Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes sit down with Melvin Francis, a research-driven engineer and technical marketing leader at BE Services, for a packed conversation on the realities of real-time industrial automation, edge AI, and the technical leaps powering Industry 4.0. Melvin shares his hands-on journey from developing open-source real-time Ethernet protocols in India to driving innovation in Germany’s advanced manufacturing sector.

This episode covers the critical distinction between real-time performance and speed in OT environments, the impact of edge AI on traditional cloud models, and the emerging value of time-sensitive networking (TSN) for seamless integration of IT and OT data flows. Melvin offers firsthand anecdotes, technical clarity, and live walkthroughs—including a look at BE Services’ AIoT edge solution—while discussing practical approaches for modernizing brownfield systems, achieving high-precision motion control, and bridging the skills gap in industrial digitalization. Perfect for engineers, automation leaders, and anyone seeking a practical perspective on the challenges and opportunities of modern industrial networks.

Connect with Melvin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvin-francis/

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/

Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/

About Industry Sage Media:

Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.

Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com

This special episode of Unplugged is brought to you by our sponsor, Inductive Automation and marks our first-ever in-person recording.

Join hosts Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes as they sit down live with Colby Clegg, CEO of Inductive Automation, for an in-depth conversation on the future of industrial automation and the evolution of the Ignition platform.

Colby shares insights into the upcoming Ignition 8.3 release, a major milestone that wraps up a multi-year vision. The discussion explores powerful new features like source control, deployment modes, and event streaming, while diving into broader industry shifts like the rise of DevOps, smarter data management, and the role of AI within Ignition’s future.

You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the growing Ignition Community Conference (ICC) — including its move to a new venue, the introduction of ProveIT! showcases, and the company’s push to foster a more connected, global community.

From stories of Ignition’s early days to lessons in scaling a software company, Colby offers honest reflections on leadership, innovation, and what’s next for the industrial tech world.

Whether you're an integrator, end-user, or automation enthusiast, this episode delivers a rare, inside look at where the industry is headed — and how the Ignition ecosystem continues to lead the way.

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This episode is proudly sponsored by Inductive Automation.

Get ready for the premier event in industrial automation — the Ignition Community Conference (ICC), happening September 16–18 in Sacramento, California.

ICC brings together over 1,000 industry professionals, 50 expert speakers, and 40+ exhibitors showcasing the latest in automation tech. It’s your chance to dive into powerful sessions, explore real-world solutions, and connect with the brightest minds in the Ignition community.

New this year:

• ProveIT! Showcases – Watch real Industry 4.0 challenges solved live

• The Co-Lab Rooms – Meet session speakers, sharpen your skills, and network hands-on

  
  

Whether you join in person or via the livestream, ICC is your opportunity to level up, stay ahead, and be part of the future of industrial innovation.

🎟️ Grab your ICC Mate's Rate Ticket ($100 off) or livestream pass at:

https://icc.inductiveautomation.com/register?promo=levelUPAU25

Promo Code: levelUPAU25

(This promotion is limited to the first 30 registrants and valid through August 17th, 2025)

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Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://youtu.be/WhdIv8mK_Zk

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/

Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/

#ICCLevelUp

Jan Madsen, founder of Enuda, shares his unique perspective on systems integration in Europe and what it means to build an Ignition-only team that bridges the gap between operations and finance.

Jan shares real stories from the plant floor, practical lessons from failed and successful projects, and why sticking to timeless business fundamentals outlasts chasing the latest tech trends. He shares insights on fostering a remote team of talented young engineers, the challenges and rewards of focusing solely on Ignition, the ongoing shift toward MQTT in industrial protocols, and why clear communication is often more valuable than technical prowess.

The conversation also dives into how companies can move from endless proof-of-concept limbo to real value creation, and the importance of having a true north compass in both business and integration projects.

Connect with Jan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmadsen/

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/

Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/