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  • Chris Luecke with Manufacturing Happy Hour Podcast

    Chris Luecke with Manufacturing Happy Hour Podcast
    2025/09/08
    Industrial Talk is talking to Chris Luecke, Founder and Host of Manufacturing Happy Hour Podcast about "Complete focus on manufacturing success". Scott Mackenzie interviews Chris Luecke about his "Manufacturing Happy Hour" podcast. Chris, an engineer with a background in manufacturing and automation, discusses the podcast's origins, its evolution from a YouTube series to a leadership podcast, and its focus on collaboration and idea-sharing in the manufacturing industry. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, such as AI and digital transformation, to enhance productivity and attract young talent. Chris also highlights the need for manufacturers to engage with the tech community and innovate to stay competitive. The conversation is punctuated by power outages but remains engaging and insightful. Action Items
    • [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Subscribe to the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast.
    • [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Explore the concept of "exponential improvements" in manufacturing through automation and AI.
    • [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Consider ways for manufacturers to engage more actively with the broader tech community.
    • [ ] Connect with Chris Luecke on LinkedIn.

    Outline Introduction and Technical Difficulties
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast and highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
    • Scott mentions the technical difficulties faced during the recording due to power outages.
    • Scott expresses gratitude to Chris Luecke for his participation and sets the stage for the conversation.
    • Scott acknowledges the resilience of Chris and himself in continuing the conversation despite the technical issues.

    Chris Luecke's Background and Manufacturing Happy Hour
    • Chris Luecke shares his background, starting as an engineer at Marquette University and working with Anheuser Busch and Rockwell Automation.
    • Chris explains the origin of Manufacturing Happy Hour, a podcast that started as a YouTube series recorded on his iPhone.
    • The podcast evolved into a leadership podcast, focusing on manufacturing and automation technology.
    • Chris discusses his transition from a full-time job to a full-time content creator and community builder.

    The Journey to Podcasting
    • Scott MacKenzie and Chris Luecke discuss their experiences with podcasting, including initial challenges and equipment choices.
    • Chris shares his early podcasting journey with Pub Cast Worldwide, a podcast about drinking culture and craft beer.
    • Chris emphasizes the importance of starting with basic equipment and gradually upgrading as the audience grows.
    • Scott and Chris agree on the value of podcasting as a relationship-building tool in the B2B world.

    Impact and Purpose of Manufacturing Happy Hour
    • Chris explains the purpose of Manufacturing Happy Hour, which is to bring people together to collaborate and share ideas over a beverage.
    • The podcast aims to equip manufacturing leaders with tools, technologies, and insights through interviews with experts.
    • Chris highlights the importance of the community aspect, where listeners can engage and learn from each other.
    • Scott asks about the tangible benefits of the platform, and Chris shares examples of connections made through the podcast and events.

    Future of Manufacturing and Industry 4.0
    • Chris discusses the future of manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of automation and...
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    49 分
  • Jason Cunningham with Power Grid Components

    Jason Cunningham with Power Grid Components
    2025/09/05
    Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Jason Cunningham, VP Business Development at Power Grid Components about "Ensuring Power Quality". Scott Mackenzie hosts an industrial podcast from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, sponsored by Siemens. He interviews Jason Cunningham from Power Grid Components (PGC), who has 19 years of experience in the industry. PGC, formed in 2017, owns eight to nine companies and focuses on providing compatible solutions for utilities and renewables. Cunningham discusses the Syncrotec MDX, a device that mitigates inrush current when switching into a transformer, addressing voltage sags. The device, which has been on the market for about 10 years, can be installed in various switchgear and is compatible with different manufacturers. It stores operational data for up to 500 operations, with the Supertech Plus storing up to 2000 operations. Cunningham can be contacted via LinkedIn for more information. Action Items
    • [ ] Reach out to Siemens for more information on their smart infrastructure and grid software solutions.
    • [ ] Connect with Jason Cunningham on LinkedIn to learn more about the Syncrotec MDX product.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
    • Speaker 1 introduces Scott Mackenzie and the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and professionals.
    • Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners, highlighting the importance of industry professionals and their contributions to making the world better.
    • The podcast is broadcasting from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and is sponsored by Siemens, smart infrastructure, and grid software.
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces Jason Cunningham from PGC, who is in the "hot seat" for the interview.

    Jason Cunningham's Background and Role at PGC
    • Jason Cunningham introduces himself, mentioning his 19 years of experience in the industry, including selling high-voltage circuit breakers and circuit switchers.
    • Jason recently joined Power Grid Components (PGC) to help integrate products into the US market.
    • PGC owns about eight or nine companies within the industry, formed in 2017 to provide compatible solutions for utilities and renewables.
    • Jason explains that PGC's goal is to offer compatible products that can support each other, providing solutions to end-users.

    Introduction to Syncrotec MDX and Its Functionality
    • Jason introduces the Syncrotec MDX, a device that can be applied to any switchgear component, such as a circuit breaker, recloser, or circuit switcher.
    • The Syncrotec MDX mitigates the inrush current when switching into a transformer, addressing the issue of voltage sags or drops.
    • Scott MacKenzie and Jason discuss the importance of power quality and how the Syncrotec MDX helps maintain it.
    • Jason mentions the IEEE 1547 standard, which is gaining traction and addresses power quality issues in large wind or solar farms.

    Installation and Compatibility of Syncrotec MDX
    • Jason explains the installation process of the Syncrotec MDX, which involves working with the manufacturer of the switchgear to set the timing of the unit.
    • The device can be installed remotely, and PGC can dial it in slightly on-site to ensure it is ready to go.
    • Jason highlights the agnostic nature of the Syncrotec MDX, which can be used with various switchgear manufacturers and voltage levels.
    • The Syncrotec MDX can handle voltage levels up to 1100 KV, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

    Future Prospects and Additional...
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    13 分
  • Leandro Escobar with Timenow

    Leandro Escobar with Timenow
    2025/09/03
    Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2025 and talking to Leandro Escobar, Director, Business Development at Timenow about "AI Driven Project Management Solution". Scott Mackenzie interviews Leandro Escobar from Time Now, a Brazilian consulting firm expanding in the US, at the Xcelerate 2025 conference in Austin, Texas. Leandro discusses the firm's AI-driven solutions, including their large language model, Keno, and project management tool, Time Connect. Time Now offers consulting services for asset management, reliability, and project management, helping clients with criticality assessments, training, and technology integration. They also provide temporary skilled labor to address industry shortages. Leandro emphasizes the importance of bridging generational knowledge gaps and leveraging AI to improve industrial asset management and reliability. Action Items
    • [ ] Visit Time Now's website at www.timenowglobal.com.
    • [ ] Connect with Leandro Escobar on LinkedIn.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
    • Scott Mackenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, highlighting its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
    • Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners and thanks them for their support, emphasizing the platform's celebration of industry professionals.
    • The podcast is broadcasting live from Xcelerate 2025 in Austin, Texas, showcasing problem solvers and innovations.
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces Leandro Escobar, a problem solver and former neighbor, to the conversation.

    Leandro Escobar's Experience at Xcelerate 2025
    • Leandro Escobar shares his positive experience at the conference, mentioning insights on AI and machine learning in asset management.
    • Leandro discusses the importance of understanding market trends and positioning companies ahead of the competition.
    • Scott MacKenzie clarifies the difference between large and small language models, with Leandro explaining their role in reliability and training technicians.
    • Leandro mentions their AI-based tool, Keno, which uses historical data to support clients in project and asset management.

    Overview of Time Now and Its Services
    • Leandro provides an overview of TimeNow, a large consulting engineering firm in South America, now expanding in the US.
    • Time Now started as a project management consulting firm and has grown to include engineering, asset management, and reliability tools.
    • The company supports clients from the beginning of a project's life cycle to its commissioning, covering all aspects of asset management.
    • Scott MacKenzie asks if Time Now's services are more suited for Greenfield projects or existing manufacturers, with Leandro confirming they support both.

    Consulting and Technology Solutions by TimeNow
    • Leandro explains that Time Now offers consulting services, including program management and asset management support for existing clients.
    • The company partners with Fluke Reliability to provide training and support for clients implementing their solutions.
    • TimeNow helps clients revise their equipment criticality, hierarchy, and response plans, and integrates real-time monitoring sensors.
    • Scott MacKenzie inquires about TimeNow's technology solutions, with Leandro mentioning their AI-based tools like Keno and Time Connect.

    AI and Technology Integration in Time Now's Solutions
    • Leandro describes Time Connect as a project management and shutdown planning tool that integrates schedules from different...
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    20 分
  • Eneko de Irala and Alejandro Borges with Nomad Solar Energy

    Eneko de Irala and Alejandro Borges with Nomad Solar Energy
    2025/08/28
    Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Eneko de Irala and Alejandro Borges with Nomad Solar Energy about "Solar power solution anytime, anywhere". Scott Mackenzie interviews Eneko de Irala, VP of Sales, and Alejandro Borges from Nomad Solar Energy at Power Gen in Dallas, Texas. Nomad Solar Energy offers a mobile solar energy solution in a 20-foot container, deployable in under two hours, which can reduce diesel consumption by 30,000 liters annually. The system includes 184 solar panels, providing 107 kWh per hour, and can be scaled up with additional containers. It is designed for heavy-duty use, including remote areas and harsh climates. The company also offers battery storage solutions and aims to adapt to new solar technologies. Action Items
    • [ ] Follow up with Nomad Solar Energy through their website at nomadsolar.energy or connect with Alejandro Borges on LinkedIn.
    • [ ] Explore opportunities to deploy Nomad Solar Energy's solutions in remote power generation applications, such as oil and gas rigs.
    • [ ] Investigate integrating Nomad Solar Energy's containerized solar systems with battery storage to create hybrid power solutions.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome
    • Scott Mackenzie introduces the podcast, highlighting its focus on industrial innovations and trends.
    • Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners and thanks them for their support, emphasizing the importance of industry professionals.
    • The podcast is broadcasting from Power Gen in Dallas, Texas, showcasing advanced technology and individuals dedicated to solving problems.
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the guests from Nomad Solar Energy and humorously mentions chasing them down for the interview.

    Background of Nomad Solar Energy
    • Eneko introduces himself as the VP of Sales at Nomad Solar Energy, with a background in international markets.
    • Eneko explains the company's mission to provide sustainable energy solutions, reducing diesel consumption and bringing electricity to remote areas.
    • The company participates in industrial and humanitarian projects, showcasing their products at Power Gen in Dallas.
    • Eneko highlights the significant savings in diesel consumption achievable with their products, emphasizing the positive reception at the event.

    Introduction of Alejandro Borges
    • Alejandro Borges introduces himself and his role in marketing and strategy at Nomad Solar Energy.
    • Alejandro explains the company's goal to turn on the green lights in Dallas and the United States, providing innovative energy solutions.
    • Scott MacKenzie asks for a simple explanation of Nomad Solar Energy's solution.
    • Eneko describes the company's container-based solar energy solution, designed for easy deployment and maintenance.

    Details of the Solar Energy Solution
    • Eneko explains the design of the solar panel container, which can be deployed in about two hours with two people.
    • The container includes all necessary components, such as inverters, and is pre-wired for easy setup.
    • The solution is designed to be scalable, allowing for multiple containers to be used together for increased power.
    • Alejandro adds that the solution can also include battery storage for continuous power supply.

    Deployment and Maintenance
    • Scott MacKenzie inquires about the deployment process and the size of the typical solution.
    • Eneko explains that the solution comes in two sizes: a 20-foot container with 184 solar...
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    24 分
  • Jim Mayer with The Manufacturing Connector

    Jim Mayer with The Manufacturing Connector
    2025/08/26
    Industrial Talk is talking to Jim Mayer, Founder and Host of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast about "His passion and drive for manufacturing success". Scott Mackenzie interviews Jim Mayer, a manufacturing industry expert and podcaster, on the Industrial Talk Podcast. Jim shares his journey from construction to manufacturing, highlighting his roles at Fastenal, West Coast Aerospace, Keyence, MSC Industrial, and NTMA. He discusses his transition to running his own company, focusing on employee engagement and culture in manufacturing. Jim emphasizes the importance of authenticity and human connection in his podcast, "The Manufacturing Culture Podcast," and "The Manufacturing Connector" YouTube channel. He also touches on the challenges of digital transformation, the need for employee buy-in, and the role of AI in enhancing industry processes. Action Items
    • [ ] Connect with Jim Mayer on LinkedIn.
    • [ ] Check out Jim's website, The MFG Connector, for more information.
    • [ ] Subscribe to Jim's podcasts, including the Manufacturing Culture Podcast and the Manufacturing Connector YouTube channel.

    Outline Introduction and Initial Greetings
    • Scott Mackenzie introduces the podcast and the guest, Jim Mayer, highlighting his role in the manufacturing industry.
    • Scott emphasizes the importance of amplifying one's voice and using modern marketing platforms for future success.
    • Jim Mayer expresses his admiration for Scott's voice and shares a humorous anecdote about their first meeting.
    • Scott and Jim discuss the weather in Phoenix, sharing personal experiences and humorous stories about the heat.

    Jim's Background and Career Journey
    • Jim shares his background, mentioning his 25 years in the industry and his initial struggles after leaving college.
    • He describes his journey from retail and restaurant jobs to construction work and eventually finding his passion in manufacturing.
    • Jim recounts his experiences working in construction, including the dangers of roofing and the influence of a Fastenal rep who encouraged him to sell supplies.
    • He talks about his transition to working in machine shops and his successful career with various companies, including MSC Industrial and NTMA.

    Transition to Podcasting and Culture Consulting
    • Jim explains his decision to leave the corporate world and start his own company, focusing on employee engagement and talent management in manufacturing.
    • He discusses the challenges of positioning himself as a culture consultant and the initial failures he faced.
    • Jim describes his shift to creating content through podcasting, starting with the Manufacturing Culture Podcast.
    • He shares the story of how a friend encouraged him to start a podcast and the initial success of his first episode.

    The Manufacturing Culture Podcast and Its Impact
    • Jim details the structure and content of his podcast, emphasizing the importance of creating a narrative arc and engaging stories.
    • He explains how he conducts research on his guests and their companies to ensure the content is informative and engaging.
    • Jim discusses the feedback he received from listeners, highlighting the importance of addressing both solutions and personal stories.
    • He mentions the creation of the Manufacturing Connector YouTube channel to focus on tools, technology, and solutions for the industry.

    Challenges and Solutions in Digital Transformation
    • Scott and Jim discuss...
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    1 時間 1 分
  • Ben Lanz with Osmose

    Ben Lanz with Osmose
    2025/08/22
    Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Ben Lanz, Sr. Director, Industry & External Affairs at Osmose about "Power reliability and resiliency". Scott Mackenzie interviews Ben Lanz from Osmose, discussing the challenges and innovations in the utility industry. They highlight the aging infrastructure in Texas, with ERCOT needing gigawatts for data centers. Osmose has expanded from wood pole diagnostics to underground assessments, including vaults, transformers, and cables. Ben explains the use of AI and machine learning to improve efficiency, particularly in detecting defects in underground cables. They also discuss the importance of human intervention alongside AI for accurate assessments. Ben provides his contact information for further inquiries. Action Items
    • [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Investigate Osmose's use of AI and machine learning in their diagnostic processes.
    • [ ] Connect with Ben Lanz on LinkedIn or at ben.lanz@osmose.com to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.
    • [ ] Explore Osmose's capabilities in assessing and upgrading aging utility infrastructure.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, highlighting its focus on industry professionals and innovations.
    • Scott welcomes listeners and thanks them for their support, emphasizing the platform's celebration of bold and innovative professionals.
    • The podcast is broadcasting live from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, with Scott expressing excitement about the event and the guests.
    • Scott introduces Ben Lanz from Osmose, hinting at a deep dive into industry topics and challenges.

    Discussion on Texas Infrastructure and ERCOT
    • Ben Lanz discusses the significant challenges faced by Texas, particularly in the utility business, with ERCOT looking for gigawatts of power for data centers.
    • Scott and Ben talk about the aging infrastructure in Texas, with Scott sharing his experience of working with transmission lines built in 1916.
    • Ben mentions the challenges of upgrading aging infrastructure and the need for innovative solutions to meet the growing demand.
    • The conversation touches on the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing these infrastructure issues.

    Osmose's Role in Infrastructure Diagnostics and Upgrades
    • Ben explains Osmose's long-standing presence in the industry, focusing on diagnostics and upgrades for wood poles and other infrastructure.
    • Osmose has expanded its portfolio to include underground assessments, covering vaults, transformers, cables, and low-voltage wiring.
    • Ben shares his background in dielectrics and how Osmose is leveraging expertise in various areas to help utilities maintain and upgrade their assets.
    • The discussion highlights the importance of having a deep understanding of deterioration mechanisms and effective upgrade strategies.

    Challenges and Solutions in Underground Cable Testing
    • Scott and Ben delve into the challenges of testing underground cables, particularly in detecting deterioration mechanisms.
    • Ben explains the limitations of past testing methods and the advancements in technology that allow for more accurate assessments.
    • The conversation covers the use of partial discharge tests and the importance of digitally filtering background noise to detect microarching.
    • Ben describes the process of locating defects in cables and the significance of meeting industry standards for quality control.

    AI and Machine Learning in Utility Grid Inspections
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    19 分
  • Greg Christensen with CMMSRadio Podcast

    Greg Christensen with CMMSRadio Podcast
    2025/08/20
    Industrial Talk is talking to Greg Christensen, Founder and Host of CMMS Radio Podcast about "Your source for all things Asset Management". Scott Mackenzie interviews Greg Christensen about his podcast, CMMS Radio, which focuses on asset management and reliability systems. Greg shares his background in building maintenance and software development, leading to the creation of CMMS Radio in 2021. He emphasizes the importance of people, process, and technology in maintenance management. Greg discusses the challenges of sustaining reliability efforts, the impact of leadership changes, and the need for meaningful data collection. He also highlights the complexity of integrating various maintenance management systems and the importance of collaboration among industry professionals. Action Items
    • [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Attend the SMRP conference in Fort Worth, TX in October and take advantage of the 10% discount using the code "CMMS10".
    • [ ] Reach out to Greg Christensen on LinkedIn to connect and potentially be a guest on the CMMS Radio podcast.

    Outline Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
    • Scott highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals who solve problems and collaborate.
    • Scott introduces Greg Christensen, the guest for the episode, and his podcast, CMMS Radio.
    • Scott mentions the common threads among industry professionals and the importance of their passion and vulnerability.

    Greg Christensen's Background and CMMS Radio
    • Greg Christensen shares his background, starting in the building maintenance industry in the 90s.
    • Greg discusses his experience working in various skilled trades and manufacturing environments.
    • Greg talks about starting a software company to manage the process of account management and work orders.
    • Greg explains the inception of CMMS Radio in 2021, focusing on maintenance management, people, and process, rather than just technology.

    The Evolution of CMMS Radio
    • Greg describes the initial idea of starting CMMS Radio with monologs and the transition to including guests and videos.
    • Greg mentions the inspiration from other podcasters and the importance of adding value without selling.
    • Scott and Greg discuss the challenges of starting a podcast and the importance of perseverance.
    • Greg emphasizes the importance of having real conversations and not trying to satisfy everyone.

    Challenges in Asset Management and Reliability
    • Scott and Greg discuss the challenges of maintaining asset management and reliability programs over time.
    • Greg talks about the impact of leadership changes and the importance of preserving effective systems.
    • Scott shares his experience with deploying systems like Indus Passport and the challenges of sustaining reliability efforts.
    • Greg highlights the importance of continuous process improvement and the need for incremental changes.

    The Role of Technology in Asset Management
    • Scott and Greg discuss the role of technology in asset management and the challenges of implementing comprehensive systems.
    • Greg explains the similarities and differences between various asset management systems like CMMS, EAM, and APM.
    • Greg emphasizes the importance of meaningful data collection and the role of frontline maintenance technicians.
    • Scott and...
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    49 分
  • Adile Ajaja with EVLO Energy Storage

    Adile Ajaja with EVLO Energy Storage
    2025/08/18
    Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Adile Ajaja, Director of Digital Technology at EVLO Energy about "Securing Energy Storage". Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial podcast featuring Adile, an electrical engineer and expert in grid-scale energy storage systems. Adil discusses his background with Hydro Quebec and the evolution of his company, EVLO, which focuses on innovative and cost-efficient energy solutions. They delve into the importance of cybersecurity in energy systems, emphasizing a life-cycle approach to protect against attacks and failures. Adile highlights the challenges of integrating legacy systems with modern cybersecurity measures, as well as the increasing demand for power due to data centers and AI processing. He also touches on Hydro Quebec's strategies to manage this demand through efficiency and renewable energy sources. Action Items
    • [ ] Reach out to Adil on LinkedIn to connect and learn more about EVLO's energy storage solutions and cybersecurity approaches.

    Outline Introduction and Podcast Overview
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
    • Scott mentions the new intro and the sponsorship by Siemens, highlighting their role in solving distribution and transmission challenges.
    • Scott introduces the guest, Adile, and discusses the conference's energy and the challenges in the industry.
    • Adil shares his background, mentioning his work with Hydro Quebec and his involvement in smart grids and energy storage systems.

    Adile's Background and EVLO's Mission
    • Adile explains his career path, starting as a power system engineer at Hydro Quebec and working on smart grids.
    • He describes the joint venture between Hydro Quebec and Sony to create grid-scale energy storage systems.
    • Adile details the evolution of the company, from a joint venture to a fully capable commercial operation called EVLO.
    • Evelo's mission is to provide innovative and cost-efficient energy solutions to utility customers, integrating electrical, mechanical, and software engineering.

    Cybersecurity in Energy Storage Systems
    • Scott and Adile discuss the importance of cybersecurity in energy storage systems, emphasizing the need for digitalization and data protection.
    • Adile explains the cybersecurity measures implemented at each stage of the product life cycle, from design to operation.
    • They discuss the challenges of protecting legacy systems and the role of NERC in ensuring grid stability and cybersecurity.
    • Adil highlights the importance of creating a secure perimeter around energy assets and conducting regular audits and penetration tests.

    Addressing Increased Demand for Power
    • Scott and Adile discuss the increasing demand for power due to data centers, AI processing, and other technological advancements.
    • Adile explains Hydro Quebec's strategies to address this demand, including demand response programs and the installation of electronic devices to control energy consumption.
    • They discuss the challenges of balancing generation and demand, especially during peak periods.
    • Adile mentions the shift towards renewable energy sources and the need for cybersecurity in these systems.

    Future Insights and Contact Information
    • Scott asks Adile about his future insights on energy demand and cybersecurity.
    • Adil predicts continued growth in energy demand due to population growth and technological advancements.
    • He emphasizes the importance of...
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    19 分