In this webinar, we’ll break down the key findings from the 2026 State of Industrial Operations Report, explore how manufacturers are turning digital transformation into measurable operational performance, and why the industry is shifting from pilots to enterprise-wide execution.
Overview
Manufacturing has entered a new phase where success is no longer defined by adopting technology — but by executing at scale. In this webinar, we’ll break down the key findings from the 2026 State of Industrial Operations Report and explore how manufacturers are turning digital transformation into measurable operational performance. Learn why 90% of manufacturers now view digital transformation as essential to competitiveness, and how the industry is shifting from pilots to enterprise-wide execution.
We’ll examine how AI and machine learning are becoming core operational capabilities across quality, optimization, cybersecurity and decision-making, with adoption expected to accelerate significantly by 2030. The session will also address the growing importance of resilience and cybersecurity as operations become more connected and autonomous. With nearly half of manufacturers experiencing cyber incidents in the past year, secure and integrated architectures are now critical to sustaining performance. Join us to discover what separates industry leaders from the rest — and why the next decade of manufacturing will be defined by operational discipline, connected intelligence and the ability to execute consistently at scale.
Key Takeaways
- Discover why manufacturing is in an execution led phase where results depend on scaling and operational discipline.
- Learn low AI is becoming a core operational capability, with value driven by how effectively it is deployed.
- Understand where greater autonomy and connectivity are elevating resilience and security as performance requirements.
Speakers
Rick Kaun has over 25 years of experience in OT and security from his time at various OT security and services providers such as Matrikon, Honeywell, Verve and now Rockwell as the global Director of Cyber Sales. He has provided consulting and design projects to clients in multiple industries including oil and gas, refining, mining, power, pulp, and paper as well as many discrete manufacturing industries. He has repeatedly served on industry boards, workgroups and regulatory support efforts to help educate and give back to the general OT security community. Rick approaches engagements with an eye towards building a scalable, cost-effective and manageable solution. Because security is a program that requires constant attention, collaboration, and innovation, Rick strongly believes in the need for cooperation, creative thinking, and a consistent focus in order to drive results.
Micah Zalesky is part of Rockwell Automation’s AI and Autonomy team, where she works to connect emerging AI technologies with real-world manufacturing challenges. She spends her days where technology, customer insights, and manufacturing priorities collide, translating complex ideas into practical approaches for manufacturers. Her focus is helping organizations understand how AI can create meaningful business impact through smarter operations, empowered workers, and more adaptive and autonomous industrial environments
Andy Stump is a recognized global industry leader with almost 30 years of experience in project delivery, strategic consulting and business leadership helping global manufacturers apply automation solutions in their digital transformations. In his current role as director of technical enablement at Rockwell Automation, he is responsible for driving growth and adoption of new technologies and strategic portfolio offerings to unlock new value for the manufacturing industry. He holds both a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and an MBA from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH.