In this episode of Talking Industrial Automation, host Lisa Richter welcomes Bud Weightman—President of Qualified Specialists International (QSI) and a seasoned expert with over 35 years in quality management, auditing, and standards consulting.

Bud takes us inside his journey from launching QSI in 1989 to auditing high-stakes offshore drilling operations around the globe. He explains the importance of risk-based auditing, why cookie-cutter systems fall short, and how custom, standards-driven solutions help companies improve performance, safety, and compliance.

You'll also learn about the value of CSIA certification, the connection between intuition and successful audits, and what sets Bud’s approach apart in an industry built on trust, evidence, and continuous improvement.

P.S. The Show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join this show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (Linkedin here)

In this episode of Talking Industrial Automation, host Lisa Richter sits down with Paul Adams, Senior Director of Partner Ecosystems at GE Vernova, to explore how his nearly three-decade journey with GE has shaped a deep understanding of software, systems, and integrator partnerships. From building global relationships to embracing cloud transformation and tackling cybersecurity challenges, Paul shares real-world insights into what it takes to scale, support, and modernize industrial automation today. Tune in to hear his thoughts on workforce evolution, strategic acquisitions, and the power of curiosity and connection in career growth.

P.S. The Show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join this show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (Linkedin here)

In this episode of Talking Industrial Automation, host Lisa Richter sits down with Joe Mazzola, General Manager of McEnery Automation, to unpack his journey from co-op student to company leader. Joe shares how McHenry has grown from a two-person startup to a 30-person team, fueled by long-term customer relationships, CSIA certification, and a culture of engineering excellence.

From process automation innovations in brewing and consumer goods to navigating workforce transitions and integrating ERP systems, Joe offers grounded insights on scaling with integrity, embracing flexibility, and building solutions that last.

P.S. The Show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join this show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (Linkedin here)