In this episode, Flexware Innovation’s Eric Mormon joins us on the show floor in Sacramento to talk Ignition 8.3, Spark MES, edge architectures, UNS/MQTT, real-world DataOps, and where AI/ML/MCP actually create value in manufacturing. If you care about turning plant data into competitive advantage—without locking yourself into a black box—this one’s for you.GuestEric Mormon — Solutions Architect, Flexware Innovation (Premier Ignition Integrator). Eric helps design scalable MES and SCADA solutions using an open, native-Ignition approach with the Spark MES framework.What you’ll learn- Why ICC 2025 feels different: venue, Ignition 8.3, and the PROVE IT track- Spark MES: bottleneck visibility, downtime drivers, target vs actual, part-level issues- Open vs. closed MES: designing systems that conform to your process (not the other way around)- Edge to UNS: PLC skills + Ignition Edge + MQTT for clean, actionable data- Tackling legacy/trapped data with a robust tag model and standards- Empowerment over dependency: frameworks, training, and front-end tools non-programmers can use- DataOps in the real world: on-prem vs. cloud, secure movement, and when sub-ms matters- DevOps for Ignition: Git workflows, deployments, change management, scalability- AI/ML/MCP: value-first use cases (NLP for config, reporting assist, interoperability)Links & resources• Flexware Innovation – https://www.flexwareinnovation.com/• Spark MES - https://sparkmes.io/sparkmes-overview-a-smarter-mes-built-on-ignition-for-oee-traceability-inventory-more/• Opsite Energy – www.opsiteenergy.com00:00 Intro00:10 Welcome to Energy Tech Podcast @ ICC 202500:34 Guest intro: Eric Mormon, Flexware Innovation01:00 Flexware’s Ignition journey & team growth01:37 Who we serve: energy, water/wastewater, data centers & more02:55 ICC “Level Up” theme & new Sacramento venue03:28 Ignition 8.3, PROVE IT track, and why we’re here04:19 What “Level Up” means to Eric & the industry05:01 Leveling up at Flexware: partners, practices, customer experience05:52 New Integrator Solutions program & Spark MES announcement06:37 What Spark MES solves (downtime, bottlenecks, targets, part issues)07:41 Open, native-Ignition approach—system conforms to you08:15 From PLCs to the edge: Ignition Edge, MQTT & UNS foundations09:41 Unlocking legacy/trapped data & tag model strategy11:23 Becoming one team with the client; empower & enablement13:36 Design principles: extensible, maintainable, perspective-first UX15:56 Not low/no-code—scalable additions without heavy scripting16:56 DataOps choices: on-prem vs cloud, secure movement, streaming needs18:42 Framework 80/20: land-and-expand with an open core19:44 ICC takeaways: Ignition 8.3, UNS, AI, DevOps & Git workflows21:14 AI/ML/MCP: practical value, NLP config, reporting, next steps22:38 Wrap-up & subscribeMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from Inductive Automation’s ICC 2025 in Sacramento, Mike sits down with Mark La Liberte (HMS Networks) to unpack why Red Lion’s DA50/DA70 and FlexEdge have become go-to edge gateways for energy, water/wastewater, and data centers. We dig into store-and-forward, Sparkplug B / MQTT, OPC UA, DNP3, ruggedization, and how Crimson® 3.2 collapses multiple boxes (edge gateway + router/firewall + HMI + cellular + basic control) into one platform.We also cover:- Why Ignition 8.3 and the expanded ICC venue are a “level up”- The case for a “Prove It” track focused on the energy sector- Practical wins: reducing cost & complexity while improving cybersecurity- Real-world stories: Modbus RTU to MQTT in minutes, DA50/DA70 in the field, FlexEdge sleds- Support & training: free tech support, fast response, hands-on enablement for OT & ITGuest: Mark La Liberte, HMS NetworksTopics: Edge computing, MQTT/Sparkplug B, OPC UA, Crimson 3.2, FlexEdge, DA50/DA70, N-Tron switches, CANbus/J1939, cellular/Starlink backhaul, NAT, deadbands, UDTs/AOIs, store-and-forward.Presented by OpSite Energy — Insight-Driven Remote Optimization.🔗 Energy Tech Podcast: https://opsiteenergy.com/all_podcast🔗 OpSite Energy: https://opsiteenergy.com/🔗 HMS Networks: https://www.hms-networks.com/Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Intro / music00:10 – Welcome & guest intro (HMS + Mark La Liberte)01:08 – Why HMS supports the Ignition community & digital transformation02:12 – ICC “Leveling Up”: new venue, Ignition 8.3, and “Prove It” ideas03:29 – Red Lion strategy and role within HMS Networks03:32 – Security + protocols: DNP3, Modbus RTU → OPC UA / MQTT / Sparkplug B05:20 – Field story: Modbus water meters → MQTT with a Red Lion DA5006:11 – DA50/DA70 & FlexEdge: HDMI, headless HMI, store-and-forward (256 GB)07:40 – Bandwidth savings with MQTT publish-on-change / deadbands08:05 – Modular sleds, cellular as a weak link, NAT & networking notes09:52 – Rugged switching (N-Tron) & harsh environments / temps10:07 – Popular sleds & protocols: RS-485/Modbus, OPC UA sharing, CANbus/J1939, Starlink12:06 – Targeting the “big three”: cost, complexity, cybersecurity13:20 – Crimson 3.2 as the differentiator; replacing multiple boxes (under ~$3K)14:38 – Crimson capabilities: multi-protocol, headless HMI, VPN, diagnostics, deadbands16:26 – Fast time-to-value: AB tags, UDTs/AOIs, publishing in minutes18:58 – Getting started: download C3.2, emulator, Windows 11; free tech support & response times21:02 – Training for OT & IT; global coverage21:57 – Wrap-up & call to actionUygar Duzgun “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

In this episode, co-hosts Jeff Perry and Mike Flores are joined by Daniel Netto (VP of Compliance at Opsite Energy) to dive deep into how data & AI are being used to understand the pipeline regulatory audit landscape — using real audit data from the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) and focusing on how these insights can drive better control-room operations, compliance and training.You'll learn:◽How RRC audit data is collected, structured and analyzed◽What AI tools (GenSpark.ai, Amplify, VZero) are being used to scrape, parse and visualize audit findings.◽Key trends from 2024-2025: procedure-based vs observation-based violations, alarm‐management top categories, controller-training deficiencies.◽The role of mindset, accountability and documentation in successful control-room and pipeline-audit readiness.◽How OpSite Energy applies these insights for clients, and how you can too🔗 Links & ResourcesOpSite Energy: https://www.opsiteenergy.comGenSpark.ai: https://www.genspark.aiAmpify: https://www.ampify.comTexas RRC pipeline safety data: https://apps.rrc.texas.gov/portal/s/inspections📬 For business/consulting inquiries: info@opsiteenergy.com👍 If you found this episode valuable, please like, subscribe and ring the bell for future installments. Drop a comment below with your biggest takeaway or questions for our next episode.0:00 Intro & Welcome 0:10 Episode overview and guest introduction 1:00 Background: Texas RRC & Pipeline Audit Framework 2:20 How state audit agencies work with federal rules (DOT/FEZA) 4:10 Demo: Raw audit data scraping via VZero 6:00 Using GenSpark & Ampify for data parsing and dashboarding 8:22 Key findings: 80+ inspection lines, 15 operators, ~10 distinct violation types 9:20 Breakdown: 73% procedure-based + 27% observation‐based 10:00 Defining “procedure”, “observation” and “records” violations 11:19 2024 data deep dive: eight operators cited, peak month May 13:11 Preparing for an audit: strategy, records, controller interview 14:38 2025 data update: more violations, new categories (emergency procedures, leak detection) 17:03 Sentiment analysis from executive closing letters 18:10 Doubling of violations 2024→2025; documentation & training gaps 20:05 Audit readiness: know your plan, engage operations people, accountability 22:13 Procedural rollout: controllers must follow the plan and screen actions 25:22 The role of AI in drafting procedures — caution & review required 30:32 Opsite’s offer: how we help you, reach-out & next steps 31:56 Outro & plug for CRM series Uygar Duzgun “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento, we sit down with Jonathan Huddle of Electron Automation—long-time oil & gas practitioner, electrician, and core member of the Ignition Oil & Gas Collective (IOGC).Jonathan walks through 25+ years in OT/SCADA and the hard-won patterns that actually scale: why UDTs and a clean tag model / unified namespace are non-negotiable, how and when to move from Vision to Perspective for responsive/mobile UX, planning scalable architectures that survive M&A and 10× tag growth, and practical ways to blend MQTT + “cloud” with on-prem realities. We also kick around the current AI/ML/MCP hype cycle and where near-term wins likely show up (alarm management, pipeline recommendations, maintenance).Recorded live at ICC 2025.Presented by OpSite Energy — Insight-Driven Remote Optimization.What you’ll learn:- Building a durable UDT/tag structure as the foundation for UNS, Perspective, and downstream analytics.- When & why to standardize on Perspective (and stop shipping new Vision projects)- Scaling patterns for 0.5M → 1M+ tags, load balancing, and planning for M&A- Blending MQTT + data center/cloud without breaking operations- A pragmatic take on AI/ML/MCP in industrial environments (early wins & pitfalls)- How communities like IOGC accelerate real-world adoptionIf you enjoyed this, hit Like and Subscribe to Energy Tech Podcast.📨 Have a topic or guest in mind? Comment below!00:00 Intro — Live from ICC 202500:34 Guest intro: Jonathan Huddle (Electron Automation)01:31 Early roots: electronics repair → troubleshooting mindset02:08 25 years in oil & gas automation; host-side SCADA; Ignition journey03:49 Electrician background & why hardware perspective matters04:10 Inside the IOGC: origins, purpose, 275+ companies, ~400 members05:22 ICC 2025 theme “Level Up” — what’s different this year06:40 The recurring challenge: bad tag structures & why UNS matters08:59 UDTs as leverage for Perspective & future analytics/AI10:56 Rapid iteration story: delivering features in hours, not weeks12:22 Do it at the edge: context where it’s created13:31 From Vision → Perspective: mobility & responsive by default15:22 Scaling architectures & planning for growth/M&A16:46 Load balancing, tag providers, and “infinite” front-end scale18:58 Quoting & architecture tools; getting to cost quickly19:08 “Masterclass” mode — cloud data, MQTT, & on-prem reality20:55 AI/ML/MCP hype: pragmatic adoption and real use cases22:39 Ignition updates (file-based tags, new modules) & impact24:15 Where MCP may land first: alarms, pipeline recs, maintenance25:50 Takeaways from ICC 2025 & staying energized by the community26:30 Wrap-up & subscribeUygar Duzgun “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Recorded live from Inductive Automation’s ICC 2025 in Sacramento, host Mike Flores sits down with Jap Johal from QCA to discuss how Ignition is transforming bulk handling, terminal automation, and the next generation of industrial data systems.Jap shares insights into:- QCA’s work as a software architecture and integration firm specializing in bulk terminals and automation- How Ignition’s partner ecosystem and MQTT/UNS data models enable better visibility and interoperability- The rise of “digital expectations” in industry—why operators now want Amazon-like ease in control environments- Future-ready ideas like local LLM agents, data-driven operations, and AI-powered insights for industrial efficiencyLinks: 🔗 QCA Systems: http://www.qcasystems.com/🔗 Connect with Jap: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jap-johal/🎧 Energy Tech Podcast: https://opsiteenergy.com/all_podcast 🔗 OpSite Energy: https://opsiteenergy.com/👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more discussions on SCADA, IoT, MQTT, PHMSA CRM, and the future of control rooms.Chapters:00:00 – Intro and Welcome from ICC 202500:30 – Jap joins from QCA: first impressions of ICC01:15 – Partner ecosystem and collaboration in Ignition02:45 – “Level Up” theme: the Prove It sessions04:00 – What QCA does and Jap’s role as a software architect05:00 – How Ignition integrates across client systems06:30 – QCA’s focus on bulk handling and terminal automation07:50 – Using MQTT for flexible, scalable data movement08:40 – From HMIs to data dashboards and insights09:40 – The challenge of fragmented data and networks11:30 – Future vision: LLMs and AI-driven root cause analysis13:00 – Moving beyond dashboards to conversational analytics14:00 – The “digital expectation” in industrial operations15:00 – Building trust through successful automation projects16:00 – The role of AI, MCP, and Ignition in modernization17:40 – Gaining trust through data and results18:30 – Jap’s final takeaway from ICC: community collaboration19:00 – Closing and outroUygar Duzgun “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from Ignition Community Conference 2025 in Sacramento, the Energy Tech Podcast sits down with Bryan Fosmark, IT & Automation Director at Sagepoint Energy, to explore how they’re transforming renewable natural gas (RNG) operations with Ignition 8.3, cloud deployment, and seamless IT/OT convergence.Brian shares how Sagepoint leverages centralized Ignition servers, Perspective projects for mobile and desktop, and API-driven analytics to optimize environmental, compliance, and financial performance across landfill-gas and dairy-farm RNG sites.We also dive into:- How Ignition enables real-time visibility across rural RNG facilities- The role of store-and-forward and MQTT in unreliable-network environments- Managing mergers & acquisitions with plug-and-play SCADA integration- Balancing operations vs IT priorities and building cross-functional teams- The path to deploying AI and MCP (Model Context Protocol) within energy infrastructure- Cost, complexity, and cybersecurity advantages of Ignition📍 Recorded live at ICC 2025 (Sacramento, CA)0:00 – Intro: Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento0:28 – Meet Bryan Fosmark & Sagepoint Energy1:00 – ICC 2025 atmosphere & Ignition 8.3 “Level Up”2:00 – What Sagepoint Energy does: Landfill & RNG projects3:20 – How Ignition drives real-time operations and compliance4:40 – Deploying Ignition in the cloud with enterprise integration6:10 – Designing for mobility and multi-device Perspective apps7:00 – Bridging IT and OT for true convergence8:30 – Containerized development & real-time operator feedback9:20 – Scaling Ignition through M&A and multi-SCADA integration10:30 – Land and expand: How Ignition enables rapid site visibility11:20 – Connectivity challenges and store-and-forward success12:00 – Using MQTT for rural and low-bandwidth operations12:40 – Balancing technology and operations through relationships13:30 – Future outlook: AI, MCP, and next-gen automation15:00 – Private-equity agility & entrepreneurial development16:00 – Cost, complexity & cybersecurity advantages of Ignition18:00 – Takeaways & developer collaboration goals at ICC 202520:00 – Closing thoughts from Mike Flores & Bryan FosmarkUygar Duzgun “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento, the Energy Tech Podcast sits down with Amy Williams, Solutions Architect at Skellig Automation. We dig into why culture (not tools) is the first domino in digital transformation, how Ignition 8.3 signals a true Industry 4.0 platform, and why empowering frontline operators beats top-down “model → action” thinking.Amy breaks down an edge-first approach, vendor openness, Unified Namespace (UNS) patterns, and practical “land & expand” plays for manufacturers—plus real life-sciences use cases for ML, golden batch, and PAT (process analytical technology).You’ll learn:- Why culture and mindset shifts unlock transformation- What’s meaningful about Ignition 8.3 (and how to use it)- How to empower operators and converge OT/IT- Picking/opening vendors to fit your digital expectations- Land-and-expand steps that actually stick- Life sciences: ML, golden batch, and PAT in the real worldGuest: Amy Williams — Solutions Architect, Skellig AutomationHosts: Mike Flores & Jeff Perry — Energy Tech Podcast🔗 Skellig Automation: https://skellig.com/🔗 Connect with Amy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-williams-a8974b114/🎧 Energy Tech Podcast: https://opsiteenergy.com/all_podcast🔗 OpSite Energy: https://opsiteenergy.com/Support the show👍 Like, 💬 comment, and 🔔 subscribe. Share this with someone moving from Industry 3.0 → 4.0.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:10 Welcome & guest intro (Amy Williams, Skellig)01:35 Skelligs mission: accelerate life sciences with DT02:26 Culture tools: the mindset shift that matters03:48 ICC 2025 “level up”: venue, Ignition 8.3, Prove-It format06:20 What we’re learning at ICC: takeaways so far07:30 Why Ignition 8.3 matters (refactors, MCP server, AI tooling)09:24 OT/IT convergence & empowering frontline operators12:06 Edge-first data: access, model, contextualize for ML/AI14:34 Vendor openness & buyer power: set digital expectations16:36 Where Ignition fits: UNS, enterprise data reconciliation18:16 Real-time supply-chain lens on one digital architecture18:59 Land-and-expand playbook: find gaps, start small, iterate20:06 Life sciences today: ML, golden batch, PAT use cases21:12 Wrap-up & subscribe

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento, the Energy Tech Podcast sits down with Zach Scriven—longtime Ignition community leader and UNS evangelist—to talk Level Up, Ignition 8.3, the Prove It wave, and how to actually execute digital transformation (beyond buzzwords). We dig into Unified Namespace (UNS), MQTT/Sparkplug, agile delivery with integrators, and why a top-down digital strategy plus bottom-up execution wins in oil & gas and beyond.What you’ll learn:- Why “strategy first” is step zero for digital transformation- UNS explained (real-time fabric) vs. historians (consumers/nodes)- Ignition 8.3 momentum, MQTT modules, and scale without lock-in- Agile, iterative delivery “turnkey” fantasies- Where energy ops (O&G, RNG, landfill gas, battery/storage, data centers) can startGuest: Zach Scriven — creator/leader in the Ignition community; producer behind early UNS storytelling, Firebrand-winning projects, and the Prove It ethos.Zach Scriven (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackscriven/Inductive Automation / ICC: https://inductiveautomation.com/Energy Tech Podcast: https://opsiteenergy.com/all_podcastOpsite Energy (presenting sponsor): https://opsiteenergy.com/Chapters00:00 Intro00:10 Welcome & ICC 2025 vibe01:25 Why Zach matters: UNS, Prove It, community leadership02:27 “Level Up” at ICC: new venue, Ignition 8.3, Prove It flavor04:55 Early UNS stories (Pioneer project, GAN → MQTT)06:52 UNS ≠ historian; real-time fabric + nodes/consumers08:58 Industry 3.0 → 4.0: practical paths (MQTT brokers, edge, cloud)12:20 Digital transformation strategy: north star, align top-down, execute bottom-up16:40 Agile delivery with internal teams + SIs; why turnkey fails20:55 Personal “Zachisms”: content, brand, mission, values23:00 AI, ML, MCP: leverage and why it widens the gap25:04 What’s next for Zach: building a value-added reseller with real outcomes27:35 Closing & where to followUygar Duzgun “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento, we sit down with Bhavnesh Patel, Go-to-Market lead at RL Core, to unpack how reinforcement learning (RL) is moving from labs to real-world OT/SCADA. We cover RL Core’s agent-based approach (observe → recommend → limited control → scale), where it fits alongside Ignition 8.3, OPC UA, and control systems, and why continuous processes (water/wastewater, solar + storage, oil sands upstream) see fast time-to-value—chemical/energy reductions, smarter setpoints, and adaptable control.What you’ll learn- RL vs. traditional MPC and why “data → action” beats “model → action” for many sites- How RL Core deploys safely in stages and builds operator trust- Where RL is working today: water/wastewater, H₂S scrubbing, solar + batteries, oil sands- Practical paths for integrators and operators to pilot and scaleGuest: Bhavnesh Patel — RL Core (OT software startup applying RL to industrial processes)RL Core: https://rlcore.ai/Opsite Energy (presenting sponsor): https://opsiteenergy.com/Chapters00:00 Intro00:10 Welcome & ICC 2025 vibe01:06 Who is Bhavnesh & RL Core’s focus02:36 ICC “Level Up,” Ignition 8.3, “Prove It”03:08 What RL Core does (reinforcement learning for OT)04:04 RL vs basic PID vs MPC; adaptability without re-modeling05:07 Agent learns by doing; data → action06:00 Where it sits: SCADA/Ignition + OPC UA (read/write)07:00 Safe rollout: observe → tiny control → recommendations → expand08:56 Example outcomes (chemical/energy reductions; continuous improvement)10:22 Use cases in compression fleets & oil & gas11:58 Early-stage focus, ideal partners, role of SIs13:36 “Intrinsically safe” mindset and guardrails16:00 Continuous vs batch; why ROI is stronger in continuous16:54 Industries seeing impact (water/wastewater, solar + storage, oil sands)18:40 Solar + battery dispatch with policy/financial constraints19:42 Readiness checklist & engagement model20:59 Closing + next stepsUygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento, Mike chats with systems engineer Adrian Harvey about why this year’s conference feels different—new venue, the Ignition 8.3 release, and a “Prove It” momentum. Adrian walks through a clever Maker Edition inventory app at home (inspired by warehouse projects) and then dives into real-world industrial wins: migrating a fully proprietary RNG plant to Ignition without server credentials, unifying multi-site operations that run different processes, and accelerating delivery with UDTs, PlantPAx structures, and—when needed—MQTT/Sparkplug B. She also shares a rail-facility story that went from zero to a full Ignition platform (plus Perspective mobile apps) in roughly six weeks. The conversation closes on AI: why Model Context Protocol (MCP) excites her, practical MCP prompts for BOM/inventory reconciliation, and potential applications for alarm management in energy.Key takeaways"- ICC 2025 “level up”: venue scale, Ignition 8.3, and hands-on “prove it” culture- Practical migration playbook: document legacy screens → map process → leverage UDTs/OPC → use MQTT/Sparkplug B when protocols block you- Operator-first design: iterate live, maintain consistent layouts, standardize across sites even if processes differ- Speed matters: small teams + clear outcomes + reusable structures = weeks, not months- MCP/AI isn’t hype if scoped to workflows (BOM checks, purchasing, alarm management assistance)Useful links (mentioned or contextually relevant)Ignition by Inductive Automation: https://inductiveautomation.com/ignitionIgnition Perspective Module: https://inductiveautomation.com/ignition/modules/perspectiveIgnition Maker Edition: https://inductiveautomation.com/maker-editionICC (Ignition Community Conference): https://icc.inductiveautomation.com/MQTT (protocol): https://mqtt.org/Sparkplug Specification (Eclipse Foundation): https://sparkplug.eclipse.org/4.0 Solutions (the “Prove It” vibe): https://www.4.0solutions.com/Model Context Protocol (MCP): https://modelcontextprotocol.io/00:00 – Intro music00:10 – Welcome to Energy Tech Podcast; guest intro (Adrian Harvey) & ICC 2025 vibes01:03 – Why ICC 2025 feels “leveled up”: new venue, Ignition 8.3, “Prove It” flavor, and podcast on site02:12 – What Adrian hopes to get from ICC; differences from her 2023 Build-a-Thon experience03:28 – Adrian’s Edge Theater talk: Maker Edition inventory app (home electronics “bits & bobs”)04:47 – From warehouse automation ideas to a home AS/RS concept & very “loud/easy” UI choices05:09 – Pivot to industry work: bridging tech & energy (oil & gas, RNG, landfill gas, data centers)06:14 – Case study: migrating a proprietary RNG plant to Ignition (no server passwords!)07:57 – Standardizing multi-site ops in Ignition despite differing processes (membranes, bio-reactors, water)09:11 – Using UDTs/PlantPAx structures; when to lean on MQTT & Sparkplug B to unlock data13:52 – Rail facility story: from zero to full Ignition platform + Perspective mobile apps in ~6 weeks15:11 – Iterative UI with operators; fast feedback, alignment/consistency obsession in Designer16:13 – How Adrian frames new projects: work backwards, small teams, rapid iteration19:26 – Three essentials before “doing Ignition”: shared vocabulary, scoped expectations, relevant possibilities21:14 – “What can Ignition do for me?”—tailoring the pitch to context (MES, historian, WMS, tracking, etc.)22:37 – AI & MCP: why Adrian’s excited; OpenAI DevDay 2023 anecdote22:48 – MCP example: BOM prompts against inventory, web price checks, and energy alarm-management ideas23:39 – Wrap-up & sign-off

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento, we sit down with Andrew Hines, Senior Manager of Digital Operations at Autosol. With decades of experience in edge networks and SCADA data collection, Andrew shares how Autosol is helping operators simplify architectures, bridge legacy systems, and enable AI/ML at the edge.In this episode:• Autosol’s role in SCADA polling, OPC UA, MQTT & edge compute• Why Ignition + Autosol is a natural fit for modern architectures• Helping operators migrate from legacy poll/response to edge-driven data• Data simplification: one device, one poll, many consumers• Utilities, oil & gas, and water infrastructure use cases• Digital expectations across generations (Boomer ↔ Gen Z)• Edge Compute as the “plate” analogy (multiple workloads, one box)• Data center & off-grid power challenges: water, cooling, governance• Autosol’s flexibility, openness, and customer-driven feature development• The future of Autosol: enabling AI, machine learning, and MCP with more granular, efficient data📍 Learn more: https://autosoln.com/📍 Inductive Automation Ignition: https://inductiveautomation.com/📍 OpSite Energy: https://opsiteenergy.com/Chapters00:14 Guest Intro – Andrew Hines (Autosol) joins live from ICC 202500:43 What Autosol does + Andrew’s role (Digital Ops & Edge)01:50 Autosol + Ignition partnership explained02:50 Where Autosol fits in edge & server-based architectures04:00 Polling vs Edge-driven: supporting AI/ML at scale05:02 Industry shift: simplification, consolidation & hybrid networks06:29 Autosol’s strategy: legacy customers → edge-ready architectures08:30 Customer-driven development: flexibility & nimbleness09:05 Beyond oil & gas: utilities, water, power infrastructure11:00 Digital expectations & generational workforce gaps12:40 Collaboration, not just software: solving problems with clients14:20 Convergence of data centers, water, and off-grid power15:50 The energy cost of AI: why efficient data pipelines matter17:30 Granular reporting & governance (water/power usage compliance)18:00 Mid-sized operators: how Autosol engages new customers20:05 Edge Compute analogy: plate, knife, fork & the entrée22:00 Flexibility of EACM & multi-application edge boxes23:01 The future of Autosol: openness, AI, and machine learning24:16 Wrap-up & next steps Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, we welcome Jeff Hancher — U.S. Army veteran, Fortune 500 leader, executive coach, and USA Today bestselling author of Firm Feedback in a Fragile World.Jeff shares his powerful journey from growing up in poverty to building a 25-year Fortune 500 career and launching his own leadership company. We discuss why feedback is often avoided, how to overcome fear when holding tough conversations, and why deposits of trust are essential before withdrawals of accountability.We also dive into:- The origins of Firm Feedback in a Fragile World- Multi-generational challenges in today’s workforce- The F-E-A-R model leaders face (Fallout, Emotion, Amateur, Retaliation)- Why diversity is an advantage (the “Avengers” analogy)- Leadership in 24/7 control rooms & shift work- How to reset when you’ve given poor feedback in the past- Practical frameworks for expectations, feedback, and accountabilityUseful Links:📖 Get Jeff’s book + free resources: FirmFeedbackBook.com🎙 Listen to Jeff’s podcast: The Champion Forum (new episodes every Thursday)📖 Firm Feedback in a Fragile World — https://www.firmfeedbackbook.com/-https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-champion-forum-podcast-with-jeff-hancher/id1456048671📖 John C. Maxwell — The 5 Levels of Leadership: https://www.maxwellleadership.com/blog/the-5-levels-of-leadership/www.jeffhancher.com0:00 – Intro & episode setup0:18 – Guest welcome: author of Firm Feedback in a Fragile World1:17 – Why this book matters (host’s Cape Cod story)2:05 – Guest background: Army → Fortune 500 → leadership coach3:49 – From poverty to purpose: early life & turning points4:06 – Why write the book? Pandemic workshop → book origin6:06 – The “fragile world”: multi-gen teams, quiet quitting, retention8:43 – Why leaders avoid feedback: the F-E-A-R model (Fallout, Emotion, Amateur, Retaliation)11:44 – The framework: Expectations → Feedback → Accountability12:31 – Compliant vs engaged: the speed-limit analogy15:06 – Making deposits before withdrawals (building trust)16:27 – Mentor story: tough feedback that changed a career21:07 – Leaders as culture shapers (large teams & politics21:19 – Control rooms & shift work realities (12-hr rotations)22:51 – Diversity as an advantage (the “Avengers” analogy)25:18 – Earning the right to give feedback (breath-mint story)28:08 – Shift-worker accountability: sharing your “why31:16 – Socializing personal “whys” to drive team standards34:24 – Motivation through impact: AED save story & purpose36:31 – High standards, soft on people (Chick-fil-A example)39:20 – Common mistakes: the “feedback sandwich” & labeling43:00 – How to reset if you’ve given feedback poorly (fall on the sword)45:56 – Boss vs. leader people don’t want to let down46:04 – Lightning round: must-read, pre-conversation advice, favorite quote50:16 – Where to find the guest: website & podcast plugs50:47 – Wrap-up & thanksIntro Music:Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

We’re live at ICC 2025 (Sacramento) with Zoe Ritling from OnLogic—maker of rugged industrial PCs, edge servers, and panel PCs built for harsh environments. We dig into right-sized edge hardware for Ignition + MQTT, fast build-to-order turnarounds, and how manufacturers, energy producers, and integrators are scaling computer vision and edge data reliably.GuestZoe Ritling, Business Development Manager, OnLogic — helping teams deploy configurable, industrial-grade compute from palm-size gateways to compact 1U/3U edge servers.Highlights- What OnLogic builds: rugged PCs/servers/panel PCs for plant floors, vehicles & remote sites- Right-sizing edge hardware (configure CPU/RAM/I/O/cellular/Wi-Fi) so you pay for what you need- Build-to-order ≠ slow: typical lead times ~3–5 business days (parts availability)- Real deployments: data center MQTT bridge; CNX Resources scaling Ignition across the field; rail facility.- Where demand’s hottest: integrators, manufacturing digital transformation, renewables- Support that knows the hardware: tech teams co-located with production (US/EU)- AI at the edge: computer vision for safety/smoke/fire & quality/defect detection- Edge servers for CONEX/remote sites: dust filtration, hot-swap fans, intrusion detection, lockable bezelsLinks• OnLogic – Industrial Edge Hardware: https://www.onlogic.com/• Inductive Automation Ignition: https://inductiveautomation.com/• OpSite Energy: www.opsiteenergy.com00:00 Intro & music00:10 Welcome to Energy Tech Podcast (ICC 2025)00:31 Host intro (Sacramento) & guest setup00:40 Guest: Zoe Ritling – OnLogic01:13 What OnLogic does: rugged industrial PCs, servers, panel PCs01:35 Zoe’s role: Business Development (relationship-first)02:24 First time at ICC: community vibes & Ignition 8.3 buzz04:55 “Level Up” theme + Prove It flavor + Energy Tech Podcast vision05:58 Where OnLogic fits: bridging legacy OT ↔ modern data centers06:56 Story #1: Data center use case (MQTT + Ignition at the edge)07:48 Story #2: CNX Resources – scaling MQTT with OnLogic IPCs08:54 Build-to-order without long waits; real talk on lead times10:51 Right-sizing hardware: config options (CPU/RAM/I/O/cellular/Wi-Fi)12:26 Another win: rail facility deployment & fast ship13:45 Where demand is booming: integrators, mfg, renewables14:47 Unboxing & support: guides, QR to tech docs, licensing15:51 Support model: teams co-located with production (US/EU)16:45 AI at the edge: computer vision, safety/smoke detection18:14 Edge servers: 1U & 3U, built for harsh sites (dust, locks, fans)20:51 “Edge data centers” in CONEX buildings & compact racks22:00 OnLogic + Ignition community & partner ecosystem22:46 Education/Lab collabs; future demo series invite23:50 Wrap & subscribe

Live from ICC 2025 in Sacramento: Pat Smith (Avadine) joins the Energy Tech Podcast to unpack real-world upstream production automation—and why Ignition can (and should) power rod-lift optimization without the black boxes. Pat will discuss Avadine's new IPOC platform for pump off control. Pat spent 16 years as an end-user/operator before becoming an integrator, bringing rare field credibility to SCADA conversations. He introduces IPOC (Ignition Pump-Off Control)—an open, Ignition-native approach to connect popular pump-off controllers (Lufkin, Weatherford, GE & more via Modbus), visualize downhole pump cards, issue control/setpoints, and push actionable data to the business.What you’ll learn- Why ICC 2025 is a “level up” (new venue + Ignition 8.3)- The upstream gap: automate before the dehy, not just at the plant- From silos to value: BOE focus, transparency, and operator empowerment- IPOC overview: start/stop, setpoints, card retrieval & visualization- Open integrations: Modbus devices, brand-agnostic controller support- What’s next: AI/LLM pump-card diagnosis, MCP possibilities- Ignition 8.3 roadmap tie-ins: event streaming & RESTful backend- How to demo IPO and bring “Prove It” energy to production opsLinks & resources• Avadine – IPOC (Ignition Pump-Off Control): https://www.avadine.com/• Inductive Automation – Ignition 8.3: https://inductiveautomation.com/• Opsite Energy – Insight-Driven Remote Operations: www.opsiteenergy.comAbout the showThe Energy Tech Podcast covers SCADA, MES, DataOps, AI/ML, and control-room ops across energy and industrial markets—broadcasting onsite at ICC 2025.ConnectQuestions for Pat/Avadine or want a product demo? Drop them in the comments—and subscribe for more ICC sessions.00:09 Welcome to Energy Tech Podcast @ ICC 202500:32 Guest intro: Pat Smith (Avadine)01:06 “Level Up” at ICC 2025: venue & Ignition 8.301:36 Pat’s journey: 16 years as end user → now integrator02:27 What Avadine does (custom software → SCADA integration)03:18 Field credibility: Pat’s production/operator background04:46 Bridging OT realities with SCADA/automation06:06 Why upstream well ops (pre-dehy) need more automation07:51 The challenge with proprietary pump-off controllers08:33 Introducing IPO: Ignition Pump-Off Control09:40 Open integrations (Modbus; Lufkin/Weatherford/GE, etc.)10:56 From siloed data to business value (BOE focus)11:52 Early traction: pilots, excitement, alternatives to legacy tools12:42 What IPO does today: start/stop, setpoints, pump cards visualization13:58 Next up: AI/LLM diagnosis of pump cards; MCP potential14:56 Roadmap with Ignition 8.3: event streaming & RESTful backend15:55 “Prove It” for Energy—call for demos & real results16:26 Wrap-up: how to connect; like & subscribeMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

-- We’re in the OpSite Energy Control Room to welcome our newest team member, Daniel Netto — VP of Regulatory Compliance. Daniel brings 25+ years in control room operations with dozens of state & PHMSA audits under his belt, and a track record of successful outcomes. We dig into what truly wins audits: preparation, ownership, and data that proves your procedures.GuestDaniel Netto, VP Regulatory Compliance, OpSite Energy — leads audit readiness, control room oversight, and client representation for state/PHMSA inspections.What you’ll learn- Daniel's path: water/wastewater → midstream → OpSite Energy- Inside an audit: what inspectors really ask for- “Audit-ready” culture: monthly/annual packaging of evidence- Procedures vs. proof: shift turnover, hours of service, backup/failover tests, calibration & alarm data- Why OpSite shares playbooks (no gatekeeping) + upcoming CRM Rule mini-series- Tips for success: prep materials, assign owners, practice retrieval, be ready anytimeLinks & resources• OpSite Energy – Control Room Services: www.opsiteenergy.comAbout the showThe Energy Tech Podcast covers SCADA, control rooms, audits/compliance, DataOps, and AI/ML across energy and industrial markets.ConnectFrom another control room? Drop a comment with your questions for Daniel, and subscribe to catch the upcoming CRM series.00:07 Welcome to Energy Tech Podcast (OpSite Energy)00:24 Studio setup: OpSite Control Room, Canonsburg, PA00:38 Guest intro: Daniel Netto joins OpSite Energy01:11 Role: VP, Regulatory Compliance & control room oversight02:20 Audit experience: state & PHMSA inspections (14–15 audits)03:02 Mike & Daniel’s history (water/wastewater → midstream)05:00 Why this matters: third-party control room representation06:06 Field lessons: prepare for audits, know what inspectors want07:51 Early days of the CRM rule & first Texas audits (~2014)09:54 Shout-out to mentor Patricia Thompson & training impact11:00 Living “audit-ready”: cadence, documentation, clarity12:56 OpSite’s philosophy: share knowledge, don’t gatekeep14:35 Upcoming Control Room Management (CRM) video series16:12 Procedures vs. proof: it’s the data that counts18:58 Examples: shift turnover, hours of service, backup tests27:16 What makes a successful audit: prep, owners, audit-ready always28:59 Wrap-up & call to like/subscribeUygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Live from Ignition ICC 2025 in Sacramento, the Energy Tech Podcast sits down with Oliver Wang, Product Marketing Manager at Moxa. In this episode, we explore: Moxa’s role as a key Ignition partner. - How industrial compute and edge devices unlock stranded data- Real-world use cases in oil & gas, water, automotive, and manufacturing- Live demos on microgrids, EV charging, and energy storage optimization- The importance of cost, complexity, and cybersecurity in deployments- Moxa’s vision for AI, machine learning, and future-ready edge computingWhether you’re an integrator, end user, or technology partner, this conversation highlights how Moxa helps bridge legacy systems, modern connectivity, and event-driven data for digital transformation.Useful Links🌐 Moxa Official Website: https://www.moxa.com🔧 Moxa Edge Solutions: https://www.moxa.com/en/products/industrial-edge-connectivity🎤 Energy Tech Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@EnergyTechPodcast🎟️ Ignition ICC Conference: https://icc.inductiveautomation.com00:00 Intro00:10 Welcome to the Energy Tech Podcast00:23 Introducing Oliver Wang from Moxa01:00 Oliver’s role at Moxa02:05 What makes ICC 2025 different03:14 Leveling up the Ignition community04:45 Conversations and problem-solving at ICC05:49 Legacy equipment and Modbus RTU to TCP07:49 Unlocking stranded data & MQTT conversion08:43 Live demo: microgrid, EV charging & energy storage10:54 Event-based data and market forces12:35 Energy management opportunities13:11 Moxa industrial compute product showcase15:55 Edge computing with Ignition Edge18:16 Support and proof-of-concept process18:53 The “tipping point”: cost, complexity, cybersecurity21:48 Reducing complexity for field techs22:56 Moxa’s support and fleet management tools23:41 Reliability, updates, and user experience24:52 Moxa’s future with AI and ML27:39 Customer-driven development & GPU/TPU options27:45 Oliver’s personal goals for ICC 202529:43 Leveling up engagement & closing thoughts30:17 Outro – Like & SubscribeUygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Join us at Inductive Automation's Ignition User Conference (ICC) 2025 in Sacramento, CA. September 16-18.

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, hosts Jeff Perry and Mike Flores sit down with Paola Paz of Automated Dynamics (ADC) to explore the theme “Factory to the Field: The Next Generation of Industrial Automation.”Paola shares her journey from sales into applications engineering, where she has become a hands-on problem solver helping customers bridge the gap between legacy equipment and modern automation solutions. From automotive plants in San Antonio to oil & gas operations and emerging data centers, she explains how ADC’s portfolio — including Red Lion, Banner, Pulse, HMS, and Turck — delivers real-world value across industries.Key topics include:• The role of applications engineers as “secret weapons” on the factory floor• How generational mindsets shape adoption of new technology• Legacy equipment challenges and the risks of “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it”• Bridging the IT/OT divide with modern networking and protocols• The role of edge devices, predictive maintenance, and data logging in industrial transformation• How AI, cybersecurity, and digital convergence are reshaping the future of automationIf you work in manufacturing, oil & gas, energy, or data centers, this conversation offers insight into real challenges and practical solutions for taking industrial automation to the next level.https://www.adcreps.com/https://www.bannerengineering.com/us/en/products/connectivity-technology/snap-signal.html00:00 – Introductions & Welcome 02:42 – Meet Paola Paz (Automated Dynamics, ADC) 04:48 – Career Journey: From Sales to Applications Engineering 07:42 – The Role of an Applications Engineer (hands-on problem solving) 10:30 – What ADC Represents: Red Lion, Banner, Pulse, HMS, Turck 12:27 – Serving Automotive, Manufacturing, and Oil & Gas 15:05 – Legacy Equipment Challenges in Industrial Automation 17:05 – Generational Mindsets in Controls Engineering 19:34 – Why Critical Assets Stay on Old Technology 22:11 – Safety Risks and Preventative Maintenance 23:46 – Emerging Tech: Banner Snap Signal & Data Centers 26:27 – Power, Connectivity, and Edge Data in Modern Facilities 29:37 – IT vs OT: Bridging the Gap 33:44 – Network Challenges, Protocols, and Training Engineers 36:12 – Convergence, AI, and the Future of Industrial Automation 39:33 – AI Adoption Barriers in Manufacturing 42:58 – Closing Thoughts & Future Episodes with Paola Paz

Ep. 028 – From Install to Optimization – A Pipeline Leak Detection Masterclass – Adrian Kane – Atmos International. Adrian Kane is Senior Vice President at Atmos International and started with Atmos in 2002 in their Manchester office. Before joining Atmos Adrian was an advance completion engineer with Schlumbeger. Adrian’s role has spanned many areas of the Atmos ecosystem over the years, and he brings a hands on and practical approach to LDS projects worldwide. About Atmos International: Atmos International was originally founded in 1995 with a primary focus to detect pipeline leaks reliably on operational pipelines. This technology has been successfully applied to over 2,000 pipelines across more than 60 countries.As the world’s leading leak detection provider, Atmos is best placed to help you ensure any leak is detected reliably and located accurately, giving you peace of mind and helping you sleep at night.https://www.atmosi.com/us/00:30 Welcome in02:30 Adrian and his spare time04:00 Irish & Scottish Links06:00 Pipeline leak detection implementation steps with Atmos International07:00 Gathering operational data for tuning09:45 Tuninig the system before FAT14:30 Success factors for large operations16:30 Coordinated efforts with SCADA teams17:20 Failures or delays in implementation19:15 Training and Facility acceptance testing20:30 Site acceptance testing23:45 Project Timeline and PHMSA 195 compliance25:00 Leak detection during commissioning 27:30 Cybersecurity in leak detection30:00 Training through tuning and beyond36:15 Simulating a leak for training scenarios38:00 Documentation required for compliance – API 113042:00 Challenges or obstacles in implementing a solid LDS 44:00 Selecting the correct leak detection system for the system46:46 PHMSA 195 Section 417 Rupture Compliance Module50:50 Gas pipeline leak detection 52:00 Building a digital twin of your pipeline system for modeling55:30 Atmos and Machine learning – 2+ decades56:00 AI and Leak Detection – is it risky??57:40 Top 3 items to have in order to be successful in leak detection

Ep. 026 – Scaling the Edge – From 10-200K Points w/ Joey Philippi - WaterbridgeJoey Philippi is currently Director of Operational Technology at WaterBridge based in Houston Texas. He brings experience from previous roles at Berkana Resources, EN Engineering and Encana. Ryan Glover is currently the director of Remote Operations at WaterBridge based in Houston Texas. he brings experience from previous roles held at Apache Corp, Marathon Oil and Oxy.00:30 Welcome in01:05 Introduction – Ryan’s 30s commercial01:30 Joey’s career path and passion for technology 02:00 Texas A&M technology projects03:00 Joey’s growth in oil and gas SCADA systems integration05:00 Transforming Wadebridge’s SCADA infrastructure to Scale07:30 Startin at zero with Ignition – the tools and knowhow you need to succeed13:00 Aha moment and polling 100s of devices and control at the edge15:45 MQTT and Report by exception16:45 Wadebridge’s early hurdles with Ignition20:30 Building a SCADA HMI – The collaborative approach22:30 Wadebridge’s Operations26:50 Enterprise Architecture for Ignition36:30 Point to point when using MQTT protocol40:45 Field communications over vast landmasses like the Delaware and Permian43:45 Leveraging Lorowan to close the gaps52:30 Future technologies at Waterbridge57:30 Tips for scaling in Ignition1:01:30 Closing Remarks