Join this interactive panel discussion with industry leaders who have experience of how to engage people with innovative smart manufacturing techniques.
Smart manufacturing is a major factor in the evolution of the industry. Using advanced technologies where robotics and 3-D printing, streamlines factories processes for the workers and allows them to work more efficiently. As more manufacturing plants move to incorporate innovation and technology into their operations, industry experts say that one of the most important elements to keep in mind is the focus on people. Manufacturing jobs are another crucial aspect of the human element in smart manufacturing. Skilled workers trained in these technological fields are essential for allowing the smooth operation of these state-of-the-art factories.
Bob Murphy is senior vice president of operations and engineering services (OES) at Rockwell Automation. He is responsible for overseeing the company’s global supply chain (materials and logistics, and strategic sourcing and supply management), quality and continuous improvement, engineering services and manufacturing operations. Most recently, Murphy was vice president of manufacturing operations, with responsibility for Rockwell's manufacturing facilities in Ladysmith, Mequon and Middleton, Wisconsin; Monterrey, Mexico; Twinsburg, Ohio and the Dominican Republic. 
Allen Couture is vice president of operations for Raytheon Missile Systems (RMS), responsible for all product manufacturing, facilities, and environmental, health and safety functions. With more than 4,000 employees in seven states, operations specializes in assembly and integration of RMS weapons systems in this nearly $6 billion business. Previously, Couture was general manager of Raytheon Company’s Space and Airborne Systems (SAS) Consolidated Manufacturing Center in McKinney, Texas, overseeing the operations team for the Tactical Electro Optical Infra-Red (EO/IR) center for Raytheon supporting SAS, RMS and Integrated Defense Systems. Couture has held several roles of increasing responsibility including director of operations, work and material planning manager and manufacturing manager. He has experience in leading multiple functions and has worked in numerous industries such as aerospace, automotive and defense.
Jeannine Kunz is the vice president of Tooling U-SME, where she leads a team dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of manufacturing personnel. A recognized expert in the field of professional development and training, her vision and dedication have put Kunz at the forefront of workforce management issues as she provides forward-thinking educational innovations and solutions for companies, academia and individuals. Kunz focuses on workforce training and development to directly address new industry dynamics related to people’s knowledge and skills in manufacturing.
