Michigan's VRARA Detroit chapter is discussing Modernization in Manufacturing, specifically how Smart Connected Operations (SCO) and emerging XR (AR/VR/MR) technology can be a game changer in adapting processes, gaining analytical insights, and developing training for dynamic work environments, especially in a post-COVID era. Hosted by VRARA Detroit Chapter President Brad Waid, the event features a moderated panel discussion and QA round with attendees. Panel participants include Feyen Zylstra's Jake "The Manufacturing Millennial" Hall, and Th3rd Coast Digital Solutions Co-Founder Joseph Van Harken and Co-founder and CEO of Rose-A-Lee Technologies, Patricia Lopez.
This is a can't miss event for industrial leaders seeking to learn how Industry 4.0 tools can help build resilience into the game plan, adapt for high turnover, and optimize training solutions for a new generation of workers.
Brad Waid - Brad is a Global Motivational Keynote Speaker, President of VRARA Detroit Chapter, President of Brad Waid Media, Subject Matter Expert (SME), Futurist, Educator, Visionary, Author and a Top 20 Global Influencer in Emerging Technology, Specializing in AR/VR/XR, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Working with and Consulting Industry, Education and Governments.
Joseph Van Harken (Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at th3rd coast Digital Solutions, and Editor In Chief at Th3rdEyeXR) is an award-winning journalist, producer, tech entrepreneur, and strategy consultant who operates, innovates, and disrupts from the front edge of the solutions supply and demand chain. Joseph is especially skilled in finding unique and creative ways to solve problems. From war zones to war rooms to boardrooms, Joseph is adept at creating, sharing and leveraging emerging technology to develop efficiencies across television, digital media, eLearning, and AR/VR/XR publishing platforms.
Jake Hall (Business Development Manager at Feyen Zylstra) is oftentimes better known as the "Manufacturing Millennial". Since graduating Grand Valley State University with an engineering degree his career has been focused on automation and manufacturing. With 10 years of experience in automation distribution, machine builders and systems integrators, Jake has gained a vast knowledge of different manufacturing processes and the type of solutions that bring companies into the Industry 4.0 revolution. When the mandated industry shutdown in Michigan happened in 2020, Jake sought new ways to engage others and continue to share the benefits of automation to others while working from home. He turned to LinkedIn as a platform to grow his personal brand, “The Manufacturing Millennial” by creating and sharing content around manufacturing and automation. His content has reached over 3.5 million views and growing over 15,000 Followers.
Patricia Lopez - Patricia currently works as the Chief Operating Officer of Alchemist Ventures as well as the Chief Executive Officer of Rose-A-Lee Technologies, a WBENC Certified engineering services company in operation since 2013 that provides machined details and welded fabrications. Additionally, she also holds the position of Vice President of Operations for Rose-A-Lee’s parent company, Elmhirst Industries. Prior to joining Elmhirst in 2009, Patricia worked for Chrysler rotating through various manufacturing facilities as she increased her responsibility. She holds both a bachelor of science in Mechanical Engineering and a master of engineering in Manufacturing Systems from Lawrence Technological University.
