Vineet Gupta, President of Ayna, hosts Ross Sabolcik, Senior VP and General Manager of Industrial and Commercial IoT at Silicon Labs, to discuss the company's journey from analog mixed-signal pioneer to IoT leader. Ross highlights Silicon Labs' wireless portfolio and its applications in smart metering, building automation, and healthcare, emphasizing the integration of AI and machine learning in products and career development. The conversation explores how curiosity, leadership, and communication fuel growth in the tech industry.

Ross Sabolcik, Senior VP and General Manager of Industrial and Commercial IoT at Silicon Labs, has played a pivotal role in the company’s transformation into a leader in wireless connectivity and energy-efficient IoT solutions. With a foundation in electrical and computer systems engineering, Ross's journey from embedded coding to leadership showcases his expertise in applying AI and machine learning to both technology and talent development.

Discussion Points

• Ross Sabolcik shares Silicon Labs' evolution from a disruptor in analog mixed-signal tech to a leader in wireless IoT, highlighting milestones like the B90 modem and the shift to IoT innovation.
• He outlines the expansion of use cases from meter reading to advanced applications like grid intelligence and asset tracking, driven by AI and machine learning.
• Ross reflects on his career, blending engineering expertise with business skills and strong communication.
• He advises young engineers to stay curious, embrace lifelong learning, and understand the link between technology and business strategy.

Ayna is a premier advisory and implementation firm in the industrial technology space, leveraging a team of experienced leaders to help companies and investors drive performance improvement and value creation. The host of this episode, Vineet Gupta, is a President at Ayna.

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Ross Sabolcik LinkedIn

Silicon Labs

Titanium Economy

Vineet Gupta LinkedIn

Ayna.AI Website

In this episode, Nidhi Arora speaks with Iggy Domagalski, President and CEO of Wajax, a leading Canadian industrial products and services provider with over $2 billion in revenue, 120 branches, and 3,000 employees serving 32,000 customers across sectors like construction, mining, and energy. Iggy discusses how Wajax balances small-business agility with large-scale advantages like centralized IT and finance, and shares insights on the industrial sector's role in global growth, technological innovation, and career opportunities.

A recognized leader named among Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 and Top 50 Inspirational Entrepreneurs, Iggy draws on his expertise from leadership roles at Tundra Process Solutions and West End Industrial to drive Wajax’s innovation and sustainability.

Discussion Points

• Iggy, CEO of Wajax, discusses its two main areas: heavy equipment sales/services and industrial parts/repair services, emphasizing strong customer relationships across 120+ branches and addressing evolving industry needs.
• Wajax combines small-business agility with innovation, tackling supply chain challenges through increased local inventory and advanced operations.
• Wajax integrates technology with customer needs, grows via organic strategies and acquisitions, and focuses on emissions reduction and sustainability goals.
• Iggy’s diverse career highlights the importance of understanding both commercial and support roles in driving business success.
• The industrial sector continues to grow with technological advancements and offers rewarding career opportunities, requiring stronger promotion to attract talent.

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna.AI, a managed service provider that combines domain expertise and transformation capabilities to create alpha-performance superior to market indices, in the industrial and industrial technology sector. The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Content & Marketing for Ayna.ai.

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Iggy Domagalski LinkedIn

Wajax Corporation

Titanium Economy

Ayna.AI Website

Nidhi Arora LinkedIn

How is Oshkosh Corporation revolutionizing the industrial sector with electric and autonomous vehicle solutions for soldiers, firefighters, and construction workers, and what does this mean for the future of those sectors?

In this episode, Gaurav Batra talks with Oshkosh CEO John Pfeifer about the company’s mission-driven approach to innovation. They explore how electrification and autonomous systems in specialty vehicles are shaping the future, along with insights on strategic capital allocation and the role of technology in driving growth.

CEO of Oshkosh Corporation since 2021, Pfeifer has led advancements in electrification and autonomy for defense, emergency, and commercial vehicles. With a focus on sustainability and engineering excellence, he aims to enhance productivity and safety across demanding industries.

Discussion Points

• Oshkosh's mission-driven innovation delivers electric and autonomous solutions for demanding roles like military, firefighting, and airport vehicles, backed by a strong culture of engineering excellence
• Insights on sustainability in electrified purpose-built vehicles, challenges in route-based industries, and John’s journey from COO to CEO, focusing on people, capital, and long-term success
• Accelerating growth through innovation, including AI integration and third-party data pairing in Oshkosh’s products
• Forward-looking strategies shaping the future of the industrial sector and Oshkosh’s role in driving it

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna.AI, a managed service provider that combines domain expertise and transformation capabilities to create alpha-performance superior to market indices, in the industrial and industrial technology sector. The host of this episode, Gaurav Batra, is the President & CEO of Ayna.AI.

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John Pfeifer LinkedIn

Oshkosh Corporation

Titanium Economy

Gaurav Batra LinkedIn

Ayna.AI Website

How are emerging economies in Latin America and Southeast Asia reshaping global GDP and fueling the rise of a new middle class?

In this episode, host Nidhi Arora speaks with Carlos Magarinos, a renowned leader in industrial policy and economic development, to explore the future of the global industrial sector. Carlos discusses the revival of industrial policy to address key issues like geopolitical shifts, sustainability, and technological disruption. He highlights the essential role of international organizations in fostering government-private sector partnerships to drive sustainable growth.

Carlos Magarinos, Director of Global Strategy and External Affairs at Vrio Corp, brings deep expertise across politics, diplomacy, and business. Recognized by 39 governments and institutions worldwide, he previously served as Argentina’s Secretary for Industry and Director General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.

Discussion Points

• Carlos Magarinos discusses global challenges—geopolitical instability, sustainability, and tech disruption—urging strong public-private partnerships to drive growth in Latin America and Southeast Asia.
• Examines the intersection of sustainability, geopolitics, and digital transformation in manufacturing, highlighting financial support for SMEs and the need for workforce upskilling.
• Emphasizes SMEs as vital drivers of innovation and economic growth.
• Addresses challenges for emerging economies in adopting new technologies, stressing the need for robust financial systems to enhance SME competitiveness.
• Leadership's role in sustainable industry, advocating for public-private collaborations and global cooperation to address environmental goals and industrial challenges.

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna.AI, a managed service provider that combines domain expertise and transformation capabilities to create alpha-performance superior to market indices, in the industrial and industrial technology sector. The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Content & Marketing for Ayna.AI.

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Carlos Magarinos LinkedIn

Vrio Corp

Titanium Economy

Ayna.AI Website

Nidhi Arora LinkedIn

How the USB Lighter Company is leading the charge in redefining consumer habits and promoting sustainability in the tech industry?

Ayna Director Marissa Rietman speaks with Calvin Chan, CEO of USB Lighter Company, about sustainability and entrepreneurship. Calvin shares insights on developing electric lighters as a sustainable alternative to butane, highlighting the environmental benefits of rechargeable technology and the push to reduce waste and emissions. He reflects on resilience through challenges like the pandemic, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly innovation and reshaping consumer habits.

Calvin Chan, CEO of USB Lighter Company, has a diverse background in film, fashion, and hospitality, which drives his innovative approach in sustainable tech. His company redefines lighters with rechargeable options, aiming to replace single-use plastics and encourage sustainable living. The USB Lighter Company’s products focus on durability, efficiency, and environmental impact, helping consumers make eco-conscious choices.

Discussion Points

• Calvin Chan discusses the USB Lighter Company's mission to shift consumer habits by replacing butane lighters with rechargeable, eco-friendly options, reducing waste and microplastic pollution.
• Calvin’s journey from rebellious youth to successful entrepreneur reflects key life experiences, including art school and ventures in fashion and hospitality, that shaped his career.
• Calvin overcame significant challenges in launching a new product amid global disruptions (pandemic, wars, elections), sharing insights on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of a sustainable vision.
• He outlines the motivations behind his sustainable innovations and goals for integrating recycled materials and eco-friendly packaging in consumer goods.
• He discusses strategies for marketing a novel product in the lighter industry, emphasizing consumer education, brand loyalty, and the evolving acceptance of sustainable tech.

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna.AI, a managed service provider that combines domain expertise and transformation capabilities to create alpha-performance superior to market indices, in the industrial and industrial technology sector. The host of this episode, Marissa Rietman, is a Director at Ayna.AI.

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Calvin Chan LinkedIn

The USB Lighter Company

Ayna.AI Website

Marissa Rietman LinkedIn

How is Alltius’s generative AI platform revolutionizing marketing, sales, and support functions?

In this Ayna Insights episode, host Nidhi Arora speaks with Vibhanshu Abhishek, CEO of Alltius and associate professor at UC-Irvine. Vibhanshu shares insights from his 25-year journey in AI, highlighting Alltius’s AI-first approach to breaking down silos in marketing, sales, and support for industries like insurance and banking. He also discusses AI’s evolving role across sectors and its societal impact.

Vibhanshu is a data scientist and professor who combines analytics with business strategy to solve challenges in multi-channel advertising and consumer healthcare. He advises Fortune 500 companies and startups on data strategies, fostering innovative AI and ML applications.

Discussion Points

• Vibhanshu discusses his journey in creating a generative AI platform for enhancing sales and support, and what sets Alltius apart in the AI landscape
• He highlights the adaptability of their platform, customer feedback loops, and potential AI applications in industrial sectors
• Vibhanshu shares success stories from AngelOne and Prudential to show AI’s impact on efficiency, cost reduction, and sales. AI’s role in predictive maintenance demonstrates its value in complex industries like oil and gas
• Overview of AI’s growth over 70–80 years, the impact of deep learning, and common misconceptions about AI’s capabilities
• Vibhanshu’s vision on AI’s impact on work and society, addressing potential disillusionment and the importance of designing AI for targeted use cases

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna.AI, a managed service provider that combines domain expertise and transformation capabilities to create alpha-performance superior to market indices, in the industrial and industrial technology sector. The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Business Development & Marketing for Ayna.

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Vibhanshu Abhishek LinkedIn

Alltius

Ayna.AI Website

Nidhi Arora LinkedIn

How can transforming cybersecurity from a cost center into a strategic profit booster revolutionize the U.S. manufacturing industry?

In this episode of The Titanium Economy, Nidhi Arora talks with Dr. Howard Grimes, CEO of CyManII, about transforming cybersecurity from a manufacturing cost center into a profit driver. Dr. Grimes highlights the need for cybersecurity innovations that boost energy efficiency and cut production costs. He discusses the vulnerabilities in digitized manufacturing and CyManII's role in protecting the U.S. sector from cyber threats, especially from nation-state actors. CyManII’s projects are geared toward securing the "titanium economy" and strengthening both national and economic security.

Dr. Howard Grimes leads CyManII, a U.S. Department of Energy-funded institute focused on cybersecurity in manufacturing. With 25+ years in research program leadership, Dr. Grimes has held key roles at institutions like UT San Antonio and Idaho National Laboratory. His work at CyManII aims to make cybersecurity a strategic advantage, enhance energy efficiency, and defend U.S. manufacturing against modern cyber threats.

Discussion Points

• Cybersecurity-Manufacturing Intersection: Highlights the critical risks in digitized manufacturing and the need for innovative defenses.
• From Academia to National Security: Dr. Grimes discusses his path to CyManII, emphasizing partnerships and expert teams aimed at manufacturing cybersecurity.
• CyManII's Cutting-Edge Projects: Showcases groundbreaking initiatives in cybersecurity, stressing collaboration and tech advancements for resilient manufacturing.
• Transforming Cybersecurity into Advantage: CyManII links cybersecurity to energy efficiency, showing how it can become a strategic economic benefit for manufacturers.
• Building Alliances for Security: Strategic alliances with industry, academia, and labs create a robust ecosystem to tackle manufacturing cyber threats.
• Future Vision for Secure Manufacturing: Dr. Grimes envisions manufacturing and cybersecurity as inseparable, vital to a resilient national economy.

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna, the premiere advisory firm in the industrial technology space that provides transformation and consulting services to its clients. The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Content & Marketing for Ayna

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Howard Grimes LinkedIn

CyManII

Titanium Economy

Ayna.AI Website

Nidhi Arora LinkedIn

Ever wondered how you can make your own plant-based milk at home while drastically reducing packaging waste?

In this episode, Ayna’s Marissa Rietman speaks with Brett Goodson, Founder & CEO of Almond Cow, about their groundbreaking approach to plant-based milk production. Brett shares how Almond Cow empowers consumers to make milk at home, cutting out traditional supply chains and reducing packaging waste, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainability in the plant-based movement.

Brett, with a background in automotive engineering and an MBA from Georgia Tech, founded Almond Cow to revolutionize plant-based milk. He discusses his commitment to zero-waste initiatives, recyclable packaging, and using technology to drive sustainability.

Discussion Points

• How Almond Cow works: empowering consumers to make plant-based milk at home, cutting out supply chains, reducing packaging waste, and offering many benefits.
• Almond Cow’s commitment to sustainability: using recyclable packaging and minimizing environmental impact through zero-waste practices.
• Future of plant-based milk: Brett highlights the benefits of homemade milk, including customization and avoiding additives, empowering consumers to tailor blends to their needs.
• Brett’s background and journey: from automotive development to leading Almond Cow, overcoming challenges with a successful Kickstarter and finding market fit.
• Leadership insights: navigating the competitive food industry through clear role allocation and leveraging technology to enhance sustainability and efficiency.
• Innovation in food tech: Almond Cow's use of wet emulsification and fluid science modeling drives their product’s development and sustainability goals.
• Consumer education: Brett emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about plant-based milk’s benefits and environmental impact, engaging customers to make informed choices.

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna, the premiere advisory firm in the industrial technology space that provides transformation and consulting services to its clients. The host of this episode Marissa Rietman, is a Director at Ayna

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Brett Goodson LinkedIn

Almond Cow

Ayna's Website

Marissa Rietman LinkedIn