NOVEMBER 19, 2008--More than 11,000 manufacturing experts from around the world are gathered in Nashville, TN, this week to discuss industry demands, global economic challenges, and the latest manufacturing automation technology and solutions at the 17th annual Automation Fair, hosted by Rockwell Automation (Milwaukee, WI, USA; www.rockwellautomation.com). Rockwell Automation business partners, educators, and industry analysts will explore important trends, including manufacturing convergence; sustainable production and its role in making manufacturing operations cleaner, safer, and more energy efficient; and meeting the global demand for increased technical skills and engineering talent.
"Companies need to increase the performance, innovation, and sustainability of their enterprises to remain competitive," says Keith Nosbusch, Rockwell Automation chairman and CEO. "Rockwell Automation has committed to hosting the premier industry event for our customers worldwide who need automation solutions that will help them be more competitive."
Yesterday, Nosbusch and executives from brands and industry organizations spoke to more than 80 reporters during the company's annual Manufacturing Perspectives global media forum.
Nosbusch and industry experts described the business drivers for manufacturing convergence, how it impacts manufacturing operations and customers, and how cross-organization cultural challenges are being addressed and resolved. "We're in a new era of manufacturing and production," says Nosbusch. "Rockwell Automation investments in new technologies and applications, and our alliances with other technology leaders, help bring together information technology and manufacturing practices for customers to create business efficiencies, agility, and competitive advantage."
North American and Asian manufacturing and engineering experts offered solutions to the global talent shortage of engineers and technical workers, including manufacturing and engineering talent. The founder of India's telecommunications industry explained how India differentiates itself in the global economy by utilizing technology, engineering, and technical talent to grow its emerging high-tech manufacturing sector.
Automation Fair continues today and tomorrow with workshops, technical sessions, industry forums, hands-on labs, and more than 100 exhibitors showcasing newe automation solutions and services.
