What’s really holding manufacturers back from smarter maintenance? While many point the finger at AI or automation, bad data might be the real culprit.

In this episode of Ctrl+Alt+Mfg, Gary Cohen and Stephanie Neil talk with Paul Ross of Limble and Ross Fergerson of RBC Bearings about why so many plants are still stuck in reactive maintenance mode and what it takes to move toward more proactive, data-driven operations.

They explore the maintenance maturity curve, the role of modern CMMS platforms and why technician-friendly tools are essential for adoption. Fergerson also shares how RBC Bearings replaced a legacy system and rolled out a new CMMS in just eight months, improving visibility, reducing paperwork and building trust across the organization.

The conversation looks at how better maintenance data can preserve tribal knowledge, improve planning and make AI more practical on the plant floor.

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to Smarter Manufacturing
• (00:03:44) - The Importance of Maintenance Data
• (00:07:32) - Understanding CMMS and Its Role
• (00:11:41) - Transitioning from Legacy Systems
• (00:18:12) - Accelerating Adoption of New Technologies
• (00:20:23) - The Role of AI in Maintenance
• (00:23:00) - Addressing Common Maintenance Challenges
• (00:27:04) - Transforming Maintenance from Cost Center to Profit Center
• (00:28:52) - Operational Changes Post-Implementation
• (00:31:59) - Advice for Modernizing Maintenance