As industries electrify—from EVs to critical infrastructure—the demand for skilled talent is skyrocketing. But how do we break down barriers to entry and ensure that the workforce of tomorrow is ready? In this episode, Barbara is joined by Dr. Scott Ralls, President, Wake Tech Community College. Dr. Ralls shares lessons learned and insights from his experience guiding Wake Tech’s innovative strategies connecting workforce and education opportunities. He highlights a variety of solutions, from registered apprenticeship programs to new fast-track training courses, helping students to "ladder up" into promising careers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about how partnerships, education, and hands-on training are lighting the way for the next generation of workers.

Show notes:

EVeryone Charging Forward™ - Building a workforce for the growing American EV charging sector.

Unique New Program Trains Technicians in EV Charging Stations

Siemens invests $36 million in Wendell, NC to elevate customer experience, advance training, boost manufacturing, and strengthen sustainability efforts

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How is clean technology transforming American manufacturing? In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking industrial microgrid project at Siemens’ Wendell, NC factory that’s rewriting the rules of how factories operate. Brian Dula, President of the Electrification and Automation business at Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA, shares how Siemens’ $36 million investment in Wendell is not only improving efficiency but also creating new career opportunities.

We uncover how clean tech and electrification aren’t just about sustainability—they’re driving real business advantages and shaping the future of American industry. Whether you’re in policy, on the factory floor, in tech, or just curious about the future of energy, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about manufacturing.

AI copilots have changed a range of professions, from healthcare to finance, by automating tasks and enhancing productivity. But can copilots also create value for people performing more mechanical, hands-on tasks or figuring out how to bring factories online? In this episode, Barbara welcomes Olympia Brikis, Director of AI Research at Siemens, to show how generative AI is shaping new industrial tech jobs at the convergence of the real and digital worlds. Olympia sheds light on the unique career opportunities in AI and what it takes to thrive in this dynamic, emerging field. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or someone curious about tech careers, this episode offers a unique perspective on how AI is reshaping the landscape of mechanical and industrial professions. Tune in to learn about the exciting innovations and the future of AI in industry!

Show notes

In this episode, Barbara asks Olympia to share some resources that can help all of us get smarter on industrial AI. Here are Olympia's recommendations:

For everyone just getting started with (Generative) AI:

Elements of AI – great for learning how AI work and what it is

https://www.elementsofai.com/

Generative AI for Everyone:

https://www.coursera.org/learn/generative-ai-for-everyone

Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI, by Ethan Mollick

For those want to dive deeper into the technical aspects of Deep Neural Networks and Generative AI:

Deep Learning Specialization:

https://www.coursera.org/specializations/deep-learning

Stanford University Lecture CS336: Language Modeling from Scratch

https://stanford-cs336.github.io/spring2024/

Join Barbara Humpton in this fascinating conversation with Michelle DeFeo, President of Laurent-Perrier US. Discover how this legendary champagne house is leading the charge with sustainable business practices while maintaining the extraordinary standards of its bottles of premium bubbly. Michelle shares insights into how Laurent-Perrier, a family-owned champagne house since 1812, is advancing climate resilience by rethinking every aspect of champagne production, from its humble beginnings on the vine to how the bottles are delivered globally. A perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental consciousness in the world of fine wines.

In this special episode recorded live at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, Barbara sits down with Siemens CTO Peter Koerte to explore groundbreaking technologies shaping a new industrial tech sector. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of innovation, from creating sustainable textiles to revolutionizing air travel with carbon-neutral aircraft. In this episode, they discuss the tangible ROI of industrial AI, the transformative potential of digital twins, and the growing impact of software-defined automation. Discover how Siemens is leading the charge in driving the business case for sustainability through cutting-edge technology and startup collaborations. The conversation underscores the potential of industrial AI to solve pressing issues, from skilled labor shortages to improving operational efficiency and sustainability. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of technology and how technology can positively impact the world and business.

Show Notes:

Industrial Tech Sector and CES announcements: https://www.siemens.com/us/en/company/press/siemens-stories/digital-industries/transformation-industrial-technology-is-now.html

In her final episode of 2024, Barbara looks ahead to 2025, where industry, technology, and sustainability collide. From the groundbreaking innovation at CES to the rise of software-defined automation and industrial AI, this episode explores the rise of a new industrial tech sector. Barbara dives into trends reshaping industries: clean tech advancements, the democratization of technology, and how AI will empower workers to thrive in a fast-evolving landscape. Tune in for bold predictions, thought-provoking insights, and a vision for a more connected, sustainable future.

As we close out 2024, we’re reflecting on the incredible transformations shaping our cities and economies. In this special year-end episode, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens shares his bold vision for making Atlanta a top-5 American tech hub. From public-private partnerships to fostering tech talent, Mayor Dickens dives into the strategies powering the “Tech City of the South” and highlights how innovation is creating opportunities for all. Whether you're inspired by Atlanta's rise or curious about the future of tech cities, this episode offers a hopeful look at what’s ahead for urban growth and inclusivity in the digital age.

Show notes:

Atlanta Office of Technology and Innovation: https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/mayor-s-office/executive-offices/office-of-innovation-delivery-and-performance

You've heard that the transition to clean energy is going too slowly, and it may be too late. But what if everything you've heard...is wrong! While some may paint a depressing picture of a sluggish transition, the real story is far more optimistic. On this episode, Barbara and her guest Jon Creyts, CEO of RMI, pull back the curtain on the staggering developments that no one has told you about.

From game-changing technology that sounds like science-fiction (but it's real!), to surprising reasons the market will help us get to clean energy faster, you'll get useful and actionable insights about the hidden POSITIVE tipping point we're rapidly approaching. This episode delivers paradigm-shifting information about how our world will transform to clean energy faster than anyone has predicted. (Please note that the company H2 Green Steel mentioned by Jon Creyts now goes by Stegra.)

Show notes:

• Barbara's newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/optimistic-outlook-7171212265625374720/
• Global Cooling Prize: https://www.cleancoolingcollaborative.org/super-efficient-air-conditioning/
• Sustainable Aviation Buyers Alliance: https://flysaba.org/
• Sustainable Steel Buyers Platform: https://rmi.org/our-work/climate-aligned-industries/sustainable-steel-buyers-platform/