News & Events

Rockwell Automation Study Reports 85% of Automotive Manufacturers Plan to Maintain or Increase Workforce

Global survey reveals the key challenges, considerations, and opportunities of new technology for the automotive industry, with focuses on navigating labor shortages, supply chain interruptions, and more

Rockwell Automation announced the results of the 8^th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report: Automotive Edition”. The global study encompasses the responses of 197 leaders from automotive manufacturers, automotive suppliers, and electric vehicle manufacturers across 13 of the leading manufacturing countries.

This year’s report emphasizes the evolution of the automotive industry with a focus on the pursuit of quality, the impact of process automation, the adoption of smart manufacturing, and the essential role of technology when mitigating risks, navigating workforce challenges, minimizing costs, and boosting production.

Key global findings include:

• 85% of automotive manufacturers expect to maintain or even increase their current workforce due to technology adoption. Moreover, 64% of businesses are using software to automate processes, and 54% of leaders are increasing automation to address labor shortages.
• “Minimizing costs” and “improving quality” are the number one drivers for the acceleration of digital transformation.
• 31% of automotive manufacturers either plan to or have already invested in AI and machine learning technologies, which is expected to continue growing as more use cases develop along with ease-of-use applications.
• 42% of automotive manufacturers expect to repurpose their existing workforce, and 27% believe they’ll hire more workers as a result of technology adoption, indicating technology can both address current issues and act as a catalyst for growth.
• In practice, 35% of these businesses report that smart manufacturing has helped mitigate issues with deploying and integrating new technologies. Additionally, 29% believe it has helped with the lingering impact of the pandemic.
• 97% of automotive manufacturers and suppliers report having sustainability and ESG initiatives in place, with 49% pursuing sustainability and ESG initiatives as a competitive differentiator.

“Over the last few years, the automotive industry has been tasked with navigating many new challenges and obstacles. From shifts in consumer demand and supply chain issues, to microchip shortages and manufacturing workforce challenges, the industry has been compelled to remain agile. For instance, with the automotive industry’s switch to electric vehicles, manufacturers are having to increase their workforce as they make the transition, not only at their existing facilities but also as they open greenfield plants,” said Paul Epperson, vice president, Global Industry – Auto, Tire & Advanced Mobility, Rockwell Automation. “It is evident from reviewing the survey findings that navigating these challenges by adopting new technologies, while balancing quality with profitable growth, are top of mind for automotive leaders.”

The automotive industry is aware of the essential roles technology and automation play when navigating risks and striving towards profitable growth. 59% are mitigating internal risks by adopting technology, with 50% doing the same for external risks. Similarly, when asked how they intend to drive positive business outcomes, the number one response was increasing automation.

“Rockwell is uniquely positioned to serve as a trusted advisor in the automotive space for companies around the world, not only because of our dynamic portfolio of industry solutions but also our extensive partner ecosystem,” said Epperson. “Wherever companies are in their digital transformation and smart manufacturing journeys, Rockwell can meet them there and help drive innovative growth.”

The full findings of the report can be found here.

Smart Manufacturing Report Cites Operational Improvement Among ESG Drivers

The 8^th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report” from Rockwell Automation shares recent survey findings from manufacturers worldwide. Survey results from the 7^th annual report indicated the driving factors for pursuing sustainability and (Environmental, Social, and Governance) ESG policies were fostering a collaborative environment and addressing social inequalities. This year, the top reason cited was to improve efficiencies, a trend which suggests sustainability is now recognized for its operational improvement capabilities and impact on the bottom line along with the positive social impact.

The drive to maintain quality surfaced when participants were asked about sustainability and ESG. Product quality or safety is the most important element in ESG and sustainability programs, followed by reducing manufacturing waste and recycling. Responses revealed the growing attention on the circular economy, which is based on eliminating waste and pollution by designing products and processes to maximize efficiencies and extend product life with a particular focus on repair and reuse.

In general, the survey’s results reveal a focus on an increasing adoption of technology to build resilience, enable agility, increase sustainability, and address workforce challenges.

Download the full report to learn how leading manufacturers are harnessing technology to improve quality and sustainability. View the on-demand webinar, Mainstream Sustainability: Meet Consumer & Regulator Demand, to see what priorities are driving ESG and sustainability strategies around the globe.

Rockwell Automation Obtains Highest Level Product Security IEC Security Certification

Rockwell Automation has been recognized for achieving Maturity Level 4 of the globally recognized The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62443-4-1 industrial cybersecurity certification, the highest level. Certification of the Rockwell Automation SDL was performed independently by TÜV Rheinland.

This certification by the IEC, a global, not-for-profit membership organization that assesses the needs for standards across various industrial applications, demonstrates Rockwell’s continued commitment to security. It represents the strong practices and protocols in place globally to bring secure solutions to our customers. Maturity Level 4 recognizes the highly mature and ubiquitously deployed cybersecurity practices used around the world. In general, the IEC 62443-4-1 standard defines a secure development lifecycle (SDL) for the purpose of developing and maintaining products that are secure by design, used in industrial automation and control systems. Along with other cybersecurity achievements in recent years, Rockwell Automation stands out as a global leader in this area.

“Cybersecurity continues to be top of mind for customers around the world. The IEC 62443 series of standards and certifications allow for customers to make more informed decisions when sourcing, designing, and building their industrial automation and information solutions,” said Tony Baker, vice president and chief product security officer, Rockwell Automation. “These standards provide customers with confidence that the technologies were designed with security in mind, provide the appropriate security controls to secure their application, and that Rockwell Automation will provide on-going security support throughout the products useful life.”

Rockwell Automation has achieved numerous milestones in recent years in cybersecurity including:

• Introduction of the world’s first programmable automation controller to be certified compliant with the IEC 62443-4-2 security standard by TÜV Rheinland.
• Introduction of ODVA CIP Security capable systems for the plant floor.
• Become a founding member of the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance.
• Achieve IEC 62443-3-3 Process Certification by TÜV Rheinland.
• Achieve ISO 27001 Certification for remote support through the Standards Institute of Israel.
• Provide comprehensive cybersecurity services. 

Rockwell Automation and Doosan Unite to Form Partnership as the U.S. and South Korea Celebrate Historic Anniversary

Companies to focus on further integrating their robots and controllers and developing new technologies for smart factories globally.

Rockwell Automation signed a Memorandum of Understanding to form a partnership with leading global robot manufacturer Doosan Robotics and its parent company Doosan Corporation, both Seoul-based entities and members of the historic summit in Washington, D.C., commemorating the 70^th anniversary of the U.S. – South Korea alliance.

The agreement signing ceremony, which was led by South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Lee Chang-Yang, took place at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC. Doosan Corporation President & Chief Business Officer Hongsung Moon and Doosan Robotics Chief Executive Officer William Junghoon Ryu accompanied South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and other officials in the United States for a summit with U.S. President Joe Biden. In addition to marking the historic anniversary, this is the first state visit to the U.S. by a South Korean leader since 2011.

“All of you present here know that this year marks a very special year, as it's the 70^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Korea,” Minister Lee said through an interpreter at the signing ceremony.

“Our two countries are broadening and deepening bilateral engagement,” Minister Lee added, “to include bilateral partnership in advanced industries and technologies as well.”

The ceremony celebrated 23 MOUs between U.S. and South Korean entities. Rockwell and Doosan agreed to focus on further integrating the companies’ robots and controllers, as well as developing robotic and other technologies for automation facilities, smart factory construction, and other applications for their customers globally. Doosan Robotics will become a long-term robot supplier for Rockwell’s manufacturing operations, while Rockwell will provide automation solutions for Doosan, a holding company offering a wide range of products around the world.

“We are proud to sign this strategic agreement with Doosan during their historic visit to Washington,” said Rockwell’s Ed Moreland, vice president, Government Affairs and External Communications, who welcomed Doosan officials along with Rockwell’s Yong Ha Lee, regional director, Korea. “Rockwell and Doosan look forward to working together to provide cutting-edge products and services that will make our customers around the world even more resilient, agile, and sustainable.”

Rockwell Automation Named Leader in Gartner 2023 Magic Quadrant for Manufacturing Execution Systems

Recognized for Completeness of Vision and Ability to Execute.

Rockwell Automation has been positioned by Gartner as a Leader in the Magic Quadrant for Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) with its portfolio of offerings being evaluated, including FactoryTalk MES and the Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform.¹ The evaluation was based on specific criteria that analyzed the company’s overall Completeness of Vision and Ability to Execute.

Rockwell believes its recognition as a Leader further solidifies it as a digital transformation innovator. Rockwell is committed to meeting its customers where they are on their digital transformation journey and supporting their needs for scalability, flexibility, and ease-of-use in their smart manufacturing initiatives.

The Rockwell MES portfolio empowers manufacturers with the capabilities to connect people and systems, automate processes, track data from end-to-end, and capture and analyze information. With these powerful capabilities, manufacturers can achieve new levels of visibility, quality, and control throughout their operations. The portfolio offers a modular approach with both cloud-based and on-premise solutions for manufacturers across a range of markets, including highly regulated industries.

“Rockwell’s expertise in providing end-to-end MES solutions allows us to stand out in a highly competitive market. We’re proud to have been recognized as a Leader,” said Brian Shepherd, senior vice president, Software & Control at Rockwell Automation. “Our ability to help manufacturers maximize their potential and achieve seamless and efficient operations is helping them to reach their business goals.”

Magic Quadrant reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of the providers in markets where growth is high and provider differentiation is distinct. Providers are positioned into four quadrants: Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries, and Niche Players. The research enables you to get the most from market analysis in alignment with your unique business and technology needs.²

Vendors are also peer-reviewed on Gartner Peer Insights, a public platform that offers verified, first-hand reviews and ratings of enterprise technology solutions by end-user professionals for end-user professionals. Gartner-verified, anonymous reviews provided by Rockwell Automation customers include:

• “Great implementation team with tight deadlines. Our user community took to the new system immediately with positive feedback." – Chief Information Officer in the Manufacturing Industry
• “Very intuitive platform that eases the burden on IT in general, very secure and accessible.” – Director of Business Systems in the Manufacturing Industry
• “We had a very capable project team with good skills, experience and expertise.” – Project Management - Lead Expert in the Healthcare and Biotech Industry

View a complimentary copy of the Magic Quadrant report to learn more about Rockwell Automation’s strengths and cautions, among other provider offerings, here or here.

¹ Source: Gartner, “Magic Quadrant for Manufacturing Execution Systems,” Rick Franzosa, Christian Hestermann, 26 April 2023.

² Source: Gartner Research Methodology, “Magic Quadrant,” 24 April 2023. https://www.gartner.com/en/research/methodologies/magic-quadrants-research

Rockwell Automation Names Matt Fordenwalt Senior Vice President, Lifecycle Services

Rockwell Automation announced that Matt Fordenwalt is named senior vice president, Lifecycle Services, effective June 1. He will report to Rockwell Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Blake Moret.

In this role, Fordenwalt will head the Lifecycle Services operating segment and will be responsible for leading one of the three operating segments in Rockwell Automation. Lifecycle Services is a way to deliver domain expertise at all touchpoints of a customer's experience and ensures the positive business outcomes that give Rockwell customers a faster return on their automation investment. Fordenwalt succeeds Frank Kulaszewicz who, after over 35 years with Rockwell, announced his intention to retire in calendar year 2024.

“I welcome Matt to my staff during a particularly exciting time in the Rockwell journey. He inherits a solid foundation from Frank, but with many new opportunities to grow customer value, along with Rockwell revenue and profitability,” said Moret. “Matt has an excellent track record building sustainable businesses. We are also very fortunate to continue to benefit from Frank’s unmatched experience and insight.”

Fordenwalt has nearly 20 years with Rockwell, most recently serving as Vice President and General Manager of the Systems and Solutions Business in Lifecycle Services. He joined the company in a leadership role in the Information Technology organization focused on Global Process Transformation. He also held a business manager role, responsible for starting up the Customer Support & Maintenance (CSM) consulting services capabilities in networks, safety, and security. Fordenwalt was promoted to senior director, Global Service Delivery in the CSM business, after holding multiple leadership roles of increasing scope and responsibility in Connected Services and CSM with profit and loss accountability.

Prior to joining Rockwell, Fordenwalt held roles at W.W. Grainger and Accenture leading business transformation programs across multiple vertical segments. His broad industry, IT/OT and service experience is key to addressing customer challenges faced by Rockwell’s customers and teams. Fordenwalt holds a bachelor’s degree in learning and organizational change from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and an MBA from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management in Lake Forest, Illinois.

Rockwell Automation Partners With Avid Solutions To Advance Green Hydrogen Industry

Experts predict green hydrogen (H2) will be increasingly used as a clean alternative to natural gas and to meet net zero emission commitments worldwide.

The H2 economy represents a significant change to industrial manufacturing, power generation, mobility, and societal challenges around climate change. The decline in renewable energy costs, favorable government and corporate policies, regional hydrogen hubs, and society’s willingness to address climate change have set up promising conditions for the hydrogen economy to rapidly grow. To meet this growth, producers need experienced partners to help them successfully apply technology and navigate project execution while managing the risks involved.

Rockwell Automation recently announced a new collaboration with Avid Solutions, to help companies more efficiently and rapidly produce green hydrogen. Avid, a longtime member of Rockwell’s PartnerNetwork™, works with clients on the forefront of the latest advances in sustainable manufacturing and production.

Rockwell technology has been key as Avid clients build and commission their first green hydrogen plants. Avid’s solution includes Rockwell’s PlantPAx® Distributed Control System for a standard high-performance HMI and integration platform, and FactoryTalk® Historian for data collection, trending, and dashboards.

Learn more about how Rockwell and Avid are working together to reduce time and cost for scaling green hydrogen production.

SLB, Rockwell Automation, Sensia and Cognite Collaborate to Optimize Asset Performance of FPSOs

 Disrupting conventional workflows with high-value, low-carbon digital solutions to accelerate an FPSO performance evolution.

SLB, Rockwell Automation, Sensia, and Cognite announced a collaboration that will accelerate the evolution of the offshore industry’s floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) facilities. Digital capabilities developed by the four-company coalition will improve the reliability, availability, safety and efficiency of these critical assets — all while lowering the carbon footprint of their offshore operations. 

“Global energy demand continues to increase and every part of the value chain is evolving to deliver improved production with more sustainably,” said Steve Gassen, president, Production Systems, SLB. “As digital performance integrators, the power of this coalition comes from our collective knowledge, expertise, and belief that open collaboration will accelerate innovation and decarbonization. SLB will bring advanced digital solutions, subsurface domain expertise, and complex integration and project management capabilities to scale up efficiencies and lower the carbon footprint of operations across every stage of the FPSO life cycle.”

The coalition integrates the entire data life cycle with targeted automation, analytics, simulation and visualization capabilities to enhance efficiencies in FPSO performance. This results in optimized equipment utilization and energy consumption, improved safety, reduced risks of equipment failure and unplanned downtime, plus better-informed strategic decision making.

“As the leading OEM module automation supplier, Rockwell brings to the coalition its expertise in control and safety systems for FPSOs, as well as extensive experience in power systems. We’ll be complementing the advanced digital solution portfolio of the coalition, as well as bringing network and cybersecurity capabilities to the team,” said Frank Kulaszewicz, senior vice president, Lifecycle Services, Rockwell Automation.

SLB has been awarded a contract to develop and implement a control system and dynamic process simulation solution for Petrobras. This strategic multipurpose dynamic simulation (MPDS) solution is being developed in partnership with Inprocess Technology and Consulting Group, a worldwide leader in MPDS, and Sensia, the leading control system and automation specialist in oil and gas. 

The MPDS solution will leverage SLB’s expertise as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and in offshore construction and operations to provide an immersive digital twin environment to dynamically simulate operational processes and their control and automation systems, train personnel, and strengthen safety elements at five new FPSO units to be installed in Búzios Field in the Santos Basin.

Rockwell Automation Announced as 2023 CIO 100 Award Winner

Foundry’s CIO 100 award recognizes enterprise excellence and innovation in IT.

Foundry’s CIO has named Chris Nardecchia, senior vice president and Chief Digital & Information Officer at Rockwell Automation as a 2023 CIO 100 award winner. For more than 30 years, the CIO 100 awards have recognized innovative organizations around the world that exemplify the highest level of strategic and operational excellence in IT.

“This year’s class of award winners have distinguished themselves with many groundbreaking projects using AI, quantum computing, facial recognition, analytics and more,” said Anne McCrory, Group Vice President, Customer Experience and Operations, Events, at Foundry and the chair of the 2023 CIO awards programs. “Their innovations improve customer experiences, track sustainability and reduce risk, and have novel applications across industries, from pharma and health care to manufacturing, retail, software, and more. We look forward to highlighting their great accomplishments at the CIO 100 Symposium & Awards in August.”

"This is the second consecutive year our company has been recognized by the CIO 100 awards for Rockwell Automation’s continuous efforts to meet our customers where they are in their digital transformation journey.” Nardecchia said. “As Rockwell Automation has evolved as a company, we realized we needed to change our products, the customer and employee experience and how we do business - our business model.  Through these efforts, Rockwell Automation is increasingly positioned to dramatically expand its software and “as-a-Service” offerings to deliver outcomes for its customers, expanding what is possible."