In this episode of the Ctrl+Alt+Mfg podcast, recorded live from the CSIA Conference in Baltimore, host Stephanie Neil sits down with Daren Dieleman, vice president of business development at Interstates and chair of the CSIA Board of Directors.

The manufacturing landscape is shifting rapidly, and system integrators are at the center of that transformation. Daren explores the real-world impact of AI on the factory floor, the ongoing people challenge in a competitive talent market and why leadership in automation now requires a growth mindset and radical humility.

This conversation offers a grounded look at where the industry is headed and how to stay ahead of the change curve.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How integrators are using AI for efficiency without losing sight of core PLC programming.
• Navigating the transition as junior leaders move into senior executive roles.
• Why customers are moving away from transactional projects toward trusted advisor relationships.
• The emerging technologies that demand every integrator's attention.
• Why the best leaders are willing to get uncomfortable to drive innovation.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview

02:18 Member Engagement and Industry Challenges

05:29 Technological Advancements and AI Impact

08:29 Leadership Traits for the Future

11:24 Customer Expectations and Trust

14:28 Closing Thoughts and Conference Takeaways

• (00:00:00) - Introduction and Conference Overview
• (00:02:18) - Member Engagement and Industry Challenges
• (00:05:29) - Technological Advancements and AI Impact
• (00:08:29) - Leadership Traits for the Future
• (00:11:24) - Customer Expectations and Trust
• (00:14:28) - Closing Thoughts and Conference Takeaways