Electricity and Control June 2020

RESKILLING, UPSKILLING + TRAINING

Training moves online at virtual event O n 12 May 2020, Rockwell Automation hosted the first in its series of free, online events called VirtualConnect. Taking place through an interactive web platform, it offered informative presentations from industry experts, interactive Q&A sessions, and a comprehensive virtual show floor – all available to attendees across the world who embraced the opportunity to network with each other in the event’s virtual lounge.

The second track, the ‘Digital Transformation Journey’ presented digital tools that enable a collaborative environment for faster and more efficient systems. These included tools such as digital twins, big data analytics, and connected services. The conclusion of each presentation featured an instant-messaging Q&A session which was well-used by attendees who were eager to know more about Rockwell Automation’s manufacturing solutions. Virtual show floor Along with virtual peer-to-peer and peer-to-expert networking, the event offered attendees the chance to ‘walk’ the digital show floor which featured booths from Rockwell Automation and associated partners – including Biehl+Wiedemann, Ocean Data Systems, ePlan, Maplesoft, Spectrum Controls, Stratus and WIN-911. Attendees could chat in real time with automation experts to gain a deeper understanding of the products and solutions featured in the VirtualConnect presentations. In addition, the platform’s ‘virtual briefcase’ functionality meant attendees could collect and download brochures and information packs as they toured the exhibition. Video demonstrations and interactive links kept them engaged and have certainly changed the game for online events going forward. Content from this event is available online, following a registration process, and will be accessible until the next VirtualConnect event, scheduled to take place 23 June 2020.

In her keynote address, Susana Gonzalez, EMEA President for Rockwell Automation, welcomed attendees to the state-of-the-art virtual environment. “This is the first time we are using this platform to bring technology to you in this completely virtual environment. We are excited to discuss how digitalisation is changing the way we do things. Our clients often tell us they want to use digital transformation to improve productivity, efficiency and safety in their operations. It is at the top of their agenda, as they recognise the blending of information technology and operational technology. However, we also hear that there is a lack of digital know-how. The training we offer you today gives you the chance to get up-to- date on the opportunities and challenges presented by digitalisation.” The day’s agenda, running from 10h00 - 15h00 (GMT+2), offered two tracks to equip manufacturing professionals with what they need to know on the latest industry trends and technological developments. Track one, the ‘Smart Machine Journey’ offered training on smart devices including sensors, safety devices, motor control, optimisation, and security in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

For more information visit: www.rockwellautomation.com

Rockwell Automation recently hosted the first in its VirtualConnect series of online events.

30 Electricity + Control JUNE 2020