are the Unsung Hero of Capital Projects

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.

58 min
06/24/2025

Why Beyond Tech? Launching a New Conversation in Industrial Innovation

Welcome to Beyond Tech!In our premiere episode, hosts Jackie Slaght and Jennifer Palumbo introduce the Beyond Tech podcast—where curiosity meets clarity and complex technology becomes a little more relatable. To kick things off, we're joined by E Tech Group’s CEO, Matt Wise, for a candid conversation about E Tech Group’s evolution, growth strategy, and the current state of the system integration industry. Matt shares how he unified four legacy brands, led three strategic acquisitions, and scaled the company to 700+ professionals across 30+ locations. We also dive into how global tariffs are shaping business decisions, what untapped potential exists in the automation space, and even explore a few fun, unexpected topics along the way. Whether you're an industry veteran or new to the world of industrial automation, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss.

28 min

11 Episodes

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.

Creator

E Tech Group
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

11
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025 E Tech Group
Show Website

Beyond Tech